Created for tourism, Santo Tomas is a string of modern hotels and apartment blocks, running for just under ¾ ml parallel to the shoreline. Very quiet and unexciting with no local character to speak of, the resort's artificial feel is accentuated by the fact that it is only "open" from May to Oct and there is no local population living here out of season. Its raison d'etre is the beach, where most people gravitate during the day while keeping to their accommodation at night.

Regular bus service in season only (May to Oct): 3 buses daily to Mahon; 3 to Ciudadela; 4 to Es Migjorn. Two car-hire outlets.

Location: Halfway along the S coast, 18 mls W of Mahon and the airport.

Position: S facing and rather exposed. Backed by low, wooded, rolling hills. Narrow approach road.

Postcode: 07749

Two narrow beaches divided by a rocky promontory, both comprising 600 yds of light-coloured sand and fine shingle with some rocky outcrops. A path and protected sand dunes separate the busier beach from the frontline hotels and apartments; quieter beach stretches lie beyond the confines of the resort.

Daytime: beach and a few water sports.

Nightlife: none apart from nightly shows in hotels.