
Portals Nous; Marina Glamour and Convenient Living
· by Piers Lloyd-Cox · 16 min. read
Why Portals Nous Stands Out
- Puerto Portals: The jewel of the Southwest Mallorca; terraces, designer boutiques and year round social life create a vibrant yet refined atmosphere shared by yacht owners, residents and visiting families.
- Location: Around 20 to 25 minutes from Palma and the airport, with excellent access to international schools and medical services.
- Atmosphere: Polished, cosmopolitan and family friendly; a rare combination in a marina setting.
Property Types and Typical Buyers
- Marina apartments and penthouses: Compact luxury for buyers seeking a lock up and leave lifestyle, low maintenance and prime waterfront views.
- Villas and townhouses: Private plots with gardens and pools; ideal for families wanting space close to schools and services.
- Buyer profile: Professional couples, international families and investors focused on high quality summer rental returns and strong long term resale prospects.
Lifestyle Details
- Dining and nightlife: A mix of relaxed family restaurants, chic marina terraces and upscale bars.
- Weekend rhythm: Marina brunch, a round of golf nearby, an afternoon swim at the beach, and long dinners facing the harbour.
- Services: Boat maintenance, concierge providers, private childcare and extracurricular activities help create an effortless lifestyle.

Market Signals
Demand: Consistently strong for turnkey apartments with sea or marina views.
Pricing: Premium price per square metre compared with inland suburbs, supported by strong resale liquidity.
Summary; What Makes Portals Nous Special
- Marina glamour centred around Puerto Portals
- Excellent location close to Palma and leading international schools
- A sophisticated yet family friendly lifestyle
- A refined international community that values both privacy and social energy
Santa Ponsa; The Family Engine of the Southwest

Why Families Choose Santa Ponsa
- Long sandy beach: Calm waters and lifeguarded zones make it ideal for families with younger children.
- Sports culture: Multiple golf courses, sports clubs and academies, plus a wide range of outdoor activities.
- Community layout: A suburban feel with parks, local cafés and an easy daily rhythm; approachable and family focused.
Property Types and Who They Suit
- Terraced houses and semi detached homes: For families wanting gardens without the work of a large estate.
- Villas: From contemporary builds to classic Mediterranean villas on generous plots; suitable for permanent residents and second home owners.
- Investors: High demand for family holiday lets and medium term rentals, particularly in summer and the shoulder seasons.

Services and Amenities
- Schools: Convenient access to international and bilingual schools.
- Healthcare and logistics: Pharmacies, supermarkets, paediatric clinics and family leisure facilities close at hand.
- Transport: Reliable road links to Palma and neighbouring towns.
Lifestyle Snapshot
- Community life: Family events, seasonal markets and outdoor concerts create a strong sense of connection.
- Active living: Sea sports, tennis and cycling form part of the normal weekly routine.
Summary; What Makes Santa Ponsa Special
- Safe, spacious and framed by parks, golf courses and sea views
- A wide, sandy beach perfect for children and water sports
- Excellent access to schools, shops, healthcare and leisure
- An international yet grounded community with a genuine neighbourhood feel
Bendinat; Golf Side Grace and Commuter Ease

Property and Residents
Bendinat offers villas facing the golf course, boutique apartment complexes and compact townhouses. Residents include professional families, golf enthusiasts and retirees who want an elegant residential area with an easy route into Palma.
Lifestyle Rhythm
Mornings can start on the golf course, followed by afternoons at nearby beaches and evenings in Palma for dining or cultural events. Local services and small boutiques support comfortable year round living.
Investment Considerations
Bendinat balances convenience and exclusivity; this translates into steady demand and predictable rental markets, particularly for family stays and long term tenants.
Summary; What Makes Bendinat Special
- Prime location: Positioned between Portals Nous and Palma’s western edge, Bendinat offers quick access to the city while retaining a calm, residential character.
- Refined lifestyle: Anchored by Real Golf de Bendinat, one of Mallorca’s most established courses; manicured greens, sea glimpses and a strong sense of community.
- Architecture and ambience: Tree lined streets, gated villas and tasteful low rise residences create an elegant, private enclave favoured by those who prefer discretion over display.
Types of Properties and Who the Area Suits Best
Families
- Best fit: Santa Ponsa, Portals Nous, Bendinat
- Property types: Three to five bedroom villas or townhouses with gardens, close to international schools and transport links
- Why: Safe beaches, sports clubs and strong schooling options support a balanced daily family life

Retirees
Why: Privacy, proximity to healthcare and a calm, sociable lifestyle
Best fit: Bendinat, Port d’Andratx, quieter pockets of Portals Nous
Property types: Low maintenance villas, single level homes or turnkey apartments with concierge services
Investors
- Best fit: Portals Nous (marina apartments); Santa Ponsa (family holiday lets); Port d’Andratx (high end luxury rentals)
- Property types: Apartments for high occupancy summer lets; luxury villas for short, high yield seasons; renovated townhouses for medium term rentals
- Why: Strong summer seasonality and marina proximity drive pricing and occupancy in prime units
Second Home Buyers & Remote Workers
- Best fit: Portals Nous, Port d’Andratx and selected areas of Santa Ponsa
- Property types: Comfortable two to three bedroom homes with outdoor space and reliable high speed internet
- Why: An easy blend of leisure and work, plus excellent access to Palma’s cultural scene
Practical note: When choosing property, prioritise micro location over sheer size. Direct sea access, protected plots, orientation and proximity to schools often determine long term value more reliably than finishes alone.
Practical Considerations; Transport, Healthcare, Utilities, Costs, Community and Safety
Transport and Commuting
Airport proximity: Palma International Airport (PMI) is typically 20 to 40 minutes away; ideal for weekend travel, business trips and frequent flyers.
Road access: Well maintained roads connect the region to Palma and the airport. Outside peak summer months, commutes are generally smooth; July and August bring heavier coastal traffic.
Public and private options: Bus routes connect major towns to Palma, though most residents prefer private cars, taxis or chauffeur services for comfort and flexibility.
Healthcare
- Private hospitals: Palma hosts leading facilities such as Quirónsalud Palmaplanas, Clínica Rotger and Hospital Son Espases.
- Local services: Most towns offer resident general practitioners, urgent care clinics and pharmacies; many healthcare providers are multilingual.
- Insurance: Many expatriates choose international private health insurance to access top specialists and minimise waiting times.
Utilities and Connectivity
- Reliable electricity and water services across developed areas
- Fibre optic broadband is standard in most of the Southwest; ideal for remote professionals and international teams
- Solar systems and home automation are increasingly popular, improving sustainability and running efficiency.
Cost of Living and Property Costs
- Property values: Premium pricing near marinas and frontline beaches; more value inland or in established residential pockets slightly away from the coast.
- Ownership costs: Plan for municipal tax (IBI), community fees, insurance, utilities and maintenance; in many cases around 1 to 2 percent of the property’s value per year.
- Rental yields: In high demand areas such as Portals Nous and Andratx, seasonal yields can be attractive, often averaging around 3 to 5 percent, depending on property type and management.
Demographics and Community
- International mix: A blend of Spanish residents, Northern Europeans and a growing Anglo American and Latin American presence, particularly in the luxury segment.
- Lifestyle profile: Full time families, seasonal residents and digital professionals who maintain part year bases.
- Community life: Active international clubs, schools and sports networks make social integration straightforward.
Safety and Security
The Southwest is considered among the island’s safer regions, with discreet private security in many gated developments. A number of communities offer 24 hour patrols or concierge style management; providing peace of mind for both full time residents and absentee owners.
Lifestyle Infrastructure
- Convenience: Supermarkets, pharmacies, gyms and organic markets are readily available in all key towns.
- Dining and leisure: Upscale restaurants, beach clubs and marinas provide year round options, particularly in the more established hubs.
- Maintenance services: Reliable local providers for landscaping, pools and villa maintenance; essential for remote ownership and rentals.
Schools and Education; Why International Options Matter

Top Schools Serving the Southwest
- Agora Portals International School (Portals Nous); IB and bilingual programmes
- Baleares International College (Cala Nova / Sant Agustí campus); British curriculum
- King Richard III / King’s College; British education options in the wider Palma area
- Various Montessori and bilingual primary schools across the region
Why Education Drives Location Choice
Families often choose neighbourhoods primarily according to school catchments and commute times. Shorter school runs reduce daily stress and make it easier for children to participate in after school clubs and social activities. Proximity to top schools also supports property demand over time; school catchments can act as a long term value driver.
Market Snapshot and Investment Signals
Market Signals; 2024 to 2025 Context
- Resilience in premium coastal pockets: Limited supply and planning protections keep quality coastal real estate scarce.
- Palma adjacent demand: Buyers who want access to Palma without living in the city increasingly look to the Southwest.
- Rental seasonality: July and August remain peak rental months; family demand in May, June, September and October helps to extend the profitable season.
Indicative Pricing Overview
- Portals Nous / Puerto Portals apartments: Premium prices per square metre; penthouses typically command the highest rates.
- Port d’Andratx villas: A top tier market; rare frontline or prime view plots carry significant premiums.
- Santa Ponsa: A broad spectrum; from more accessible family homes to high end villas close to the sea or golf.
- Bendinat: Stable pricing slightly below Portals Nous yet above average suburban levels; supported by golf and location.
Investment Tips
- Focus on turnkey properties if immediate rental revenue is important; renovation projects can deliver capital growth but must be planned carefully, especially near protected zones.
- Consider diversifying with long term rentals in winter and shoulder seasons; this can complement high yield summer lets.
Everyday Logistics; Buying, Renting, Property Management and Renovation
The dream of Mediterranean living comes with practical realities. Owning property in Mallorca is as much about logistics as lifestyle. Beyond the purchase itself, smooth management; from renovations to rentals; will define your long term experience.
Buying Process Essentials
NIE (tax number), a Spanish bank account, an independent lawyer (abogado), notary and Land Registry registration are core steps. Experienced local advisors are essential for navigating planning rules and licensing, particularly near the coast.
Rental Rules and Compliance
Short term holiday rentals require the correct tourist licences (ETV) and are regulated at municipal and regional level. Long term lets are always possible, but holiday rentals must comply with zoning and licensing requirements. Non compliance can lead to fines or licence withdrawal, so it is crucial to take legal advice before buying with a rental strategy in mind.
Property Management
For absentee owners, professional property management is strongly recommended. A good manager coordinates maintenance, security, cleaning, guest check in;out and emergency responses. Local contractor relationships help keep the property in excellent condition and control costs.
Renovation Practicalities
Heritage and coastal protections mean that most significant improvements require permits. Architects with experience in local planning systems can prevent delays. Many buyers allow a 10 to 20 percent contingency for renovations and factor in additional time for approvals.
Common Relocation Questions and Expert Tips
How easy is daily life in English
English is widely spoken in services, schools and many businesses across the Southwest. Learning Spanish will deepen your connection to the island and make everyday logistics even easier.
How family friendly are the towns
Very. Parks, clubs and structured activities are widely available, and local medical and educational networks are used to working with international families.
What about climate resilience
The climate is Mediterranean with mild winters. Many owners invest in good shading, efficient air conditioning and water management solutions to ensure comfort all year.
How seasonal is the area
Social life and tourism peak in summer. Many restaurants and services remain open year round in key hubs such as Portals Nous and Santa Ponsa, while some smaller businesses reduce hours in winter.
How can I secure a reliable property manager
Ask for references, clear pricing structures and a detailed onboarding plan; including contractors, cleaning schedules and emergency procedures.
Expert tip from local brokers: Consider testing the area with a short term rental or extended weekend stay before committing to a purchase. Experiencing day to day life will reveal micro location nuances that photos cannot.
Lifestyle Checklist; Is Southwest Mallorca for You
You are likely to feel at home here if:
- You want a balance between easy access to Palma and the calm of seaside living
- You need international schools within a comfortable daily radius
- You are drawn to marina life, golf side tranquillity or family friendly beaches; all within a short drive
- You value established international communities and strong local services
- You appreciate reliable property management so your home is cared for when you are abroad
If you find yourself ticking most of these boxes, the Southwest of Mallorca deserves your attention. Visiting Portals Nous, Santa Ponsa, Bendinat and Port d’Andratx in one curated tour will quickly show you the subtle differences between marina energy, family rhythm and quiet cliffside elegance.

Calls to Action; Next Steps with Homerun Brokers
At Homerun Brokers, we specialise in luxury real estate across the Southwest of Mallorca and wider Balearic region.
- Request your personalised Southwest lifestyle pack: We map properties to schools, commute times and lifestyle priorities to help you focus only on what truly fits.
- Book a curated property tour: View six to eight handpicked homes across Portals Nous, Santa Ponsa, Bendinat and Port d’Andratx, with on the ground logistics and, if needed, school visits.
- Sign up for our market briefing: Receive clear, concise updates on lifestyle trends, market shifts and new listings that match your profile.
- Explore investment focused insights: From rental yields to resale potential, we tailor our analysis to your investment goals.
Each step is designed to move you from interest to confident action; with bespoke listings, expert guidance and coordinated support from trusted legal and finance partners.
Final Note; A Life That Feels True, Not Staged
Living in Southwest Mallorca is both attainable and transformative. It is about more than a beautiful view; it is a reimagining of everyday life. Perhaps it is a morning swim before work, a school run along sunlit streets, dinner at a marina table with old friends, or a weekly market visit where you start to know the stallholders by name.
For families, retirees and investors who value a balanced mix of Palma access and coastal serenity, this corner of the island is among the best places to live in Mallorca. The region offers privacy, lifestyle and long term value, whether your goal is a permanent residence, a seasonal retreat or a high quality investment.
Your life, your move, your Mallorca. When you are ready, start with a conversation. Share your priorities with Homerun Brokers, and we will return a concise, actionable plan; curated properties, school matches and a viewing itinerary that makes every minute on the island count.
FAQ; Buying, Owning and Living Well in Southwest Mallorca
1. Can non residents buy property in Mallorca easily?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign buyers. The process is transparent but requires specific documents, notably an NIE (tax identification number) and a Spanish bank account.
2. How long does the purchase process typically take?
For straightforward transactions, many buyers complete within around 6 to 10 weeks from offer to completion. Add time if a mortgage, renovation permit or more complex ownership structure is involved.
3. What are the main purchase taxes and fees?
Allow roughly 10 to 13 percent of the purchase price for transfer tax, notary, legal and registry fees. New builds are subject to VAT and stamp duty instead of transfer tax.
4. Do I need to be in Mallorca to complete the purchase?
Not necessarily. Many buyers grant a limited power of attorney to their lawyer so that contracts, bank formalities and completion can be handled in their absence.
5. Can I rent my property legally to holidaymakers?
Short term holiday rentals require a tourist licence (ETV); availability of licences depends on zoning and regulations. Long term rentals are always permitted. It is important to consult a lawyer to confirm what is allowed before buying.
6. Is financing available to international buyers?
Yes. Spanish banks often provide financing to non residents, typically up to around 70 percent loan to value, depending on profile and property. Mortgage pre approval can strengthen your negotiating position.
7. How is property ownership structured for couples or investors?
Purchases can be made in individual, joint or company names. The optimal structure depends on tax residency, inheritance planning and liability considerations. Professional tax and legal advice is essential.
8. What should I know about renovation rules in the Southwest?
Most structural changes or significant improvements require permits, especially in coastal or protected areas. Working with a local architect and project manager helps to ensure compliance and avoid delays.
9. What are typical running costs for a villa or apartment?
As a general guide, many owners budget around 1 to 2 percent of the property value per year to cover community fees, maintenance, utilities, insurance and local taxes (IBI). Villas with pools and large gardens tend to sit at the higher end of that range.
10. How stable is the property market in 2025?
The Southwest remains one of Mallorca’s more resilient markets. Limited land supply, steady international demand and strong rental conditions continue to support long term value for well located, high quality properties.
