The 20 best things to do in Costa Smeralda on Vacation

The day sailing to La Maddalena is perfect for admiring the beauty of the Emerald Coast and the Maddalena Archipelago.

Departure is scheduled at 9:30 a.m. from the port of Cannigione, while return is expected around 6:00 p.m.

The sailboat has three double cabins and two bathrooms, one of which is exclusive to the forward cabin, a dinette with sofas, galley and TV where up to eight people can be seated comfortably in rainy weather.

Outside there is a cockpit with seating for 12 people, including those behind the helms with a center table that can be opened. There is also a sun awning for summer and rainy weather.

There is a large sundeck on the bow where 5 couples can comfortably lie and sunbathe with specially fitted cushions for summer time.

Two SUP paddle boards with special paddles are also available for those who want to dare to take a ride on the water, and a tender with auxiliary engine for landing, where possible, on the beautiful beaches.

During the excursion you will visit several islands or bays of the La Maddalena Archipelago and make several stops for diving and beautiful swims in the turquoise water.

During the day you will be offered a small aperitif of cold cuts, Sardinian cheeses, carasau bread and accompanying prosecco. After the first swim it will be time for lunch with drinks included.

Throughout the day you will always have various beverages available.

Discover the Maddalena archipelago with a boat tour from Palau or La Maddalena, with tasting of local products.

The experience is ideal for reaching coves and beaches that larger boats cannot touch. The route includes swim stops at Cala Napoletana, Cala Coticcio and Cala Santa Maria, with snorkeling and relaxing in the crystal clear waters, passing by the historic Candeo military battery.

You'll drive to Budelli to photograph the famous pink beach, then explore the islands of Spargi and Caprera with stops at Cala Granara, Cala Soraya and Cala Corsara, concluding the tour with an aperitif of sparkling wine and local products on the way back to Palau, admiring the sunsets and breathtaking views of the national park.

Experience a day at sea in the Maddalena Archipelago aboard a 6-meter Locman 600 inflatable boat, which can be rented without a license thanks to its 40-hp engine.

A suitable option if you want to move independently and organize your day in your own time. The boat is designed to offer comfortable and functional sailing, with sundeck, awning, USB port and shower. The equipment allows you to alternate between relaxing moments in the sun, stops for swimming and travel between different areas of the archipelago.

With this rental you can independently explore beaches and coves of the La Maddalena Archipelago, stop for swimming or snorkeling, and experience a day at sea with friends or family.

A day trip by boat to the La Maddalena archipelago departing from Cannigione is a perfect opportunity to admire and learn about some of Sardinia's best-known islands.

This experience allows you to experience a unique day through the archipelago of La Maddalena, enjoying all the beauty of the islands in a relaxed family environment. You can choose between the group tour and the exclusive tour.

During this tour there are also 3 swimming stops in picturesque bays that will allow you to relax and soak in the crystal clear Sardinian waters.

You will be met by a sailboat with a maximum capacity of 12 participants and which has a tender that will allow you to comfortably reach the bays. The boat also has a shower, life jackets, masks and SUP.

During the day you will be served a snack with coffee in the morning, lunch and fresh fruit in the afternoon.

Lunch includes:

•    Various appetizers (vegetables, olives, cheese and salami)
•    1 seafood main course (alternatively another condiment for those who do not like fish)
•    Dessert
•    Wine/beer
•    Water

In case of food allergies and intolerances, it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

The motorboat excursion to Spargi and Budelli will give you an unforgettable experience along the coast of Sardinia. Departing from La Maddalena, the boat will cruise along the Costa Smeralda and the island of Santo Stefano, with stops on land and at the beach. 

During the cruise, you’ll sail past theIsland of Caprera and the Island of Santo Stefano. Afterward, the cruise continues toward the island of Spargi, where you’ll have the chance to take a dip in the sea and relax on the beach. The tour concludes with a visit to Budelli Island, Santa Maria Island, and the other smaller islands that make up the archipelago.

The motorboat tour lasts 8 hours, and the vessel is equipped with every comfort, such as a relaxation deck and a covered dinette. The M/B Paradiso will make a stop at Cala Connari. Languages spoken on board: Italian and English.

Maximum capacity: 90 people. In addition to the ticket price, a mandatory landing fee for adults and children (0–3 years old are free) must be paid on board. It costs 2.50€ in May, September, and October; while it costs 5€ in June, July, and August.

Explore the Gulf of Cagliari on a 3-hour aperitif tour aboard a wooden gozzo boat. Departing from Marina Piccola you will sail along the coast from Cagliari to Sella del Diavolo.

Departing from Marina Piccola (CA), you will board a spacious and comfortable traditional boat with sundeck and bimini for shelter in the shade. The tour will take you along the incredible coastline of the Gulf of Cagliari, allowing you to admire hidden gems such as Cala Bernat, Calamosca and Cala Fighera from the sea.

During the navigation you will be offered an aperitif with music on board and you will have the opportunity to enjoy swimming stops,discover white sand beaches accessible only by sea and snorkeling.

Please note that the itinerary may vary according to weather and sea conditions to ensure your safety at all times. At the end of the excursion, you will return to the starting point.

The group boat tour from Cagliari allows you to admire the Sardinian coast from the sea and visit the bays of the Sella del Diavolo guided by a professional skipper.

You will explore enchanting places where you can relax on board, swim and snorkel with the equipment provided by the facility.

You can visit hidden corners of the coast that can only be reached by dinghy and listen to local stories while enjoying a cool glass of Prosecco.

4 swimming stops are scheduled and they will be chosen by the skipper depending on the marine weather conditions.

The catamaran excursion in the Gulf of Angels will take you to the coves and hidden corners of southern Sardinia, along the Cagliari coast, where you can swim and, if you are lucky, spot dolphins.

The tour departs from the port of Cagliari, and on the way you will pass S.Elia, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca and the old enclosure to Cala Fighera for your first swim stop.

You will then visit the Grotta dei Colombi (Cave of Pigeons) and be told the legend of the Devil's Saddle before reaching the Gasole and Poetto pools. After snorkeling in the gulf, you will return to the port.

The excursion has a duration of 3 hours, and scheduled stops during navigation can be changed or modified depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions. Drinks and snacks will also be available for purchase on board.

The experience is a unique opportunity to learn about the legends and ancient history of the caves and coves around Cagliari and to take a swim in the waters of Sardinia with friends and family.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

The catamaran trip with aperitif on board in the Gulf of Cagliari will have you enjoy typical local products while sailing through the picturesque coves and caves along the Cagliari coast.

The excursion departs from the port of Cagliari and will take you by S. Elia, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca and Cala Fighera, where there will be an initial swim stop. Afterwards, you will visit Grotta dei Colombi and Sella del Diavolo, before reaching Poetto.

During the navigation, you will be treated to an onboard aperitif of local cured meats and cheeses accompanied by local wine.

The tour is available on a shared basis every Friday and Saturday, and stops may vary depending on weather conditions and the decisions of the skipper, who will always be on board.

The experience is suitable for everyone and is an ideal opportunity to learn about the sights and stories of the Gulf of Cagliari on board in excellent company.

Maximum capacity: 10 people.

Set sail from the port of Cagliari for a 3-hour sailing tour to explore the picturesque Golfo degli Angeli, with stops for swimming and a delicious Sardinian aperitif included on board.

During the cruise, you’ll visit some of the coast’s most charming coves, such as Cala Bernat, Calamosca, Cala Fighera, Cala Caraibica, and Marina Piccola, where you can dive into the crystal-clear waters, go snorkeling, and relax. You’ll have access to masks and snorkels, towels, a freshwater shower, restrooms, and a first-aid kit, ensuring you enjoy the experience in complete comfort.

An experienced skipper—qualified as a lifeguard and certified in first aid—will accompany you, ready to guide you safely and share interesting facts about the area. 

During the tour, you’ll be served a traditional Sardinian aperitif featuring sausage, pecorino cheese, carasau bread, olives, bruschetta with tomatoes, and a bottle of Vermentino to share on board.

The experience is available in Italian, English, Spanish, and French.

Departs from the port of Cagliari for a 3-hour dinghy excursion at sunset in the Gulf of Angels, with aperitif on board.

The excursion includes sightings of the dolphins that inhabit the waters of the gulf and stops of about 30 minutes at three locations ideal for swimming and snorkeling: Calamosca, the Sella del Diavolo bay and in front of Poetto beach. You can dive into the turquoise crystal clear waters of Sardinia and enjoy each stop in total freedom.

The tour ends with a scenic stop at Cala Bernat to admire the sunset, accompanied by an aperitif on board with typical Sardinian products.

Daily departures at 10 a.m. from the Customs Quay in the port of Alghero for a boat excursion with lunch along the coast of western Sardinia.

During the trip, you will cross the Coral Riviera via Capo Galera and Punta Giglio, until you reach the promontory of Capo Caccia. You will admire the Scala del Cabirol and Neptune Caves, as well as Isola Foradada and Cala d’Inferno. Next, you will skirt the bay of Porto Conte and stop near the Torre del Bollo for diving, sunbathing and snorkeling in the Capo Caccia Marine Protected Area and Porto Conte Regional Nature Park.

At 1 p.m., a delicious lunch will be served on board with an appetizer of local sausage and cheese, followed by pasta with fresh crab sauce and mussels alla marinara. Water, local D.O.C.white wine and coffee, are all included. It is possible to request a menu without fish or vegetarian in advance.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Cala Dragunara, Tramariglio beach and El Faro, and then returns to port at 6 pm. The boat is equipped with life jackets for children and adults.

For the scuba diving experience, it is necessary to fill out a medical form, declare that you do not suffer from sinusitis and/or eardrum problems and that you do not have nasal septum deviations.

Explore Alghero by quad bike, an experience suitable even for beginners, which includes 3 stops along the way, including a dip in the crystal clear waters of Sardinia.

Program

Document presentation, contract reading, paying special attention to "Rules and Prohibitions”, acceptance, signatures.

Briefing, general rehearsal of vehicles and materials provided, after which we set off following the Quad Openers. 

We will encounter the first dirt roads, useful to familiarize ourselves with the vehicles, we proceed until we enter the Monte Doglia natural park area and enjoy the view of Porto Conte and Capo Caccia from the top, an area inhabited by magnificent specimens, of various animal species such as Deer, Deer, Foxes, Wild Boars, Donkeys, Horses, etc.

With a bit of luck we could admire them from not too far away. 

The route expertly orchestrated by Mother Nature, where we will encounter various types of terrain, will lead us to Porto Ferro, first stop, where the only buildings are Aragonese Towers dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, back in the saddle then, we will reach the “Lake Baratz(the only natural lake in Sardinia), second stop, we will then reach the golden beach of Porto Ferro with its crystal clear waters, a true natural paradise, perfect for the Bagno/Relax break.

Minimum passenger age: 5 years

Disabled and people with medical conditions are allowed, if their medical records and conditions permit. 

Guides will have full discretion in enforcing the rules, if riders and participants do not abide by them, resulting in danger to them and others, they will inevitably be stopped.

The half-day gozzo excursion in Alghero allows you to discover the marine protected area of Capo Caccia Isola Piana.

You will board a comfortable gozzo that can accommodate up to 10 people and will be accompanied by an environmental guide.

After a short briefing in which the captain will explain the dynamics on board and some safety rules, you will leave your moorings and head to some of the best-known spots in the area such as Capo Galera, Punta Giglio and Porto Conte.

Refreshing swimming stops in the crystal clear waters of Sardinia are planned during the sailing. You will be able to use the snorkeling equipment provided by the facility.

On board you will be offered an aperitif full of typical products.

In case of food allergies and intolerances you can contact the facility after booking.

The sailing excursion with lunch from Alghero allows you to discover one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world: the Capo Caccia Marine Protected Area.

This experience allows you to immerse yourself in local places and traditions. You will be accompanied by a skipper who will take you to picturesque places. Return to port is scheduled for about 5:30 pm.

During the excursion, swimming stops are scheduled. You will also be able to use the SUP that you will find on board and that will allow you to discover small bays with crystal clear water. 

On board you will be offered lunch and an aperitif. The seafood menu includes:

•    stuzzicchini
•    Catalan salad
•    1 first course with shellfish
•    fruit
•    wine
•    water
•    drinks
•    coffee
•    bitter liqueur

In case of allergies, intolerances or food preferences you can contact the facility after booking.

The aperitif boat tour with swim stop and dolphin sighting from Alghero will give you the opportunity to experience a special moment, where you can relax, admire the beauty of the sea and its inhabitants, and enjoy pleasant company while savoring delicious appetizers and drinks.

The tour includes three itineraries, which vary depending on weather conditions: Cala Bolantì, Capo Galera and Fertilia. It begins with a brief tour of the coast, followed by a one-hour stop where you can swim or snorkel in an exclusive bay.

After the break is over, the adventure resumes with a passage near the fish farm, where you can spot dolphins.

After the swim stop you will be treated to a tasty aperitif on the boat.

The half-day dinghy excursion is a unique opportunity to explore the coves of the Porto Conte Nature Park and the cliffs of Sardinia, with opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying an aperitif on board with friends.

The sailing departs from Porto Conte Marina and continues to Porto Conte and the cliffs of Capo Caccia. A stop is planned to swim and admire the marine fauna and flora by snorkeling.

During the excursion there is an aperitif on board with a view of the coves consisting of typical Sardinian dishes including a charcuterie and cheese board paired with local wines.

The dinghy excursion is organized on a shared basis and can be done in the morning or afternoon, with a duration of about 3 1/2 hours. In addition, depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may be changed.

Maximum capacity: 8 people.

Discover Tavolara Island and the coast of Capo Coda Cavallo with a private skippered boat tour, ideal for couples or small groups of friends. Up to 6 people on board.

Departure is set at 10 a.m. or 3:30 p.m. from Moys, Marina di Olbia. Return is scheduled 4h hours later at the same location. A tasting of local cheeses and wines is also included in the price.

During the trip there will be an opportunity to stop for swimming, snorkeling or a small canoe ride.

It is recommended to bring your own towel, swimsuit, a sun hat and sunscreen.

This half-day group tour allows you to reach the islands of Tavolara and Molara and dive into the crystal clear Sardinian waters of this marine protected area.

Departure is from the port of Olbia and you will board a comfortable dinghy.

During the navigation, swimming and snorkeling stops are planned in the most beautiful coves, such as Capo Ceraso, Cala della Contessa, and Isola dei cavalli. You will also visit the coast of Tavolara and a final stop at the natural pools of Molara is planned.

Those who wish can use the snorkeling equipment provided by the facility that will allow you to admire the seabed.

On board you will be offered a welcome toast (with prosecco, cola or water) accompanied by a typical Sardinian aperitif that includes:

•    sausage
•    pecorino cheese
•    olives
•    typical bread

The experience is guaranteed upon reaching a minimum of 6 participants.

Discover the islands of Tavolara and Molara with an inflatable boat trip that will take you through the archipelago's Marine Protected Area.

Departing from Olbia, the tour lasts 4 hours and includes several stops for swimming at Tavolara, Molara, Cala Girgolu and many others. You will also be treated to a tasting of typical Sardinian products.

The captain will provide snorkeling equipment and life jackets for everyone while sailing.

Maximum capacity: 6 people per dinghy. Depending on weather conditions, stops may be subject to change.

Join an afternoon group tour by dinghy to discover Tavolara, Molara and the Natural Pools

Go aboard the luxurious Marlin 850 HD PRO with a Mercury 350 HP Verado V10 engine for an unforgettable afternoon in the Tavolara Marine Protected Area.

Departure from Marina Moys at 2 p.m. with a short swim stop at Capo Ceraso and Doctor Beach to enjoy the first crystal clear waters.

You will sail to the'imposing Island of Tavolara with a stop to admire the shoreline of Cala Spalmatore di Terra.

The highlight of the tour è Molara Island with its world-famous Piscine Naturali, real pools of turquoise sea. You will have free time to swim, snorkel and take breathtaking photos.

Enjoy a delicious aperitif on board with local products, lulled by the waves.

Last stop at Cala Girgolu (Sassi Piatti) to admire the reef before returning to the marina.

Join a group tour by dinghy to spot dolphins and discover the treasures of the Gulf of Olbia

Go aboard the luxurious Marlin 850 HD PRO with Mercury 350 HP Verado V10 engine for an unforgettable adventure among crystal clear waters and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Departure from Marina Moys at 9:30 a.m. to Figarolo Islet, where you can spot the resident colony of bottlenose dolphins that inhabit these waters.

You will proceed to Cala Moresca to admire the emerald waters and the old mining pier, followed by an aperitif on board with local products to be enjoyed lulled by the waves.

Snorkel stop at Capo Ceraso and Doctor Beach, where you will explore the picturesque coves teeming with life.

Last swim at Isola Piana before returning to the marina.

Go aboard a comfortable boat for a group tour departing from Olbia that will allow you to spot dolphins.

This group adventure is designed for small groups of up to 12 people per boat. This intimate approach ensures a’personalized atmosphere.

The meeting point is directly at the MOYS Marina in Olbia, from which this 3.5-hour dolphin sighting tour departs.

You will immediately sail to the waters near Figarolo Island, a known habitat of wild dolphins that often frequent this area. 

While cruising along the Sardinian coast, you will admire striking views made up of towering cliffs and crystal clear waters.

The excursion is entirely geared toward respecting nature, following strict guidelines for responsible dolphin watching.

The boat will stop near a fish farm, where dolphins are frequently spotted while feeding, thus increasing the chances of meeting them up close.

With a sighting rate of more than 95 percent, you might see them swimming, jumping or playing in the waves near the boat.

On board you can relax while enjoying soft drinks on offer, while your guide tells you trivia about dolphin behavior, marine biodiversity, and environmental conservation efforts. 

Discover the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area with a three-hour boat trip from Villasimius with bathroom stops.

The excursion can be done either in the morning or afternoon and can be done either by boat or dinghy depending on availability.

During the tour you will make 3 stops with swimming at the most picturesque places on the coast of the marine area.

The first stop is at Isola dei Cavoli and Baia della Madonna del Naufrago, where you can admire the Vergina statue placed 11 meters above the seabed. We then continue to the Balestra Fish Shoal, this stop is the most beautiful for snorkelers.
Finally, the last stop is at the bay of Punta Molentis.

Throughout the boat excursion you will always skirt the coast near Villasimius, having the opportunity to see coves, beaches, towers and islets.

You will be accompanied by experienced skippers who will make you dream with seafaring stories and anecdotes.

The itinerary may vary according to weather conditions, depending on the skipper's choices. 

Explore the Villasimius Marine Park with a group tour in an inflatable boat with a skipper that departs from the Porto Turistico and takes you to discover spectacular coves reachable only by sea. 

You'll sail along the coast admiring the historic Old Fortress, Cala Caterina and the promontory of Capo Carbonara, immersed in one of Sardinia's most fascinating stretches of sea. Your first stop will be at’Isola dei Cavoli, a white-sand paradise where you can also snorkel with a mask included to observe the underwater Madonna del Naufrago.

You will then proceed to Punta Molentis, famous for its fine sand and incredible colors of the sea, with time to go down to the beach and enjoy the view.

The’last stop will be chosen by the skipper according to the weather conditions between turquoise waters of Piscine di Venere or the beach of Cuccureddus

During the excursion you will have free water for the duration of the tour.

The wine tasting and vineyard tour in Villasimius is an unforgettable experience, in which you will be accompanied through the rows of our vineyard by owners Gianluca and Mario of Colline del Vento.

You will learn the secrets of the production of our organic wines, while savoring our typical Sardinian products, such as cheese, sausage, bread and extra virgin olive oil, paired with the tasting of our wines.

Relax in the shade of the carob tree as you enjoy our cannonau and vermentino, and complete the experience by tasting our organic myrtle and aquavit.

Explore the wonders of the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area aboard a premium dinghy with an experienced skipper.

The itinerary is completely flexible and will be adapted according to your preferences and the weather conditions of the day, allowing you to discover the most beautiful coves, crystal-clear waters and the most striking places in the area.

Sail along the coast admiring breathtaking landscapes and discover hidden corners accessible only by sea.

Leave from the Marina of Villasimius aboard an elegant RIB together with an experienced skipper and experience an exclusive 3.5-hour tour among the crystal clear waters of the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, with swim stops and aperitifs on board.

Sail to the beautiful Isola dei Cavoli, surrounded by transparent seabed and spectacular granite scenery, where you can indulge in a rejuvenating dive, snorkel or relax in the sun. The experience continues to Punta Molentis, one of the most fascinating bays on the south coast of Sardinia, famous for its intense colors and pristine atmosphere.

During the tour you will reach selected coves far from the most crowded areas, perfect for experiencing the sea in total tranquility and privacy.

A pleasant aperitif with cold drink and traditional Sardinian Pane Guttiau also awaits you on board, to be enjoyed surrounded by breathtaking views.