text Martina Olivieri
The most beautiful beaches in northeastern Sardinia
Let's discover together these natural treasures managed by the Costa Smeralda Consortium: unique beaches of fine sand and crystal-clear waters
Exploring the Costa Smeralda means immersing yourself in a world of timeless beauty, where enchanted beaches blend harmoniously with a crystalline sea of changing hues. In this guide, we will venture through the most beautiful beaches of the Costa Smeralda and lose ourselves in its breathtaking landscapes and waters that hold a true natural treasure. Let’s get ready to discover the magic of this stretch of coast, from the Gulf of Arzachena, passing through Pitrizza and Porto Cervo and reaching the south, in the area of Romazzino, Cala di Volpe, and Rena Bianca. Here, every beach is a jewel to admire and an experience to live.
Do you want to know how to reach the most beautiful beaches? Click here! While here you can find the most beautiful beach clubs in the area!
Are you looking for the most beautiful islands around Porto Cervo? Click here! While here you can find out what to do and where to eat in La Maddalena!
Discover here where to have an aperitif in Porto Cervo after the beach, and here the best restaurants where to taste gourmet dishes, typical dishes and much more!
Pitrizza
The beach of Pitrizza, located along the northeastern coast of Sardinia between Baia Sardinia and Porto Cervo, takes its name from tiny pebbles that mark the boundary between the shoreline and the vegetation. It is a very small beach, with coarse-grained sand in cream and pink hues interspersed with rocks, emerald sea, and a sandy and pebbly seabed with emerging rocks. It is a private beach exclusively for the use of the Hotel Pitrizza, so it is not accessible by car and you cannot sunbathe or swim, but you can take a walk in the surroundings to enjoy the beauty of this stretch of coast. There are services for renting sunbeds and umbrellas, a bar and restaurant only for hotel guests, and a rental service for practicing water sports. With all these services, it is also suitable for children. Pets are not allowed. (Click here to read our in-depth report on Pitrizza beach).
How to reach it? It is accessible by car from Porto Cervo, driving along the provincial road towards Baia Sardinia until the Porto Cervo Marina junction; after about 1.4 km from the junction, turn right towards the beach, descending towards the coast for 1.2 km until you encounter another road that leads back to the one for Baia Sardinia. The beach of Pitrizza is a few dozen meters away. Alternatively, it is also reachable via the Lu Pustali stop Liscia di Vacca and a long walk.
Spiaggia di PitrizzaLiscia Renè is a true natural gem. Nestled in the tranquil locality of Liscia di Vacca, this small bay enchants with its breathtaking views. Its pink sandy beach, caressed by wind-smoothed rocks, plunges into cobalt blue waters dotted with rocky formations. The name, Liscia Rena, pays homage to Renè Podbielski, one of the visionaries behind the creation of the Costa Smeralda, who built his villa right here. This beach, ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat, is never too crowded, allowing for an authentic connection with nature. Although it is exposed to the maestrale wind, Liscia Rena becomes even more charming on windy days. The sandy seabed is perfect for exploring marine life, and the absence of modern amenities adds to its wild charm. To preserve its tranquility, pets are not allowed. (Click here to read our in-depth report on the Liscia Renè beach).
How to reach it? It is accessible by car from Porto Cervo by taking via Cerbiatta, then turning right onto viale Orecchioni. Continue straight and then turn onto via Nibani, locality Pitrizza. Once you turn onto via Cappuccini, the destination is on the left. You can park along the access road to the beach. It is also reachable by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Liscia di Vacca and a long walk.
Liscia RenèTwo enchanting beaches are located near the picturesque lighthouse of Capo Ferro. Cala Ghiaia is the larger and more expansive of the two. It is surrounded by the scents and colors of juniper trees and is protected from the wind by high, jagged coasts. It is characterized by sand mixed with pebbles and shells in shades of gold and ochre, with a shallow and transparent seabed. The waters are Caribbean-like, enriched by quartz and granite rocks. Various services are provided mainly by residential complexes. The other beach is Cala del Faro, smaller but equally beautiful. From Cala del Faro, you can also visit the Isola delle Bisce. Both beaches offer a lot of tranquility and privacy and are perfect for those who want to snorkel among the rocks. Pets are not allowed.
How to reach them? Just take the coastal SS 125 from Olbia or Palau towards Arzachena and turn at Porto Cervo. From Porto Cervo, continue towards Cala Grano - Cala del Faro. We recommend parking along the access road near the beach. The beach is reachable by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Incrocio Porto Cervo Marina and a long walk.
Cala del FaroCala Granu, one of the most beautiful bays in Sardinia, is just a few minutes' drive from the Marina di Porto Cervo. This small beach is characterized by fine white sand, enclosed by rocky cliffs that protect it from the wind, and is surrounded by a vast Mediterranean scrub that creates a picturesque setting. Thanks to its shallow sandy bottom, it is particularly suitable for families with children. During the summer season, you can enjoy the spectacle of sailboats anchored offshore, with a panoramic view of the Capo Ferro lighthouse. You can rent sun loungers, umbrellas, and pedal boats. Next to the bay is the village of Cala Granu, designed and built by architect Luigi Vietti. Pets are not allowed. (Click here for our in-depth report on Cala Granu).
How to reach it? By car from Olbia, follow the signs for the Costa Smeralda; at the Abbiadori junction, towards Porto Cervo, after 3.1 km, turn right towards Porto Cervo Marina and continue towards Cala Granu. Follow the signs for 1.1 km. At the end, leave your car and walk for 250 meters until you reach the beach. You can also reach the beach by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Incrocio Porto Cervo Marina and a long walk.
Cala GranuThe cove of Porto Cervo encloses a small and charming beach, illuminated by the most characteristic colors of Gallura: clear turquoise water and sand with hints of pink. We are at Spiaggia del Giglio, located behind the village of Porto Cervo Marina and a short distance from the prestigious Yacht Club Costa Smeralda. It's a quiet and never crowded beach, even during the summer months, overlooking the entrance to Porto Cervo, offering a spectacular view of the constant movement of yachts and smaller boats. The beach is surrounded by the greenery of the Mediterranean scrub and surrounded by elegant gardens. This setting creates a fascinating and harmonious landscape, where natural beauty merges with the opulence of the surrounding villas. The beach is free and there are no refreshment points, but the surrounding area is rich in dining options. Pets are not allowed. (Click here for our in-depth report on Giglio Beach).
How to reach it? Once you arrive at Porto Cervo Marina, take via della Marina and then turn left onto via della Bolina. After a few meters, a small path begins that leads directly to the beach. You can park your car in the parking lots at Porto Cervo Marina.
Spiaggia del GiglioDolce Sposa
Located at the entrance of the port, Dolce Sposa Beach was the favorite of the wife of architect Luigi Vietti, not only the author of the villa overlooking the beach but also of the village of Porto Cervo. It was here that the woman loved to rest and swim while her husband was busy building the emerging destination of Costa Smeralda. The beach is a true coastal paradise, with crystal-clear waters of intense blue, fine white sand, and lush Mediterranean vegetation, which brings tranquility and intimacy to the place. Over the years, it has fascinated visitors from all over the world and still remains a must-see attraction for those who wish to experience sea and relaxation in a charming setting. There are no facilities, and pets are not allowed.
How to reach it? Once you arrive at Porto Cervo Marina, take via della Marina, turn onto via del Pontile, and then continue onto via della Bolina until you reach via dei Velieri. It is reachable by car, but there are no parking lots in the area, or by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Incrocio Porto Cervo Marina and a long walk.
Cala Romantica
A convenient and delightful beach near Porto Cervo, named after the homonymous residence. It is small and ideal for snorkeling with its rocky seabed. Nearby, you can admire the famous natural arch, from which you can take beautiful photos towards Grande Pevero. Pets are not allowed, and there are no parking lots nearby, although it is easily reachable by car.
How to reach it? From Porto Cervo, head southeast on via Sa Conca. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto via Porto Vecchio, then turn right onto via del Galeone until you reach via Cala Romantica. You can also reach it by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Porto Cervo Centro and a long walk.
Poltu Paddha
Poltu Paddha is the closest beach to Porto Cervo and stretches around the Gulf of Pevero, protected by the imposing rocks that adorn the coastline. Its beauty is enhanced by the presence of the majestic mountain behind it, enveloped in juniper and Mediterranean scrub. It is characterized by light and very fine sand, bathed by crystal-clear waters that transition from emerald green to intense blue on the horizon, where the suggestive islands of Li Nibani emerge. When the sea is rougher, it is perfect for surfers and kite surfers; the seabed is sandy and shallow for long stretches, and during low tide, you can see the small church of the tuna fishery built among the rocks. A tranquil beach, sheltered on days of the maestrale wind, equipped with sun umbrella rental services and a bar. Pets are not allowed.
How to reach it? Take the provincial road from Abbiadori to Porto Cervo and, just before the intersection for the latter, enter a path on the right. Walk along this unpaved path for about 50 meters, and you will arrive at the beach, located between the rocks and ample vegetation. There is a small clearing to leave your car on the side of the main road. It is also reachable by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Porto Centro and a long walk.
Piccolo Pevero
In the northeast of Sardinia, just south of Porto Cervo, lies the Gulf of Pevero, a bay of extraordinary beauty traversed by the La Pedralonga river and offering breathtaking views of the picturesque panorama of the Li Nibani islands. The natural architecture of the Gulf has favored the formation of numerous small secluded coves and, above all, two beloved beaches: the Grande Pevero and the Piccolo Pevero. The Piccolo Pevero beach is not very large; part of it is free, and part is equipped with some beach resorts offering sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. On the beach, you can refresh yourself at the kiosk or enjoy a seaside lunch at the restaurant. It is a fine white sandy beach, with crystal-clear waters ranging in shades from emerald to azure, and a shallow seabed that makes it particularly suitable for families with children. The orientation of the beach ensures it remains sheltered from winds coming from the west and south. Pets are not allowed.
How to reach it? From Porto Cervo, take via Cerbiatta and continue until turning left onto SP59. Continue straight until reaching the intersection of via della Conchiglia/Piccolo Pevero. Then, turn slightly right onto via della Conchiglia. There is a paid parking lot where you can leave your car. The beach is reachable by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Incrocio Piccolo Pevero.
Piccolo PeveroGrande Pevero
Within the natural area of Monti Zoppu (an integral part of the Pevero Health Trail) and a short distance from the Piccolo Pevero, lies the Grande Pevero beach. Behind it is the Patima pond and the prestigious green of the Pevero Golf Club, a sought-after destination for golf enthusiasts. It's a spacious beach with an unmistakable crescent shape and fine, white sand. The sea colors range from turquoise to emerald, and the sandy, shallow seabed is suitable even for children, allowing for relaxing walks in the water while admiring the distant Li Nibani islands. Behind the shore is the La Padula pond, a destination for numerous migratory bird species, making it interesting for birdwatchers. The beach is sheltered from south winds, providing relief from the scirocco on hot days. Along the beach, both free and equipped areas, there are beach resorts and refreshment points. You can rent sun loungers, deck chairs, umbrellas, pedal boats, canoes, and SUP boards. Pets are not allowed.
How to reach it? From Porto Cervo, take SP59 south and shortly after, turn left towards Pevero. After parking, continue on foot. From Olbia, follow signs for the Costa Smeralda and immediately turn right onto SP 59, after passing through the town of Abbiadori. Parking is available for a fee. It is reachable by bus via the Lu Pustali stop Incrocio Piccolo Pevero and a long walk.
Grande PeveroSpiaggia del Cervo (Nibàni)
Cervo Beach, also known as Porto Nibàni, is a true hidden gem of the area. It is small in size and located in the promontory of Monti Zoppu, in an unspoiled green area. The rocky seabed gradually turns to sand, creating the typical crystal clear colors of the Gallura sea. Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and granite rocks with pink hues, Cervo Beach manages to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and is never too crowded. It can be reached by small boats, using the long wooden pier that leaves directly from the beach, or on foot, with a pleasant walk among the wonders of nature. The beach is also one of the stops on the Pevero Health Trail, a network of paths desired by Smeralda Holding, Consorzio and Pevero Golf Club, which crosses this beautiful part of the area
How to reach it? To reach the Deer Beach on foot, one must follow the Pevero Health Trail trails. There are four main entrances: Pevero Golf Club, Spiaggia del Grande Pevero, Piccolo Romazzino, and Romazzino. Along the trail, you will find information panels to guide you to the beach.
Spiaggia del CervoPoltu Liccia
It is located near the Hotel Romazzino and is one of the three beaches in the Municipality of Arzachena where dogs are allowed. The other two are La Sciumara beach in Cannigione and Lu Postu beach, not far in the direction of Baia Sardinia. We recommend always bringing a bowl of fresh water for your dog, as there are no services on the beach. Poltu Liccia is surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and consists of several small beaches with postcard-perfect sea. An unspoiled environment, ideal for those who love snorkeling along the coast. The area is also frequented by sports enthusiasts who traverse the trails of the Pevero Health Trail, a 13 km health path created by Smeralda Holding in collaboration with the Costa Smeralda Consortium and the Pevero Golf Club.
How to reach it? From Porto Cervo, head south along SP 94. Pass the junction for Cala di Volpe and continue towards Romazzino. At this point, you can park your car at the parking area beyond Hotel Romazzino. From here, take the dirt path, and about 100 meters further on the right, there is a road that leads to the beach. From Olbia, head north on SS 125, then take SP 73 towards the Costa Smeralda, and after a few kilometers, turn right at Portisco. Continue on SP 94 until the junction for Cala di Volpe; turn right here and follow the signs for Romazzino.
Cala LicciaThe Romazzino beach takes its name from the romazzinu, a rosemary plant that grows near this beach. It is a beautiful white and grainy beach, ideal for children, located at the bottom of a bay enclosed between Punta Capaccia to the north and Punta Romazzino to the south. The crystal-clear and transparent sea takes on the most beautiful shades of blue and green. A part of the beach is reserved for the namesake and historic hotel, an architectural masterpiece built in 1965 by architects Michele and Giancarlo Busiri Vici, but there are also large areas of beach with umbrellas and beach resorts open to everyone. Although open and breezy, the beach remains sheltered from the mistral wind. From the surroundings of the Romazzino beach, two paths of the Pevero Health Trail start: fairly easy trekking routes, thanks to which those who love walking have the opportunity to discover the territory. Pets are not allowed. (You can find further information on the Romazzino beach here).
How to reach it? From Porto Cervo, take SP 59; at the roundabout, take the third exit, onto SP 94, and continue on SP 160. Then, take the road leading to via Romazzino, and then turn right onto via Degli Asfodeli. There is a paid parking lot near the beach.
RomazzinoKnown to the Sardinians as the Spiaggia di Portu Li Coggi, the Principe Beach is a wide arc of extremely fine white sand, divided into two sections by a promontory of pink granite rocks and surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. The color and clarity of the sea are due to the particular bottom of pure white sand. The secluded and wild beach owes its name to Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the driving force behind the tourist development of the Costa Smeralda, who is said to have favored this beach. On the beach, you will find sun loungers and umbrellas for rent and a small refreshment area. It is one of the most popular beaches on the coast and a favorite destination for young couples and families with children. It is advisable to visit it on days when the wind blows from the west, as the beach is exposed to the southeast. Pets are not allowed, and parking is subject to a fee. (Click here to read our in-depth report on Prince's Beach).
How to reach it? From Arzachena, take SP 59 towards Porto Cervo, and at Abbiadori, turn towards Cala di Volpe and Romazzino. Continue on SP 94 for 2.5 km, and before reaching Capriccioli, turn left towards Romazzino. From Olbia, continue on SP 125 towards Palau, then turn right towards the Costa Smeralda. Continue on SP 73 for another 7.6 km, then turn right again onto SP 94 towards Cala di Volpe at the San Pantaleo junction. Continue for about 8 km until you reach Romazzino. Proceed to the right towards the sea, and after about 300 meters, you will reach the barrier that closes the entrance to cars. From here, with a pleasant 10-minute walk, you will reach the beach.
Spiaggia del PrincipePiccolo Romazzino e Fumagalli
The Piccolo Romazzino Beach is small and secluded, surrounded by green hills and framed by the typical Mediterranean vegetation. It is also called L’Imbalcatogghju because there used to be a pier that allowed fishermen and butchers to transport cows or goats to Olbia or La Maddalena. The turquoise sea, white seabeds, and very easy water entry make it suitable even for children. Facing the beach, you can admire the deserted and uncontaminated islands of Soffi and Mortorio, and in the distance, the limestone cliffs of Capo Figari and the silhouette of Tavolara Island. Nearby, you will be enchanted by the architectures of the villas with gardens expertly inserted into the colors and shapes of the typical Gallura environment. The second beach owes its name to Enzo Fumagalli, the wealthy owner of Candy, a villa he built right near the beach. These are two beautiful and quiet beaches, separated by a small promontory. There are no facilities, pets are not allowed, and there are no parking lots.
How to reach them? They are not very easy to reach. From Porto Cervo, head south along SP 94, pass the junction for Cala di Volpe, and continue towards Romazzino along SP 160. Before Capriccioli, turn left onto Via Romazzino. After a few meters, turn right onto Via delle Mimose, where a small path begins that leads to the first cove. From here, by walking a little further, you will reach a second and isolated cove. You can also reach them by taking the Lu Pustali bus, stopping at Capriccioli, and walking a long way.
Piccolo RomazzinoLa Celvia
La Celvia, located near the Hotel Cala di Volpe, is immersed in the natural beauty of the area, with its golden sand, dark green Mediterranean vegetation, and crystal-clear sea, making it a sought-after destination among celebrities, especially during the summer season. The beach at La Celvia, partly free and partly equipped, is protected from northern winds thanks to the dense surrounding vegetation. Its sand, composed of shell fragments and pink quartz dust, overlooks a sea with ever-changing colors, rich in various species of fish: a characteristic that makes this beach a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its charming villas, many of which have direct access to the beach. The nearby Elefante beach can be reached via a short climb on the rocks or, for the more adventurous, with a swim of about 10 minutes. Refreshment points are available with the possibility of renting umbrellas, deck chairs, sun loungers, pedal boats, and inflatable boats. Parking is available for a fee.
How to reach it? To reach La Celvia from Porto Cervo, follow SP 94 southbound. After passing the intersection for Cala di Volpe and Capriccioli, continue until the road marked on the right by a rock with the inscription La Celvia, which leads to the beach. From Olbia, follow SS 125 northbound, then take SP 73 towards the Costa Smeralda. After a few kilometers, turn right at Portisco and continue on SP 94 until the intersection for Cala di Volpe and Capriccioli, where you turn right and proceed towards La Celvia.
La CelviaLi Itriceddi
The beach of Li Itriceddi is located in one of the most exclusive corners of the area, a short distance from the enchanting Hotel Cala di Volpe. Its crystal-clear waters, shallow seabed, and soft golden sand, with hints of pink and some emerging rocks, make it perfect for families with children, as well as for snorkeling enthusiasts, thanks to the cliffs at the ends. It is protected by a wild and unspoiled environment behind it, while in front, the suggestive islands of Soffi and Mortorio stand out. Due to its location, it is quite sheltered from the winds, especially the Mistral, and for this reason, it is one of the most sought-after destinations for boats, which can enjoy the beauty of the sea here in total relaxation. The beach is partly free and partly equipped. There is a refreshment point, and it is also possible to rent sun loungers, deck chairs, umbrellas, and kayaks. Parking is available for a fee.
How to reach it? From Porto Cervo, head south along SP 94. After passing the intersection for Cala di Volpe, turn right and continue for about 100 meters following the signs for Lisca Ruja. Continue along the unpaved road to the parking lot of Li Itriceddi. From Olbia, take SS 125 northbound and then follow SP 73. After a few kilometers, turn right at Portisco. Continue on SP 94 until the intersection for Cala di Volpe, where you should turn right and then right again, following the signs for Liscia Ruja.
Li ItriceddiOne of the largest and most fascinating beaches in the area, Liscia Ruja stretches over 500 meters, often referred to as Long Beach, overlooking a wide cove that hosts three other dream beaches: Petra Bianca, Petra Niedda, and Cala di Volpe. Despite retaining a wild aura, this beach is very popular, especially during the summer season. It is particularly loved by young people, perhaps due to the famous Ferragosto party held there every year, but also by tourists eager to enjoy breathtaking views without facing rugged paths or long walks. But what makes this corner of paradise special is undoubtedly the dense Mediterranean vegetation, with the scent of juniper and strawberry trees. The beach is sandy, with smoothed rocks, some of them even of bizarre shapes, emerging from the water. The sand is not the typical white sand Caribbean style, but rather medium-coarse grains, soft to the touch, with a suggestive pale pink color that glistens with sparkling reflections in the sun. The seabeds are shallow near the shore but slope more rapidly than other beaches in the area. It can be considered a family-friendly beach, but extra care should be taken when traveling with small children. The beach includes both free areas and beach resorts perfect for those who want to spend their days by the sea in complete comfort. The crystal-clear waters, with shades of blue and emerald, invite you to a refreshing swim, while your gaze can get lost in the blue horizon or admire the nearby islands of Soffi and Mortorio and the promontory of Capo Figari. Paid parking is available. (More on the beach here).
How to reach it? From Porto Cervo, follow SP 94 southbound. After passing the junction for Cala di Volpe, immediately turn right and continue along the dirt road until you reach the beach. From Olbia, head north along SS 125 and then take SP 73 towards Costa Smeralda. After a few kilometers, turn right at Portisco and continue on SP 94 until the junction for Cala di Volpe. Here, turn right and then right again, following the signs for Liscia Ruja. During the summer months, there is a bus service that connects the center of Arzachena with the most beautiful beaches.
Liscia RujaSpiagge di Uscimone
The four beaches located between Li 'Itriceddi and Liscia Ruja, commonly known as “the little beaches,” take their name from the surrounding cadastral lands. Due to their sheltered location, these beaches offer an ideal refuge during mistral days. The beauty of the seabed makes these beaches perfect for snorkeling, offering an unforgettable experience for sea lovers.
How to reach them? These corners of paradise, immersed in the Mediterranean maquis, can only be reached on foot through narrow paths that wind through the vegetation. Cars must be parked exclusively in the Li 'Itriceddi and Liscia Ruja parking areas, avoiding parking along the dirt road. Or they can be reached more conveniently by sea.
Calette tra Li 'Itriceddi e Liscia RujaCala Petra Ruja
Beautiful arched beach with wild charm, framed by lush Mediterranean scrub behind it and two beautiful headlands at either end. The name comes from the reddish hues of the pebbles and rocks that stand out among the colors of the beach. The fine white sand overlooks a crystal-clear sea, with shades ranging from green to light blue and blue. Unlike the nearby, wider Liscia Ruja, this 250-meter-long beach is less crowded and quieter, ideal for those seeking some peace. Thanks to the shallow, sandy seabed, it is perfect for families. It is also home to the renowned Nikki Beach Costa Smeralda, where you can enjoy local specialties, Mediterranean flavors, international dishes and excellent cocktails, offering a top-notch dining experience in an extraordinarily beautiful natural setting. Sunbeds, deck chairs, umbrellas, pedal boats, canoes and sup can be rented.
How to reach it? To reach Cala Petra Ruja from Porto Cervo, proceed south along provincial road 94. Pass the junction for Cala di Volpe and turn immediately right after about 100 meters. Continue on the small road in the direction of Liscia Ruja until you reach the parking lots (for a fee). Starting from Olbia, head north on state road 125. Next, take provincial road 73 toward the Costa Smeralda. After a few kilometers, turn right at the height of Portisco. Continue on provincial road 94 to the intersection for Cala di Volpe, turn right and right again, following the signs for Liscia Ruja.
Cala Petra Ruja