The 20 best things to do in Costa Smeralda on Vacation

Horseback riding with American-style riding at La Maddalena Island departing from Spalmatore.

Included in the outing is pick up from the ferry port on La Maddalena Island to the riding stables, (ferries leave from Palau every half hour).

For the excursion, it is recommended that you put on comfortable clothing consisting of: closed shoes and long pants. The facility will provide you with all equipment for riding horses, including helmet (mandatory).

The group excursion by vintage boat departing from Palau will have you explore the most striking beaches and coves of La Maddalena National Park, where you can swim and practice surface snorkeling.

You will board the vintage boat M/V Apollo II and the first stop will be in Caprera, at Cala Garibaldi. Then, the navigation continues and the next stop will be Budelli Island, where, during the second stop, you will be able to go down to the beach or snorkel around the boat and swim to Cavaliere Beach. The last scheduled stop will be at Spargi, before returning to Palau.

The boat trip is organized on a shared basis and lasts a full day. Stops may vary depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions. The experience does not include the mandatory landing fee, which must be paid on site.

Lunch is not included, you can bring a packed lunch or use the onboard bar service stocked with salads, paini, etc.

The activity is suitable for everyone and will give you an unforgettable experience on the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean in excellent company.

Maximum capacity: 70 people. This experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 15 participants.

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.

The private boat excursion to Spargi and Budelli from Palau will take you to discover the best islands of the Emerald Coast.

The boat excursion from Palau, departing from Porto Pozzo at 10:00 am, allows you to visit the best islands of the Costa Smeralda aboard a private boat with skipper, with a maximum capacity of 8 people.

You will be taken to the beautiful islands of Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria and Razzoli, with several bathroom stops, varying according to your needs.

Lunch is also available upon request (to be requested after booking with the skipper).

This boat tour will allow you to explore the crystal clear waters and enjoy the most beautiful coves in northern Sardinia.

Aboard this wonderful vintage boat you can spend a day among the clear waters of The La Maddalena Archipelago.

During the excursion, which starts around 10:30 am, you will visit the beautiful smaller islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and crystal clear sea.

Stops will be made at some of the most beautiful beaches in the Archipelago, where you can swim, sunbathe, snorkel and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.

Two SUPs are also available on board, perfect for exploring and getting away from the boat.

The boat captain will be on hand to guide the excursion, providing information about the history and culture of the Archipelago and recommending the best places to visit.

Lunch is included in the excursion and will be served aboard the boat. The menu includes a delicious Sardinian appetizer, Sardinian gnocchi, vermentino di Gallura, coffee, dessert, fruit and sparkling wine.

This unique and personalized experience is perfect for those who love the sea and are looking for an outdoor adventure.

The motorboat excursion to Spargi and Budelli will give you an unforgettable experience on the coast of Sardinia. Departing from your choice of La Maddalena, Baja Sardinia or Palau, you will sail along the Costa Smeralda and the island of Santo Stefano, with shore and beach stops. 

Sailing begins by skirting the island of Caprera and the island of Santo Stefano. Upon reaching La Maddalena, there will be an initial stop and you can stroll through the town's historic center. Afterwards, the navigation continues to the island of Spargi, where you will have the opportunity to dive into the sea and relax on the beach. 

Sailing concludes by visiting the island of Budelli, the island of Santa Maria and the other smaller islands that complete the archipelago.

The motorboat tour lasts 8 hours and the boat è equipped with every comfort, such as a relaxation deck and covered dinette. Two motorboats are available: the M/B Orient Express, which will stop at Cala Granara, and the M/B Paradiso, which will stop at Cala Connari. Languages spoken on board: Italian and English.

Maximum capacity: 170 people. To the cost of the ticket è must be added the mandatory landing fee for adults and reduced (0-3 years free) to be paid on board. It costs 2.50€ in May, September and October; while it costs 5€ in June, July and August.

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 sailing trip in the Gulf of Angels will let youà visit the coves and hidden corners of Sardinia, along the coast of Cagliari, where you can swim and, if you are lucky, spot dolphins.

The boat tour departs from the port of Cagliari and while sailing you will pass S.Elia, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca and the old enclosure to Cala Fighera for the first bathing stop. Then you will visit the Grotta dei Colombi (Cave of Pigeons) and tell the legend of the Sella del Diavolo (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 the scheduled stops during navigation can be changed or modified according to weather conditions and the skipper's decisions. It will also be possible to purchase drinks and snacks on board.

The experience è 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 sailing boat 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 cruise, 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.

The gozzo trip in the Gulf of Angels will let you visit coves and hidden corners of 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 while sailing you will pass S.Elia, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca and the old enclosure to Cala Fighera for your first swimming stop.

Then you will visit the Grotta dei Colombi (Cave of Pigeons) and tell the legend of the Sella del Diavolo (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 the scheduled swimming stops during navigation can be changed or modified according to weather conditions and the skipper's decisions. It will also be possible to purchase drinks and snacks 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: 10 people.

The half-day skippered sailing boat excursion allows you to explore the Gulf of Cagliari and soak in the crystal clear waters.

You can choose whether to share this experience with other participants or book an exclusive boat.

The excursion begins with an educational time. Afterwards, you can plan the route together with the other participants.

Leaving your moorings, you will depart from the Golfo degli Angeli and sail along the Capo Sant'Elia promontory and its multicolored cliffs until you reach Cala Fighera, where you can swim in the crystal clear waters.

You will then have the opportunity to admire the Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle), a promontory rich in traces of frequentation since Neolithic times, with high white cliffs.

The navigation will then proceed by heading towards the Poetto Beach. Eight kilometers of beach with fine white sand and water, crystal clear, shallow sandy seabed for tens of meters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. 

The itinerary may be subject to change, depending on weather conditions. Any changes will be promptly communicated 12 hours before the excursion or otherwise at the time of embarkation.

The dinghy excursion along the Cagliari coast is an exclusive experience to allow you to visit the most hidden coves and swim in the clearest waters. The sailing departs from the port of Marina di Perd'e Sali.

Half Day

The half-day excursion can be done in the morning at 09:30 or in the afternoon at 14:30. You will visit the Island of San Maccario in Pula. You will then move on to Capo di Nora and Roman Ruins with the possibility of swimming in Pula's natural pools and sea caves.

Full day

The full-day excursion is done only on an exclusive basis, and the itinerary includes a 9:30 a.m. departure and a 5:00 p.m. return. During the tour, several places such as the Island of San Maccario in Pula, the Cape of Nora and the Roman Ruins will be visited.

It will be possible to swim in Pula's natural pools and sea caves. The beaches of Chia, including Torre Chia, Su Giudeu and Cala Cipolla, will also be included in the tour. Lunch is not included in the tour and you will have to bring "packed" food or eat at one of the restaurants suggested by the captain.

Sunset aperitif

The itinerary includes a departure at 6:30 pm. You will visit the Island of San Maccario and take a swim in front of the Roman ruins of Nora.

Next, you will move on to swim and snorkel at Madonna del Naufrago beach in Nora. Finally, you will enjoy an aperitif in the Gulf of Nora, which includes Sardinian products served on a corkboard, accompanied by a bottle of prosecco or vermentino. The excursion ends with the return scheduled for 8:30 pm.

Maximum capacity: 7 people. For the sunset experience, the boat carries up to 5 people. The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions at the discretion of the captain.

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.

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 evening gozzo excursion with sunset aperitif allows you to admire the Gulf of Alghero from the sea as the sun sets.

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.

At least one swimming stop in the crystal clear waters of Sardinia is planned during the cruise. You will be able to use the snorkeling equipment provided by the facility.

Afterwards you will enjoy a rich aperitif of local products accompanied by Sardinian white wine.

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

The dolphin sighting boat aperitif 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 cove.

The tour begins with a short visit to the coast, followed by a one-hour stop where you can swim or snorkel in an exclusive cove.

After the break, the adventure resumes with a passage near the fish farm , where it is possible to spot dolphins.

After the swimming stop you will be offered a tasty aperitif on the boat.

The sunset aperitif on a sailing boat allows you to have a unique experience discovering the coast of Alghero.

You can experience the magic of an aperitif on a boat at sunset, when the coast is tinged with striking colors. 

This experience è perfect to share with your partner or in the company of friends and family.

The navigation will last about 2 hours and will allow you to admire the ancient walls of the city of Alghero from the sea.

You can enjoy a rich seafood aperitif in front of an evocative sunset over the Mediterranean.

The aperitif includes:

•    tastings of local products
•    prosecco
•    drinks

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

Dinghy aperitif as the sun sets in the Porto Conte Natural Park. You will explore the coast of the Gulf of Alghero and swim or snorkel in its crystal clear waters during the sunset hours.

Departing from Porto Conte Marina in Maristella, the sailing will take you to the Porto Conte Natural Park, which includes cliffs at Capo Caccia and some of the area's most beautiful coves. Here you can swim or snorkel with the equipment provided during the excursion.

During the dinghy trip, an aperitif will be served on board with Sardinian cold cuts and cheeses, accompanied by local wine.

The excursion is organized on a shared basis and lasts about 2 hours. In addition, depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

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.

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. 

This luxury RIB excursion departing from Olbia allows you to visit the protected area of Tavolara and Molara with friends or family.

The itinerary includes:

•    Island Piana
•    Horses Island
•    Cows Beach and Turtle Beach
•    Capo Ceraso and Poltu Casu
•    Doctor's Beach
•    Tavolara Island Cala Spalmatore
•    Pools of Molara

You will sail towards Capo Ceraso and stop at the Spiaggia del Dottore, a small beach: a real marine aquarium with white sand framed by granite rocks.

This beach, with clear turquoise waters and undemanding seabed, is ideal for those who want to enjoy a nice swim.

The excursion will continue with stops at the Cavalli islet, Tavolara and its Spalmatore di Terra, Molara and the pools, Cala Girgolu and the Sassi Piatti to end with the Spiaggia delle Vacche.

Return to port is scheduled for 5:30 pm.

During the day you will be offered a rich aperitif with various cold dishes, accompanied by local wines, water and coffee.

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

The group boat tour with dolphin spotting and snorkeling at Figarolo Island departing from the port of Olbia allows you to enjoy a unique experience with friends or family.

This excursion has a duration of 3 hours and it allows you to reach Figarolo Island, where there are fish breeding tanks.

A colony of up to 10 bottlenose dolphins transits that area, and you will have the opportunity to spot and follow them.

One or two swim and snorkeling stops are also planned during the navigation in the island's most beautiful coves. Those who wish can use the snorkeling masks provided by the facility.

A welcome toast will be served on board.

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

This experience allows you to rent a 40hp dinghy without the need for a boat license and set off to explore the Tavolara and Molara Protected Area.

You will drive a 5.50-meter dinghy approved for 6 people and equipped with sun cushions, awning, anchor, climbing ladder, safety equipment for navigation within 3 miles from the coast.

You can reach the shores of the islands of Tavolara and Molara, or those of the island of Figarolo by stopping at the coves you prefer. When you check in, you will be provided with maps to find points of interest and directions on possible hazards.

The cost of fuel consumption is not included in the price and will be paid upon return at the price of the Olbia Marina (between €2.00 and €2.20 per liter).

A 500€ security deposit will always be required prior to departure to be released exclusively by credit card (no American Express, no Debit card, no cash). No withdrawal will be made, only a block amount, which will be released immediately upon return, if no damages are detected that were not pre-existing at the time of check in.

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.

Get ready for a quad bike excursion to discover the sights of Sardinia, starting from Porto Giunco.

The tour will pass through Notteri Pond, habitat of pink flamingos, and the pine forest of Porto Giunco to reach Cala Burroni, extreme southeastern tip of Sardinia. Next, it will visit Cava Usai before arriving at the tourist port of Villasimius. Punta Molentis, with its crystal-clear water and very white sand, will be one of the most fascinating stops, followed by a dirt path to Cala Pira for a morning swim.

Before departure, an experienced guide will provide instruction and hands-on driving lessons to familiarize you with the ATVs, which are excluded from the duration of the excursion. The facility will provide helmets and disposable under-helmet caps.

Comfortable, athletic clothing, sneakers and comfortable pants are recommended. Those who wish to bathe should bring a towel.

It is possible to cancel with 50% refund up to 2 days in advance, while in the 48 hours before, no refund is given. In case of bad weather or displacement, full refund will be given.

Rent an inflatable boat without a license and drive in the crystal clear waters of South Sardinia in Villasimius.

Visit the Marine Protected Area "Capo Carbonara" aboard 5.5-meter-long inflatable boats with a maximum capacity of 8 people on board. Rental duration can be half-day or daily, depending on your preference

To drive the dinghy you must be of legal age and have a B license.

Before departure, the facility will provide you with all the information on driving the dinghy and the best areas to visit.

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

The one- to two-hour horseback ride in Villasimius is suitable for everyone, including beginners, over the age of 14.

The horseback ride is conducted until April on the beach, and the times of the rides vary depending on the season.

The 2-hour tour is more scenic, there is a ride by the pond where you can see flamingos. And the possibility of reaching the Saracen tower.

You will be provided with all the equipment for the horseback ride, including helmet. Recommended clothing includes long pants and closed shoes.

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. 

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 seabed of the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area with a dinghy and snorkeling excursion, departure will be from Villasimius marina.

Snorkeling is a very simple activity, also suitable for children. One or more guides will accompany the group to swim near the coast, on the surface of the water, giving some information regarding the marine area and biodiversity.

All equipment will be provided on board, mask, snorkel, fins, neoprene wetsuit, and for those who wish, a float jacket. There is always water, hot or iced tea depending on the period, and snacks for the break (salted crackers and cookies).

Normally snorkeling is done at two/three different stops in the marine area, with a break in between. It is recommended to bring flip-flops or beach sandals.

Sea Baptism

An exclusive experience to experience the thrill of breathing underwater for the first time. A dive with a private guide, 1:1 ratio underwater for about 20 minutes.

The activity is preceded by a small theoretical lesson to familiarize you with the equipment and the main rules of diving. Once the equipment is donned, you stay on the surface for a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the marine environment and equipment.

You slowly descend to a maximum depth of 5 meters for those over 10 years old or a maximum depth of 2 meters for those 8 to 10 years old.

Excursions occur daily in the morning at 8:30 a.m. and return at about 12:30/13:00 p.m. and in the afternoon at 2:30 p.m. until about 6:30 p.m.