Mallorca's Playa de Palma Sees Major Changes as Beach Bars Face Demolition

In a significant shift for Mallorca's iconic Playa de Palma, plans are underway to eliminate the beach bars that have become synonymous with the destination's lively scene. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize the beachfront and address environmental concerns.

The authorities have already begun the demolition of sections of the beachfront wall, and there are proposals to change the name of the promenade. According to Pedró Marin, the president of the Asociación Hoteleros Playa De Palma, the existing 15 beach bars, known locally as Balnearios, are considered outdated and are slated for removal.

Marin stated that the hotel industry advocates for a transformation of these beachside structures into facilities that support public sports and water activities, or even essential amenities like public restrooms. The local government appears receptive to these proposals, indicating a willingness to explore options that align with the modernization efforts.

The current concessions for these beach kiosks are set to expire in 2031; however, Marin has urged the city council to coordinate with the coastal protection agency in Madrid to expedite their removal. The overarching goal is to adapt the promenade to meet contemporary tourist demands while also addressing the erosion of the beach, which has seen significant sand loss over the years.

Plans involve extending the beach up to six meters into the land and constructing a new promenade that aligns with safety and aesthetic standards. The objective is not to diminish the party atmosphere that attracts visitors to the area, but rather to eliminate issues associated with excessive drunken behavior and public disturbances.

Marin emphasized that the focus of the discussions with the mayor has predominantly been on safety measures for the summer season, rather than solely on the beach bars. The long-term vision is to transform Playa de Palma into a safer, more peaceful environment for both tourists and residents.

Recently, a beach bar at Playa Ciutad Jardín in Palma was demolished for reasons unrelated to these new plans, as it was found to be in violation of local building regulations by being too close to another establishment.