If you’re planning a trip to Sardinia, get ready: there’s an incredible place waiting for you called La Maddalena Island. This archipelago in the north of the island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and that relaxed vibe that makes you forget about the rush. It’s the perfect destination for anyone who wants to unwind, enjoy nature, and savor the best of Italy at a slow pace. In this guide, you’ll find what to do in this paradise and the must-see beaches that should be on your itinerary.
Where Is La Maddalena Island
La Maddalena Island sits on the Emerald Coast in northern Sardinia, specifically in the province of Olbia-Tempio. It’s part of an archipelago of the same name, made up of several smaller islands such as Caprera, Spargi, and Budelli. The archipelago’s main town is also called La Maddalena, and this is where the boats arriving from Palau dock.
History of the La Maddalena Archipelago
This archipelago has a rich and strategic history—it even served as an Italian Navy base in the past! Today, it is one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers looking for unspoiled nature, idyllic beaches, and authentic experiences. Beyond the main island, it’s worth exploring the neighboring islands, especially Caprera, which is connected by a bridge and is famous for housing the former residence of Giuseppe Garibaldi, hero of Italian unification.
Beaches and must-see islands in the La Maddalena Archipelago
The main islands that make this destination so special are La Maddalena, the largest and most developed; Caprera, famous for its hiking trails and the history of Giuseppe Garibaldi; Spargi, with secluded, wild beaches; Budelli, known for the iconic Spiaggia Rosa; and Santa Maria, loved for its calm beaches. Each one offers unforgettable experiences for those seeking to relax and connect with nature. Below are the highlights you shouldn’t miss:
Cala Corsara (Spargi)
Located on Spargi Island, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in the La Maddalena archipelago, with crystal-clear water and pale sand—ideal for swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling. The beach is accessible only by boat, with daily departures from La Maddalena and Palau.
The island is uninhabited and has no facilities, so bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. However, food must stay on the boat while you are on the island, since wild boars try to snatch items from visitors. It’s true—and a bit funny—they sniff around the backpacks looking for food. 🐗
Cala Granara (Spargi)
Also on Spargi Island, Cala Granara is one of the calmest and most cinematic coves in the archipelago. Its shallow, transparent waters attract families and anyone seeking total peace.
Access is by boat only, with daily tours from La Maddalena or Palau. As with Cala Corsara, there are no facilities on the island. Take what you need, but leave food on the boat to avoid unexpected visits from the boars! 🐗
Cala Coticcio (Caprera Island)
Known as the “Tahiti of Sardinia,” Cala Coticcio on Caprera Island enchants visitors with turquoise water and pink-hued rocks. It’s undoubtedly one of Sardinia’s most famous and beautiful beaches. At the same time, it’s also one of the smallest on the island, with approximately 10 meters of shoreline. This tiny beach lies on the eastern side of Caprera.
How to Reach Cala Coticcio by Trail
If you choose to go by land, you can only visit with an authorized hiking guide who follows the area’s environmental guidelines. To book the excursion, go to the La Maddalena National Park website and download the list of certified guides.
Reservations also require a €3 payment, considered an environmental contribution that helps fund the park’s protection and management. The same process applies to Cala Brigantina, a nearby bay that is equally stunning and located within the protected area.
The hike demands some fitness, but every step is rewarded with breathtaking views. Wear sneakers, bring plenty of water, and head out early. Because it’s a protected site, entry is limited to 60 visitors per day, so make sure to book in advance, pay the small €3 fee, and join a licensed environmental guide.
How to Reach Cala Coticcio by Boat
The other way to reach Cala Coticcio is by boat from Palau or La Maddalena. As in many coves of the Parco Nazionale La Maddalena, the beach is protected by a buoy line about 60 meters from the shore to keep boats out of the swimming area. You’ll need to swim to reach the beach, so be confident in the water—or bring a float for support.
Cala Coticcio is also a great spot for snorkeling. You can swim in calm waters and find large schools of silver-striped seabream, which are curious and constantly on the move in search of food. Just outside the cove lies one of the archipelago’s most spectacular dive sites, where it’s possible to see groupers, moray eels, and rays.
Cala Napoletana (Caprera Island)
Located in the north of Caprera Island, Cala Napoletana is small yet absolutely enchanting. Framed by rock formations and Mediterranean scrub, it has a wild, secluded feel.
Access is via a hiking path—about 30 minutes from the Poggio Stefano area—so wear sneakers, bring water, and avoid the hottest hours. There are no facilities nearby, but the scenery more than compensates. It’s the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret. 🏝️
Spiaggia Rosa (Budelli Island)
It is one of Sardinia’s most famous beaches and is located on Budelli Island. It owes its name to the pink hue of the sand, caused by fragments of coral and shells.
Access to the sand is prohibited because it is a strictly protected area; boats only pass in front for observation and photos. Even from a distance, the beauty is striking. It’s a must-stop on tours around the archipelago! 📸
Bassa Trinità (Isola La Maddalena)
This beach is on La Maddalena Island itself, so it’s one of the easiest to reach by car, with parking nearby. With calm seas, white sand, and clear water, Bassa Trinità is perfect for a full day of relaxation.
There is a short path from the parking area to the beach. In summer, arrive early, as it gets crowded. Bring an umbrella and snacks because there are no bars or restaurants on site. It’s an excellent option if you don’t want to rely on boats. 🚗
Cala Santa Maria (Santa Maria Island)
Santa Maria Island is part of the La Maddalena Archipelago in northern Sardinia and delights visitors with its preserved nature and peaceful atmosphere. Its main beach, Cala Santa Maria, features turquoise water, white sand, and Mediterranean vegetation all around.
Access is by boat tours departing from Palau or from La Maddalena Island. There are no facilities on the beach, so bring everything you need. It’s an ideal destination for a quiet, postcard-worthy escape in the heart of the national park. We liked this beach because it was less crowded than others, and the water was just as clear as on the neighboring islands.
Boat Tours in La Maddalena Island
Taking a boat tour around the island is a must, as it allows you to visit several places in a single day, hassle-free. Below are well-reviewed tours that include stops at the main beaches.
Most tours cost between €50 and €70, last 6–7 hours, and almost all depart from Palau Port. It’s wise to arrive early to check in calmly and secure a parking spot, since lots tend to fill up and lines for payment can be long. Parking usually costs between €1 and €2.50 per hour.
A practical tip: download the EasyPark app to pay online, skip queues, and use PayPal or card.
👉 Recommended boat tours:
From Palau: Boat trip around the La Maddalena Archipelago
From Palau: Full-day boat trip to the La Maddalena Islands
Book in advance, especially during peak season. With the links above, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.
When to Visit La Maddalena
The best time to visit is between June and September, when the weather is warm and the sea is perfect. July and August are the busiest months, so if you want a calmer experience, choose June or September. The water is great and the atmosphere is far more relaxed. We went in June and it was wonderful—already quite hot, though. July and August are tougher because of the heat and crowds.
How to Get to La Maddalena Island
By plane:
There are no direct flights from Brazil to Sardinia or to La Maddalena. The best options are flights via Milan or Rome. The closest airport is Olbia (OLB). From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Palau Port and then a boat to La Maddalena Island.
By ferry:
Head to Palau Port, where frequent ferries (every 30 min) depart for La Maddalena. The crossing takes about 20 minutes.
By bus:
To get from Olbia to Palau by bus, use routes operated by ARST, Sardinia’s main public transport company. Buses depart from several points in Olbia and run to Palau with stops along the way. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
By car:
Renting a car is the best option in Sardinia. It’s ideal for exploring the region with freedom, and the roads are good with lovely views along the way.
From Olbia Airport to Palau Port, it’s 44 km and about 55 minutes’ drive.
We flew from Milan to Olbia and rented a car at the airport with DiscoverCars.
If you plan to rent a car, we recommend DiscoverCars, where you’ll find the best options, compare prices, and read company reviews.
Valuable tips for drivers Driving in Italy: Essential Tips for Car Rental, Tolls, Parking, and ZTL Zones and How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
Where to Stay to visit La Maddalena Archipelago
You can stay in the town of La Maddalena, which offers options for every budget—from charming guesthouses to hotels with sea views. The upside is the proximity to the beaches and the unique island feel; the downside is that prices tend to be higher than on the mainland and service options are more limited.
Another strategy is to stay in a central location for exploring multiple areas. For example, we chose Arzachena for its excellent location and more affordable prices. It was the perfect choice for our trip, as the town sits between the airport, the Emerald Coast, and Palau Port—where boats depart for La Maddalena.
Our stay was at Turismo Rurale CUDACCIOLU. The location was excellent, the rooms were comfortable, there was a pool, and breakfast was plentiful. The price was also below average compared to other places. We liked it a lot and recommend it.
Where to Eat & Typical Dishes
Be sure to try fresh seafood dishes, pasta with bottarga (cured fish roe), and the traditional Porceddu—Sardinia’s famous roasted suckling pig. Restaurant tips:
U Campu Du Pastori Osteria: Italian cuisine
Pizzeria Civico 49: Pizza and pasta
Il Rifugio dei Peccatori: excellent pasta and fish.
See the full La Maddalena restaurant ranking
Other Useful Tips
Wear comfortable shoes for trails leading to the wilder beaches.
Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks, especially if you visit beaches without facilities. Most boats allow you to bring food. Supermarkets sell ready-to-eat options, ice, and everything you might need.
Book your boat tours in advance, mainly in summer. With the links provided, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.
Always carry some cash for tours, as not all places accept cards. If you go on a boat excursion, there is a small landing fee that ranges from €2.5 to €5.
In many parts of Italy, a “city tax” or Tassa di Soggiorno is charged. This is a municipal fee in certain towns. It’s usually paid in cash at check-out and costs around €3 per person per day.
Our Final Thoughts
Visiting La Maddalena Island is a unique experience in Sardinia, and it’s no wonder this is one of the most-visited islands. It’s the kind of place that captivates at first sight, with landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a postcard. With these tips, your itinerary will be complete and well planned. Now it’s time to pack and enjoy this Italian paradise!
Buon viaggio!! ✈️🧳🏖️🩵
Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Sardinia:
San Teodoro Sardinia: Top Beaches, Boat Tours and Travel Tips
Costa Smeralda Sardinia: Best Beaches, Travel Tips & Where to Stay
Costa di Baunei Sardinia: The Most Beautiful Beaches in Italy
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