Discover the area and local services
This section provides an overview of the key services and points of interest in the area, from accessibility via airports, ports, and marinas to natural reserves, beaches, and the most distinctive locations. You will also discover opportunities for sports and outdoor activities, making this region an ideal choice for both those looking to relocate and those seeking investment opportunities.
AIRPORTS
The airports in our area provide excellent connections for both domestic and international travel, ensuring easy access to our stunning destination.
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is the main gateway to northeastern Sardinia. With national and international connections, it is one of the most convenient entry points for visitors looking to explore the region’s natural beauty and exclusive locations.
Alghero Fertilia Airport is located 12 km from the historic coastal city of Alghero, in the northwest. Although farther from Olbia, it still offers good alternatives for those wishing to visit our area, with both domestic and international connections.
PORTS
The ports in our area provide convenient sea access, making our region easily reachable from various national and international destinations.
Olbia Port is the main maritime gateway to Sardinia, offering frequent connections to mainland Italy, primarily to Civitavecchia, Livorno, and Genoa. Strategically located in the heart of the Costa Smeralda, it serves as an ideal entry point for travelers looking to explore the wonders of Olbia and its surroundings, including the renowned beaches of Gallura and the Costa Smeralda.
Just 15 km north of Olbia, Golfo Aranci Port is another key hub for maritime connections to the mainland, particularly to the port of Livorno. Although smaller than Olbia Port, it remains a valuable alternative for those arriving in the area. Its strategic location makes Golfo Aranci an excellent gateway for discovering the natural beauty and attractions of northern Sardinia.
Though located farther from the other ports, Porto Torres Port, in the northwestern part of the island, is an important access point for travelers heading to Sardinia. With numerous national and international routes, it is an ideal choice for visitors coming from other European destinations.
The port of Palau is a key gateway for those looking to explore the enchanting Maddalena Archipelago. From here, daily ferries depart for La Maddalena and its islands, while private and tourist boats can also find a range of services.
The port of Santa Teresa di Gallura offers direct connections between Sardinia and Corsica, with regular ferries to Bonifacio, making it an essential hub for travelers between the two islands. Nestled in a picturesque bay, the port also provides services for yachts and charter boats.
MARINAS
The northeastern coast of Sardinia is renowned for its marinas, which accommodate vessels of all sizes, from small boats to prestigious yachts. Thanks to their prime locations, these marinas serve as the perfect starting point for exploring Sardinia’s crystal-clear waters, unspoiled beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty. Each marina is equipped with modern facilities and exclusive services, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience for visitors.
Porto Ottiolu is a well-protected and peaceful harbor, ideal for small boats and yachts, located in the picturesque area of Budoni. It serves as the perfect base for exploring the coastline and the region’s crystal-clear waters.
La Marina di Puntaldia is an exclusive and well-equipped marina. Its small harbor is perfect for medium-sized yachts and offers easy access to the stunning natural surroundings.
Cala Finanza is a small marina nestled in one of Sardinia’s most enchanting bays. With its peaceful atmosphere, it is ideal for small and medium-sized boats seeking an untouched paradise.
Porto San Paolo is the closest marina to Tavolara Island. It welcomes boats of various sizes and serves as the perfect departure point for exploring the Tavolara Marine Protected Area and its pristine waters.
A Costa Corallina features a small yet well-protected marina, perfect for small and medium-sized boats. This serene and relaxing area is ideal for enjoying Sardinia’s natural beauty.
La Marina di Olbia is a modern port suitable for both large and small boats. Conveniently located, it provides easy access to the stunning Gallura coastline and offers a wide range of services for boaters.
Porto Rotondo is an exclusive and elegant marina that accommodates prestigious yachts and large vessels. With its prime location and high-end services, it is one of the most sought-after destinations for yachting enthusiasts in the Costa Smeralda.
La Marina di Portisco, situated between Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo, is a welcoming marina that hosts yachts of all sizes. With its refined and tranquil atmosphere, it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Costa Smeralda.
Porto Cervo is the most iconic marina in the Costa Smeralda, renowned for its exclusive hospitality for prestigious yachts and large vessels. With its world-class services, it is an international yachting landmark.
Poltu Quatu is a charming and secluded marina located between Porto Cervo and Cala di Volpe. Known for its protected location and exclusive atmosphere, it is perfect for medium and large yachts seeking a refined and private setting.
In these captivating marinas and along the stunning beaches of the region, visitors can rent boats of all sizes, from small motorboats to luxurious yachts, with or without a boating license, depending on the type of vessel. Sardinia’s crystal-clear waters offer the opportunity to explore the coastline, enjoy unforgettable sunset cruises, or embark on thrilling marine adventures—all while respecting environmental regulations to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
SPORTS ACTIVITIES
TENNIS AND PADEL COURTS
Our area offers numerous sports facilities for tennis and padel enthusiasts, catering to players of all levels, from beginners to professionals. With modern and well-maintained courts, these venues provide the perfect setting for training, tournaments, or simply enjoying a match by the sea. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed game or aiming to improve your skills, the local courts offer an ideal environment for every need. Additionally, professional coaches are often available for lessons to help refine your technique. Some of the most scenic outdoor courts include:
Consorzio di Puntaldia;
Gli Ulivi a San Teodoro;
Campi Padel e Pickleball Lu Nibareddu;
Hotel Don Diego a Porto San Paolo;
Padel Point Porto San Paolo;
Sardinia Tennis Project a Le Saline;
Tennis sulla Costa Smeralda a Baja Sardinia.
For courts located within private resorts or hotels, it is advisable to check access policies for non-members or external guests, as availability may vary depending on the season.
GOLF COURSES
The northeastern coast of Sardinia offers exclusive golf courses set in breathtaking landscapes, where the green fairways blend with the blue of the sea. Perfect for both experienced golfers and beginners looking to approach the sport, the courses in the area provide a unique experience combining nature, sport, and relaxation. With top-tier facilities and dedicated services, golfing here becomes an opportunity to improve your game while enjoying spectacular views.
Golf Club Consorzio Puntaldia – a 9-hole course with panoramic views and an exclusive location near the beach.
Pevero Golf Club – one of Europe’s most prestigious 18-hole courses, offering a stunning course overlooking the sea.
Botanic Golf SaCuba a Enas – a practice course set in greenery, with an eco-sustainable approach.
BEACHES
The North-East coast of Sardinia is a true natural paradise, famous for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular views. This area boasts an extraordinary variety of beaches, ranging from the more famous and busy ones to quieter, more intimate coves. Some beaches are well-served, offering a wide range of water sports and services for an active holiday, while others, wilder and more unspoiled, ensure greater privacy and a completely tranquil atmosphere. Every corner of the coast offers a unique experience, whether it’s relaxation, sports, or exploring nature. The beaches in the area are perfect for enjoying the sun, the sea, and the serenity of a preserved natural environment.
Between San Teodoro and Olbia
Porto Taverna – crystal-clear waters and spectacular views of Tavolara Island, perfect for families and water sports.
Lu Impostu – a long stretch of white sand with turquoise water and shallow waters, immersed in an unspoiled landscape.
Cala Brandinchi – known as “the little Tahiti” for its stunning colors and fine sand.
Costa Corallina – a small cove with transparent waters, framed by granite rocks and Mediterranean maquis.
Capo Coda Cavallo – a protected marine area, a paradise corner with breathtaking views, ideal for snorkeling and boat excursions.
Porto Istana – fine white sand with shallow and transparent waters, one of Olbia’s most beloved beaches.
Spiaggia delle Vacche – a small hidden cove with emerald waters and wild charm.
Between Olbia and Golfo Aranci
Cala Sassari – turquoise water and golden sand, ideal for those seeking tranquility near Golfo Aranci.
Spiaggia Bianca – a Caribbean-colored coastline, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
Cala Moresca – a scenic bay surrounded by rocks and wild nature, ideal for hiking and snorkeling.
Costa Smeralda
Spiaggia del Principe – one of the most iconic beaches in Costa Smeralda, loved for its soft sand and turquoise sea.
Liscia Ruja – the longest beach of Costa Smeralda, with transparent waters and breathtaking views.
Capriccioli – a mix of enchanting coves, perfect for families and sea lovers.
Romazzino – a refined beach surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and exclusive villas.
Cala di Volpe – a sheltered bay with white sand and calm seas.
Arcipelago de La Maddalena
Spiaggia Rosa (Budelli) – a true natural gem, famous for its characteristic pink sand (protected, not directly accessible).
Cala Corsara (Spargi) – one of the most charming beaches, with white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Bassa Trinità (La Maddalena) – a postcard-perfect beach with soft sand and turquoise sea, perfect for relaxation.
Cala Coticcio (Caprera) – known as the “Tahiti” of Caprera, a small paradise reachable by a panoramic hike.
Between Siniscola and Orosei
La Caletta – a long beach perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, with a lively and informal atmosphere.
Berchida – one of the most picturesque beaches in Sardinia, with pure white sand and a sea with thousands of shades of blue.
Capo Comino – a wild coastline with golden dunes and transparent waters, great for snorkeling.
Cala Gonone and Golfo di Orosei
Cala Fuili – the last beach reachable by car from Cala Gonone, characterized by light sand, rocks, and an incredible sea. It is also the starting point for excursions to Cala Luna.
Cala Luna – one of the most iconic beaches in Sardinia, with high cliffs, spectacular caves, and deep blue waters. Reachable by boat or with a challenging hike.
Cala Mariolu – one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia, with white and pink pebbles and water that looks like a natural pool.
Cala Goloritzé – a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its natural arch and turquoise waters. Reachable only on foot with a hike of about 1.5 hours.
POINTS OF INTEREST
Northeastern Sardinia is home to a variety of destinations that offer the perfect blend of tradition, culture, and modern amenities. From Olbia to its charming coastal and rural gems, every corner of this region has a story to tell and unique experiences to offer. Whether you’re looking for traditional restaurants, local boutiques, cultural events, or relaxing spots, these locations cater to every need while preserving their authentic and captivating atmosphere.
Olbia, the largest city in Gallura, is a lively hub where history, modernity, and convenience come together. With its airport and port, it serves as a key gateway to Sardinia. The recently renovated waterfront is perfect for scenic walks between the sea and palm trees, while its many restaurants, bars, and cafés bring the area to life. The historic center, though compact, is full of charm, with picturesque alleys lined with cafés and restaurants. Overlooking the sea, the city’s archaeological museum showcases Olbia’s ancient history and heritage.
San Teodoro is one of Sardinia’s most vibrant and popular destinations. Beyond its stunning beaches, it offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Sardinian cuisine to international flavors, satisfying every palate. In summer, San Teodoro transforms into a lively social hub, with stylish nightlife venues attracting both tourists and locals. From sunset aperitifs and live music to nights out in exclusive clubs, the atmosphere is always dynamic and youthful, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation, great food, and nightlife. Just outside town, Puntaldia offers a more refined and tranquil setting, featuring an exclusive resort-style community with a golf course, a marina, and other premium leisure facilities.
Porto San Paolois a charming seaside village with breathtaking views of Tavolara Island. While it remains quite peaceful for much of the year, in summer it comes alive with many restaurants, bars, and tourist activities. It is also the departure point for ferries to Tavolara, a spectacular destination for nature lovers. Homes perched on the hills above Porto San Paolo enjoy breathtaking views of the crystal-clear sea and Tavolara’s iconic silhouette.
Murta Maria is a lively coastal town that retains its authentic character while offering a range of services, including restaurants, bars, and shops. Its proximity to the beautiful beaches of Porto Istana and the convenience of Olbia nearby make it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy both tranquility and easy access to key amenities.
Porto Rotondo is an elegant retreat on the Costa Smeralda, renowned for its exclusive marina. The village features gourmet restaurants, upscale boutiques, and a vibrant harbor. With its charming seaside piazzas, Porto Rotondo blends a relaxed atmosphere with refined elegance, making it perfect for scenic walks and fine dining.
San Pantaleo is a picturesque village nestled in the hills of the Costa Smeralda, famous for its narrow streets and stone houses. It is home to high-end dining, where traditional flavors meet modern innovation in an intimate and exclusive setting. The village’s artisan market and surrounding natural beauty make San Pantaleo an authentic and peaceful escape, ideal for those seeking charm, culture, and a refined culinary experience.
Porto Cervo is the most iconic destination on the Costa Smeralda, renowned for its prestigious marina, luxury boutiques, and sophisticated nightlife. It is the heart of Sardinian glamour, offering world-class dining and a harbor frequented by some of the most impressive yachts in the Mediterranean.
Baja Sardinia is a lively and welcoming seaside destination, perfect for those looking to combine crystal-clear waters, water sports, and quality dining. With its stunning beaches and well-equipped marina, Baja Sardinia attracts both families and young travelers, offering a wide range of entertainment and leisure options.
Palau, is a vibrant coastal town known for its breathtaking scenery and lively atmosphere. It serves as the gateway to the La Maddalena Archipelago, a stunning island chain rich in history, with pristine beaches and a charming town center. La Maddalena is connected by a bridge to Caprera, an island famous for its wild landscapes and the Giuseppe Garibaldi house-museum, surrounded by scenic trails and unspoiled nature.