Caprera, the wild island of the La Maddalena Archipelago in northern Sardinia, is caprera is the second largest island of the group and a natural playground of pink granite, white sand, and turquoise waters—part of the island of Caprera’s stunning beaches and coves. If you’re planning a visit to Caprera, here’s your expert-curated guide covering 8 best beaches on the island, blending must-know practical details with a local’s sense of atmosphere; exploring Caprera is one of the best ways to experience the archipelago of La Maddalena, north of Sardinia.
Best Hotels in Caprera🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Cala Lunga
- ✨ 5-Star: LE NEREIDI Hotel & Residence
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Excelsior
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Villa Del Parco
- 💸 Cheap: Il Gabbiano
- 🏢 Apartment: LA TERRAZZA SUL MARE
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Apartment Caprera by Interhome
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Cala Lunga
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🌊 Tropical Paradise — Cala Coticcio Beach
- 🏴☠️ Shipwreck Drama — Spiaggia del Relitto Beach
- 🌿 Secluded Escape — Cala Napoletana Beach
- 🌲 Wild Cove — Cala Caprarese Beach
- 🏝️ Historic Hideaway — Cala Garibaldi Beach
- 🐠 Marine Wonder — Cala Andreani Beach
- ⛵ Silent Bay — Cala Serena Beach
- 🌅 Beach of Two Seas — Spiaggia dei Due Mari (Cala Portese) Beach
1. Cala Coticcio Beach: Caprera’s Most Beautiful Beaches
Step onto blinding white sand, let pink rocks warm your back, and soak in that impossible blue—this is beautiful cala Coticcio, caprera’s most nice beaches, often called “Tahiti” for good reason. This protected 500-meter sand-and-pebble beach is open May–September, but reach cala coticcio early in the morning or book a National Park guide (access is now limited for conservation); summer brings warm, calm waters and a brief window of dazzling light.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the Cala Coticcio car park and follow the marked trail—wear sturdy shoes, as it’s a 30-minute, sometimes rocky walk. Nearby, Punta Crucitta and Cala Brigantina are worthy detours for those craving more secluded shores and bays; locals love Punta Crucitta for its utter solitude and panoramic views. If you’re up for a longer adventure, Cala Napoletana is a rugged trek away—but worth every step for those seeking one of the most beautiful beaches on this part of the island. For a local’s secret, the “cove after the bend” east of Cala Coticcio gets even less traffic—arrive before 10am for quiet (and a prime spot); afternoons get busy with foot traffic exploring the archipelago of La Maddalena from the Caprera Island.
- Pro: Unmatched water clarity and postcard-perfect scenery—a bucket-list Mediterranean cove.
- Con: Access now requires booking and a guide in peak season, and there are no facilities—pack water and snacks.
Best For: Swimmers, snorkelers, and anyone craving caprera’s most beautiful beaches—albeit with some effort to reach.
Skip If: You need easy access, shade, or amenities; try Spiaggia del Relitto instead.
Best Hotels near Cala Coticcio Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Cala Lunga — Cliffside luxury resort with three private coves, outdoor pool and two restaurants.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Excelsior — Central La Maddalena location with excellent service and easy ferry access to Caprera.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Gabbiano — The first hotel on La Maddalena island with beautiful sea views and crystal clear water vistas.
2. Spiaggia del Relitto Beach: Wreck, Sand, and Shallow Seas
The shallow, almost luminescent bay here is framed by dunes and dotted with a shipwreck—a rusty, half-sunk drama queen from 1955 that’s now a fish hotel on this small beach and famous sight. The fine, soft sand stretches wide; families set up for the day, while kids splash in the knee-deep shallows. I love the mix of easy lounging and a hint of adventure—snorkel here at midday when the sun turns the wreck into a kaleidoscope. This south-facing beach is best from late May to September, with gentle waves and water that warms up fast—a great choice for those visiting Caprera with kids or looking for popular beaches with easy access on the Caprera Island.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Drive south from Caprera town toward Punta Rossa—the beach has parking close by, a rare luxury on the island of Caprera. Nearby, the Sentiero di Punta Rossa walking trail leads to windswept cliffs and views over to Spargi, a nearby island of the isola di La Maddalena. For a quieter alternative, try Cala Brigantina further east—less sand, more rocks, but a sense of wild isolation on the coast of Caprera. The Cala di Trana viewpoint, a short walk inland, is a local favorite for sunset drinks—bring a bottle and watch the light turn gold. Arrive midweek for elbow room; weekends see a lively, but friendly, mix of locals and visitors exploring the beautiful beaches around Caprera.
- Pro: Large, easy-access sandy beach with shallow, safe swimming—ideal for families and lazy afternoons.
- Con: Can get crowded on summer weekends; bring your own shade and refreshments.
Best For: Families, snorkelers, and anyone who wants a classic Sardinian beach day without a trek.
Skip If: You crave total seclusion; Cala Caprarese or Cala Andreani offer more solitude on the island in the archipelago.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia del Relitto Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Cala Lunga — Mediterranean clifftop resort with private beaches and gourmet dining facilities.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Excelsior — City center hotel with great service and walking distance to ferry terminals.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Riccio Hotel — Air-conditioned rooms with on-site bar and free private parking just 5 minutes from seafront.
3. Cala Napoletana Beach: Pink Rocks, White Sand, Wild Boars
A double crescent of flour-soft sand, edged by wind-sculpted pink granite and glowing turquoise, gives Cala Napoletana an almost otherworldly vibe—especially when wild boars snuffle past in the early morning quiet (don’t leave food unattended!). The snorkeling here is superb, with rocky outcrops hiding colorful fish. I hiked in from the Arbuticci parking lot near the history of Caprera sites, following a clear but sometimes rugged 40-minute trail—wear hiking sandals, as this part of the island rewards hiking enthusiasts. Best visited May–September, when the water is warm and the sun generous—truly one of the best ones on the island for dramatic scenery.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at the Arbuticci lot near the Giuseppe Garibaldi Memorial, then follow the marked trail north. The route passes through Mediterranean macchia, past granite tors, and ends at two beaches—pick the quieter one to the right. For more adventure, continue on the coastal path to Cala Caprarese—one of Caprera’s wildest, least-visited coves, nestled on the east side of Caprera. Locals swear by the early morning light at Cala Napoletana—arrive by 9am for the full effect. If you want a view, climb the hill behind the beach for a panorama of the Maddalena Archipelago and nearby island of Giardinelli—see in Caprera the best of what this wild island has to offer.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery, soft sand, and superb snorkeling—a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.
- Con: No facilities, and the walk can be challenging in summer heat; pack food, water, and sturdy shoes.
Best For: Adventurous couples, photographers, and anyone seeking raw natural beauty.
Skip If: You want amenities or an easy stroll; Spiaggia del Relitto or Cala Garibaldi are easier choices.
Best Hotels near Cala Napoletana Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- LE NEREIDI Hotel & Residence — Maddalena National Park resort with indoor pool, tennis courts and spa services.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Villa Del Parco — Perfect base for exploring Garibaldi Memorial sites and hiking trails around Caprera.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Excelsior — Clean accommodations with friendly staff and central location for island exploration.
4. Cala Caprarese Beach: The Wild One
This is the beach you earn—a tiny, pristine cove reached by a rough, poorly marked trail from Cala Napoletana (or by sea), showcasing the wild side of Caprera’s most beautiful beaches. I scrambled down the last stretch, feet sliding on pink granite, and was rewarded with silence, shallow turquoise water, and sand so fine it squeaks. There’s not a sunbed or bar in sight—just you, the breeze, and maybe a passing boat. Cala Caprarese is best in June and September, when water and air temperatures are perfect for long, lazy swims—a great spot for those who explore Caprera for its secluded coasts and inlets, connected to the island’s rugged natural beauty.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
There’s no parking, no kiosk, no lifeguard—just raw nature, as you’d expect on the coast of Caprera. The trailhead starts near Cala Napoletana; follow the faint path along the coast, but don’t attempt it without proper shoes and plenty of water. Cala Garibaldi and Cala Serena are within hiking distance for those with energy to spare, both offering stunning beaches and a taste of the wild island. Locals prize this bay for total escape—it’s the place to float in solitude, listen to seabirds, and forget the world. Come early in the morning or late in the day to have it to yourself—this is one of the best ways to experience the beaches and coves of the Caprera Island.
- Pro: Ultimate seclusion, unspoiled scenery, and water so clear you can see your toes.
- Con: Hard to reach, no facilities, and not suitable for young children or those unsteady on their feet.
Best For: Adventurers, romantics, and anyone craving a true “away from it all” experience.
Skip If: You need convenience or amenities; Cala Garibaldi or Spiaggia del Relitto are better for easy days.
Best Hotels near Cala Caprarese Beach
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Excelsior — Safe, clean base for accessing Caprera’s remote beaches and hiking trails.
- Riccio Hotel — Budget-friendly option with free Wi-Fi and convenient seafront location.
5. Cala Garibaldi Beach: History, Shallow Sands, and Safe Swimming
Giuseppe Garibaldi spent his last years on the Caprera Island, and today, families spread towels on the soft sand while kids paddle in the gentle, shallow waters that make this beautiful beach a top pick for those visiting Caprera with children. The vibe is relaxed, the views stretch toward the island of La Maddalena, and there’s a sense of history in the air—Giuseppe Garibaldi Memorial is just a short walk inland. I watched a school of tiny fish dart around my ankles as sailboats glided past—pure Caprera magic, especially for history buffs exploring the house in Caprera and the biggest memorial site. The beach is best from June to September, with calm seas and temperatures ideal for all-day swimming.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the Cala Garibaldi lot—it’s free and just a short stroll to the sand, making it one of the easiest to reach beaches on the island. A rocky trail leads west to Cala Serena, a wilder, quieter cousin worth the 20-minute walk for those exploring the coast of Caprera. The Garibaldi Memorial and the old fortifications at Arbuticci are nearby attractions for history buffs—part of the island’s rich heritage. For a local’s touch, grab a coffee in Caprera town before heading to the beach—the Bar del Porto is a low-key favorite. Arrive by mid-morning in peak season to snag a good spot—messa del cervo, a local favorite for sunrise walks, is another spot worth exploring if you’re up for a longer walk.
- Pro: Easy access, safe swimming, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe—plus a dash of history.
- Con: Can feel busy in July and August; if you want solitude, opt for Cala Caprarese or Cala Andreani.
Best For: Families, couples, and anyone who wants a hassle-free beach day on Caprera.
Skip If: You seek wild isolation; Cala Caprarese or Cala Serena are quieter options.
Best Hotels near Cala Garibaldi Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Excelsior — City center location 2 minutes’ walk from ferries to Palau with free public parking.
- Hotel Villa Marina — Renewed ancient villa in residential area near Admiralty Square and shopping center with free WiFi.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Ilva — Express check-in/out with allergy-free rooms and shared lounge, 10-minute walk from Punta Nera Beach.
6. Cala Andreani Beach: Reachable Only by Sea
No road, no trail—just a small beach, backed by green hills, that you approach by boat, highlighting the unique charm of beaches on the Caprera Island. I came with a group on a half-day cruise from the island of La Maddalena, jumping into water so clear I could see every shell and pebble below. The shallow bay is sheltered, making it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, and the lack of facilities means you’ll have this corner of the island of Caprera to yourself. Best months are June through early October, when the sea is warm and calm—a top pick for those wanting to see the quieter side of Caprera.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Book a boat from La Maddalena or Palau—many tours stop here as part of exploring the archipelago of La Maddalena. Bring your own supplies (water, lunch, sunscreen), as there are zero facilities. For a bit of shade, head to the edge of the bay where pines lean over the sand. Locals love the snorkeling here—especially along the eastern rocks. For a practical tip, plan your visit for a weekday to avoid the midday cruise crowds—Cala Andreani is caprera’s most beautiful calas, even if it’s a bit harder to reach.
- Pro: Total seclusion, untouched beauty, and superb water clarity—an idyllic escape.
- Con: Only accessible by sea; if you get seasick or don’t want to book a boat, Spiaggia del Relitto or Cala Garibaldi are better choices.
Best For: Boat lovers, snorkelers, and anyone who dreams of a private bay.
Skip If: You prefer to drive or walk to the beach; Cala Garibaldi or Cala Napoletana are reachable by land.
Best Hotels near Cala Andreani Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- LE NEREIDI Hotel & Residence — Set in Maddalena National Park with 2 tennis courts, indoor pool with hydromassage jets and beauty center.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Residenza Mordini — Accommodations with seasonal outdoor pool, garden and shared lounge, 17-minute walk from Punta Nera Beach.
7. Cala Serena Beach: The Quiet Neighbor
A short, scenic hike from Cala Garibaldi brings you to this unspoiled cove, where the only sounds are waves and wind in the pines—part of the island of Caprera’s network of stunning sands and bays. I followed the trail at dawn and had the beach to myself—perfect for a meditative swim. The sand is soft, the water sheltered, and the vibe is supremely peaceful, making it a favorite for those seeking seclusion on the Caprera Island. Best visited May–September, when the water is warm and the sun generous—a great spot for early risers and nature lovers exploring around Caprera and the nearby island of Giardinelli.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at Cala Garibaldi and follow the marked trail west—about 20 minutes on foot. Bring all you need—there’s no bar or shop, and facilities are minimal on this part of the island. The Sentiero Cala Garibaldi–Cala Serena is a local favorite for sunrise walks and quiet contemplation. For a practical tip, avoid the midday sun—there’s little shade at Cala Serena, but the peace and beauty make it one of the best ones for serenity seekers on the Caprera.
- Pro: Serene, uncrowded, and easy to reach on foot from Cala Garibaldi.
- Con: No amenities or shade; bring your own supplies.
Best For: Early risers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking quiet contemplation.
Skip If: You want facilities or entertainment; Cala Garibaldi or Spiaggia del Relitto are livelier.
Best Hotels near Cala Serena Beach
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Gabbiano — Historic first hotel on La Maddalena built in 1955 with crystal clear sea views.
- Maison Madeleine — Recently renovated guest house in La Maddalena near Punta Nera Beach.
8. Spiaggia dei Due Mari (Cala Portese) Beach: Where Two Seas Meet
This south-facing small beach—also known as Cala Portese—feels like a secret, with shallow, clear water framed by dunes and juniper, offering a unique beach of the two seas experience on the coast of Sardinia, north of Sardinia. The special feature? You can swim “between two seas,” with views to either side of Caprera’s southern tip, making it a must-see for those visiting Caprera for the first time. The sand is soft, the parking easy, and the whole vibe is relaxed—a great spot for families and casual swimmers exploring the beautiful calas of the Caprera. Early summer and September are best for warm water and smaller crowds, as this lovely beach can get busy later in the season—caprera is definitely worth a visit for those seeking something different.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Drive south from Caprera town—parking is plentiful and close, making this one of the easiest beaches to reach on the island. The beach is within walking distance of the port, so you can combine a swim with a stroll to the marina and see in Caprera more of what this wild island has to offer. Locals love the west end of the beach for its quiet and the dune path to “hidden spot”—a tiny, nameless cove perfect for a private dip, loved by those in the know on the Caprera. For the best light, visit in the late afternoon, when the bay glows gold—get to Caprera’s pretty beaches early in the day for the most tranquil experience.
- Pro: Easy access, shallow safe water, and a unique “two seas” experience—great for families.
- Con: Not as dramatically scenic as Cala Coticcio or Cala Napoletana, but much easier for a quick beach stop.
Best For: Families, casual swimmers, and anyone who wants a fuss-free Caprera beach day.
Skip If: You want wild, untouched scenery; Cala Coticcio or Cala Caprarese are more dramatic.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia dei Due Mari (Cala Portese) Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Villa Del Parco — Country-style accommodations with kitchenettes just 1312 feet from Punta Tegge beach.
- Hotel Miralonga — Beachfront location with outdoor pool and stunning breakfast views on south coast of La Maddalena.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Caprera?
Expect to spend about €30–50 per day on meals and local transport, with meals in La Maddalena town averaging €15–25, and boat trips or guided hikes costing €30–50 per person—prices rise in July and August, and amenities on Caprera’s beaches are minimal.
Which beaches in Caprera are best for families with young children?
Cala Garibaldi and Spiaggia del Relitto are the best beaches on the island of Caprera for families, offering shallow, safe swimming, easy access, and calm waters—pack snacks, water, and shade as there are no bars or umbrellas on the beaches of Caprera.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Caprera?
Cala Coticcio, Cala Napoletana, and Cala Andreani are top choices for snorkeling and swimming, while the beach of Cala Portese offers calm conditions for paddleboarding and kayaking—bring your own gear, as rentals are rare on the island in the archipelago.
What is the best time of year to visit Caprera’s beaches?
Late May through September is the best time to explore Caprera for warm water (22–26°C) and sunny days, with June and early September offering fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures—avoid August weekends if you dislike busy popular beaches.
How can you easily get around Caprera’s beaches?
Caprera is best explored by car, scooter, or bike—caprera is connected to La Maddalena by bridge, so you can easily reach Caprera from there; there’s regular bus service from the island of La Maddalena to Caprera town, but beaches like Cala Coticcio and Cala Napoletana require hiking from parking areas; ferry service connects Palau and the island of La Maddalena.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Caprera?
Cala Caprarese and Cala Serena are Caprera’s quietest coves, but even Cala Coticcio and Cala Napoletana feel secluded if you visit early in the morning or in late season—local boat trips may reveal even more secret secluded beaches on the coast of Caprera.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Caprera’s beaches?
Pack water, food, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes—facilities are limited, and many beaches on the island of Caprera are environmentally protected (Cala Coticcio now requires a guide in peak months); respect local rules, carry out all trash, and avoid leaving food unattended (wild boars are common around Caprera).
