Welcome to Olbia, a coastal gem nestled in the heart of Sardinia’s enchanting landscapes. In this article, you will discover the wonderful beaches that make Olbia and its surroundings a paradise for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you choose to stay in Olbia or venture away from the city, the region offers a diverse array of sandy shores, from bustling family-friendly spots to secluded coves of fine white sand.
As you travel through this guide, we’ll explore some of the most famous and characterised beaches in the area, each offering its own unique charm. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to explore the best beaches in Olbia and beyond. Your Sardinian adventure awaits!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Olbia 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: White Sand Luxury Resort & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: SeaBay Hotel Golfo Aranci
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Marana
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Stefania
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Abbaruja
- 🏢 Apartment: Appartamenti Spiaggia Bianca
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Residence Hotel Lunibareddu
- 🏩 For Couples: La Dimora del Mare
1. ☀️ Top 10 Best Beaches in and Around Olbia
🏖️ Spiaggia Bianca (White Beach) – Best for Picturesque Views
Just a short drive from Olbia, Spiaggia Bianca lives up to its name with dazzling white sand and turquoise water. It’s one of the most popular beaches in the area, offering stunning views of Tavolara Island. The beach can get crowded, especially during high season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot. Facilities include beach bars and restaurants. The shallow waters make it perfect for families with children. Snorkeling enthusiasts will love exploring the clear waters teeming with marine life. Don’t forget to bring your camera – the sunsets here are truly spectacular.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia Bianca 🏨
- Residence Spiaggia Bianca – This residence offers apartments just steps away from the enchanting Spiaggia Bianca, characterised by white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal place for families, with easy access to one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia. The residence provides a shuttle service to Olbia, making it convenient to explore the rest of the island.
- Seabay Hotel – Located near Spiaggia Bianca, this hotel offers stunning sea views and modern amenities. It’s a perfect base for exploring the beautiful beaches of Golfo Aranci and is easily accessible from Olbia by bus. The hotel also provides boat tours to nearby islands.
- Appartamenti Spiaggia Bianca – These apartments offer a home-away-from-home experience right on Spiaggia Bianca. Each unit comes with a kitchenette and balcony, some with sea views. The property is ideal for those wanting to enjoy the sandy shore of fine white sand at their doorstep.
🌊 Spiaggia Pittulongu – Best for Local Experience
Pittulongu is a long stretch of golden sand that’s a favorite among locals. Easily reached by public transport from Olbia, it’s perfect for those without a car. The beach offers excellent facilities including beach bars and restaurants. Stunning views of Tavolara and Molara islands add to its charm. Shallow waters make it ideal for families with children. It’s also a great spot for water sports like windsurfing and paddleboarding. The promenade behind the beach is perfect for evening strolls, lined with cafes and gelaterias.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Pittulongu 🏨
- Hotel Stefania – Situated close to Spiaggia di Pittulongu, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. It’s just a short drive from Olbia and its historic sites like San Simplicio. The hotel provides beach services and is perfect for a relaxing seaside vacation.
- Hotel Abbaruja – This charming hotel is located near Spiaggia di Pittulongu and offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful sea views. It’s easily accessible by bus from Olbia and provides a shuttle service to the beach. The hotel’s restaurant serves traditional Sardinian dishes.
- La Dimora del Mare – These apartments offer a comfortable stay near Spiaggia di Pittulongu. Each unit features a kitchenette and terrace, perfect for enjoying the Sardinian sun. The property is well-connected to Olbia and other beautiful beaches in the area.
👑 Spiaggia del Principe – Best for Snorkeling
Located in the heart of the Costa Smeralda, Spiaggia del Principe is a small beach with big charm. Its crystal clear water and sheltered position make it perfect for snorkeling. The beach is free to access, making it a budget-friendly option in the otherwise luxurious Costa Smeralda. The sand is a beautiful pink-tinged white, and the water is an incredible shade of turquoise. It’s a bit harder to reach, which helps keep crowds down. The surrounding landscape is dotted with Mediterranean vegetation, adding to its natural beauty.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia del Principe 🏨
- Hotel Nibaru – Located near the famous Spiaggia del Principe, this hotel offers elegant rooms and a panoramic terrace. It’s an ideal base for exploring the Costa Smeralda and is easily accessible from Olbia. The hotel provides a shuttle service to nearby beaches.
- Hotel Il Piccolo Golf – This charming hotel is situated close to Spiaggia del Principe and offers a golf course and swimming pool. It’s perfect for those looking to combine beach relaxation with other activities. The hotel is well-connected to Olbia and other parts of Sardinia.
- Residenza Capriccioli – These apartments offer a luxurious stay near Spiaggia del Principe. Each unit features modern amenities and a terrace with sea views. The residence is ideal for those wanting to explore the beautiful beaches of Costa Smeralda.
🌴 Cala Brandinchi – Best for Exotic Atmosphere
Often called “Little Tahiti” due to its exotic appearance, Cala Brandinchi is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. The shallow waters and fine white sand make it ideal for families. The beach stretches for about 700 meters, backed by fragrant juniper trees. The water is incredibly clear and takes on different shades of blue and green. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and paddleboarding. Despite its popularity, the beach is large enough that it rarely feels overcrowded. The nearby pine forest provides natural shade on hot days.
Best Hotels Near Cala Brandinchi 🏨
- Residence Hotel Lu Nibareddu – This residence hotel is located near Cala Brandinchi, often called “Little Tahiti” for its white sand and turquoise waters. It offers apartments and villas with private gardens. The hotel provides easy access to Porto San Paolo and is a short drive from Olbia.
- Residence Geoinvest – These apartments offer a comfortable stay near Cala Brandinchi. The property features a large pool and is surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. It’s well-connected to Olbia and other beautiful beaches in the area.
- Hotel Porto Coda Cavallo – This hotel offers stunning views of Tavolara Island and is close to Cala Brandinchi. It features a private beach and a wellness center. The hotel is easily accessible from Olbia and provides a perfect base for exploring the northeast coast of Sardinia.
🏝️ Spiaggia di Porto Istana – Best for Family Activities
Porto Istana offers a series of small coves with white sand and emerald waters. The view of Tavolara Island from here is simply breathtaking. It’s a great spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with equipment available for rent. The beach is well-equipped with facilities including bars and restaurants. It’s relatively easy to reach from Olbia, making it a convenient option for a day trip. The water remains shallow for quite a distance, making it safe for children. On windy days, it’s a popular spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Porto Istana 🏨
- White Sand – This hotel is located just steps away from Spiaggia di Porto Istana, known for its white sand and clear waters. It offers modern rooms and a restaurant serving local specialties. The hotel provides easy access to Olbia and its airport.
- Baia Dorata Beach Apartment – These apartments offer a comfortable stay right on Spiaggia di Porto Istana. Each unit features a kitchenette and terrace with sea views. The property is ideal for those wanting to enjoy a beach holiday while being close to Olbia.
- Casa Le Cicale – This holiday home offers a spacious and comfortable stay near Spiaggia di Porto Istana. It features a large garden and terrace, perfect for outdoor dining. The property is well-connected to Olbia and provides easy access to other beautiful beaches in the area.
🏄♂️ Spiaggia di Marinella – Best for Water Sports
If you’re looking for action, Marinella is the place to be. This long, sandy shore is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. The beach offers a wide range of activities including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. It’s well-equipped with beach clubs offering sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. The promenade behind the beach is lined with shops and restaurants. Despite its popularity, the beach is large enough to never feel too crowded. The sunset views from here are particularly beautiful, with the sun sinking into the sea.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Marinella 🏨
- Hotel Marana – This 4-star hotel is located just 50 meters from Marinella Beach, offering stunning sea views. It features a private beach area, outdoor pool, and restaurant serving Sardinian cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to Porto Rotondo (3 km) makes it an excellent base for exploring the Costa Smeralda.
- Casa Gallo Marinella – These apartments offer a home-away-from-home experience just 200 meters from Marinella Beach. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen and terrace or balcony. The property’s location provides easy access to both the beach and nearby golf courses.
- Palumbalza Sporting Club – This resort offers a range of sports facilities including tennis courts and a private beach area. It’s located 500 meters from Marinella Beach and features comfortable rooms with sea or garden views. The resort’s shuttle service to Porto Rotondo makes it easy to explore the area.
🧘♀️ Spiaggia Bados – Best for Tranquility
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Bados offers a peaceful alternative to some of the busier beaches. It’s a great spot to enjoy a nice day away from the crowds. The beach is characterized by fine, golden sand and clear, shallow waters. It’s surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, providing a natural and unspoiled atmosphere. There are fewer facilities here, which helps maintain its quiet charm. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, with interesting rock formations underwater. The beach is easily accessible but often overlooked by tourists, making it a hidden gem.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Bados 🏨
- Hotel Mare Blue – Set literally just a few steps from Bados Beach, this hotel offers breathtaking views of Tavolara Island. It features comfortable rooms in typical Emerald Coast style and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and Olbia’s attractions.
- Hotel Pellicano d'Oro – This family-run hotel is located 300 meters from Bados Beach, offering a peaceful retreat. It features a large garden, outdoor pool, and rooms with balconies. The hotel’s proximity to Olbia Airport (7 km) makes it convenient for travelers.
- Hotel Bados Mare – Situated just 50 meters from Bados Beach, this hotel offers rooms with sea views and direct beach access. It features a restaurant serving Sardinian specialties and a terrace bar. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and easy access to Olbia’s city center.
🦜 Spiaggia di Porto Taverna – Best for Nature Lovers
Porto Taverna is not just a beach, but a whole ecosystem. The nearby lagoon is home to various bird species, making it a hit with nature lovers. The beach itself offers fine, white sand and crystal-clear waters. It provides stunning views of Tavolara Island. There are several beach bars and restaurants in the area serving local cuisine. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and kayaking, with equipment available for rent. The beach is well-suited for families, with shallow waters and gentle slopes.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Porto Taverna 🏨
- Hotel Don Diego – This 4-star hotel overlooks Porto Taverna Beach and offers stunning views of Tavolara Island. It features an outdoor pool, private beach area, and elegant rooms with balconies. The hotel’s location provides a perfect blend of beach relaxation and proximity to Porto San Paolo.
- Hotel Fenicottero Rosa – Located just 200 meters from Porto Taverna Beach, this hotel offers a peaceful stay with beautiful sea views. It features a garden, terrace, and rooms with balconies. The hotel’s proximity to the Tavolara Marine Protected Area makes it ideal for nature lovers.
- B&B La Taerra – This charming B&B is situated 500 meters from Porto Taverna Beach, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It features comfortable rooms and a garden with BBQ facilities. The B&B’s location allows guests to easily explore both the beach and the surrounding countryside.
🕵️♀️ Spiaggia di Cala Sabina – Best for Seclusion
A bit off the beaten path, Cala Sabina rewards those who make the effort to reach it with its pristine beauty and relative seclusion. The beach is small but incredibly picturesque, with white sand and turquoise waters. It’s surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, adding to its natural charm. The water is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. There are no facilities on the beach, so come prepared with everything you need. Its secluded nature makes it perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Cala Sabina 🏨
- Cala Reale Eucalyptus & Ginepro – These apartments are located in the Cala Reale complex, just a short drive from Cala Sabina Beach. They offer fully equipped kitchens and access to a shared pool. The property’s location in Porto Rotondo provides easy access to beautiful beaches and upscale dining options.
- Casa Leo - Villaggio Baia de Bahas – This apartment is part of the Baia de Bahas resort, located near Cala Sabina Beach. It offers a terrace with sea views and access to the resort’s facilities. The property’s proximity to Golfo Aranci (3 km) allows guests to explore this charming coastal town.
- B&B Casa Derosas – This family-run B&B is situated in Golfo Aranci, a short drive from Cala Sabina Beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a shared kitchen. The B&B’s location provides easy access to multiple beaches in the area, including the beautiful Cala Sabina.
🥂 Spiaggia di Li Cuncheddi – Best for Luxury Experience
Rounding out our top 10 is Li Cuncheddi, a beach that offers a more upscale experience. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to indulge in a bit of luxury during their beach day. The beach is bordered by a high-end resort, offering access to premium facilities. The sand is fine and golden, and the water is a beautiful shade of turquoise. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, with rich marine life in the clear waters. The beach bar serves gourmet snacks and cocktails. Despite its luxurious feel, the beach itself is public and free to access.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Li Cuncheddi 🏨
- Hotel CalaCuncheddi – This 4-star hotel offers direct access to Li Cuncheddi Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. It features a spa, outdoor pool, and rooms with sea views. The hotel’s secluded location provides a tranquil escape while still being close to Olbia.
- Residence Bunte – These apartments are located just 200 meters from Li Cuncheddi Beach, offering a comfortable stay with sea views. The property features a garden and terrace. Its proximity to both the beach and Olbia makes it an excellent base for exploring the area.
- Capo Ceraso Resort – This resort is situated in a protected marine area near Li Cuncheddi Beach. It offers apartments with sea views and access to a private beach. The resort’s location provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and comfort, ideal for a relaxing beach holiday.
2. ⛱️ Beach Characteristics and Features
🏖️ Sandy Shores and Crystal Waters: The beaches near Olbia boast exceptional sand quality and water clarity. Spiaggia Bianca lives up to its name with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. These beaches offer ample space for sunbathing and are perfect for families due to their shallow waters.
🏞️ Unique Coastal Landscapes: The region’s beaches showcase diverse landscapes. Spiaggia di Porto Istana offers a mix of sandy and pebbly sections with stunning views of Tavolara Island. Cala Moresca presents a picturesque cove nestled among dramatic rocky cliffs. These varied landscapes provide excellent opportunities for exploration and snorkeling, with each beach offering a unique seabed to discover.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Options: Many beaches in the area cater well to families. Spiaggia di Pittulongu, close to Olbia, offers a long sandy beach with calm waters ideal for children. Family-friendly features often include shallow waters, beach clubs with umbrella rentals, beachfront cafes serving kid-friendly meals, water sports rentals for teens, and lifeguards on duty during peak season.
🏝️ Coastal Diversity: From the famous beaches of Costa Smeralda to hidden coves near Golfo Aranci, Olbia’s coast offers a beach for every preference. Whether you seek relaxation on fine white sand, underwater exploration, or exciting water sports, you’ll find your ideal spot. This coastal stretch showcases the best of Sardinian beaches, from bustling tourist hotspots to secluded natural havens.
🌟 Beyond the Beach: The Sardinian coast offers more than just beaches. After a day of sun and sea, explore the charming town of San Teodoro, known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine. For a memorable experience, take a boat trip to Tavolara Island for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.
3. 🏄♂️ Beach Activities and Water Sports
🏊♂️ Swimming and Snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters around Olbia are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially near Spiaggia del Principe. The sandy shores with fine white sand gently slope into the sea, ideal for swimmers of all levels. Early mornings offer the calmest and clearest waters, perfect for spotting colorful Mediterranean fish.
🏄♂️ Water Sports: The San Teodoro area is a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts. Spiaggia di Marinella beach is popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while nearby Golfo Aranci offers excellent jet skiing opportunities. Stand-up paddleboarding along the coast and kayaking around the Island of Tavolara are also fantastic options.
🏐 Beach Sports: For land lovers, many beaches in the area have volleyball nets set up, perfect for a friendly game. Spiaggia Bianca, just a few kilometres from Olbia, is particularly popular for beach sports with its wide strip of sand. These activities offer a great way to stay active, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy the beautiful beach setting.
🌞 Sunbathing and Relaxation: Sometimes the best beach activity is simply relaxing, and Olbia’s beaches are perfect for this. Many beaches close to the city offer beach umbrellas and loungers for rent, ideal for a lazy day at the beach. For a more tranquil experience, head to the beautiful beaches south of Olbia, which tend to be less crowded than those near the city centre.
⛵ Boat Trips: A visit to Olbia isn’t complete without a boat trip. Many tour operators provide half-day boat trips, allowing visitors to see multiple beaches and islands efficiently. These excursions offer a unique perspective of Olbia’s beautiful coastline and surrounding islands, making for unforgettable memories and photo opportunities.
4. 🚌 How to Get to Olbia’s Beaches
🚗 By Car: Driving is one of the best ways to discover Olbia’s beaches. Many beaches are just minutes from Olbia, making them easily accessible by car. If you’re coming from other cities in Sardinia, the drive is straightforward via the SS125 or SS131 highways. Arrive early to secure parking spots.
🚌 Public Transportation: Public transportation is a great alternative for reaching Olbia’s beaches. Regular bus services connect Olbia city center to many nearby beaches. It’s an affordable and convenient way to get around. For beaches harder to reach by land, like those on the Island of Tavolara, ferries offer a scenic route.
🥾 Hiking and Walking: Combine beach time with physical activity by hiking or walking to some of Olbia’s more secluded beaches. Many beaches have coastal paths offering stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscape. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water if you plan to hike.
🚣♀️ Ferry from Porto: The views of the coastline from the water are breathtaking. This ferry ride adds an extra layer of adventure to your beach day, allowing you to explore beyond the mainland. It’s an ideal way to see multiple beaches and islands in one go.
📝 Tips for Visiting Olbia’s Beaches: To make the most of your beach day, arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season. Many beaches offer the possibility of renting beach umbrellas and loungers, which can save you space in your car and make your day more comfortable.
5. 📅 Best Times to Visit Olbia’s Beaches
☀️ Summer (June-August): Peak Season Bliss
Summer brings Olbia’s beaches to life with warm temperatures around 30°C (86°F). Expect lively atmospheres, beach events, and festivals. All beach facilities and water sports are in full swing, with bustling towns and vibrant nightlife. For prime spots on popular beaches like Spiaggia Bianca, arrive early in the morning.
🍂 Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): The Sweet Spot
The shoulder season offers pleasant temperatures of 20-25°C (68-77°F), fewer crowds, and lower prices. It’s ideal for beach lovers who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. Beautiful spring blooms or autumn colors add to the scenic beauty. Book accommodations and activities in advance for the best deals, especially in the Consorzio Costa Smeralda area.
❄️ Off-Season (November-March): Tranquil Beauty
While not ideal for swimming, the off-season offers a unique perspective on Olbia’s beaches. Enjoy peaceful atmospheres with empty beaches, dramatic ocean views, and powerful waves. It’s perfect for coastal walks and photography enthusiasts. Focus on beaches closer to the city of Olbia for milder temperatures.
🎯 Best Months for Specific Activities
Different months offer ideal conditions for various beach activities. Swim and sunbathe from June to September, enjoy water sports from May to October, and go beach hiking in April, May, September, and October. Photography is beautiful year-round, especially during sunrise/sunset in shoulder seasons.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Olbia, Sardinia ❔
Is Olbia, Sardinia worth visiting?
Yes, Olbia is worth visiting. It offers beautiful beaches, rich history, delicious food, and serves as a gateway to explore the Costa Smeralda and other parts of Sardinia.
How many days do you need in Olbia?
3-4 days is generally recommended to explore Olbia and its surroundings. This allows time to see the city, visit beaches, and take day trips to nearby attractions.
Which part of Olbia is more beautiful?
The coastal areas and beaches near Olbia are considered the most beautiful parts, particularly beaches like Porto Istana, Pittulongu, and those with views of Tavolara Island.
How do I get to beaches from Olbia?
You can reach beaches from Olbia by car (recommended for flexibility), public buses (there’s a “Spiagge Express” service to some beaches), or by taking organized tours. Many popular beaches are within a 15-30 minute drive from the city center.
