If you’re imagining a Sardinian getaway packed with turquoise coves, golden sands, and easy local life, Porto Torres delivers. You’ll find beaches for every mood—calm city bays for lazy mornings, wild coves for adventurous afternoons, and vast stretches of sand for a classic Italian coastal day. This guide brings together the best beaches directly in Porto Torres and nearby, plus essential insider advice for making the most of your visit to the northern coast of Sardinia.
Best Hotels in Porto Torres🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Residence Cala Bianca
- 🏨 4-Star: Sundinia Home Vista Sul Mare
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Il Melo Residence
- 💸 Cheap: Le Conchiglie
- 🏢 Apartment: Casa Vacanza Acquamarina
- 👪 For Families: Cosy Flat Il Melo
- 🏩 For Couples: La Corte di Edo
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ City Oasis — Balai Beach
- 🌿 Central Escape — Scoglio Lungo Beach
- 🌊 Convenient Sands — Renaredda Beach
- 🍋 Local Favorite — Acque Dolci Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Stroll — Farrizza Beach
- ⛰️ Cliff Hideaway — Punta Mancini Beach
- 🌾 Windswept Shores — Platamona Beach
- 🦋 Secluded Bay — Cala Lunga Beach
- 🚴 Easy Cycle — Spiaggia Le Saline
- 🐚 Coastal Walk — Tamerici Beach
1. Balai Beach: Compact Elegance in the City
Soft, gold sand feels warm under your feet as you step into Balai Beach’s clear, shallow waters—protected from strong winds by a natural rock cove. I often grab a takeaway coffee from a nearby bar and wander the palm-lined promenade before settling onto the sand for a morning swim. This is a small, urban beach (about 250m long) with fine sand, calm waves, and gentle slopes, best visited from May to September for warm, smooth seas and plenty of sun.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Balai Beach sits right by Parco Balai, a green oasis perfect for a stroll after a dip in Porto Torres if you plan to visit Porto Torres for a beautiful beach afternoon. Nearby, the Roman ruins of Turris Libisonis and the archaeological collection at Antiquarium Turritano offer a compelling attraction in the Province of Sassari. At sunset, locals claim the westernmost rocky outcrop for aperitivo, enjoying the distant views of the city marina and, on clear days, discussing day trips to La Pelosa in Stintino and the famed Pelosa shoreline.
- Pro: Easy, free city access with a true local vibe—no need for a car.
- Con: Can fill up fast on summer weekends—arrive before 10am for the best spot.
Best For: Couples, small groups, and anyone wanting a hassle-free Sardinian beach day.
Skip If: You crave wilderness—try farrizza beach or cala lunga beach instead.
Best Hotels near Balai Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Affittacamere Il Vicoletto — Central guesthouse near the ferry port, offering clean, modern rooms and easy access to cafés and the waterfront.
- Residence Cala Bianca — High-rated apartments a short walk from Lo Scoglio Lungo and Balai Beach, with terraces and contemporary interiors.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Elicriso Home — Central guesthouse 8 minutes’ walk from Lo Scoglio Lungo and 1 mile from Balai, with AC, modern rooms, and easy street parking.
- Onda Blu — Simple, air‑conditioned stay with a terrace in Porto Torres, within walking distance of Balai Beach and the marina.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Golden House Porto Torres — Bright, modern apartment with AC and a full kitchen, set on a quiet street within walking distance of Balai and central cafés.
2. Scoglio Lungo Beach: The Heart of Porto Torres
Scoglio Lungo Beach greets you with a mix of soft sand and small pebbles, framed by the town’s working harbor and a long, iconic rock along the coastline of northern Sardinia facing the Gulf of Asinara and the island of Asinara. I love the buzz of local life here—fishermen chatting, kids splashing, and the scent of saltwater mixing with espresso from the bars behind the promenade as the shallow seabed shimmers with turquoise water. This 300m city beach is ideal for a quick, refreshing swim; the best time to visit is from June to September for warm water and a lively atmosphere that makes it easy to plan day trips toward Alghero or a comparison swim at La Pelosa Beach.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Scoglio Lungo is located near Porto Torres’ main square and the Basilica of San Gavino, one of Sardinia’s most important Romanesque churches in Sassari’s historic orbit. Wander Via Ponte Romano for a slice of local life, or grab a granita at Bar Centrale while locals chat about swims at Pelosa Beach and calmer coves like Mannu on quieter days. Locals love the hidden bench at the end of the rock—perfect for people-watching and gauging the wind before heading toward La Pelosa Beach. The nearest bus stop is Porto Torres Centro; arrive before noon for a quiet moment and the right time to visit if planning a later ferry to Asinara.
- Pro: Super-central, with cafes, shops, and history all around.
- Con: Views are more urban than wild—head to platamona beach for nature.
Best For: Travelers short on time who want beach and culture in one.
Skip If: You seek solitude—choose cala lunga beach or farrizza beach.
Best Hotels near Scoglio Lungo Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Cosy Flat Il Melo — Recently renovated two-bedroom apartment with AC and a spacious living area, set in a quiet residential street.
- Balai Suite — Stylish suites close to Balai and Scoglio Lungo beaches, some with in-room jacuzzi and self-serve breakfast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Le Conchiglie Residence — Sea‑view residence about 200 m from Lo Scoglio Lungo, offering free Wi‑Fi, parking, and balconies or terraces in select units.
- Casa Vacanza Acquamarina — Holiday apartment close to Lo Scoglio Lungo with kitchen facilities, ideal for a self‑catered beach break.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Acque Dolci — Simple holiday apartment close to Scoglio Lungo and Balai Beach, featuring Wi‑Fi and a functional kitchenette for easy self‑catering.
3. Renaredda Beach: Portside Convenience
Renaredda Beach feels like a secret pocket of calm, tucked between the port and the city’s eastern edge and among the quieter beaches of Porto Torres for anyone consulting a travel guide. Fine sand and gentle waves invite you to wade in on this sandy beach, while the distant clang of boats reminds you this is a working port located near the ferry quays. I discovered a tiny, tucked-away bar here that locals adore for its grilled seafood and cold Sardinian beer, perfect after a dip when the turquoise water is at its clearest.
Navigating the Neighborhood & Insider Knowledge:
Renaredda is a short walk from Porto Torres’ ferry terminal—perfect for a swim before or after a trip to the island of Asinara, with the Gulf of Asinara often calm on summer mornings. Nearby, the fish market on Via Nazionale offers fresh catches daily, and the small Church of Balai and Spiaggia di Balai add easy cultural stops to break up beach time. The hidden bar ‘Da Mimmo’ is a local favorite for its sunset views and simple menu if you plan to stay in Porto Torres for an unhurried evening. The bus stop ‘Renaredda’ is a minute’s walk; early evening is the best time to visit if the breeze picks up.
- Pro: Unbeatable for ferry-goers—swim, then hop a boat to Asinara.
- Con: Views include port activity; not the most scenic.
Best For: Ferry travelers and anyone who values convenience.
Skip If: You want pristine nature—visit platamona beach instead.
Best Hotels near Renaredda Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Casa Vacanza Colors — Compact seaside apartment with balcony, convenient for beach days and sunset strolls along the promenade.
- Guest House - Affittacamere Green Apartment — Simple, well-kept units with parking and Wi‑Fi, a practical base for exploring Porto Torres and Renaredda.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Sundinia Home — Vista sul Mare — Waterfront apartment steps from Lo Scoglio Lungo and 400 m from Renaredda, featuring a balcony and city/sea views.
- Il Melo Residence — Quiet serviced apartments with patios and kitchenettes, a short drive to Renaredda and Porto Torres’ central beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Casa di Ambra — Cozy one‑bedroom with balcony and equipped kitchen, a handy base for beach days and strolls along the Porto Torres waterfront.
4. Acque Dolci Beach: Sweet Waters Near the City
Acque Dolci Beach charms with its mix of sand and small pebbles, plus the novelty of freshwater springs bubbling up beneath your toes in the area of Porto Torres on the island of Sardinia. The air here smells faintly of wild mint, and the water stays cool even on hot days—a welcome surprise at a small beach popular with families exploring beaches in Sardinia. I once spotted a group of local families picnicking under the pines, sharing stories and laughter about things to do and see near Porto Torres.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Acque Dolci is just east of the city, near the archaeological park and the scenic footpath along Via Acque Dolci, and it’s located near the center of Porto Torres with straightforward ferry connections from the port in Sardinia. Don’t miss the tiny, nameless kiosk near the path—locals swear by its homemade lemonade after a stroll from the beach of Balai. The bus stop Acque Dolci is a three-minute walk; mornings are quietest, with the best light for photos and the right time to visit Porto Torres before the heat.
- Pro: Unique freshwater springs and easy access for all.
- Con: Small size means it can feel crowded in peak season.
Best For: Families and curious travelers who enjoy a bit of local flavor.
Skip If: You want wide-open sand—try platamona beach.
Best Hotels near Acque Dolci Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Domo Amsicora - Affittacamere - By Faendho — Comfortable, budget-friendly stay with modern touches and helpful hosts, close to shops and local eateries.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Residence Cala Bianca — Modern rooms and apartments near Scoglio Lungo and Acque Dolci, with air‑conditioning and convenient access to the waterfront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Affittacamere L’Arcobaleno — Clean, budget‑friendly rooms with air‑conditioning and easy access to shops, suitable for short stays near the center and beaches.
5. Farrizza Beach: A Hidden Cove Near Town
Farrizza Beach is a snug, sandy cove framed by limestone cliffs and fragrant Mediterranean scrub where the flora and fauna feel close at hand. The water here glows an unreal turquoise, and the only sounds are waves and the occasional cry of a seagull over small white shells at the tideline. I once followed a narrow path through the cliffs and found myself alone on this little crescent of sand—magic on a weekday morning that made me plan a trip to Porto Torres and Stintino on the same day. The beach is about 100m long, and the best time to visit Porto is from late May to early October, with calm water for swimming when Porto Torres is located in a gentle weather window.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Farrizza is just a 15-minute walk from Balai Beach, via a scenic, slightly rocky path—wear sturdy sandals if you’re pairing Porto Torres and Stintino in one outing. Locals love the westernmost rocky ledge for quiet sunbathing, away from the main sand, and many chat about the Genoa to Porto Torres crossing while they watch the swell. There’s a small, unofficial parking area at the trailhead; come early to snag a spot and use the time to note how the breeze shifts along this coast. The walk is worth it for the sense of discovery and for seeing how this inlet fits into the broader shoreline mosaic of the island of Sardinia.
- Pro: Secluded, photogenic, and rarely crowded.
- Con: Limited facilities—bring water and snacks.
Best For: Adventurous couples and anyone craving a secret spot.
Skip If: You need easy access or amenities—stick to balai beach.
Best Hotels near Farrizza Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Il Sole Guesthouse — Friendly B&B with tidy rooms and a homely feel, well-placed for the city center and coastal paths.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Agriturismo Cuilè De Molino — Rural farmhouse stay within easy driving reach of Farrizza, offering on‑site parking and a peaceful countryside setting.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Moncici House — Comfortable apartment with living area and kitchen, convenient for self‑catering stays close to Farrizza and Balai Beach.
6. Punta Mancini Beach: Cliffs and Calm Waters
Punta Mancini Beach feels wild and untamed—a small, pebbly stretch beneath dramatic limestone cliffs, with water so clear you can see small fish darting below along small stretches of sand alternating with rock ledges. The breeze carries the scent of juniper and sea salt, and I once watched a local fisherman casting his line from the rocks at dawn while pointing toward the beautiful Balai Beach and Scogliolungo as the more easy to reach options. This is a spot for solitude and simple pleasures, best in late spring and early autumn if you prefer pristine beaches far from the most famous beaches.
Navigating the Neighborhood & Insider Knowledge:
Punta Mancini is west of the city, near the old lighthouse at Capo Falcone, and the path back frames stunning beaches around the bay including the beach of white sand at Balai. Follow the coastal footpath from Porto Torres for about 30 minutes—it’s a walk that rewards with views and a sense of escape and helps you understand how Balai Beach and Scogliolungo shape everyday seaside life. Locals recommend the rocky outcrop at the far end for the best sunbathing when the breeze rises off the cliffs. There’s no official parking; bike or walk for the full experience, which remains easy to reach from the center on foot.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery and quiet—rare in summer.
- Con: Pebbles, not sand; bring water shoes.
Best For: Nature lovers and photographers.
Skip If: You want soft sand—try balai beach or platamona beach.
Best Hotels near Punta Mancini Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Re Barbaro — Comfortable apartment‑style stay with modern amenities, convenient for coastal walks and the town’s cafés.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Vicino Al Porto — Friendly B&B steps from the ferry area, offering tidy rooms and a simple breakfast, ideal for early departures to Asinara.
7. Platamona Beach: Endless Sands and Local Life
Platamona Beach is vast—over 8km of golden sand stretching from Porto Torres toward Castelsardo, backed by fragrant pine forests and shallow, emerald waters located just outside the tourist port and ideal for a relaxed day in Porto. The breeze is strong here, but the views are endless, and the scent of grilled seafood drifts from the beach clubs along a run of stunning beaches that locals rate among the most pristine beaches near town. I’ve spent whole afternoons here, alternating swims with lazy meals at a seaside trattoria, often comparing stretches like Balai Beach and Scogliolungo when planning a loop.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Platamona is best reached by car or bike—take the coastal road SS200 toward Sorso, a route just outside the tourist port and easy to reach for families. Stop at the Torre Abbacurrente, a historic Aragonese tower, for panoramic views over small stretches of sand alternating with dunes and the beautiful Balai Beach back toward town. Locals love the stretch near La Rotonda for its calm water and family vibe, especially when planning a day in Porto that links Platamona with spots like Balai Beach and Scogliolungo. Parking is plentiful, but gets busy on weekends; arrive early for a prime spot near the beach of white sands closest to the main access.
- Pro: Vast, with space for everyone; perfect for long walks.
- Con: Exposed to wind—not ideal for calm, mirror-like swims.
Best For: Families, groups, and anyone who loves classic Italian beach days.
Skip If: You prefer intimate coves—try farrizza beach or cala lunga beach.
Best Hotels near Platamona Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Casa Vacanze Alba — Bright holiday home with kitchen and private spaces, ideal for longer seaside stays near Acque Dolci and Platamona Beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Corte di Edo — Well‑kept apartment with a private courtyard, set near the historic center and within easy reach of Platamona.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Appartamento Maestrale — Air‑conditioned apartment with a full kitchen and balcony, a practical base for exploring Lo Scoglio Lungo and Platamona.
8. Cala Lunga Beach: Seclusion Near the National Park
Cala Lunga Beach is a hidden gem—a small, sandy bay fringed by Mediterranean scrub, with water so clear it rivals the Caribbean, and the beach is located along a quiet stretch facing the Asinara channel. The only sounds are birdsong and the gentle lapping of waves. I stumbled upon this spot while exploring the coast toward Asinara, and for a moment, it felt like I had Sardinia to myself. The beach is best from June to September, with calm water and few visitors.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Cala Lunga is off the main tourist paths—follow signs for Asinara National Park and look for a small, unmarked coastal trail where the beach is located just beyond a low ridge of scrub. Locals treasure the western rocks for snorkeling and quiet sunbathing. Bring supplies—there are no facilities. The closest parking is a 10-minute walk; mornings are best for solitude.
- Pro: Secluded, pristine, and full of natural beauty.
- Con: No amenities—pack everything you need.
Best For: Adventurous travelers and nature lovers.
Skip If: You need facilities or easy access—visit balai beach or platamona beach.
Best Hotels near Cala Lunga Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Central House Porto Torres — Modern, well‑equipped apartment with AC and a full kitchen, set in a handy central location for walking to Cala Lunga, Balai Beach, and the waterfront cafés.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Girasole Porto Torres — Simple, good‑value apartment featuring Wi‑Fi and kitchen facilities, well‑placed for quick access to beaches and the historic center.
9. Spiaggia Le Saline: Windswept and Wild
Spiaggia Le Saline is a long, white-pebble beach near Stintino, a famous town in the province celebrated for windswept beauty and translucent water. The wind is a constant companion here, but so are dramatic sunsets and the scent of salt and wildflowers. I once watched kite-surfers dancing on the waves while locals picnicked beneath the dunes. The beach is best in late spring and early autumn, for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Le Saline is a short drive from Porto Torres, past the salt pans that give it its name and toward Stintino, the famous town in the province known for La Pelosa. Follow signs for Stintino and look for the small, local car park. Locals love the westernmost stretch for its sense of isolation and the nearby seafood shack, Da Nicolo, for fresh clams and a cold beer. The bus stop Stintino is a 20-minute walk; bike or drive for convenience when pairing Le Saline with an afternoon in the famous town in the province.
- Pro: Breathtakingly wild, with space to roam.
- Con: Pebbles, not sand; exposed to wind.
Best For: Adventurers, surfers, and sunset chasers.
Skip If: You want calm, sheltered swimming—choose balai beach.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Le Saline
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Elicriso Home — Clean, minimalist apartment with balcony and AC, a calm base within easy reach of beaches and the marina.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Dolphin’s Home — Simple, central apartment with Wi‑Fi and AC, a practical choice for budget‑minded beach travelers.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Taverna di Carla — Characterful apartment with a cozy layout and kitchenette, set near local eateries and within easy reach of Spiaggia Le Saline.
10. Tamerici Beach: A Coastal Walk with a View
Tamerici Beach is a quiet, sandy stretch backed by dunes and fragrant juniper bushes, with clear water and views toward Asinara Island, and Porto Torres also offers similar low-key corners along this coast. The air is fresh, and the only company is the occasional local walking their dog. I discovered this spot while following the coastal footpath from Porto Torres, and it quickly became a favorite for a peaceful swim at dusk. Best from May to September, with calm water and a relaxed vibe.
Navigating the Neighborhood & Insider Knowledge:
Tamerici is best reached on foot or by bike—follow the coastal path from Porto Torres; it’s about a 40-minute walk where Porto Torres also maintains signed waymarks along the route. Locals love the small dune at the far end for picnics and sunset views. There’s no formal parking; the nearest bus stop is Porto Torres Sud. Bring snacks and water—facilities are minimal.
- Pro: Serene, scenic, and rarely crowded.
- Con: A bit of a walk from town; no amenities.
Best For: Walkers, couples, and anyone seeking peace.
Skip If: You need quick access or facilities—stick to balai beach or acque dolci beach.
Best Hotels near Tamerici Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Original B&B — Cozy, budget‑friendly B&B in central Porto Torres with air‑conditioned rooms, a simple breakfast setup, and easy access to Lo Scoglio Lungo and Tamerici Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B La Mezzanella — Central B&B with welcoming hosts and comfortable rooms, a straightforward choice for beach days and evening strolls along the promenade.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Porto Torres?
Expect typical Sardinian costs: a simple beach lunch costs €10–15, local buses €1–2 per ride, and renting a sunbed €10–15 per day, with prices higher in July and August.
Which beaches in Porto Torres are best for families with young children?
Balai Beach and Scoglio Lungo Beach in Porto Torres offer calm, shallow waters and easy access to amenities, while Platamona Beach near Castelsardo has long, gentle shallows and plenty of space for play.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Porto Torres?
Platamona Beach is great for windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to its steady winds, while Le Saline Beach near Stintino attracts surfers and kite-surfers; snorkelers should head to sheltered coves like Farrizza and Cala Lunga.
What is the best time of year to visit Porto Torres’s beaches?
Late May through September offers the warmest sea and sunniest days, with June and September balancing good weather and smaller crowds, while July and August are busiest and hottest.
How can you easily get around Porto Torres’s beaches?
Porto Torres’s city beaches are walkable from the center; buses connect to Platamona, and renting a bike or car unlocks more remote spots; ferries from the tourist port reach Asinara Island and other coastal gems.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Porto Torres?
Farrizza Beach, Cala Lunga Beach, and Tamerici Beach are quieter, scenic options, best reached on foot or by bike, offering seclusion and natural beauty away from the main tourist routes.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Porto Torres’s beaches?
Arrive early for parking and the best spots, bring water and snacks for less-developed beaches, protect against sun and wind, and check ferry schedules in advance for trips to Asinara Island and nearby coves.
