costa smeralda beach tour

Costa Smeralda bus tour

Every Thursday our bus tour discovers the Costa Smeralda, departing from San Teodoro. Thanks to our bus tour you can visit San Pantaleo, Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia. The tour includes a guide on board or, alternatively, a ride on the little train in Porto Cervo.

This service is available from 1 June to 30 September. In some periods, a minimum number of passengers may be required.

The first stop is in the suggestive and characteristic Gallura village of  San Pantaleo . Mid-morning we leave San Pantaleo and we’ll take the scenic road to reach Porto Cervo . This second stop , which lasts about an hour, is in the most renowned tourist port of Sardinia . Its architecture and streets, where bars, restaurants and luxury boutiques are located, overlook one of the most beautiful and evocative inlets on the Sardinia island. We then leave for  Baja Sardinia , where it will be possible to have lunch and bathe at the beach. Last stop is  Palau , where we’ll take some photos at the famous “belvedere”.

San Pantaleo

The first stop of the tour is in San Pantaleo, a charming Gallura village set among granite peaks . The historic center winds around the enchanting little church built in 1903. The houses are those typical of the Gallura of the past: the “stazzi”.

Strolling through these alleys, boutiques and artisan workshops or even sitting down to sip an aperitivo in one of the bars is a unique experience.

After some shopping, mid-morning the tour continues along the scenic road that leads to the famous Porto Cervo.

Porto Cervo

Porto Cervo is a must when visiting Costa Smeralda, because of its natural beauties, the beaches, the inlets between the granite rocks, the color of the emerald green sea but also, and above all, for its famous Piazzetta which stands for luxury and elegance.

During this one-hour stop, it’s possible to stroll in the small square or along the alleys where the beautiful display windows of the most famous luxury boutiques in the world are located (Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton and many more).

Among dreamy scenarios and atmospheres, the walk continues between flowery avenues and characteristic wooden bridges, up to the old port where magnificent yachts are docked .

For the more attentive observer it will not be difficult to notice the low buildings with soft colors and sinuous outlines, typical of the Costa Smeralda architecture. A typical example of this is the beautiful church of Stella Maris designed by the architect Michele Busiri Vici.

After the stop in Porto Cervo, the bus tour continues along the scenic road that leads to Baja Sardinia.

Baja Sardinia

The lively Baja Sardinia is the ideal place for a lunch break and bathe at the beach. Around the nice  Piazzetta Due Vele  it is easy to find many shops and boutiques but also cafes and restaurants (with several options for all tastes and budgets) where stopping to eat or drink on the seafront will be truly a pleasure!

In the afternoon we reach one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Palau: the famous “Belvedere”.

Our tour could not end in any other way than with a beautiful view of the La Maddalena Archipelago . A breathtaking panorama opens up before your eyes with the rocky profiles of La Maddalena island and smaller islets (such as the islands of Razzoli, Spargi, Budelli) that stand out against the blue of the sea and sky. Further north however, it is possible to clearly see the outline of Corsica island.

Bus tour prices (lunch not included)

• Adults: € 60,00
• Children < 12 years old: € 30,00
• Children < 3 years old: free

Bus departure times

• from San Teodoro center (via Sassari) at 7:30 AM • from accommodation facilities at 7:00 AM • return to San Teodoro and/or to accommodation facilities at around 8:00 PM

How to book this bus tour

Contact us directly and book the trip by calling or writing on Whatsapp at: +39 349 4453924

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FREE cancellation with full refund up to 24 hours before the start of the activity

Tour of the Costa Smeralda and Porto Cervo

Up to 32 people, departure/return.

• Panoramic view of the Portisco village
• Stop at Belvedere (10 min)
• Panoramic view of Abbiadori
• Stop at Porto Cervo village (40 min)
• Panoramic view of Porto Cervo Marina
• Stop at the Church of Stella Maris (15 min)
• Panoramic view of Liscia di Vacca
• Panoramic view of Poltu Quatu village
• Stop at the Baja Sardinia village (40 min)
• Panoramic view of Cala Bitta
• Stop at San Pantaleo village (30 min)
• Return to the pickup location

Bottled water

Stops to visit places and view landscapes, driver and minivan, audio guide, not included, drinks/food, routes not in the itinerary, cancellation policy.

• You will receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour departure.
• You will receive a full refund if the tour is canceled due to bad weather.
• The refund is made directly to the credit/debit card used for the booking.

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BEST COSTA SMERALDA BEACHES To See Before You Die!(With Map)

In BLOG , EUROPE , ITALY , SARDINIA , SARDINIA BLOG by Clelia Mattana 5 July, 2022 14 Comments

Contents - Open To Read

Best Beaches In Costa Smeralda Near Porto Cervo

Costa Smeralda beaches are indeed a dream come true for every beach lover. Do you love the Caribbean Sea? Then you’ll love the beaches in Costa Smeralda, maybe even more! Click on your favorite beach to read about it and check my suggestions for the best hotels near each beach . Enjoy my beautiful Sardinia!

Spiaggia Dell’Elefante

Arcipelago Della Maddalena 

Li Itriceddi

Piccolo Pevero

Grande Pevero

Liscia Ruja

Cala Petra Ruja

Mucchi Bianchi

Principe Beach

Capriccioli

Cala Di Volpe

Cala Liccia

Liscia Di Vacca

Costa Smeralda Best Beaches Map

If you want to know where they then stop here! I will guide you through the most enchanting ones with my map of the most popular Costa Smeralda beaches. I’ll give you advice on the best hotels and where to stay close to a specific beach, and how to get to the beach as only a local could do!

The Costa Smeralda, located on the northeast Sardinia coast, is one of Italy’s most famous and beautiful beach areas . In this article, I will list all the best beaches in Costa Smeralda and everything you need to know about them.

From the beaches’ principal activities and amenities, the closest and most excellent hotels to the beach, tours, and things that not everybody knows. You’ll learn how to get around if you stick with me till the end!

Costa Smeralda might be expensive (even tough, not impossible for a Holiday on the cheap side). Still, its vibe is second to none of the poshest destinations in Italy, and its beaches are just the cherry on top of a fabulous location in Sardinia!

Tips On How to Get to the Costa Smeralda Beaches

You must rent a car to get to th e beaches in Costa Smeralda . Without a car, you won’t be able to reach 90% of the best beaches in the area.

If you want to move freely around Sardinia (and in Costa Smeralda) you’ll need to rent a car.

Posters on sites like TripAdvisor and in the comment section frequently ask for recommendations for rental companies, so much so that this is one of the “Top questions about Sardinia.” The information linked here aims to give you tips about having a good experience with car rental on the island.

I recommend one of the sites I’ve used myself more than once, which will find the  best deals for car rentals in Costa Smeralda  (from Olbia or any other major city in Sardinia like Alghero and Cagliari).

Check out the link below and if you want to experience the best of what the Costa Smeralda beaches have to offer, you can get ahead and rent your car online .

It’s sometimes much better than stressing yourself at the airport. I highly recommend you book as soon as possible, especially for the Costa Smeralda, because the prices close in on the summer season and the cars’ availability becomes scarce.

SPIAGGIA DEL PRINCIPE

Below is a video you can NOT miss! In Arzachena (a pretty convenient place to stay near the Costa Smeralda beaches but not on the sea), this lovely place is called Aldo B&B .

The owner shoots amazing videos, including several of the beaches I mentioned. If you watch this, you’ll fall in love with Sardinia before you even arrive and want to book your holidays immediately!

Principe Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Costa Smeralda for its wild beauty and its proximity to the lovely village of Porto Cervo. 

The pristine waters and the typical rock formations at the end of each side of the beach make it an unmissable spot in Costa Smeralda. Spiaggia del Principe is also known by many as one of the most beautiful beaches not only in Sardinia but in Italy (and Europe).

I lived in Mexico and the Philippines for a while and I can guarantee you that this beach has nothing to envy to the Caribbeans, the Philippines or even the Maldives!

For this reason, Principe Beach is at the top of my list of the best beaches in Costa Smeralda. Its wow factor will sweep you away, and you’ll love swimming and snorkeling in its turquoise and transparent waters.

The beach is 250 meters long, not far away from the famous village of Porto Cervo, and is easily reachable by car.    Perfectly perfect in every possible way!

Parking Fees at Spiaggia Del Principe:

It only costs 1,5 euros per hour or 7,5 euros for the whole day. The walk from the parking lot to the beach is around 10 minutes.

Beach Main Features

• Suitable For Families and kids
• Parking space (free and paid)
• Small bar for drinks/lunch

Hotels On The Beach

There are NO HOTELS ON the beach near Spiaggia del Principe . This is one of the reasons why it is so wild and beautiful.

Even without beach hotels, Spiaggia del Principe can easily be reached by car. I’ll list my favorite Hotels close enough to Principe Beach.

WHERE TO STAY: HOTELS NEAR SPIAGGIA DEL PRINCIPE

This is my absolute favorite Hotel on the beach near Spiaggia del Principe. It’s a dream come true in Costa Smeralda. Ratings: 9.1

Villa Carola

One of the most luxurious villas near Porto Cervo, perfect for families. Close to Spiaggia del Principe.  Ratings: 9.2

View More Hotels

Check out the other Hotels and Villas near Spiaggia Del Principe.

Usually, the most convenient accommodations to stay and reach this fabulous beach are located in the nearby villages, at 5-10 min max by car:

Porto Cervo | Abbiadori

Nearby Beaches In Costa Smeralda

This is a list of every jaw-dropping beach in Costa Smeralda (not far away from Spiaggia del Principe beach and Porto Cervo) and these are also the ones I’ll be talking about in this article.

So, if you are interested in checking out a particular one or looking for specific Hotels, Villas, or resorts near that beach, you can click on the link, and it will take you straight to that beach!

• Piccolo Pevero  beach (12 min by car)
• Grande Pevero  beach (16 min by car)
• Liscia Ruja  (14 min by car)
• La Maddalena Archipelago Beaches
• Liscia di Vacca (18 min by car)
• Mucchi Bianchi (20 min by car)
• Cala Petra Ruja (18 min by car)
• Cala Granu Beach (17 min by car)
• Romazzino  Beach (5 min by car)
• La Celvia  Beach (5 min by car)
• Capriccioli  Beach (5/6 min by car)
• Cala Di Volpe  Beach (5 min by car)
• Cala Liccia   Beach (6 min by car)
• Spiaggia Dell’Elefante  (7 min by car)
• Li Itriceddi   Beach (10 min by car)

Map: How To Get To La Spiaggia Del Principe

Useful map to get To La Spiaggia Del Principe In Costa Smeralda From Olbia, Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo. 

From Porto Cervo & Cala Di Volpe To Principe Beach:

Getting to Principe Beach is fairly straightforward. You can get there from Porto Cervo in less than 20 20-minute drive south. Follow the directions to Romazzino. Coming from Cala di Volpe? You’ll get there in less than 10 minutes!

From Olbia Airport To Spiaggia Del Principe:

Driving from Olbia will take longer, but it will still be within a reasonable distance (35-minute ride).

As mentioned, Renting a car is the best option for getting to the beach. It is a stress-free, hassle-free, and more independent way to visit the island.

No need to buy a tour, or to take a taxi all around, with the car all these beautiful beaches will be within your reach.

ROMAZZINO BEACH

Romazzino Beach is an excellent place to spend your holidays in Costa Smeralda. When I say “Spiaggia Del Romazzino, I’m referring to the main beach in front of the famous Romazzino Hotel .

Compared to the other beaches, it’s probably less extraordinary, but still possesses great-looking clear blue water ( you’re in Sardinia after all!)

Many visitors have defined it as one of the best beaches in Costa Smeralda. Fact? I guess it depends on opinions (and the confusion; some more info on this topic later)

Some people enjoy the fact that Romazzino Hotel is directly on the beach and offers every possible amenity . Some others enjoy the Piccolo Romazzino beach more.

Parking spot at Romazzino :

It costs 1,5 euros per hour. However, there is a (small) free parking lot nearby as an alternative. My suggestion? Get up super early to take the free parking spot!

Umbrellas & Sunbeds at Romazzino:

Renting then at Romazzino is quite expensive compared to other beaches: 80 euros per day for an umbrella and 2 sun beds, which is something to consider when choosing where to stay.

Confusion About The 2 Romazzino Beaches:

There is some confusion between Romazzino Hotel Beach and the “Piccolo Romazzino Beach ,” with the latter being wilder with no umbrellas, but more beautiful (free tip by a local, just for you)

Parking Space (paid and free)

Restaurant on the beach

Snorkeling spots

Sun Umbrellas

Beach Chairs /Sunbeds

Hotels Near The Beach

Romazzino (the big one) took its name from the famous Hotel directly on the beach , but other than the obvious, there are other interesting properties to check out!

Considering that there are not one but two “Romazzino ” beaches!

WHERE TO STAY: HOTELS NEAR ROMAZZINO

Hotel romazzino.

Super famous Hotel in Costa Smeralda, private beach with sun umbrellas and a fantastic swimming pool. Ratings: 8.8

Hotel Nibaru

It is one of the genuinely enchanting Hotels in Costa Smeralda, just 3 minutes by car from Piccolo Romazzino Beach. Ratings: 8.9

Map Of The Two Romazzino Beaches

I leave the map to do the talking. The two beaches are not even close to each other!

How to get to Romazzino Beach

From olbia airport to romazzino beach :.

You can drive a short half an hour to get to the beach by following the road towards Arzachena , and the road signs (and maybe your Google Maps on mobile) will get you to your final destination.

From Porto Cervo To Romazzino Beach :

If you’re coming from Porto Cervo, it’s only 15 minutes by car. Driving south and passing by Cala di Volpe, the road is pretty easy, and you won’t get lost following the signs on the panoramic road with the lovely view of the sea in the background.

At some point in this scenic route, you can see the whole coast and Porto Cervo’s Marina with all the Yachts. Quite something!

LA CELVIA BEACH

Every beach in Costa Smeralda (and in Sardinia, generally) is known for something different. La Celvia is famous for its tourist-friendly services and its general comfort.

Located at walking distance from Capriccioli beach , it’s a true gem in Costa Smeralda with it’s fine sand and turquoise shallow waters. Plus it’s a fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving spot.

Prices For The Amenities At La Celvia:

• Umbrellas and sun beds cost 30 euros for two beds + umbrella,
• Parking space costs only 7.50euros a day

La Celvia Tips & Info:

The indescribable views from this beach are insane, and there is a fantastic beach bar with healthy and fresh food.

On a more “negative” note, the beach is not super big (around 300 meters) and tends to get overcrowded during the peak season, which may bother some tourists. I suggest going off-season or early in the morning during the summer months.

• Paddleboard , Canoes, and pedalos
• Restaurants on the beach
• Sun Umbrellas and Chairs
• Parking Space
• Scuba diving

Set aside for luxury private properties scattered nearby, La Celvia does not have hotels on the beach.

But you can find so many great hotel options in its proximity. Check out my suggestions .

WHERE TO STAY: HOTELS NEAR LA CELVIA BEACH

Villa donatella.

Located in Abbiadori, this villa is perfect for families and groups. It has a pool, a nearby golf course, and tennis courts! Ratings: N/A

Petra Bianca Hotel

Just 5 minutes away from La Celvia beach, this hotel overlooks the fantastic bay of Cala Di Volpe, and the views are amazing! Ratings : 8.9

Map: How To Get To La Celvia Beach

You can reach La Celvia beach easily from almost everywhere in Costa Smeralda.

From Olbia Airport To La Celvia Beach:

You have to drive towards Palau and then follow the direction of Costa Smeralda and, finally, Cala di Volpe and Capriccioli signs.

Useful Info About La Celvia:

If you plan on visiting the nearby beaches, save some money for the sun beds and invest in the less expensive parking space at La Celvia .

Given that La Celvia is within walking distance from Capriccioli, you can visit both on the same day if you don’t have much time. We did this last year and it was a good option. The parking spaces are also quite nearby (one for la Celvia and 2 for Capriccioli).

PLEASE NOTE THE ARTICLE IS STILL WORK IN PROGRESS WITH THE OTHER BEACHES IN COSTA SMERALDA, AS I NEED TO UPDATE PRICES AND INFO EACH YEAR. THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE

Best Activities & Tours Near The Costa Smeralda Beaches

A quick list of what to do in the nearby area of Porto Cervo and the best beaches in Costa Smeralda (a detailed article for the best things to do in Costa Smeralda is coming out soon!)

• Night photography while the stars are shining ! There is nothing better than enjoying a night in the wild nature in Sardinia.
• Have a nice night out at the Hotel Romazzino . It features a terrace with sea views and a bar at the pool for lovers of luxurious life. The dress code is casual.

• Trekking from Romazzino to Pevero Also called Pevero Health Trail – Easy and beautiful trek. It can be completed in less than 3 hours, and you will see incredible views from above.
• Discover Punta Capaccia and admire Sardinia’s countryside. The path is relatively narrow at some points, so be careful.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT SARDINIA!

• Where To stay in Sardinia for Couples: A Local’s guide!
• One week in Sardinia: the Best Itinerary For you!
• Best Sardinia Beaches You can’t miss on Your Trip
• Fabulous reason to Visit Sardinia in Low Season
• Amazing Things To Do In Sardinia in Summer
• Unique Things To Do in Sardinia During Winter
• Best Costa Smeralda Beaches With Map
• Sardinia By Car: The Ultimate Guide on How To Get Around the Island!
• Sardinia Photos: My 15 favorite Instagram Pictures!
• Sardinia Travel Guide: Unmissable Places To See and Things To Do!
• Sardinia Holidays for Families: Where To Stay with your kids!
• Sardinia Solo Travel: A Backpackers guide by a Local!
• Sardinia Camping: Your Guide (By a Local)
• Sardinia Travel Guides
• Sardinia in 2 weeks: Best Itinerary
• Sardinia in 3 weeks: Best Itinerary

COSTA SMERALDA is a place famous for its beaches. I will definitely visit this place next year.

You should Emi! Its beaches are out of this world!

Thank you for sharing this Costa Smeralda guide, I will plan my holiday based on this! My idea is to go to Porto Cervo and then move around a bit and take the boat trips. Thanks again for the suggestions and the maps, they were helpful.

I’m glad you enjoy this Costa Smeralda guide and maps, it took me a while to create them, but it was fun!

I am planning to travel and after reading your post my first choice will be Sardinia. thanks for sharing such a beautiful post.

Thanks, Kartik! Costa Smeralda is truly great. I wish you a happy holiday in Sardinia!

I really like our sardinian’s beaches! We have a really wealth without misure! Therefore, beautiful bolg 😉

Thank you! Indeed we are wealthy by living in this beautiful Sardinia Paradise!

Your blog is fantastic and gives you a real insight into Sardinia.

As you live there then you clearly know your stuff about the island.

My girlfriend and I are in are mid 30’s and are looking at booking at our next holiday there in mid may (17th – 24th) May 2014.

With this in mind, were are looking to stay there for a week but I don’t know which area would best suit us.

Somewhere with plenty of really nice beaches, secluded coves, nice restaurants, chic bars and some nightlife would be fantastic. I understand may is the start of the season so most places will be open….or just starting to open up, but as long as its not to dead (I.e not a sole about) then were fine with that.

We normally hire a quad bike to explore he island so could this be done going to different beaches….such as those pictured on your blog??

If you would Be so kind as to contact me directly & drop me an email if you possibly get chance with some advice, at least I will then have idea of what I need to start looking for / booking etc..

Much appreciated,

Hi Simon…I doubt you will be reading this reply as you are already back from your trip! I just saw the message as I was Overwhelmed by messages for the main article about Sardinia on my website!

So this message is mainly for all the people who want to know more about it (and hopefully get an answer in time to plan their trips, please go to the main article http://www.keepcalmandtravel.com/top-ten-sardinian-beaches-for-a-low-budget-holiday/ and you’ll get all the help you need!

Thanks! Clelia 🙂

Sardinia looks so amazing. What a great place to spend you time.

Thanks Shalu, my home country is really beautiful :))

You need to participate in a contest for among the finest blogs on the web. I’ll advocate this web site!

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THE 5 BEST Costa Smeralda Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in costa smeralda.

• Boat Rentals
• Speed Boats Tours
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Water Sports
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Isola di Spargi
• Budelli arcipelago Maddalena
• Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena
• Spiaggia Rosa
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Traditional sailing ship tour to Tavolara and Molara

2. Daily excursions on a sailing boat, Maddalena Archipelago

3. Corsica and Bonifacio Private Yacht Trip from Sardinia

4. Polaris 7 archipelago tour in La Maddalena archipelago

5. Motorboat excursion to the Arcipelago of La Maddalena

6. 7 Days Gran Tour Sardinia and Corsica from Genoa or Rome

7. 6 Days Sardinia Tour from Genoa or Rome

8. Sardinia Private Boat Tour at La Maddalena Islands

9. Private Tour to Arcipelago della Maddalena and Costa Smeralda

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Catamaran tour to the Maddalena Archipelago from Cannigione

Luxury catamaran from Porto Rafael-Palau to the Maddalena Archipelago

Sailboat tour from PALAU to the Maddalena Archipelago.

Observation of Dolphins and Snorkeling in a rubber boat in Olbia

Kayak tour with aperitif and dolphins

La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour from Palau

Tavolara Boat Tour and Snorkeling

Boat Tour La Maddalena Archipelago from Palau

Sailboat tour from Santa Teresa di Gallura to the Maddalena Archipelago

La Maddalena Archipelago Catamaran Day Tour

One Day Private Excursion to the La Maddalena Archipelago

La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour

Boat trip La Maddalena Archipelago - Departure from Palau

Boat Tour Full Day La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi, Budelli

Catamaran tour of the islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago

Dolphin Watching Boat Excursion to Figarolo Island from Olbia

Private Catamaran Tour to the Maddalena Archipelago from Porto Rafael Palau

La Maddalena archipelago Boat Tour from La Maddalena island

Day trip on a sailing catamaran in Sardinia

Private Boat Tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago

Day on a boat in the archipelago of La Maddalena with lunch

• La Dolce Vita Charter
• Smeralda Boats
• Motobarca Antares
• Zonza boat rental
• Blue Dream Sardinia Charter & Service
• Orso Diving Club
• Areamare Diving Center
• Smeralda-charter
• Proteus Diving

• Club Tables
• Restaurants
• Experiences
• The Rock Club
• Private Events

Tour of the most beautiful and unmissable beaches of the Costa Smeralda

Sep 13, 2023

The Costa Smeralda: a place that has long been synonymous with luxury, elegance, and natural beauty. What makes it so special is its captivating coastline characterized by pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes. It's these beaches that attract thousands of tourists from around the world every year, and during a vacation in this spectacular location, a tour of the most beautiful and unmissable beaches is definitely a must. First stop: Capriccioli Beach Certainly one of the most photographed beaches of the Costa Smeralda, and it's easy to see why. A dream bay, with fine white sand and crystal-clear water, caressed by a gentle sea breeze. Second stop: Principe Beach Known as one of the pearls of the Costa Smeralda, this beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers incredibly clear turquoise waters. The contrast between the green of the Mediterranean shrubs and the blue of the sea creates a breathtaking scenery.

Third stop: Liscia Ruja Beach Also known as Long Beach, it is the longest beach on the Costa Smeralda. Thanks to its space, this beach is the ideal place for a relaxing stroll along the shore and to find a quiet corner all to yourself. Furthermore, its crystal-clear and shallow water makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Fourth stop: Cala di Volpe Beach Famous for being one of the favorite spots of VIPs and celebrities. This beach on the Costa Smeralda is surrounded by luxurious hotels and offers an exclusive atmosphere.

Fifth stop: Grande and Piccolo Pevero Beach Two beaches side by side that represent a true must-see of the Costa Smeralda. Grande Pevero, with its impressive panorama of sculpted rocks and distant islands, is the ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts, such as windsurfing and kayaking. Sixth stop: Romazzino Beach It takes its name from the rosemary plant that grows in the midst of the Mediterranean scrub. It stands out from the other beaches for its not-too-fine sand and not excessively shallow seabed. Here, the experience is complemented by the scents of lush vegetation that waft through the air. Seventh stop: Cala Battistoni It is the central beach of the village of Baja Sardinia. The panorama of the clear sea is made unforgettable by the splendid view of Caprera and the Maddalena Island.

Eighth stop: Phi Beach Our private beach is the ideal destination for those who want to experience a new beach experience. A day to spend moments of relaxation by the sea, lying on comfortable sun loungers, while sipping a glass of champagne. At lunchtime, space is given to the high-level cuisine of chef Alessio Marcoccio: contemporary fusion dishes to be enjoyed at the Beach Restaurant of the Clicquot Island, our exclusive lounge concept recognized by the champagne house as one of the five most exclusive Clicquot terraces in the world.

Reading next

The Gallurese Delicacies Not to Miss During a Vacation in Costa Smeralda

Design and Architecture of Phi Beach: Summer Elegance in Baja Sardinia

• TripAdvisor

Gallura, Vermentino and Costa Smeralda Tour

A perfect mix of archeology, traditions, wine + food tasting, and the best glam spots of the Sardinian north-east.   Discover less known corners as well as glamorous spots of Gallura and Costa Smeralda , immerse yourself into Sardinian history, and visit a small artisanal winery to enjoy local food and wine! A full day of relaxing explorations.

TOUR PRICING

       Tour price: € 85 per participant        Children up to 5yrs: € 20 | Kids 5-12yrs € 45     Family discount: 2 adults + 1 child up to 5yrs = child free     Family discount: 2 adults + 2 children = 1 child free    Group discount: 15% off 4 participants minimum    Fidelity discount for previous clients: 10% off

CONTACT FOR INFO

Costa Smeralda (Sardinia): The best things to do + Where to stay?

The 10 best places to visit in costa smeralda – sardinia.

You want to visit the Costa Smeralda (“Emerald Coast” in English) during your next trip to Sardinia and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this guide of the 10 best things to do in Costa Smeralda . You will find all must-see attractions as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as usual, I will also give you all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, What are the best things to do in Costa Smeralda? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Porto Cervo

2. the best beaches in costa smeralda, 3. poltu quatu, 4. baia sardinia, 5. arzachena, 6. san pantaleo, 7. cannigione, 8. porto rotondo, 9. the maddalena archipelago, 10. capo d’orso, how many days to visit costa smeralda , where to stay on costa smeralda, renting a boat in costa smeralda, how to go to the costa smeralda, you’re traveling in sardinia these articles will help you, visit the costa smeralda: all must-see attractions.

Porto Cervo  is for sure the most famous place to visit in Costa Smeralda.

Considered as the capital of this part of Sardinia, Porto Cervo was created from the ground to welcome billionaires and  celebrities from all over the world.

It was created by the Aga Khan who fell in love with the place in 1962 and decided to form a consortium to buy parts of the coast. The goal was to build luxury infrastructures and develop tourism in the area.

That was a success!

Today, rich businessmen, political figures and jet set personalities own villas on the Costa Smeralda to enjoy relaxing holidays.

And Porto Cervo is the meeting point of all the rich and famous! The marina is the best equipped of all Sardinia and can accommodate the biggest yachts and sailboats of the stars.

So you get the idea, the city is entirely dedicated to luxury tourism : luxury boutiques, hotels, restaurants and more! The 2 main commercial streets are la Sottopiazza and la Passeggiata.

If you want to see celebrities, you should go to the Piazzetta de Porto Cervo . In the evening, everyone goes to this small square located in the town center to have a drink.

And if you like to party in VIP clubs and trendy bars, Porto Cervo is also a great destination. However, it can be sometimes difficult to get in unless you know famous people or you’re ready to spend a lot of money inside!

In addition to all this luxury, you can also go visit “La chiesa di Stella Maris”. This small church designed by a famous architect is located above the port and offers a lovely view over the city .

Your trip to the Costa Smeralda will be the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches of Sardinia.

So, here are the best beaches of the Costa Smeralda:

• Grande Pevero Beach and Piccolo Pevero beach , located right next to each other. With their clear water, fine sand and view over Li Nibani islands, these two beaches are very popular. The water is very shallow, so they’re great for families. There is a snack bar and you can rent pedal boats, parasols and sun beds.
• Capriccioli beach is the best beach if you have children. There is a large parking lot nearby, so it’s very convenient! You can also rent sun beds.
• The famous Principe beach, which was supposedly Aga Khan’s favorite. This beautiful beach is nowadays very popular! I really don’t recommend it if you’re going to the beach with a lot of equipment for your kids or for picnic. The last 50 meters are very narrow and steep, so it’s better not to have too many things to carry around.
• Romazzino beach:  a lovely beach, with turquoise water and a bit of vegetation around providing some shade.
• Cala di Volpe: a stunning beach with crystal clear water. You can also rent parasols and sun beds.
• Liscia Ruia beach is the largest beach of Costa Smeralda. It’s well equipped and you’ll find there several private beaches, for an upscale beach experience! If you’re looking for something quieter and more natural, don’t hesitate to continue a bit further on the way to Petra Ruja beach.
• Rena Bianca beach: has a very beautiful view over the Gulf of Cugnana.
• Cala Granu, famous for its fine sand and crystal clear water.
• Celvia beach, the beach where all the Costa Smeralda jet set goes.

To discover the most beautiful beaches of the Costa Smeralda in one day and to avoid the parking problems, you should opt for a cruise .

You will be picked up at your hotel (any hotel near Porto Cervo and Baia Sardinia) and taken to the boat departure location.

You will then enjoy an afternoon cruise along the Costa Smeralda with a stopover in: Pevero, Romazzino, Principe, Capriccioli, La Celvia and Liscia Ruja .

3 swimming and snorkeling stops are also planned.

To book your boat trip + Snorkeling, simply click on the button below:

Let’s continue this Costa Smeralda travel guide with Poltu Quatu .

This small seaside resort located 4km away from Porto Cervo is among the fanciest and most upscale spots on the coast .

This village, mostly made of white houses with red tiled roofs, is located at the end of a fjord surrounded by cliffs . It’s a real postcard scenery!

There isn’t much to do there, except gazing at the boats in the marina, shopping in luxury boutiques and enjoying a good meal at a restaurant’s terrace. The view over the Maddalena archipelago is also very nice.

And if you like snorkeling and scuba diving , the 2 main activities on the Costa Smeralda, there’re organized day-trips leaving from Poltu Quatu .

For example, you can go on a scuba diving trip to the Marine Protected Area of Tavolara , or around the Maddalena islands. Another option is to opt for a boat excursion : they offer whale watching and dolphin watching cruises.

During your trip to the Costa Smeralda, you can also visit Baia Sardinia.

In this renown seaside resort, you will of course find hotels, restaurants as well as shops selling local delicacies and Sardinian craft .

While in Baia Sardinia, you should really go take a dip at Cala Battistoni. The water is crystal clear! You can also go on a day-trip to the Maddalena archipelago from there.

To get more information and to book, click on the following links:

• Boat trip from Baia Sardinia + snorkeling in Cala Coticcio, on the island of Caprera
• Boat trip from Baia Sardinia + visit to the beaches and coves of the island of Caprera with swimming stops

You can also opt for a Jet Ski trip around Caprera island or around Spargi island . It’s amazing!

And if you want to party at night, you should then head to “Ritual” , at the city’s outskirt. This club is carved in the rocks and famous all over the Costa Smeralda ! Jet setters from all over the world come there to party.

You’re going to Porto Cervo?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Porto Cervo on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Porto Cervo.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Porto Cervo, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Porto Cervo!

Wondering about the best places to visit on the Costa Smeralda when you’re not a fan of the jet set lifestyle? Then you should go to Arzachena!

It’s definitely a great place to visit if you’re interested in Sardinian History and archeology. There are many neolithic sites you can visit such as nuraghes and Giants’ graves , the 2 typical type of archaeological sites in Sardinia.

Here are the best historical points of interest around Arzachena:

• The nuraghe of Albucciu: 3€ for a 30 min visit
• The nuraghe of La Prisgonia: the main one in the region
• The Giant’s grave of Coddu Ecchju
• The necropolis of Li Muri with is 4 megalithic tombs
• The Giant’s grave of Li Lolghi
• The Malchittu nuragic temple

You can also stop by the town of Arzachena and walk around. If you want to take a break and have a drink, you should go to the main square, the Piazza del Risorgimento .

Beofre leaving Arzachena, don’t forget to take a picture of the “Roccia del Fungo”, a big mushroom shaped rock. This natural curiosity is now the symbol of the city.

You’re looking for an authentic village on the Costa Smeralda? Somewhere really far from the luxury tourism?

You should then visit San Pantaleo, a traditional village among the most beautiful in Sardinia. It’s located about 15 km away from Porto Cervo.

You can stroll around the main square (there is a market every Thursday), admire the church and walk in the peaceful streets while having a look at the local craft stores . The atmosphere is really authentic!

San Pantaleo is of course very small and it’s not going to keep you busy for the day, but it’s worth stopping by if you’re in the area. It also offers a great scenic view over the mountains. 

During your trip to the Costa Smeralda , you can also go to Cannigione on the west side of the Gulf of Arzachena.

Like Poltu Quatu and Baia Sardinia , Cannigione is a former fishermen village turned seaside resort, with hotels, campsites, restaurants and gift shops . However, it remains a bit more authentic than other places on the Costa Smeralda, but for how long?

Not far from Cannigione, you should go take a dip at Tanca Manna beach . This nice sandy beach with shallow water is perfect if you’re traveling with children.

During high season, there are also daily cruises from Cannigione to La Maddalena islands.

You want to do an amazing activity?

Then you should really book your diving session to discover the sea bed of the Maddalena National Park. Click here to book your dive!

Porto Rotondo is another place you should visit during your trip to Sardinia.

It’s one of the most popular destinations of the Costa Semaralda, and even of Sardinia in general.

Porto Rotondo is the second largest marina of the island (after Porto Cervo) and it also attracts its share of celebrities . It’s known to be where Silvio Berlusconi goes on holidays , attracting paparazzi from all over the world.

There isn’t much difference between Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo: same upscale hotels and villas and same l uxury boutiques . The village was also built from zero to develop luxury tourism.

With its cobbled streets, bridges and Piazza San Marco, Porto Rotondo is often compared to a smaller version of Venice .

This small town is for sure very well maintained and filled with flowers, so it’s quite photogenic. During summer, you can also attend one of the shows performed in Porto Rotondo’s amphitheater.

During your visit, don’t forget to take a stroll on the seaside and the port to look at the beautiful boats.

The 2 Best Things to do around the Costa Smeralda

During your trip to the Costa Smeralda, you should really visit the 2 following places:

I have already talked a bit about the Maddalena archipelago in this article: from the Costa Smeralda, you can go on a boat trip to discover Maddalena islands. They start from 3 towns: Poltu Quatu, Baia Sardinia and Canniogione.

If you are interested in one of these boat trips, you can book them directly here by clicking on the orange links below:

• From Palau: Full day boat trip + snorkeling in Spargi and Budelli islands + lunch included
• From Porto Cervo or from Baia Sardinia : boat trip + snorkeling in Cala Coticcio, on the island of Caprera
• From Porto Cervo or from Baia Sardinia boat tour + visit to the beaches and bays of the island of Caprera, with swimming stops
• From Porto Cervo : Day trip – Dolphin and whale watching + Snorkeling around the Maddalena Islands – A half day trip is also possible.

If you prefer, you can also opt for a Jetski excursion :

• Jet-ski tour around Caprera island from Baia Sardinia
• Jet Ski Tour around Spargi island from Baia Sardinia.

If you’re doing a road trip in Sardinia with a rental car (or your own!), you can also take the ferry boat . It starts from from the city of Palau , located about 40 minutes away from Porto Cervo .

You will need to get on the ferry with your car and it will take you about 20min to reach the main island of the archipelago: La Maddalena island.

The archipelago is made of 7 islands and only 2 of them (Maddalena and Caprera) are accessible by car. You can go to the other ones only by doing a boat tour or renting your own boat.

In any case, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the archipelago , to take a dip and of course to relax.

If you’re spending your holidays on the Costa Smeralda, don’t miss going there. You will for sure love your trip to the Maddalena islands!

For more information about La Maddalena, you should read my detailed article:   The 10 best places to visit in La Maddalena

The Capo d’Orso is located close to the Costa Smeralda , about 40 min driving from Porto Cervo and 12 min from Palau.

You can stop there on your way to the Maddalena archipelago (or on your way back).

The cape is named after the Roccia dell’Orso  (“Bear Rock” in English), a rock sculpted by erosion evoking the shape of a bear.

To go see it, you will have to park at the parking lot (3€) and go up a path to the rock (10-15 min walk). Then, it will cost you an additional 3€ per person to enter the site.

In my opinion, that’s a lot of money just to go see a rock, but that’s the Costa Smeralda, everything is a bit expensive around here.

From the Roccia dell’Orso, you will also have a stunning view over the coast and the Maddalena islands .

There isn’t an ideal duration to visit Costa Smeralda . It’s really up to you.

You can spend an entire week or even more in one of the hotels on the Costa Smeralda , and enjoy the beaches during the day + go on a few excursions to La Maddalena or San Pantaleo for example.

You can also just stay for 2-3 days , relax at the beach while enjoying the luxury amenities and visit 1 or 2 archeological sites around Arzachena.

The 3rd and last option would be to only spend a day in the Costa Smeralda during your itinerary in Sardinia (the coast is only 55 km long). In that case, you should choose 1 or 2 beaches to take a dip at and stop by one of the seaside resorts ( Porto Cervo or another one).

You get it, the Costa Smeralda is the most touristic and expensive place of Sardinia . There are many luxury hotels, so it’s really perfect if you’re looking for an upscale experience!

However, the best hotels are fully booked months in advance, so you should really book your accommodation as early as possible.

• Residenza Capriccioli:   Located just 3min walking from Cappricioli beach and 8km away from Porto Cervo. Studio and apartment with kitchenette and balcony/terrace starting from 100€ per night. Considering the area, it’s one of the cheapest accommodations available so book ahead of time! Strong points: walking distance to the beach, the swimming pools, great location. The best choice on the Costa Smeralda if you’re traveling on a budget!
• Grand Hôtel Poltu Quatu: Located in Poltu Quatu, 12min away from the beach. Very spacious and bright double room, with traditional Sardinian furniture, starting from 190€ per night, breakfast included. What I loved: the location, excellent breakfast, friendly staff. It’s my favorite on the Costa Smeralda for its amazing value for money!
• Cervo Hotel,Costa Smeralda Resort:  Located in Porto Cervo, 15min walking from the beach. This 5* hotel offers comfortable and warm double rooms, starting from 280€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: exceptional setting, staff always available, calm, nicely decorated. It’s my recommendation for a romantic stay on the Costa Smeralda!
• Cala Di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel:   Located in a natural setting, only 6 min walking from the beach. This luxury hotel on Costa Smeralda offers splendid double rooms with a view on the gardens or on Cala di Volpe bay, starting from 400€ per night, breakfast included. What I loved: 5 stars service, the private beach, stunning setting, friendly staff. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay on the Costa Smeralda!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Costa Smeralda, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Sardinia? 😊

There are 3 airports in Sardinia, and they are located in Olbia , Alghero and Cagliari .

Here are the travel times from the 3 cities to the Costa Smeralda:

• From Olbia: Porto Cervo is located just 40 min by car from Olbia. Flying to Olbia is the best option for a stay on the Costa Smeralda.
• From Alghero:  Costa Smeralda is 2h15 away by car.
• From Cagliari: it will take around 3h30 by car to reach Porto Cervo, on the Costa Smeralda.

If you need help to plan your stay on the Costa Smeralda, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below.

Sardinia travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Sardinia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Sardinia guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Sardinia: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sardinia are listed here.

• The 25 Best Things to do in Sardinia
• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sardinia – With all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (North + South)
• Itinerary: 1 week in Sardinia – How to visit Sardinia in 6, 7 or 8 days (North or South)
• Itinerary: 10 days in Sardinia – The definitive guide to visit Northern Sardinia in 10 days!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sardinia – The perfect 14, 15 or 16 days itinerary in Northern Sardinia
• Itinerary: 14, 15 or 16 days in Sardinia – The perfect 2 weeks itinerary in Southern Sardinia
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Sardinia – With all my best tips to visit the whole island in 20 or 21 days!
• Itinerary: North West of Sardinia (1 week) – How to visit Sardinia in 6, 7 or 8 days from Alghero
• Alghero: The 6 best places to visit
• Cagliari: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
• Gulf of Orosei & Supramonte: The 10 best things to do
• La Maddalena: All my best tips to visit the islands

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 2 comments.

Hello. Thank you for your articles they are interesting reading. We are staying in Porto Cervo for 3 nights in August 2023 and have a free day to explore the coast and towns of Costa Smeralda. We are considering either a) doing the Small Group Tour – Costa Smeralda Sightseeing Tour in Sardinia which visits San Pantaleo, Porto Cervo, Baia Sardinia and Arzachena, santa lucia Church. OR b) hiring a car for a day – picking it up from the airport when we arrive at 8pm the night before then keeping it for the day – essentially doing our own driving tour of the area.

I have read that traffic at this time of year will be VERY busy and I imagine so will parking. However having a car would provide greater exploring flexibility. Cost wise, seems to be fairly equivalent – approx $200 AUD/day for the car plus overnight parking at tour hotel. compared to a tour of $355 total for 2pp.

What we are not sure about is whether it will be difficult to get self drive, firstly at night from the airport to Porto Cervo then the following day – in likely busy traffic etc. Or is it not as hectic as we may be perceiving it?

Your advice, and a reality check on what the driving conditions are likely to be, pros and cons would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks in advance.

Hello Michelle,

I’ve never been to Sardinia in August but during my stay in June there were already a lot of people on the Costa Smeralda. In August, it might be difficult to find a parking space for the most famous beaches (unless you get there early) and they are all paid parking. You may also experience traffic jams around the beaches. On the other hand, I don’t think you’ll have any problems getting from the airport to the hotel by car as you arrive at 8pm.

As you said, the 2 solutions have advantages and disadvantages, but one isn’t necessarily better than the other. It really depends on what you want to see. With an organised tour, at least you don’t have to worry about parking.

Enjoy your stay in Sardinia!

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Costa Smeralda Beach Bus, Timetables and Fares!

Costa Smeralda Beach Bus, timetables and fares : if you want to go on holiday in Sardinia by aeroplane you have to hire a car or use the local public transport . To use the public bus system is a very clever solution to avoid the severe parking issue , especially close to the most popular beaches .

Today we talk about the Summer bus called “ Lu Pustali ” that connects Arzachena centre – in North-East Sardinia – with all its resorts on the coast : from Cannigione to Baja Sardinia, up to Porto Cervo and famous Costa Smeralda . Lu Pustali is operated from 1st July to 30th September 2020  with the purpose to help people to reach easily the most beautiful Costa Smeralda beaches (“ Costa Smeralda ” means “ Emerald Coast “). It’s the Costa Smeralda beach bus basically. Lu Pustali operates daily with 3 lines :

• Blue line : this bus connects Arzachena centre to  Cannigione, Isuledda, La Conia, Mannena and Tanca Manna.
• Smeralda lines I & II : these buses connect Arzachena centre to  Malchittu, Abbiadori, Liscia Ruia, Capriccioli, Porto Cervo, Liscia di Vacca, Poltu Cuatu, Baia Sardinia, Cala Bitta and Cannigione  with two different routes.

Blue Line, Timetables Summer 2020:

Smeralda Line 1, Timetables Summer 2020:

Smeralda Line 2, Blue Line, Timetables Summer 2020:

Costa Smeralda Beach Bus Fares (Lu Postali Tickets):

BLUE LINE –  Route Arzachena/Cannigione – La Conia (and vice versa):

• One way ticket: 1,30 Euro
• Weekly ticket:  9,20 Euro
• Monthly ticket: 33,50 Euro
• Ticket booklet: 13,00 Euro

BLUE LINE –  Route Arzachena/Tanca Manna (and vice versa):

• One way ticket: 1,90 Euro
• Weekly ticket: 15,50 Euro
• Monthly ticket: 55,00 Euro
• Ticket booklet: 19,00 Euro

SMERALDA LINE –  Route Arzachena/Abbiadori (and vice versa):

SMERALDA LINE –  Route Arzachena/Baja Sardinia (and vice versa):

SMERALDA LINE –  Route Arzachena/Porto Cervo (e viceversa):

• One way ticket: 2,50 Euro
• Weekly ticket: 21,50 Euro
• Monthly ticket: 77,00 Euro
• Ticket booklet: 25,00 Euro

SMERALDA LINE – Route Cannigione&Baja Sardinia/Porto Cervo/Capriccioli  (and vice versa):

SMERALDA LINE – Route Arzachena/Capriccioli  (and vice versa):

Other routes’ ticktes :

• Baja Sardinia – Porto Cervo (and vice versa) € 1.30
• Baja Sardinia – Abbiadori (and vice versa) € 1.90
• Baja Sardinia – Piccolo Pevero (and vice versa) € 1.30
• Baja Sardinia – Capriccioli (and vice versa) € 1.90
• Porto Cervo – Abbiadori (and vice versa) € 1.30
• Porto Cervo – Piccolo Pevero (and vice versa) € 1.30
• Porto Cervo – Capriccioli (and vice versa) € 1.30
• Abbiadori – Piccolo Pevero (and vice versa) € 1.30
• Abbiadori -Capriccioli (and vice versa) € 1.30
• Cannigione – Baja Sardinia (and vice versa) € 1.90
• Cannigione – Porto Cervo (and vice versa) € 1.90

For more info:

Please contact “Cosev Coach Rental”: [email protected] / 0039 349.3885580 (every day from 9:00 to 20:00, even Whatsapp). Here is the  Arzachena Public Transport Official Page .

READ MORE ABOUT ARZACHENA AND COSTA SMERALDA:

• Map of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Costa Smeralda

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK for more tips and advices! --> Sardinia Travel Guide

What you may need for a travel in Sardinia:

• Lonely Planet Sardinia (Travel Guide)
• Sardinia Marco Polo Pocket Guide (Marco Polo Pocket Guides)
• Insight Guides Sardinia
• Sardinia [Italy] (National Geographic Adventure Map)
• Snorkel Mask Foldable (180 Panoramic View)
• Universal Waterproof Phone Case (to make great sea pics)
• Water Sports Shoes (not to slip on the rocks)
• Easy Pop Up Beach Tent (Portable)
• New Cool Sunglasses (100% UV protection)

THE 10 BEST Costa Smeralda Boat Tours

Boat tours in costa smeralda.

• Equipment Hire
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Smeralda Boats

2. La Dolce Vita Charter

3. Altamarea

4. Motobarca Antares

5. Zonza boat rental

6. Blue Dream Sardinia Charter & Service

7. Sardegna Luxury Boat Rental & Concierge Services

8. Proteus Diving

9. Maresia Charter boat rental

10. bluesesardegna

11. Iknòs Sardinia Sea Activities

12. NOAH sailing

13. Smeralda-charter

14. Consorzio del Golfo

15. Boating Forever

16. Sardinia Green Yachts

17. Sorreasy

18. Smeralda Charter

19. La Dolce Vita Charter

20. Scugnizza Sail Sardegna

21. Cannigione Experience

22. Yacht Charter Costa Smeralda and Maddalena Archipelago

23. Sunsail: Sardinia

24. Visit Arzachena

25. Seadoo Centre Sardinia Rental

26. Motoveliero Donna Teresa

27. Escursione in kayak alla spiaggia del Dottore con aperitivo

28. Sommastè

29. Blue smeralda services

30. Sorreasy

What travellers are saying.

• La Dolce Vita Charter
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How to spend a perfect holiday in Sardinia

S ardinia is undoubtedly best known for limpid turquoise sea and exquisite beaches on the Costa Smeralda, but there are plenty of those elsewhere on the island too, and for a fraction of the price. Food and wine is just as important here as well – the island is a designated ‘Blue Zone’, a region where the people live longer and healthier lives than anywhere else on the planet.

But unless you’re a fan of the History Channel, you might not know that Sardinia is one of the most mysterious places on earth. The oldest landmass in Europe, it has archaeological sites, discovered in the 1970s, that date from between 1900 and 730 BC (Sardinia’s Stonehenge). Little is known about the Nuraghic civilisation, but there are over 7,000 stone fortresses (the oldest in Europe) around the island, and some of the giant statues created are over eight-feet tall, giving rise to the notion that Sardinia might really have been a ‘Land of the Giants’.

Scroll down for our suggested day-by-day summary of the best things to see and do. For further Sardinia inspiration, see our guides to the island's best hotels , restaurants ,  nightlife , beaches  and  things to do .

In this guide

How to spend your weekend, insider tips.

When should I visit Sardinia?

Where to stay in Sardinia

What to bring home

Essential information: what to know before you go

Base yourself in the pretty port of Cagliari, the island’s capital, where there are regular street markets and plenty of lovely bars and restaurants, and begin day one by heading west to the charming town of Pula. From here it’s a short drive to visit  t he Roman and Carthaginian ruins of Nora  that lie in front of the sea and which include mosaics, temples and thermal baths. The tours are fascinating, thanks to the enthusiastic guides who provide plenty of information about the site.

After a morning of exploring, head back into Pula where you’ll find a host of places to eat and drink. S’Incontru on Piazza del Popolo is one of the liveliest. Take a terrace table, and watch the world go by while waiting for your wood-fired pizza, topped with the likes of prosciutto cotto e rucola (ham and rocket) or frutti di mare (seafood). There's also a sushi bar and vegetarian options.

After lunch it's back to Cagliari, with its handsome 19th-century biscuit-coloured buildings and the impressive Museo Archeologico  which has exhibits dating from 6,000 BC. Unmissable is the Sardinian 'stone army': the large sculptures are 500 years older than China’s Terracotta Army. Afterwards, try not to miss the Cagliari Antiquaria flea market (Piazza del Carmine, every Sunday of the month, except the third), where you’ll find local crafts, linens, old maps and books, and historical ephemera.

Rafè Coffee & Shop  is a great pitstop for a drink or lunch, as well as a bit of shopping (they sell local honey and pretty ceramics). Then it’s well worth a trip to popular Poetto beach , a short bus-ride away, or head for Molentargius , the regional park where over 10,000 of its inhabitants are flamingos.    

It’s a short trek up to the historic centre to admire the Torre dell’Elefante which has been recently restored and now offers spectacular views over the town and beyond. Insider tip: the tower can only be visited with a guide and reservation (closed Monday).

If you made the hike up, reward yourself at the nearby  Caffè Libarium Nostrum , which overlooks the tower, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and it’s a prime spot for a sundowner. The appetisers (think cheese croquettes, crudo ham, crisps and nuts) come free, and the spacious terrace offers views over the city, port and sea beyond. There's also a full dinner menu, for which booking ahead is advisable. For more dinner recommendations, see our guide to the best restaurants in Sardinia .

On the northwest coast, Alghero overlooks the sea and is a delight to wander around. Once conquered by the Catalans, some of the townsfolk still speak ‘Algherese’, a variant of the Catalan language, and the historic centre is still known as ‘Barcelonetta’. There are plenty of shops, as well as a marina where boats sail for the caves of Capo Caccia and Neptune’s Grotto. Alternatively you could take a trip to Anghelu Ruju, where there’s large collection of Domus de Janus (pre-Nuraghic tombs that were thought to be ‘fairy houses’, though they are actually tombs).

Food here has a distinctly Spanish twist, and paella can be found on many menus. After a bracing walk along the sea ramparts, follow your nose to Les Arenes pizzeria for a metre of pizza, or book online for Catalan aragosta (lobster, a local specialty) or the famous porceddu (suckling pig).

By car, you can arrive in Nuoro in less than two hours. It’s the capital of the province of the same name, and birthplace of Grazia Deledda, the only Italian woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. As well as visiting Deledda’s house , the town has a superb Museo del Costume , where visitors can explore the island’s distinctive culture. Close by, in the delightful Piazza Sebastiano Satta, named after the famous Italian poet, you’ll find sculptures by Sardinian-born Costantino Nivola.

From here you could head up towards the Costa Smeralda, stopping off at Olbia to visit the Museo Archeologico , which is shaped like a moored ship, in front of the old port. Displaying important relics of ancient Roman ships, this is a fascinating place to start delving into the history of this seafaring city before heading on to Porto Cervo to visit the beautiful Stella Maris church, built by the Aga Khan in thanks for allowing his development of the area.

When dusk starts to fall, Porto Cervo has a small Piazzetta where the rich and glam sip cocktails with nary a thought for the bill (a coffee could cost €5/£4.50, and something with alcohol might set you back €30/£28), or you could splash out on an fabulous dinner at award-winning Blù Restaurant ). Don't miss the  branzino  (sea bass) baked under salt, and black fregola (handmade Sardinian 'couscous' blackened with charcoaled vegetables) served with prawns and asparagus.

For a more authentic Sardinian experience, try  Agriturismo La Colti , where you'll want to save room for desserts, which include the famous  seadas  (a large 'raviolo' filled with ricotta and drizzled with honey). Night owls wishing to coninue the evening, see our guide to nightlife in Sardinia .

Island hack

If it’s beaches you’re after, and you can’t hack the dizzying prices of glitzy Costa Smeralda, know that Sardinia’s beaches are spectacular wherever you pitch up. From Olbia, Cannigione is worth checking out. Once a fishing village, it has a host of pretty beaches, local markets and restaurants serving typical Galluran cuisine. It's also the perfect jumping off point to visit the Maddelena Archipelago.

Attractions

There’s a festival going on somewhere, wherever you are in Sardinia. Plan your trip to coincide with one of them, and experience Sardinian culture at its best, for free. The most famous of all is Sant’Efisio, which takes place over four days in May. Start at the church of Sant’Efisio in Cagliari and watch the representatives from every corner of the island displaying their spectacular costumes, some on horseback, others accompanied by musicians playing traditional instruments.

Neighbourhood watch

The further south you go, you’ll discover that prices drop with every mile covered. For example, La Caletta’s La Nuova Torre restaurant does a mean pizza for around €12 (£10), and then you could take a stroll around the port and hit up one of the simple local bars that line the main drag, Via Nazario Sauro.

Several of the swankier hotels have their own beaches, even boats, so it’s possible to arrange a private dinner on the beach, go dolphin- and whale-watching, or even arrange a romantic night-time cruise. For example, Delphina have eight hotels in northern Sardinia, and several boats at their disposal, including a magnificent 1927 sailing boat.

There’s one golden rule: avoid August. That’s when the whole of Italy with mothers and kitchen sinks in tow storms the island, flooding the beaches and booking up all available accommodation. Prices go up too, and it can be excruciatingly hot. Just about any other time is fine, with May/June seeing the island at its best, with the clearest skies, while a balmy, post-blitz serenity descends on the island in September, when the crowds have departed and the sea is at its warmest. The depths of winter can see resorts looking a little drab and forlorn, though, and some places are closed until Easter.

Where to stay

Luxury living.

Modern family-owned  Gabbiano Azzurro Hotels & Suites  has rooms overlooking the sea decorated with Moorish-style arches, lights sculpted into white walls, and Sardinian crafts made from wood or ceramics. It has its own private beach, and a first-class chef, plus a hotel boat which is used for trips to the nearby islands and dolphin-watching.

Boutique Bolthole

Su Gologone , Sardinia’s top country lodge, basks in a stunning mountain setting. But it’s more than a hotel: dedicated to bringing the best of Sardinia to guests, it’s a colour-drenched oasis of authenticity, art and beauty, a world away from the bling-obsessed Costa Smeralda. A five-minute walk will take you to the bucolic spring that gave Su Gologone its name.

Budget Beauty

Characterful and well designed, The Place Cagliari – a converted, traditional, 19th-century building – has six rooms, each one with its own charm. Plump for the Suite Regina Elena, a huge space with a beamed ceiling, animal skin rug, and its own sauna and freestanding claw-foot bath in the bedroom. There’s a small café area on the ground floor and little library with interesting reference books about Sardinia. For more recommendations of the best places to stay in Sardinia, see our guide .

Mirto is a delicious liqueur, unique to Sardinia and nearby Corsica, made from the berries of the myrtle plant. If you’ve only brought cabin luggage, there are plenty of delicious scented soaps and moisturising creams made from the berry.  

Sardinia’s pottery is plain, often white, and decorated with simple, but ancient, designs thought to represent good harvests and fertility: fish, chickens, and the Sardinian lapwing ( pavoncella ).

Know before you go

Essential information.

Embassy in Rome:  (00 39 06 4220 0001;  gov.uk )

• Emergency services:  Dial 113
• Tourist offices and information:  There’s no office covering the whole of Sardinia but you’ll find loads of information at  sardegnaturismo.it . The most useful local offices are: Palazzo Civico, Via Roma 145, Cagliari (00 39 070 677 7397;  cagliariturismo.it ); Largo Lo Quarter, Alghero (00 39 079 979054; algheroturismo.eu ); Municipio, Corso Umberto, Olbia (00 39 0789 52206;  olbiaturismo.it )
• Currency:  Euro
• Telephone code:  Dial 00 39 when calling Italy from abroad, and always use the full area code wherever you call from (070, 0789, etc).
• Time difference:  +1 hour
• Flight time:  From UK airports to Sardinia is two to three hours.

Local laws and etiquette

• Note that the law requires drivers to carry personal ID, licence and car documents while on the road, and all cars must have a warning triangle and reflective jacket on board. Speed-radar detectors are banned.
• Covid restrictions have relaxed somewhat, but Sardinians still take them seriously, so visitors should wear masks wherever indicated, or when asked.

Jan Fuscoe is Telegraph Travel’s Sardinia expert, and spends much of the summer there. She’s met a woman who weaves gold thread from giant mussel ‘bisso’, and hung out with a Sardinian beekeeper, but can mostly be found swimming in the sea.

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