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).

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 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.

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).

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.

A Yacht Day in the Maddalena Archipelago departing from Palau consists of a day exploring the smaller islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago.

The tour has no set stops, but will do its best to visit the most striking destinations depending on weather conditions. Possible stops include beautiful coves such as Cala Corsara, Cala Zavagli, Cala Soraya, Cala Granara, Cala Connari and Cala Ferrigno in Spargi, the famous Porto della Madonna and Natural Pools in Budelli, as well as the pink beach "Cala di Roto" closed since 1994 for photography.

Other possible destinations include Cala di Santa Maria, Cala Lunga di Razzoli and the Passetto degli Asinelli or del Topo located within the Manto della Madonna.

The speedboat has a large sundeck at the bow and comfortable seating at the stern. There is also a shaded area for meals, a small aft beach with a swim ladder, an available tender, two comfortable sofas, galley and bathroom.

Lunch served on board includes Sardinian antipasto, Sardinian fregola, Gallura wine, coffee, dessert, fruit and sparkling wine, all included in the price. The cost of fuel is included.

We recommend you bring swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and hat to take advantage of the opportunity to swim in the small coves during the day.

The experience is a group tour, but by booking for 12 people you can have the boat exclusively.

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 vintage sailing boat excursion in the Gulf of Cagliari allows you to visit the coast and coves directly from the sea and can be developed according to three different itineraries:

Half Day

This tour offers an approximately 3-hour excursion to explore the beautiful Poetto beach and the striking Sella del Diavolo promontory. Available either in the morning or afternoon, times may vary according to requests and weather conditions. During the excursion, a refreshing selection of fruits and drinks will be offered.

Sunset Aperitif

This proposal offers a boat ride to admire the sunset on Poetto beach, accompanied by an aperitif that includes chilled bubbles and Sardinian gastronomic products such as olives, cheeses and cold cuts. An assortment of sushi and seafood is also available upon request.

Full Day

This excursion offers a 6-hour voyage to the Gulf of Cagliari, during which drinks and a mid-day meal, customized to guests' preferences, will be served. Departure is scheduled at 11:00 am, and return is scheduled for 5:00 pm.

Maximum capacity: 5 people. Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

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.

Explore the Gulf of Cagliari with this 2 1/2-hour group tour that will allow you to discover the charms of the Devil's Saddle. 

You can enjoy a unique adventure of fun and relaxation as you explore the wonders of Sardinia's crystal clear sea.

Swimming stops are planned during the excursion, and you will find everything you need for unforgettable snorkeling on board, with masks and fins provided.

The tour starts from the Marina Piccola marina and the following stops are planned:

•    The Devil's Saddle and its natural pools
•    The cave of the pigeons
•    Cala Fighera
•    Calamosca and the lighthouse cape Sant’Elia
•    Cala Bernat

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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 private dinghy excursion departing from Villasimius.

The private dinghy excursion to Villasimius consists of 3 main stops: Isola dei Cavoli and Baia della Madonna del Naufrago, where the 3-meter statue of the Virgin is located; the Balestra fish shoal, excellent for snorkelers; and the beautiful and unique Punta Molentis Bay.

However, depending on the duration of the excursion, it will be possible to reach in total freedom the coves and the most isolated points of the Villasimius coast, further embellished by the stories of the expert skipper.

Half Day

The half-day tour lasts three hours and can be done either in the morning or in the afternoon. Numerous stops for swimming in the crystal clear waters of Sardinia will be possible.

Full day

The full-day tour lasts seven hours and starts at approximately 10:00 am. Given the long duration, it will be possible to customize the itinerary more and make numerous stops for swimming in the crystal clear waters of Sardinia.

The dinghy rental does not include fuel, so the price will vary depending on your itinerary. Soft drinks will be served during the excursion.

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.