Ultimate Traveller’s Guide to Bendinat

Where to Eat & Drink: Popular Restaurants & Local Specialties in Bendinat

Bendinat dining scene is limited yet exceptional – reflecting the exclusive, private character with few establishments but outstanding culinary excellence. The overall eating culture emphasizes refined Mediterranean cuisine, fresh seafood, sophisticated preparation, and intimate, luxurious settings. Rather than volume, restaurants prioritize quality and experience.

For Families

• Las Terrazas de Bendinat (Hotel Bendinat, Mediterranean)
  Right by the sea with breathtaking bay and Portals Nous marina views. Top-class Mediterranean cuisine focusing on fresh seafood, tapas, and delicacies. Paella and Gambas al Ajillo specialties highlight excellent preparation. Stylish luxurious ambiance welcoming to families. Reservations essential (books quickly).
• Hotel Bendinat Restaurant (Mediterranean diverse)
  Fine dining within historic Hotel Bendinat property, sophisticated yet welcoming. Mediterranean focus with quality preparation. Sea views, refined service. Family-friendly despite upscale positioning.

​For Couples

• Las Terrazas de Bendinat (described above – romantic setting)
  Breathtaking bay views, candlelit intimate setting, excellent Mediterranean cuisine, fresh seafood specialties. Perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions. Reserve well in advance.
• Real de Vellon (Italian, elegantly romantic)
  Top-class restaurant with English touch and classically elegant ambience. Outstanding Italian cuisine focus with pasta, risotto, pizza, fish, meat dishes, traditional specialties. Pizza Vesuvio and Pollo Kiev highlights. Luxurious inviting atmosphere perfect for couples.
• Niko’s Place (mentioned above – romantic colonial setting)
  Extravagant colonial ambience with creative Mediterranean fusion cuisine. Intimate setting, attentive service, fine wine selection. Perfect for couple celebrations.

For Singles

• Niko’s Place (Lindner Golf Resort, Mediterranean fusion)
  Extravagant flair and exclusive atmosphere in colonial ambience. Mediterranean fusion cuisine prepared with passion and creativity. Top-class kitchen team, first-class service. Social bar area perfect for solo diners. 
• Lucy Wang (Japanese-Asian, stylish)
  Japanese specialties of highest quality in stylish, trendy ambiance. Exclusive menu featuring traditional Japanese flavors with innovative twists. Perfect for solo dining appreciating culinary artistry. 
• Blue Bar Bendinat (cocktail bar)
  Exclusive cocktail bar with first-class drinks menu, stylish modern ambience, breathtaking bay views. Solo-friendly bar culture, creative cocktails.

Upscale Dining

• Las Terrazas de Bendinat (described above – highest quality)
  Top-class Mediterranean cuisine in stylish luxurious setting, fresh seafood focus, specialized paella and tapas. One of Bendinat’s finest dining experiences.
• Real de Vellon (described above – fine Italian)
  Top-class Italian cuisine in classically elegant ambience, first-class service, luxurious atmosphere.
• Niko’s Place (described above – creative fusion)
  First-class Mediterranean fusion kitchen, extravagant flair, exclusive service standards.

Shopping & Local Experiences in Bendinat

Bendinat’s shopping is limited reflecting the exclusive private character – primarily designer boutiques within luxury hotels and rare street-level retail. The focus is on upscale rather than commercial browsing. Nearby Puerto Portals marina (5 km, 10 minutes) provides premium shopping with designer boutiques, art galleries, luxury retailers.

Cultural experiences define Bendinat’s appeal beyond shopping. The Bendinat Castle and 2,800-acre estate offers cultural immersion into private luxury living and architectural heritage. The Oratori chapel with adjoining small museum provides historical and cultural context, displaying artifacts and documents while housing a charming café serving traditional Mallorcan delicacies.

Local experiences center on experiencing exclusive lifestyle – private villa exploration (from exterior), pristine cove discovery, golf course sophistication, luxury hotel amenities appreciation. The international cosmopolitan community (wealthy residents, celebrities, executives) creates unique multicultural atmosphere reflecting global sophistication.

Nearby experiences include Puerto Portals marina culture with yacht-watching and upscale dining, Illetes beaches for swimming, Serra de Tramuntana hiking, Sa Dragonera National Park exploration, and Palma cultural day trips (cathedral, museums, historic center).

Events & Festivals in Bendinat

Bendinat hosts private and exclusive events reflecting its refined character rather than commercialized tourist celebrations. The Bendinat Castle serves as event venue for weddings, gala dinners, art exhibitions – creating sophisticated occasions reflecting elite positioning. Golf tournaments at Real Golf de Bendinat occur throughout year, attracting championship players and enthusiasts.

Nearby municipality celebrations in broader Calvià region include various cultural and athletic events. Bendinat itself maintains low-key event calendar – emphasizing peaceful living over tourism entertainment infrastructure. The overall festive atmosphere reflects natural Mediterranean rhythm rather than manufactured events.

Getting to Bendinat: Transport, Parking & Access

Bendinat is exceptionally accessible with prime southwestern location. Located 15 km from Palma, 20-25 minutes from airport:

• Car: MA-1 highway directly connects Bendinat to Palma and airport (20-25 minutes). Rental cars with airport counters.
• Taxi: From airport (20-25 minutes, €25-30), from Palma city center (€15-20, 20-25 minutes).
• Bus: Several routes connect to Palma; total travel time approximately 40-50 minutes.wheretostay​

Parking includes street parking (free white zones, paid blue zones) and private hotel/resort parking. Parking generally adequate reflecting low-density development.homes-abroad​

Travel Tips:

• Early arrival (before 9 AM) secures beach sunbeds and tranquility.
• MA-1 motorway provides quick access to Palma for city day trips.
• Resort parking simplifies logistics for full-day experiences.
• Golf reservations essential during peak season.
• Restaurant reservations mandatory, particularly for Las Terrazas de Bendinat.

Family-Friendly Activities & Sports in Bendinat

Bendinat is exceptionally family-oriented with pristine cove beach and safe, accessible facilities. Cala Bendinat’s calm, clear shallow waters are perfect for young swimmers with minimal commercial development preserving safety and tranquility. Water activities including snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking offer family-friendly Mediterranean experiences.

Sports facilities available in Bendinat include:

• Real Golf de Bendinat: Championship 18-hole course (opened 1986) with family-friendly options and junior programs despite intermediate-to-advanced difficulty.
• Water sports rentals: Kayaks, snorkeling equipment available from Cala Bendinat beach bar.
• Nearby sports: Tennis courts, fitness facilities at luxury hotels.

Family attractions nearby include Marineland (20 minutes), Western Water Park (25 minutes), Pirates Adventure Show (20 minutes, dinner theater with acrobatics). The peaceful, genuinely welcoming atmosphere means families enjoy leisurely experiences without crowds or excessive noise. The pristine natural beauty and sophisticated hospitality provide quality family bonding.

Beaches & Water Activities in Bendinat

Cala Bendinat, the small exclusive cove beach, features crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, dramatic rocky cliff backdrop, and secluded natural beauty. The narrow winding road through pine forests leads to hidden Mediterranean jewel. Sheltered bay offers calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, underwater exploration. Limited development – traditional Mallorcan houses, intimate chiringuito beach bar – preserves unspoiled character. Early morning (before 9 AM) ensures sunbed availability and tranquility; late afternoon provides magical light and fewer crowds.

Water sports include snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking through crystal waters. The sheltered protected bay makes activities safe for varied skill levels. Beach bar (chiringuito) provides refreshments and casual dining. The intimate, uncrowded nature defines Cala Bendinat – genuine Mediterranean privacy rather than resort beach infrastructure.

Things to Do & Attractions in Bendinat

7 Top Local Attractions:

1. Cala Bendinat – Exclusive small cove with crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand, dramatic rocky cliffs, pristine natural beauty
2. Bendinat Castle – 19th-century neo-Gothic structure, 2,800-acre private estate, antique collections, spectacular gardens, event venue
3. Real Golf de Bendinat – Championship 18-hole par-70 course (opened 1986) with valley fairways, Mediterranean views, high-spec clubhouse
4. Oratori Chapel & Museum – Small chapel with adjoining museum displaying historical artifacts, café serving traditional Mallorcan food
5. Hotel Bendinat – Historic 1950s luxury property, architectural charm, sea views, exclusive ambiance representing refinement
6. Serra de Tramuntana Mountains – UNESCO World Heritage range with hiking trails, panoramic Mediterranean vistas, natural beauty
7. Sa Dragonera National Park – Protected island (accessible by boat from Sant Elm, 20 minutes) with dramatic cliffs, caves, lighthouse, historical sites

5 Top Activities (Why People Come to Bendinat):

1. Exclusive Beach Relaxation – Crystal-clear waters, uncrowded cove, pristine natural beauty, peaceful Mediterranean privacy
2. Championship Golf Experience – Real Golf de Bendinat’s scenic valley course with sea views, technical holes, refined clubhouse
3. Luxury Hotel & Resort Experiences – World-class spas, refined dining, exclusive amenities, sophisticated hospitality
4. Private Villa Lifestyle – Experiencing exclusive residential character, architectural beauty, sophisticated ambiance
5. Tranquil Mediterranean Escape – Peaceful seclusion from tourism, genuine privacy, refined leisure, authentic natural beauty

Nightlife in Bendinat

Bendinat nightlife emphasizes peaceful, refined evening experiences rather than intensive clubbing or party atmosphere. Hotel bars and restaurants provide sophisticated cocktails with sunset views, fine wine selections, and intimate ambiance. The overall atmosphere is upscale-yet-relaxed, elegant without intensity.

For visitors seeking more vibrant evening entertainment, nearby Puerto Portals (5 km, 10 minutes) provides access to upscale nightclubs, beach clubs, and DJ venues. Palma (20-25 minutes) offers full nightlife spectrum from sophisticated bars to vibrant nightclubs.

Bendinat itself prioritizes peaceful evenings – sunset dining, waterfront bars, refined cocktails, gentle music creating natural social atmospheres. The evening vibe emphasizes quality and authenticity over manufactured tourism entertainment.

Hotels & Places to Stay in Bendinat

Bendinat offers predominantly luxury and upscale accommodations, with limited budget options reflecting exclusive character. Most hotels are beachfront or villa-adjacent with sea views, refined amenities, and professional services. All-inclusive options rare; instead expect world-class spas, gourmet restaurants, personalized concierge.

Historic properties like Hotel Bendinat (1950s luxury jewel hosting President Bill Clinton and celebrities) blend heritage charm with contemporary luxury. Modern properties offer contemporary sophistication while respecting neighborhood character. Lindner Golf Resort combines golf-focused amenities with luxury hotel facilities.

Best Time to Visit Bendinat

The best time to visit Bendinat largely depends on whether your priority is peaceful luxury, golf, or enjoying undisturbed beaches. Late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are widely considered the sweet spot for most visitors. During these months, daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm (20-26°C), rainfall is moderate, and the landscape is lush—ideal for outdoor activities like golf and hiking. These periods allow you to experience Bendinat’s beauty and its iconic golf course in comfortable conditions, with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation than in high season.​

Summer (June-August) is the most popular time for Bendinat, with long, hot days averaging 25-29°C, warm seas, and all restaurants, boutiques, and bars bustling with seasonal activity. This period draws international visitors, particularly in July and August, which means a more energetic atmosphere around the area’s hotels and local establishments. The beaches and nearby coves are at their most inviting for swimming and sunbathing, but it’s important to book accommodation and tee times well in advance due to higher demand and prices.​

For golfers, Bendinat’s Real Golf de Bendinat operates year-round, but its high seasons are mid-March to early June and mid-September to end-October, when the course conditions are optimal and the temperatures favor play. Summer golf is certainly possible but can be quite hot in the midday sun, while winter, though generally mild (13-16°C daytime), is quieter, best for those seeking solitude and the peace of the landscaped fairways.​

Winter (November-March) transforms Bendinat into a tranquil retreat, with the area returning to its residential character. Daytime highs average 13-17°C, perfect for peaceful walks, wellness escapes, or enjoying sea views from local cafes without the crowds. However, expect reduced hours at some hotels and restaurants, and the occasional rainy spell, particularly in November, which is the wettest month.​

Ultimately, if you seek maximum luxury, vibrant community life, and the full range of high-end amenities, plan for June through September. But for serene ambiance, lower prices, and access to the course, spring and early autumn offer the best overall experience. Advanced reservations for tee times or luxury stays are recommended in high demand periods, while off-season visits ensure the quiet exclusivity that makes Bendinat such a coveted address.

FAQs