The 20 best things to do in Costa Smeralda on Vacation

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.

Gozzo excursion in the La Maddalena Archipelago, with lunch on board, designed to let you discover the most fascinating islands among crystal clear sea, white beaches and unspoiled nature.

You can choose between a shared or private tour, during which you will explore the western islands such as Budelli, Santa Maria and Spargi, admiring the famous Pink Beach, emerald waters and striking wind-sculpted rock formations. The experience also offers the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna in a unique natural environment.

On board a local aperitif is provided, followed by a lunch with seafood main course, various drinks and a snack, to accompany the day between relaxation and taste.

The itinerary is defined according to weather conditions to ensure safety and the best possible experience.

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).

The motorboat excursion to Spargi and Budelli will treat you to a memorable day among the wonders of the Maddalena Archipelago. The trip departs from Baja Sardinia and follows a picturesque stretch of the Costa Smeralda, passing near the island of Santo Stefano, with several stops along the way at various locations on the mainland and beaches.

The cruise begins by sailing along the coasts of the islands of Caprera and Santo Stefano. Once you reach La Maddalena, the first stop is scheduled: you can disembark and take a stroll through the historic center. The tour then continues toward the island of Spargi, where you’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, and relax on the beach.

Toward the end of the day, the motorboat continues to explore the other islands of the archipelago, including a stop for swimming at Budelli, a stop ashore at Santa Maria, and several smaller islets that round out the itinerary.

The total duration of the excursion is approximately 7 hours. On board, you’ll find all the necessary amenities, including a relaxation deck and a covered dinette. The M/B Paradiso (with 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 applies for adults and those eligible for reduced rates (free for ages 0–3), to be paid on board: 2.50 euros in May, September, and October; 5 euros in June, July, and August.

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.

The La Maddalena National Park boat trip is an ideal opportunity to visit the most fascinating islands in the Mediterranean and enjoy a lunch on board with typical Sardinian products.

The boat trip departs from Palau or La Maddalena and will have you explore some of the best-known areas of the National Park, with its coves and 180 km of coastline. You will explore islands such as Spargi and Budelli and their coves, including Cala Corsara and Cala Napoletana. You will also admire the famous Pink Beach from afar and swim at Santa Maria Island.

The excursion can be organized on a shared or exclusive basis. It lasts a full day and includes a lunch on board, which includes a fish entrée and a sampling of various local products.

The boat trip to La Maddalena National Park will give you an unforgettable experience among the coast of Sardinia and is ideal for couples or groups of friends and family.

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.

Dinghy excursion to explore the Gulf of Angels departing at 10:00 am from Cagliari's central port, for an unforgettable day with an aperitif on board.

The tour includes the exploration of the Golfo degli Angeli with 4 stops of about 30 minutes each in the most fascinating bays of the coast: Baia di Sella del Diavolo with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, Calamosca to immerse yourself in the wild nature of the promontory, Cala Bernat and Poetto Beach, the iconic 11-km-long tongue of white sand.

During stops you can swim, explore the seabed with a mask and snorkel provided by the crew, and relax on the dinghy's spacious sunbathing areas.

In the last stop you will be served a typical Sardinian aperitif with carasau bread, chips, prosecco (or soft drinks/beer) while the skipper will tell you about the fascinating legends of the place. Return is scheduled for 1:00 pm to the port of departure.

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.

Set out from Cagliari for a 3-hour rubber boat tour with 4 stops for swimming in the Gulf, and choose whether to enjoy the experience as part of a group or on a private tour. While on the water, you can relax with a glass of prosecco on board.

Accompanied by an experienced skipper, you’ll cruise along one of Sardinia’s most picturesque coastlines, listening to interesting facts and legends aboard a comfortable inflatable boat designed for small groups of up to 11 people.

During the tour, you’ll make four stops to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the gulf and admire some of its most iconic sites, such as the Sella del Diavolo, Cala Fighera, Calamosca, the Grotta dei Colombi, Cala Bernat, and the long Poetto Beach.

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 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 jet ski ride in Alghero allows you to have a unique and fun experience in the company of your friends or partner.

You will have the opportunity to ride a jet ski for 1 hour without the need for a boat license.

You will board the Breeze 10.8, a watercraft with a sporty and attractive design that, thanks to its outboard motor, you can control like a normal boat.

You will be able to take your personal belongings with you, thanks to the following on-board equipment:

•    watertight pouches for phones and wallet
•    50cm x 40cm watertight bag for clothes and towels

Thanks to its excellent maneuverability and stability, you can opt for a more relaxed tourist sailing or a sporty ride.

Each jet ski can accommodate up to 2 adults and 1 child (up to 14 years old).

Fuel is not included and will have to be paid on site based on actual consumption.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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

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

The activity is preceded by a small theory lesson to acquaint the participants 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 the 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 children 8 to 10 years old.

Trips take place daily in the morning at 8:30 a.m. and return at about 12:30/13 p.m. and in the afternoon at 2:30 p.m. until about 6:30 p.m.

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.

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.

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.

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.