You know Porto Cervo and the Costa Smeralda for turquoise waters and celebrity buzz, but the real luxury here is choosing the right beach. If you want the best beaches in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, you need local intel and practical tips—not just pretty photos. Here’s my expert guide to seven beaches near Porto Cervo that deliver atmosphere, comfort, and that exclusive Emerald Coast vibe.
Best Hotels in Porto Cervo🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Cascioni Eco Retreat
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel delle Rose a Luxury Boutique Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: L’Olivastro 1 Porto Cervo 9
- 💸 Cheap: Villa Privata con Piscina in Pantogia
- 🏢 Apartment: Princes Apartment PortoCervoBEACH (Direct Beach Access)
- 👪 For Families: Private Villa Orione
- 🏩 For Couples: Villetta Privata a Porto Cervo
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Glamorous Sands — Spiaggia del Pevero
- 🕶️ VIP Vibes — Shardana Beach Club
- 👙 Classic Charm — Cala Granu Beach
- 🏄♂️ Adventurous Escape — Elephant Beach
- 🌿 Natural Hideaway — Capriccioli Beach
- 🦢 Serene Stretch — Liscia Ruja Beach
- 💎 Secret Gem — Spiaggia del Principe
1. Spiaggia del Pevero: Luxury on the Sand
Soft, white sand stretches almost half a kilometer, gently sloping into calm, emerald waters that rank among the most beautiful beach settings di Porto Cervo. I watched seabirds glide over La Padula Pond, a peaceful sanctuary just behind the beach near Olbia on the Costa Smeralda. Spiaggia del Pevero is sandy, best from June to September, with gentle waves for swimming and snorkeling that feel like the sheltered coves of Cala di Volpe.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Walk from the main parking area past Grande and Piccolo Pevero, each with its own vibe and occasional private beach sections. The golf course overlooks the bay—perfect for an afternoon stroll along a beautiful beach path with views toward Cala di Volpe. For something quieter, La Padula pond attracts local birdwatchers keen on spotting herons and rare storks, a serene counterpoint to the lively scene di Porto Cervo. Arrive early for a prime spot; parking and a bus stop are right by the entrance for those coming from Olbia.
- Pro: Impeccable sand and calm waters—ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
- Con: Can get crowded in high season—early birds enjoy more space.
Best For: Couples and groups who want glamour without the glitz.
Skip If: You crave wild, untouched nature—try Spiaggia del Principe instead.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia del Pevero
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Villa Cavalli Pantogia — Panoramic hillside villa near Spiaggia del Pevero boasting wide sea views and generous outdoor living areas.
- VILLA AMIRA Porto Cervo con vista Mozzafiato sul Mare — Elegant villa near in Porto Cervo with a pool and sun terraces, ideal for relaxed evenings after the beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel delle Rose a Luxury Boutique Hotel — Elegant boutique stay near Porto Cervo with pool, refined rooms, and a serene Mediterranean garden setting.
- L’Olivastro 1 Porto Cervo 9 — Apartment-style stay featuring a private terrace and convenient access to Porto Cervo’s beaches and marina area.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Residenza Nialiccia — Peaceful country-style stay amid olive trees, a short drive from Porto Cervo and Capriccioli coves.
2. Shardana Beach Club: Exclusive Party Spot
You feel the energy the moment you step onto the deck: lounge music, designer umbrellas, and Sardinia’s glitterati sipping cocktails as the clear water shimmers in the sun. Shardana’s golden sands and crystal waters are for those who want to see and be seen near Grande Pevero, a pristine stretch beloved since the Aga Khan era.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Nestled in Porto Cervo’s yacht marina district, the club is steps from chic boutiques and the lively Piazza del Principe, about a 35–40 minute drive from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport. The VIP lounge is a local favorite—reserved for regulars but worth asking about if you’re coming from Grande Pevero after a swim. Parking is private and included with your entry, but book your spot in advance during peak months, especially when transfers from the airport are busy.
- Pro: High-energy beach club scene with top-notch amenities.
- Con: Not the place for quiet solitude—head to Cala Granu for peace.
Best For: Social butterflies and anyone craving a lively, upscale atmosphere.
Skip If: You prefer a low-key, natural setting—opt for Capriccioli instead.
Best Hotels near Shardana Beach Club
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Villa Smeralda — Spacious villa setup with garden and terrace, good for groups planning day trips across the Emerald Coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villetta Privata a Porto Cervo — Cozy private house with outdoor space, ideal for a quiet base near the Costa Smeralda coastline.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Appartamento Taras Sottovento — Budget-friendly apartment in Porto Cervo with essential comforts and easy driving access to multiple beaches.
3. Cala Granu Beach: Classic Costa Smeralda
Cala Granu’s gentle curve of sand feels intimate, despite being minutes from Porto Cervo’s heart and surrounded by some of the whitest sandy beaches in the area. The water is so clear, you can see fish dart between your toes on a calm day that rivals celebrated beaches in the world. I discovered a hidden beach bar down a short trail—locals love this spot for late-afternoon drinks overlooking Porto Cervo.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Stroll down Viale del Porto to the marina, then continue to Chiesa di Stella Maris for panoramic views south of Porto Cervo across beaches in the area. The beach is small, sandy, and family-friendly, with calm waters from May through September that make it easy to reach Porto Cervo by car without stress. Park nearby and arrive early or late for the best experience, keeping in mind that several white sandy beaches sit within a short drive.
- Pro: Easy access, relaxed vibe, and calm waters—great for all ages.
- Con: Limited space means it fills up fast in summer—go off-peak if possible.
Best For: Families and anyone who wants convenience without crowds.
Skip If: You need elbow room—Liscia Ruja offers more space.
Best Hotels near Cala Granu Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Oasy Home Sul Mare — Seaside stay with expansive views and direct coastal access for relaxed morning walks.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Lillà (Provincia di Sassari) — Homely Sardinian accommodation with a garden setting and straightforward connections around the region.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villa Molara (Provincia di Sassari) — Private villa setup with outdoor spaces, a practical base for Emerald Coast day trips.
4. Elephant Beach: Wild and Adventurous
Wind scours the coastline here, creating perfect waves for surfers and a rugged, untamed feel on this wild edge of the island of Sardinia. The mix of sand and smooth pebbles crunches underfoot as you pick your way down to the shore past pockets of powdery white sand that recall famous beaches nearby. I found a tiny cove just off the main path—locals use it for quiet sunrise swims before heading toward Poltu Quatu or up to San Pantaleo for coffee.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Elephant Beach sits between Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, with dramatic views of the Emerald Coast and easy side trips to Spiaggia Cala Granu and Piccolo Pevero Beach. Public transport is scarce, so drive or hike in, using Porto Cervo by car for flexibility when hopping between beaches in the area. Nearby, you’ll find Port Rotondo’s harbor and the lush Costa Smeralda golf courses, with well-signed roads south of Porto Cervo guiding you along this scenic stretch.
- Pro: Stunning, wild scenery and great for surfing when conditions are right.
- Con: Access is challenging—not ideal for those with mobility issues.
Best For: Adventure seekers and surfers who don’t mind a hike.
Skip If: You prefer calm, shallow water—head to Capriccioli instead.
Best Hotels near Elephant Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamento Taras – Baja Sardinia — Comfortable Sardinia apartment close to the waterfront promenade and dining spots.
- Residenza Nialiccia — Country-style retreat amid olive trees, offering peaceful surroundings within a short drive of Porto Cervo.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Pinocchio — Simple rooms above a local restaurant near Elephant Beach, with free parking and a handy town location.
5. Capriccioli Beach: Natural Hideaway
Olive and pine trees frame two sheltered coves with soft, pale sand and water so clear it looks like glass that the color of the water shifts from pale turquoise to jade with every ripple. Kids splash safely in the shallows, while parents relax under fragrant junipers in a quiet corner of this seaside resort that Porto Cervo offers in the surrounding area. I watched a local couple set up a picnic in a shady spot only regulars seem to know, then wander up toward the Church of Stella Maris at the top of a hill for a sunset view.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park in the lot near the entrance (arrive early in summer) and walk down to the twin beaches past a few low-key restaurants and shops. A small café serves snacks and drinks, and the nearby Pevero Golf Club is a scenic detour that rewards a pause to take in the color of the water. The olive groves at the far end are a local favorite for escaping midday sun, and they sit close to well-marked paths overlooking Porto Cervo that loop back through the surrounding area without needing to drive.
- Pro: Calm, shallow waters and natural shade—perfect for families.
- Con: Can be busy, but the northern cove is usually quieter than the southern one.
Best For: Families and anyone who wants a natural, relaxed vibe.
Skip If: You want all-day amenities—Shardana Beach Club offers more services.
Best Hotels near Capriccioli Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Casa Minuredda — Cozy Sardinian home feel with outdoor space and a quiet setting within reach of Porto Cervo’s beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Baja Sardinia Terrazza Un Passo dal Mare AC — Seafront terrace apartment steps from the beach, perfect for sunset aperitivo with a breeze.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Katy Apartment Cannigione — Convenient Cannigione apartment near beaches and marina amenities, good for self-catering stays.
6. Liscia Ruja Beach: Serene Stretch
Liscia Ruja’s long, generous sands are a surprise after the smaller coves nearby, with sculpted rock formations that frame long rows of lounge chairs when the season is in full swing. The sea glows intense blue-green, and the sand has a unique reddish tint that recalls the glamour once championed by Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. I joined local families at the quiet southern end, where junipers offer shade and a sense of seclusion near a discreet holiday villa enclave.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park in the large lot (paid in high season) and rent a sunbed if you like—there’s plenty of free beach, too, and casual kiosks located near the main access serve quick bites before an evening stroll to the piazzetta. The Costa Smeralda promenade is a short drive away, as is Juniper Bay and the ferry to La Maddalena Archipelago, with scenic pull-offs that reveal how the color of the water shifts through the day. Best visited June to September, when the water is warm and the crowds are manageable, and nearby coves offer beaches as well if the central stretch feels busy.
- Pro: Ample space, gentle slope, and good amenities—great for long beach days.
- Con: Less sheltered from wind than coves like Capriccioli and Cala Granu.
Best For: Groups, families, and anyone who wants room to spread out.
Skip If: You prefer intimate, picturesque coves—Spiaggia del Principe is more dramatic.
Best Hotels near Liscia Ruja Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Corallo by Residence Rena Bianca — Apartment residence with access to Liscia Ruja Beach and convenient on-site services.
- Villa Armonia nel Cuore della Costa Smeralda — Spacious villa in the heart of Costa Smeralda with garden spaces ideal for relaxed evenings.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villaggio Camping Golfo di Arzachena — Affordable bungalow and camping complex with pool and easy access to Liscia Ruja and local beaches.
7. Spiaggia del Principe: Secret Gem
Pink granite rocks encircle this tiny, breathtaking cove, creating pools of water that shimmer in every shade of blue and flash emerald green when the sun is high. The quiet here is so deep, you hear waves lapping against the rocks and the occasional seabird overhead, and if you pause you can see the white foam tracing the shoreline. I slipped into the water at dawn—just me, a few photographers, and the rising sun, then watched early risers settle in for people watching before heading out for gentle scuba diving along the granite ledges.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the designated area and hike 10 minutes down a pine-scented path with fantastic views across two beaches divided by sculpted rock. Bring water and snacks—there are no facilities here, but the beach is also perfect for a quiet hour and a glass of wine at sunset. The beach is small, sandy, and strewn with granite, perfect for snorkeling from June to September, and nearby you’ll find Romazzino Beach and the famous Aga Khan’s villa, where the cliffs frame the sea in emerald green.
- Pro: Secluded, stunningly beautiful, and perfect for photos or a quiet swim.
- Con: Minimal amenities and a walk to reach the shore—not for everyone.
Best For: Couples, photographers, and anyone seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Skip If: You need facilities or easy access—Liscia Ruja is more convenient.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia del Principe
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Double A Luxury Apartment — Contemporary apartment with stylish interiors and a private terrace, ideal for exploring Costa Smeralda by car.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Rotonda Residence — Residence accommodation offering practical units and easy access to shops and local beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Palazzo Beddoro — Characterful accommodation in a historic-style building, offering a comfortable base for exploring Porto Cervo and the coast.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Porto Cervo?
Expect high prices for food, parking, and sunbed rentals, especially in summer, but public beaches like Cala Granu and Liscia Ruja are free to access.
Which beaches in Porto Cervo are best for families with young children?
Capriccioli Beach and Cala Granu Beach offer calm, shallow waters, natural shade, and easy access—perfect for kids and parents alike.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Porto Cervo?
Elephant Beach is great for surfing when the wind is up, while Liscia Ruja and Spiaggia del Pevero are popular for kayaking and snorkeling.
What is the best time of year to visit Porto Cervo’s beaches?
June to September delivers the warmest, calmest water and the most reliable sunshine, though spring and early autumn offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
How can you easily get around Porto Cervo’s beaches?
Renting a car is the most convenient way, though some beaches have bus stops nearby; walking and cycling are pleasant options for shorter distances.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Porto Cervo?
Spiaggia del Principe and the smaller cove at Elephant Beach are quieter and favored by locals—early morning or late afternoon visits help avoid crowds.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Porto Cervo’s beaches?
Arrive early to secure parking and a good spot, bring water and sun protection, and check for seasonal closures or access restrictions at some beaches.
