Majorca activities

Anything that involves water is extremely popular on the island, so waterparks go down a storm with all families, which is why Majorca has some of the finest you'll ever get wet in. The Aquapark at Magalluf is a long established waterpark just on the edge of town, and has pools, slides of every kind, a 'water castle' and numerous exciting rides. One of the world's largest water funfairs is at Aquacity, S'Arenal (Playa de Palma). Here, there are enough thrills and spills to keep the family happy all day. In addition to the water slides and wave pool, there is a mini-zoo, as well as a children's farm, and a parrot show.

Whatever you think about animal shows and zoos, there's no denying they're very popular, and Marineland, Portals Nous is no exception. The kids will just love the performing dolphins, sealions and parrots. There is also a penguin pool, a reptile house and a large collection of sharks and tropical fish, plus flamingoes, monkeys and an impressive aviary. Children can also ride on a mock pirate boat and a miniature train. Just in case a trip to Marineland becomes a bit of guilt trip for you, it's worth knowing that profits generated here are put back into various conservation programmes.

Majorca has 41 marinas, 30 sailing clubs and mooring for 10,000 yachts. Yachts can be chartered locally and most marinas also have water-skiing and windsurfing facilities. Highlights of the sailing year include the King's Cup in August, the Princess Sofia trophy at Easter, and the Rei en Jaume regatta in July when a flotilla of yachts recreate the 185-km journey made by Jaume the Conqueror when he landed at Santa Ponsa in 1229. If sailing is not your watersport, there are plenty of alternatives to try; from scuba diving; water- skiing; windsurfing; pedal boating. All are available at most of the resorts with qualified training if required.