Things to do in Sardinia, Italy: the 20 best ideas

Discover the beauty of the La Maddalena Archipelago aboard the large sailing ship "Dolce Vita" on an 8-hour tour departing at 10:00 am.

The crew, with 20 years of experience, will guide you through the islands and seabed of the Archipelago, enriching the day with stories of the famous people who have passed among these granite islands.

From Admiral Nelson to Napoleon, from Garibaldi to Mussolini, from the flagship of the British fleet Victory to modern Navy ships. The sea is the absolute protagonist of all historical events and still gives unforgettable days of rare beauty.

There is room for everyone on board: the spacious stern has comfortable seating for those who want to observe the captain's maneuvers at the big helm, while above the cabin you can sunbathe and relax on soft sunbathing cushions.

Lunch will consist of a rich menu that includes appetizers based on typical Sardinian products: sausage and pecorino cheese, carasau bread, and guttiau. The main courses will be fish-based, accompanied by Vermentino di Gallura DOC wine, myrtle, desserts and coffee.

If needed, the menu can be customized.

The crew, experts in the Archipelago, will guide you to discover unique bays, always looking for the best places.

Experience a speedboat tour among the smaller islands of the La Maddalena archipelago, departing from La Maddalena or Palau with lunch on board, discovering coves, transparent seabed and beaches reachable only by sea. 

The itinerary varies according to weather conditions and may include stops such as Spargi, the natural pools, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli or Caprera. During the day you can swim, use snorkeling masks and also try stand up paddle, always accompanied by the skipper.

On board lunch and snack are included: Sardinian appetizer with cold cuts and cheeses, Sardinian gnocchetti, water, wine, caffè, digestif, fresh fruit, dessert and a bottle of sparkling wine.

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.

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.

Set out on an excursion to explore the wonders of the La Maddalena Archipelago, sailing between Budelli, Spargi, and Santa Maria. You can choose between group or private tours, with the option to depart from La Maddalena, Porto Cervo, or Poltu Quatu.

Throughout the day, you’ll be captivated by the unique landscapes of Budelli Island, famous for its iconic Spiaggia Rosa. You’ll pass through the picturesque Passo del Topo and then have time to relax on the beaches of Santa Maria Island. The experience will continue to the island of Spargi, renowned for its beautiful sandy coves and the sea’s incredible shades of turquoise.

The itinerary may be subject to change depending on weather and sea conditions or specific requests in the case of private tours, so as to always guarantee you the best possible experience.

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 rubber dinghy tour along the coast of Pula is an exclusive experience that allows you to visit the most secluded coves and swim in the crystal-clear waters. The tour departs from the port of Marina di Perd’e Sali.

Half-day 

The half-day excursion can take place in the morning at 9:30 AM or in the afternoon at 2:30 PM. You will visit the Island of San Maccario in Pula. You will then head to Capo di Nora and the Roman Ruins, with the opportunity to swim in the natural pools of Pula and in the sea caves.

Full Day

The full-day excursion lasts 7 hours and 30 minutes, with the itinerary starting at 9:30 AM and ending at 5:00 PM. During the tour, you will visit various sites such as the Island of San Maccario in Pula, Capo di Nora, and the Roman Ruins.

You will have the opportunity to swim in the natural pools of Pula and in the sea caves. The beaches of Chia, including Torre Chia, Su Giudeu, and Cala Cipolla, will also be included in the itinerary. Lunch is not included in the tour, so you will need to bring a packed lunch or eat at one of the restaurants recommended by the captain.

Maximum capacity: 7 people. The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions at the captain’s discretion.

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

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 for a 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 p.m.

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Maximum capacity: 5 people. The itinerary may be subject to change depending on weather conditions at the discretion of the captain.

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.

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

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

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

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

The 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 two 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 based on requests and weather conditions. During the excursion, a refreshing selection of fruits and drinks will be offered.

Whole Day

This excursion offers a 6-hour trip to the Gulf of Cagliari, during which beverages and a mid-day meal will be served, tailored to guests' preferences. Departure è scheduled at 11:00 a.m., and return è scheduled for 5:00 p.m.

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

The daily sailing excursion to Alghero allows you to have a unique experience admiring the Sardinian coastline from the sea.

Departure is scheduled from the Gulf of Alghero. You will sail to Cala dell'Olandese, where the first stop will take place.

You will continue sailing to the promontory of Capo Caccia and then admire the Foradada from the outside.

Afterwards, you will reach Cala Dragunara where you will stop for lunch and then return to the Port of Alghero.

You will be served a lunch based on typical Sardinian products with appetizer, 1 first course, drinks and coffee.

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

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 half-day dinghy trip along the coast of Alghero will have you explore the coast of the Coral Riviera and its picturesque coves, among which you can swim and snorkel.

During the excursion you will visit numerous beaches near Alghero, and two itineraries are provided:

•    Northern Itinerary, which includes famous coves such as Cala Inferno and Capo Caccia. The sailing includes several stops along the coast north of Alghero.
•    Southern Itinerary, which includes Poglina and Le Croci Reef. Sailing includes several stops along the south coast of Alghero.

The skipper will be on board at all times and will decide which stops to make, depending on weather conditions. During the navigation, you will also be offered an aperitif on board with fresh fruit and typical Sardinian products.

The dinghy trip lasts about 4 hours and can be organized on a shared or exclusive basis. The activity is suitable for everyone and is ideal for a summer experience in Sardinia in company.

Maximum capacity: 8 people.

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

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

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

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

The 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Last swim at Isola Piana before returning to the marina.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Visit the "Capo Carbonara" Marine Protected Area aboard 5.5-meter-long inflatable boats with a maximum capacity of 8 people on board. The rental lasts 4 hours and can be done in the morning or afternoon, depending on your preferences.

To drive the dinghy è 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 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.

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.

Discover the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area with a private dinghy trip departing from Villasimius.

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

The half-day tour lasts three hours and can be taken either in the morning or afternoon. It will be possible to make numerous stops for swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia and the most isolated spots of the Villasimius coastline, further enhanced by the expert skipper's stories.

The dinghy rental does not include fuel, so the price will vary according to your itinerary. Non-alcoholic beverages will be served during the excursion.

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

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

Discover the “Capo Carbonara”Marine Protected Area aboard 5.5-meter inflatable boats, with maximum capacity of 8 people. The charter lasts 7 hours, departing from the port of Villasimius.

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

Before departure, the staff will provide you with all the useful directions for driving the dinghy and advice on the best areas to visit.

The’itinerary may change depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions.

Discover the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area with a private dinghy excursion departing from Villasimius.

The private dinghy tour in Villasimius includes 3 main stops: the island of Cavoli and the Bay of Madonna del Naufrago, where the 3-meter statue of the Virgin is located; the shoal of the Balestra fish, ideal for snorkelers; and the beautiful and unique bay of Punta Molentis.

The daily tour lasts 7 hours and starts at approximately 10:00 am. Given the long duration, it will be possible to customize the’itinerary according to your preferences 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 according to your itinerary. Non-alcoholic beverages will be served during the excursion.

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