The 20 best things to do in Costa Smeralda on Vacation

Sail aboard an elegant and comfortable sailboat to experience the nature of the La Maddalena Archipelago in the far northeast of Sardinia, departing from Palau.

This excursion combines exclusivity and relaxation, adventure and outdoor sports. You can choose between the private and group excursion.

With the wind at your back, you can visit the most beautiful islands of the archipelago with possible stops at Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli or Caprera.

You will have at your disposal an experienced skipper who will take you to the best areas to enjoy long swims, with the possibility of swimming to the beaches.

You will experience a day of fun and comfort enriched by a delicious lunch on board, featuring fish pasta and local products.

Lunch includes:

•    a typical aperitif based on local products
•    fresh local fish dish according to recipes of the characteristic Sardinian cuisine
•    wine vermentino
•    beer
•    fruit
•    sardinian sweets
•    mirto, the typical Sardinian liqueur extracted from the characteristic Mediterranean vegetation of these islands.

If food intolerances or special requests are present, it is advisable to bring your own packed lunch (only no-fish or vegetarian options are possible to request by contacting the facility after booking).

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 exclusive dinghy tour allows you to discover the La Maddalena archipelago in the company of friends or family and choosing the itinerary you prefer.

You will live a unique experience aboard a luxury dinghy designed to offer you comfort and sophistication. To make everything more authentic you will be offered an aperitif on board with typical products.

Departure can be customized from Palau or La Maddalena, with a dedicated skipper who will take care of every detail to guarantee you an unforgettable experience.

This experience allows you to follow an exclusive itinerary that you can decide before starting the excursion. You can choose from the following options:

The Archipelago of La Maddalena

If you choose this tour, you can discover dream beaches, such as the famous Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach), and dive into the crystal-clear waters of Budelli, Razzoli and Spargi with their renowned swimming pools.

You may also decide to make a stop in the town of La Maddalena, for lunch or ice cream.

Caprera and La Maddalena Archipelago

This option offers you a mix of history and wilderness, between the secret coves of Caprera and the beauty of the archipelago.

You will have the unique opportunity to take a dip in the famous Cala Coticcio, renamed Thaiti for its beauty and reachable only by sea.

Periple of Caprera

Sail along the pristine coastline of Caprera, among granite cliffs and hidden coves. This itinerary is ideal for those who like to get out of the ordinary.

Be sure to stop at dreamy bays such as Cala Coticcio (Tahiti) and Cala Napoletana, perfect for snorkeling, La Maddalena and Caprera.

Course Archipelago

This excursion allows you to experience an exclusive journey to the wonders of Corsica, with stops at hidden paradises such as Lavezzi and Cavallo, with a stop for lunch in characteristic Bonifacio.

The dinghy has many comforts, such as large XXL sundecks, freshwater shower, console with toilets, awning for shelter from the sun, refrigerator and non-slip teak decking.

You will be provided with snorkeling masks, so you can explore the transparent seabed and swim among colorful fish. Every stop will be a chance to dive into picture-postcard waters and experience the sea without hurry.

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).

This group excursion to La Maddalena allows you to experience an unforgettable day aboard a comfortable dinghy exploring the crystal clear waters of the Archipelago.

Two departure points are scheduled:

.

•    from La Maddalena at 9:30 a.m.
•    from Palau at 10:00 a.m.

The itinerary of this excursion includes must-see stops, including:

•    Spargi (Cala Corsara, Cala Soraya, Cala Connery and Cala Granara),
•    Pink Beach of Budelli
•    Natural Pools at Porto Madonna
•    Cavaliere Beach
•    Passo degli Asinelli

During the experience, bathroom stops are provided and you will be served snorkel masks that will allow you to admire the seabed.

During the tour you will also be offered a rich aperitif with local products.

You will be accommodated by a spacious and comfortable dinghy with large XXL sundecks, non-slip teak top, freshwater shower, refrigerator and console with facilities.

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.

Explore the coast of Cagliari by dinghy - Aperitifs & drinks included!

Live an unforgettable experience along the Cagliari coastline aboard a comfortable 7.50m dinghy, ideal for relaxing and discovering the crystal clear sea of southern Sardinia.

We will visit hidden coves such as Cala Fighera, Calamosca and Sella del Diavolo, with stops for swimming, snorkeling and admiring breathtaking views.

Included:

Inflatable boat with skipper

Aperitif with Sardinian products

Cool drinks (water or soft drinks)

Snorkeling masks

Duration: 3 hours

Departure: Marina del Sole, Su Siccu - flexible times

✅ Up to 12 people + crew

Ideal for couples, families and groups!

Book now and discover the most authentic and evocative side of Cagliari: its sea!

Rent an inflatable boat without a license and set off to explore the Sardinian coast in total autonomy, departing from Cagliari.

After an initial briefing, you will board a comfortable dinghy that can accommodate up to 6 people: ideal for relaxing and enjoying the crystal clear sea of Sardinia without stress.

This is a perfect experience for groups of friends who want to explore the coast by freely choosing the itinerary.

You will be able to reach hidden coves such as Cala Fighera, Calamosca and Sella del Diavolo, with stops for swimming, sunbathing and admiring picturesque views.

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 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 day excursion in the Gulf of Cagliari allows you to experience a day on an exclusive boat accompanied by an experienced skipper.

Scheduled departure is at 9 a.m. from the port of Su Siccu, in Cagliari.

The excursion begins with an educational moment. How to go to sea, safety rules, basic information for sailing, activities and behavior on board.

Following this, you will fill in the sailing plan and route together with the skipper, depending on the weather conditions. 

Leaving your moorings, you will sail into the Gulf of Angels skirting the promontory of Capo Sant'Elia and its multicolored cliffs until you reach Cala Fighera where you can swim in crystal clear emerald green waters.

You will then coast the famous Sella del Diavolo, which owes its name to an ancient folk legend. It is a promontory rich in traces of frequentation since the Neolithic period, with high white cliffs, fragrant Mediterranean scrub, home to seagulls and cormorants. 

Navigation then proceeds by heading to Poetto Beach. Eight kilometers of beach with fine white sand and water, crystal clear, sandy bottom and low for tens of meters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. 

A stop at the beautiful beach of Is Mortorius is also planned, where there will be a lunch break, some relaxation and swimming in the crystal clear waters.

In the afternoon you will return to the port of departure.

With the dinghy excursion in Porto Conte Park in Alghero you will get to know the most fascinating places in Sardinia where you can swim or snorkel.

Departing directly from Porto Conte (inside the amp), the snorkeling excursion includes several stops along the coves of the Park, where you can admire the seabed and cliffs of Capo Caccia, accompanied by an experienced instructor. 

The dinghy trip is half a day long and is organized on a shared basis. The itinerary can be customized, depending on the skipper/guide's decisions, and during stops you can snorkel among the Park's creeks.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience among the views of Sardinia and snorkeling in excellent company.

Useful information:

•    Maximum capacity: 9 people.
•    We recommend bringing a bottle of water.
•    Not suitable for pregnant women.
•    Free parking outside the Marina.
•    Life jacket and snorkeling equipment included.

The boat excursion with lunch on board in the Gulf of Alghero will let you admire the marine wildlife of Sardinia while snorkeling and enjoying a lunch of local products. If you are lucky, you may spot dolphins.

Leaving from the port of Alghero, you will explore Capo Galera and Capo Caccia. Then, you will visit Porto Conte Park and the Posidonia Oceanica Marine Protected Area, where you can snorkel and observe the seabed. To conclude the sailing, depending on weather conidictions and the skipper's decisions, you will visit some well-known coves such as Grotta dei Palombi and Cala Inferno.

During the sailing a lunch on board of local cold cuts and cheeses accompanied by Sardinian wine is provided.

The boat trip lasts a full day and is organized on a shared basis from June to August. The rest of the year an exclusive tour is available.

You will be provided with snorkeling equipment and only need to bring your own towel.

The experience is suitable for everyone and will give you an unforgettable time along the coast of Alghero and in its seabed.

Maximum capacity: 16 people.

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.

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 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 group sunset sailing excursion to Alghero allows you to admire the Sardinian coastline while enjoying a rich aperitif.

Departure is from the Port of Alghero and the excursion takes about 2 hours. After a short sail in the Gulf you will make a stop at La Madonnina.

You will be offered an aperitif with some typical Sardinian appetizers such as carasau bread, olives and mixed cheeses accompanied by a glass of Brut.

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

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

The motorboat excursion departing from the Marina of Villasimius will take you through some of the most famous islands of Sardinia, offering you the opportunity to swim among its coves.

You will explore the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, which includes Isola dei Cavoli and its museum. Then you will visit some of Sardinia's most famous beaches and islands, such as Porto Giunco, Punta Molentis, and Serpentara Island.

The island of Serpentara is one of the most popular beaches in Sardinia.

The skipper will always be on board and, depending on wind conditions, will decide which destinations you can visit, including Serpentara Island, Cala Pira and Cala Pisanu.

The excursion will have a duration of 6 hours and includes a snack aboard a speedboat equipped with many amenities, including sun cushions, tables for eating and cabins.

You can enjoy a typical Sardinian snack with salami, cheese, carasau bread, olives, chips and sparkling wine and water.

This experience is a unique opportunity to discover the beaches of South Sardinia in the company of friends and family.

When booking, you can choose between the group tour and the exclusive tour.

Maximum capacity: 8 people.

The excursion will take you to the islands of the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, including the island of Cavoli and some of Sardinia's best-known beaches, such as Porto Giunco and Punta Molentis, where you can swim and snorkel.

The private excursion will have a duration of 3 hours and takes place at sunset. With a little luck you may spot dolphins and Caretta Caretta turtles.

It represents a unique opportunity to explore the beaches of South Sardinia at sunset, in the company of friends, family or your partner.

Maximum capacity: 8 people.

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.