You’re planning a visit to Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, and you want the best beaches in Arzachena. Look no further—these five beaches deliver both natural beauty and the refined Mediterranean atmosphere this corner of northern Sardinia is famous for. Each spot here is unique, with clear waters, fine sand, and views that stand out even in a region known for its stunning coastline.
Best Hotels in Arzachena🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Borgo Smeraldo
- ✨ 5-Star: Cascioni Eco Retreat
- 🏨 4-Star: Las Rocas
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Citti
- 💸 Cheap: L'Emozione by Lu Stazzu
- 🏢 Apartment: Nido d'Amore ad Arzachena
- 👪 For Families: Appartamento Monte & Mare Arzachena
- 🏩 For Couples: Casa Vacanze Arzachena
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Family Paradise — Capriccioli Beach
- 💕 Romantic Hideaway — Spiaggia del Principe
- 🤿 Water Sports Hub — Pevero Beach
- 🚶♂️ Long Beach Beauty — Liscia Ruja Beach
- 🎉 Lively Seafront — Baja Sardinia Beach
1. Capriccioli Beach: Four Coves of Emerald Bliss
Capriccioli Beach is a collection of four sheltered coves, each with its own character. The light gray-tinted sand feels soft underfoot, and the water is so clear you’ll want to wade in right away. I watched a local family set up near the granite boulders for shade—this spot is ideal for relaxation and for kids to splash safely. This is a sand beach, around 400 meters in total. Summer is peak season, with calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Nearby, explore La Celvia Beach, Piccolo Romazzino, and Spiaggia del Principe.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Walk from the parking area past fragrant junipers and mastic trees—a beautiful beach approach and a local favorite for a quiet picnic spot with crystal-clear views. The info point near the main entrance has English-speaking staff who can explain the archaeological significance of Li Muri and nearby sites once linked to Prince Karim Aga Khan’s Costa Smeralda vision. Arrive before 10am to secure a good spot and avoid summer crowds on this breathtaking stretch once frequented by Aga Khan and noted in many guides as part of the legacy of prince Karim Aga.
- Pro: Safe, shallow waters and plenty of shade from Mediterranean brush.
- Con: Can get crowded in July and August—visit early or late in the day.
Best For: Families, swimmers, and anyone seeking a mix of comfort and natural beauty.
Skip If: You want total seclusion—try Piccolo Romazzino instead.
Best Hotels near Capriccioli Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Cala di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel — Stunning 5-star property with private beach access, world-class spa facilities, and Mediterranean fine dining overlooking the bay.
- Hotel Pitrizza, Costa Smeralda — Intimate luxury retreat with private pool suites, secluded gardens, and exclusive beach access in a tranquil hillside setting.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Capriccioli — Just 50 meters from the beach with a seawater pool, traditional Sardinian restaurant with sea views, and tennis court in a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Le Case Di Capriccioli — Comfortable apartments in a quiet setting only 5 minutes’ walk from Capriccioli Beach, perfect for families seeking space and independence.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Vacanze Arzachena — Tranquil holiday home with a leafy setting, practical kitchen facilities, and easy town access for errands between beach days.
2. Spiaggia del Principe: Secluded White Sands
Spiaggia del Principe feels like a hidden gem, with its crescent of fine white sand cupped by pink granite rocks. The water is so clear it shimmers, and the seabed is shallow for meters. I lingered here as the sun set, watching couples stroll hand in hand along the shore—this is romance, Sardinian style. This is a sand beach, about 300 meters long, busiest from June to September. Access is via a short, scenic walk from the parking lot. Nearby, don’t miss Romazzino Beach, Cala di Volpe, and the village of Abbiadori. Rent sunbeds and umbrellas, or bring your own towel.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Stroll along the path from Romazzino to reach this small beach—locals love the peaceful morning hours before the day-trippers arrive to explore beaches in the area around Arzachena. The small refreshment kiosk is perfect for a chilled drink on one of the beaches of the Costa Smeralda, a stunning beach often nicknamed the prince’s beach near Arzachena. Closest parking is on Via Romazzino; arrive by 9:30am for the best experience if your trip to Arzachena includes time to compare beaches in Sardinia along this iconic coast.
- Pro: Unmatched scenery and tranquility, ideal for couples and quiet reflection.
- Con: Limited facilities—bring your own snacks and water.
Best For: Couples and families seeking a romantic, tranquil beach day.
Skip If: You need lots of amenities—head to Liscia Ruja instead.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia del Principe
💎 Luxury hotels
- Stazzo Liccia Barria — Traditional Sardinian stazzo surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, offering quiet countryside views, a furnished terrace, and easy driving reach to beaches.
- BGItalianVacation - Domus di Pitrizza — Exclusive villa accommodation with private pool, terrace views, and just 850 meters from the nearest beach in a tranquil location.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa La Quercia - Capriccioli — Charming villa property in Abbiadori with tennis facilities, hiking access, and diving opportunities, close to Spiaggia del Principe and surrounding beaches.
- Hotel Citti — Simple, central Arzachena base with outdoor pool and free parking, handy for quick drives to Costa Smeralda beaches and La Maddalena ferries.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Apartment in Sardegna near beach — Simple, well-equipped apartment close to the Costa Smeralda road network, a budget-friendly base for day trips to sandy coves.
3. Pevero Beach: Bay of Crystal Waters
Pevero Beach is split into two: Grande Pevero (343 meters) and Piccolo Pevero (146 meters). Both offer fine white sand and water so clear it looks like a swimming pool. I rented a kayak here and paddled out to the small islands offshore—a memory that still feels vivid. This is a sand beach, ideal for swimming and water sports. The shallow seabed is great for snorkeling, and equipment rentals are available. Behind Grande Pevero, the La Padula pond is a haven for birdwatchers. Nearby, explore Porto Cervo and Abbiadori.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
The beach club here is popular, but the far ends of the bay are quieter—locals know to bring a picnic and claim a spot early at this small beach that many list among the beaches nearby di Porto Cervo in the Arzachena area. Parking is easiest at the south end; the closest bus stop is Porto Cervo, and the beach located along this curve often has a casual beach bar open by mid-morning. Visit in late May or early June to avoid the summer rush if your trip to Arzachena includes time to compare beaches in the area and discover beaches like Piccolo Pevero Beach just down the coast.
- Pro: Excellent for water sports and snorkeling, with calm, clear water.
- Con: Can feel crowded in high season—opt for a weekday visit.
Best For: Water sports lovers, swimmers, and those who enjoy a lively beach club vibe.
Skip If: You prefer wild, undeveloped beaches—try Spiaggia del Principe.
Best Hotels near Pevero Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Smeralda — Spacious villa stay near Pevero Beach with a private garden and outdoor dining area, ideal for exploring La Maddalena Archipelago and nearby coves.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Las Rocas — Clean, practical apartment with equipped kitchen and balcony, a convenient choice near harbor services and island day trips.
- Sardinia Country Home — Quiet countryside retreat with garden space and rustic charm, an easy drive to Cannigione’s sandy coves and coastal viewpoints.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Da Ghjuannedda — Central Arzachena stay with air‑conditioned rooms, a convenient option for short breaks and inland sightseeing.
4. Liscia Ruja Beach: Long Stretch of Powdered Sand
Liscia Ruja is the longest beach in the Costa Smeralda, with a half-kilometer stretch of powdery white and reddish sand. The water is a stunning emerald green and stays shallow far from shore. I walked its length at sunrise, the only sounds being the waves and distant birds. This is a sand beach, about 500 meters long and up to 50 meters wide in places. Facilities include parking, rental services, and a beach bar-restaurant. The nearby islands of Soffi and Mortorio are visible from the shore. Best visited from spring through summer.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Long Beach Café opens early for breakfast—join locals for a cappuccino with a sea view at a favourite beach in the area of Arzachena that’s famous for its beaches. The north end of the largest beach is less crowded, with natural shade from the dunes and easy access to many beaches fringing the Gulf of Arzachena. Closest parking is well-signed; arrive early to avoid the midday heat, then pair the morning with a stop at Nuraghe Albucciu or a swim near Principe Beach among the pristine beaches locals rave about.
- Pro: Ample space, perfect for long walks and families with small children.
- Con: Can get windy in the afternoon—bring a light jacket.
Best For: Beach walkers, nature lovers, and families seeking space and comfort.
Skip If: You want a small, intimate cove—choose Capriccioli Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Liscia Ruja Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Delle Rose Arzachena — Simple, well-located hotel in Arzachena close to the Costa Smeralda road network, featuring comfortable rooms and convenient access to coastal attractions.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Dependance Stazzo Pavoncella — Hillside holiday home with mountain views, private outdoor area, and peaceful setting between Arzachena and the coast.
- Villa Tomaso — Spacious villa stay with garden and terrace for alfresco meals, well-situated for exploring Liscia’s beaches and granite landscapes.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Pinocchio — Basic rooms above a local restaurant with parking and terrace, handy for quick transfers to Liscia Ruja and nearby beaches.
5. Baja Sardinia Beach: Lively Seaside Hub
Baja Sardinia Beach is a fan-shaped stretch with smooth rocks and white sand, popular with divers and windsurfers. The turquoise water is inviting, and the village behind the beach buzzes with cafes and shops. I joined a group of locals for an early morning snorkeling session—the underwater life here is vibrant. This is a mixed sand and pebble beach, known for its water sports and lively atmosphere. Showers and lifeguards are available; there’s a dog ban in place. Capo d’Orso and Cannigione are nearby, and public transport connects to major towns.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The beach club here is a local favorite for sunset cocktails in the Costa Smeralda area, and the beach is located beside walking paths that link popular attractions. For a quieter swim, head to the rocks at the eastern end near the main beach, where many other beaches are visible along the headland and a free beach cove often stays calm. Parking is straightforward, and buses run regularly from Arzachena and Porto Cervo past Church of Santa landmarks and the Pevero Golf Club, making a quick hop to Principe Beach one of the easiest detours in the outskirts of Arzachena.
- Pro: Great for diving, windsurfing, and socializing—plenty of amenities.
- Con: Not ideal for those seeking peace and quiet—opt for Spiaggia del Principe.
Best For: Scuba divers, windsurfers, sailors, and anyone who enjoys a vibrant beach scene.
Skip If: You dislike crowds—visit in the shoulder season or head to Capriccioli Beach.
Best Hotels near Baja Sardinia Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- L’Ea Bianca Luxury Resort — Set on a hillside with panoramic views to La Maddalena islands, featuring extensive wellness center, private beach access, and gourmet dining just 150 meters from the sea.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Club Hotel Baja Sardinia — Located right on the public beach in the heart of Baja Sardinia with private beach area, sea views from balconies, and convenient access to shops and restaurants.
- Hotel La Bisaccia — Comfortable hotel in Baja Sardinia offering good service, clean accommodations, and easy walking distance to the beach and village center at competitive rates.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Grand Hotel Smeraldo Beach — Set on 50 hectares of parkland with direct beach access and walking distance to Baja Sardinia center, offering excellent value with resort amenities.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Arzachena?
Expect to spend €15–25 per person daily for food and drinks, with higher prices in Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia, and public parking often costs €2–3 per hour in peak season, though beach lovers can save by packing picnics for a longer beach experience.
Which beaches in Arzachena are best for families with young children?
Capriccioli Beach and Liscia Ruja Beach are ideal with their calm waters, fine sand, and good facilities for families, while Spiaggia del Principe offers a quieter setting and shallow, clear waters like Capriccioli’s sandy beach coves.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Arzachena?
Pevero Beach and Baja Sardinia Beach are the top spots for water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing, while Capriccioli Beach is great for swimming and gentle snorkeling at fantastic beaches that beach lovers rate highly.
What is the best time of year to visit Arzachena’s beaches?
Late May to early June and September offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and calm seas, while July and August are busiest but perfect for swimming at pristine beaches and planning popular attractions inland between beach days.
How can you easily get around Arzachena’s beaches?
Rental cars are the most flexible option, though buses connect Arzachena, Porto Cervo, and Baja Sardinia, and some beaches have good parking; taxis and shuttles are available in high season and make it easy to get to the beach quickly.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Arzachena?
Piccolo Romazzino and the far coves of Capriccioli Beach are quieter, while Spiaggia del Principe is more secluded but still accessible and, in our view, a favourite beach for those seeking a mellow beach experience.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Arzachena’s beaches?
Bring your own shade and water to quieter beaches, arrive early for parking and the best spots, respect local rules (e.g., dog bans), and pack water shoes for mixed sand/rock areas, noting that each beach offers different access and services like Capriccioli.
