You’re planning a trip to Sardinia’s glimmering Costa Smeralda, and you want the best beaches in Costa Smeralda at your fingertips. This guide, from my own two weeks exploring northern Sardinia, puts 10 unforgettable white sand and rocky coves on your radar, with plenty of insider details on each. If you value quiet, beauty, and genuine local flavor — without the crowds — this is for you. Pack light, and let’s explore together.
Best Hotels in Costa Smeralda🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Delle Rose — Arzachena
- 🏨 4-Star: Appartamento Taras Sottovento — Porto Cervo
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Monolocale Zona Porto Rotondo
- 💸 Cheap: Locanda Nina e Lu Entu di Supra — Cugnana
- 🏢 Apartment: Palazzo Beddoro — San Pantaleo
- 👪 For Families: I Tamarici — Arzachena
- 🏩 For Couples: Casa Vacanze Arzachena
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Family-Friendly Bay — Liscia Ruja Beach
- 🐚 Secret Hideaway — Capriccioli Beach
- 💎 Jewels of the Coast — Pevero Beach
- 🌊 Cliffside Drama — Cala di Volpe Beach
- 🌄 Golden Horizons — Rena Bianca Beach
- 🤿 Diver’s Delight — Principe Beach
- ✨ Luxury & Light — Porto Cervo Beach
- 🌿 Seaside Walk — Romazzino Beach
- 🛶 Boatman’s Cove — Cala Granu Beach
- 🌳 Green Sanctuary — Petra Manna Beach
1. Liscia Ruja Beach: The Classic Emerald Experience
Sip a coffee and feel the sun on your face as you watch families play in turquoise shallows — Liscia Ruja is Sardinia at its most welcoming among the beautiful beaches of the Emerald Coast. I remember strolling past the fishermen cleaning their nets near the parking area, enjoying the gentle buzz of a real Mediterranean morning inspired by the Aga Khan era that shaped this coastline. This is a long beach of fine white sand, about 1.5km, with calm, clear water from June to September and plenty of beaches in the area for gentle strolls.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Start your day with a walk along Liscia Ruja’s waterfront promenade (Passeggiata Liscia Ruja), where local restaurants serve fresh seafood and gelato at one of the most beautiful beaches in this stretch. Nearby, the lively Porto Rotondo market offers handmade crafts and summer fashion along with tips on other beaches in the area. Ask a local to point you to the small rocky inlet just east of the main beach — it’s where Sardinian families picnic, shaded by juniper trees, with views that recall why the Aga Khan fell for this coast.
- Pro: Calm, shallow water and plenty of space — ideal for families.
- Con: Can get crowded in peak season; parking fills by noon.
Best / Skip:
Liscia Ruja is best for families, swimmers, and anyone seeking easy beach days. Skip if you want wild, untouched nature — for that, head to the northern coves near La Maddalena.
Best Hotels near Liscia Ruja Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Delle Rose — Arzachena — Surrounded by 25,000 m² parkland with panoramic swimming pool, hot tub, and direct access to Liscia Ruja Beach.
- Seahouserent — Cannigione — Coastal apartments in Cannigione with self-catering comfort, close to the marina and boat trips to the La Maddalena Archipelago.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- 50m from 2 Private Beaches — Stunning Sea View — Beachfront apartment in Marinella with balcony, private beach area access, and wide sea views, ideal for easy walks to sand and sunset swims.
- Borgo Smeraldo — Arzachena — Refined countryside retreat with pool and restaurant, a short drive to Capriccioli and Principe beaches, perfect for a quiet Costa Smeralda base.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- L’Emozione by Lu Stazzu — Arzachena — Country-style rooms and suites within the Lu Stazzu rural estate, featuring a garden, on-site restaurant, and a quiet base close to Costa Smeralda.
2. Capriccioli Beach: Intimate Coves & Azure Waters
Step onto soft sand and let the scent of wild rosemary drift through the air as you gaze at shimmering emerald green water and dramatic pink granite boulders that long ago captivated prince karim aga khan. I once found a tiny cove just off the main stretch, hidden behind a dune, where locals go to sun in peace near spiaggia del principe. Capriccioli is actually two sandy coves (Grande and Piccolo), each about 150m, with excellent swimming and gentle waves in July and August for couples, photographers, and the rich and famous. It’s a hotspot for couples, photographers, and snorkelers.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Capriccioli’s car park is about 300m from the water, shaded by Mediterranean scrub admired by the rich and famous. Climb the rocky outcrop beside the main beach for sweeping views of Cala di Volpe Bay and the emerald green shallows that mirror spiaggia del principe on calmer days. At the western end, look for a small freshwater spring that locals splash in after salt water dips, a simple pleasure that even charmed prince karim aga khan when this coast first rose to fame.
- Pro: Dreamy coves, clear water, fantastic for snorkeling and photography.
- Con: Limited parking, and the main stretch fills quickly with families.
Best / Skip:
Capriccioli is best for couples, those who love swimming, and photographers after that perfect Sardinian light. If you prefer open vistas and easy access, try Liscia Ruja or Porto Cervo.
Best Hotels near Capriccioli Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Meravigliosa — Liscia di Vacca — Just 50 meters from Capriccioli beach with sea-view Sardinian restaurant, seawater pool, and elegant Mediterranean décor.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Azienda Multifunzionale S'Ozastro — Rural-style property with rooftop pool and garden near Marinella, offering air‑conditioned apartments within easy reach of Olbia and the coast.
- Private Villa with Pool — Pantogia — Panoramic Porto Cervo hill location with private swimming pool and terrace, set between Pevero’s sandy bays and the marina.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Petra Magica — Arzachena — Cozy Sardinian hideaway with stone-accent design and outdoor space, ideal for scenic drives to Capriccioli, Liscia Ruja, and Porto Cervo.
3. Pevero Beach: Powder-Sand & Exclusivity
Here, the sand is impossibly fine, almost flour-like under your toes, and the water is so clear you can see every stone beneath the surface on one of the most beloved beaches on the Costa Smeralda in the northeast of Sardinia. I lunched at the rustic beach bar, watching the yachts drift by, then strolled to the headland for unmatched views down this crescent bay among the beaches of the Costa that many count among the best beaches in Sardinia. Pevero’s main stretch is about 200m, lined with dunes, with calm waters from May through October on this classic Costa Smeralda beach. It’s a magnet for the stylish and serene — think elegant picnics, not beach parties.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Follow the wooden walkways from the parking lot (signposted from Porto Cervo), past fragrant maquis, until the beach opens up before you with sightlines to other beaches on the Costa Smeralda nearby. The main snack bar serves classic Sardinian snacks; ask for their pistoccu, a local crispbread, as you scan the coastline that defines the beaches of the Costa in the northeast of Sardinia. For a quieter spot, seek out the tiny bays at either end of Pevero, never crowded and favored by local snorkelers who often hop between this Costa Smeralda beach and nearby coves.
- Pro: Stunning white sand, calm and clear water, perfect for slow beach days.
- Con: Facilities are limited; bring your own shade and snacks.
Best / Skip:
Pevero suits those who want tranquil beauty and don’t mind a little extra walk. If you crave shade and amenities, look to Liscia Ruja instead.
Best Hotels near Pevero Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Princes Apartment PortoCervoBEACH — Piccolo Pevero — A Luxury Collection property surrounded by lush Mediterranean landscape with private beach access, world-class spa, and gourmet dining.
- Paradiso Sul Pevero — Porto Cervo — Apartment overlooking Pevero Bay, ideal for sunrise swims and quick walks to the sandy crescents of Piccolo and Grande Pevero.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Lussuosa Dimora Vista Mare con Piscina e Spiaggia a 300 MT — High-end villa with seasonal pool, gardens, and access to a small private beach, offering elevated views near Pevero Beach.
- Villa Roccia — Porto Rotondo — Two-bedroom villa with pool access, BBQ area, and sea-view terrace close to Spiaggia Ira and Marinella.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Palazzo Beddoro — San Pantaleo — Elegant village stay in artistic San Pantaleo, with characterful interiors and an easy stroll to cafes, galleries, and the weekly market.
4. Cala di Volpe Beach: Glamour & Granite Drama
Sheltered between dramatic pink rocks and luxury resorts, Cala di Volpe is a dazzling spot to people-watch, if you enjoy glimpsing the yacht set in its element on one of the classic beaches of the Costa Smeralda. The water glows green and blue, while the sand is soft and clean, a coastal vignette that sums up why so many favorite beaches lie along the Olbia Costa Smeralda shoreline. I spent a morning here, watching the light shift over the famous Capo Ferro lighthouse, thinking about nearby prince’s beach and other sheltered beaches and coves that dot this coast.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
The Cala di Volpe car park is close to the town of Porto Cervo, and from here a boardwalk leads down to the beach, past a small market selling Italian beachwear and local crafts often featuring maps of the beaches of the Costa Smeralda. The northern end of Cala di Volpe has a little jetty where kids like to jump in, and on calm days the curve of the bay recalls the intimacy of prince’s beach without the walk-in approach. At sunset, join locals at the rocky peninsula for a simple, informal picnic with a view that sweeps back toward the Olbia Costa Smeralda headlands and some of their favorite beaches.
- Pro: Glamorous scene, stunning rock formations, and shallow water.
- Con: Small, gets crowded quickly, and parking is expensive.
Best / Skip:
Ideal for couples and anyone who enjoys a bit of sparkle and scenery. If you want peace or space, try Cala Granu or Rena Bianca.
Best Hotels near Cala di Volpe Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Stazzu La Piredda — Arzachena — Traditional “stazzu”-style country retreat with rustic charm, panoramic greenery, and a quiet location within easy reach of northern Sardinia beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- VivimiHome Mare e relax nel cuore di Porto Rotondo — Central apartment with terrace and balcony, walkable to Piazza San Marco and an easy stroll to Ira Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Las Rocas — Bright apartment with kitchenette and balcony, a practical base to reach Cannigione’s harbor and the beaches around Baja Sardinia.
5. Rena Bianca Beach: Golden Sands & Soft Surf
Soft, pale sand slopes gently into the sea, inviting everyone — toddlers, paddlers, and paddleboarders — to wade in, and it’s easy to see why local guide favorites rank this among family-friendly bays when you visit the Emerald Coast. One morning, I watched a group of local surfers riding small, steady waves, and joined them for a swim in the protected bay before heading south later to watch sunset near beach clubs along the coast. This is a shorter, sandy beach, about 80m, with safe swimming from May to October and good conditions for board sports that also tempt day-trippers from Grande Pevero Beach.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Rena Bianca is near Santa Teresa di Gallura, with a convenient car park (signposted from the town’s main square) that makes it simple to visit the Emerald Coast on a relaxed day trip. Snack bars and a handful of boutiques line the tree-shaded promenade behind the beach, and locals often suggest a late-afternoon detour for music at Phi Beach in Baja Sardinia after a swim. For a quieter stretch, walk south to a small, hidden inlet overlooked by locals, then time your return when the wind shifts; the best time for paddleboarding is when the wind is from the northwest, usually in the afternoon, while those chasing beach clubs may linger till golden hour.
- Pro: Gentle surf, soft sand, and family-friendly.
- Con: Not as wild or dramatic as other Sardinian beaches.
Best / Skip:
Best for families and water sports fans, not ideal for quiet seclusion — for that, head to Principe Beach.
Best Hotels near Rena Bianca Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Appartamento Porto Rotondo Rudargia — Practical apartment near Porto Rotondo’s Rudargia area, walkable to bars and the marina, with quick access to Marinella’s sandy shores.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Loft Via Della Marina — Porto Rotondo — Stylish loft near the waterfront promenade and marina, convenient for dining and boat trips around the Gulf of Marinella.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Citti — Arzachena — Simple, well-located hotel on Viale Costa Smeralda with seasonal pool and free parking, convenient for road trips around northern Sardinia.
6. Principe Beach: Sardinia’s Secret Gem
Every so often, you find a beach that feels untouched, even in high season. Principe is the gold standard — a sheltered cove with powdery sand that glows in the morning light. I wandered here at sunrise and found it blissfully empty, save for the lapping of waves on a pristine shore. The beach is about 100m, framed by fragrant juniper trees and granite boulders, offering privacy from mid-May onwards.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Principe is reached via a bumpy, scenic dirt track from Capriccioli; parking is limited to a dozen cars. Follow the marked path through the maquis, and soon you’ll see the famous green rocks that give the emerald coast its name. Look for the tiny, hidden inlet at the eastern end, where locals swim in peace and collect smooth stones. If you hike, you’ll find a small granite promontory with panoramic views of the bay. The best time to visit is before 11am or after 5pm, when the day-tripper boats have left.
- Pro: Unspoiled, uncrowded, and picture-perfect.
- Con: Access is tricky (no public transport, rough track), and there are no facilities.
Best / Skip:
Ideal for adventurers and anyone seeking serenity in nature. Skip if you need amenities — Cala di Volpe or Porto Cervo have more to offer.
Best Hotels near Principe Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Rena Bianca 317 — Santa Teresa Gallura — Apartment set close to the golden sands of Rena Bianca, a comfortable base for exploring Capo Testa and the northern coastline.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villa Molara — Baja Sardinia — Guesthouse-style stay with garden and terrace near Baja Sardinia, a short drive to soft-sand beaches and the La Maddalena ferry at Palau.
7. Porto Cervo Beach: The Heartbeat of the Coast
This is where the world comes to sunbathe, sip spritzes, and stroll the marina along the famed Smeralda Coast. The water is calm, the sand is soft, and the people-watching is first-class on this white beaches stretch of the northeastern coast of Sardinia. I spent an afternoon here, wandering from the polished promenade to the quaint shops of the Costa Smeralda Consortium, then dipped my feet in the shallows as the sun was setting on this iconic part of Sardinia. The beach is about 200m, with gentle waves from June to October, and smaller coves just south of Porto Cervo if you prefer quieter corners.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Porto Cervo’s commercial core is just steps from the sand, making it easy to grab an espresso or an artisan gelato before you explore the promenades and viewpoints that define the Smeralda Coast. The marina, designed by architect Luigi Vietti, is worth a slow walk, and the small chapel above the bay is a favorite for quiet moments with views across the northeastern coast of Sardinia. For a less touristy experience, head to the eastern end of the beach, near the lighthouse, where Sardinian families gather with picnics on one of the most photogenic white beaches.
- Pro: Central, accessible, and full of energy.
- Con: No natural shade, and the vibe is more social than serene.
Best / Skip:
Best for those who want to be in the center of the action, with easy access to everything. If you seek tranquility, look north to Capriccioli or south to Cala Granu.
Best Hotels near Porto Cervo Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Sunset Suite 010 — Porto Rotondo — Modern suite option in Porto Rotondo known for sunset views, a smart base for exploring the Gulf of Marinella and nearby coves.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Apartments Nicole — Arzachena — Convenient apartment-style stay with kitchen facilities and easy driving access to Cannigione, Baja Sardinia, and Porto Cervo beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Appartamento Monte Mare — Arzachena — Comfortable apartment with kitchen and washing machine, set in Arzachena town for easy access to supermarkets and coastal day trips.
8. Romazzino Beach: Understated Elegance
Romazzino’s fine, pale sand is so soft you almost forget you’re on a beach — it’s more like a beach with fine grains leading down to the sea on one of Costa Smeralda’s gorgeous beaches. I arrived early, watched the mist burn off the water, and lingered till noon, when the scent of wild lavender filled the air near pink beach hues in the rocks. The beach is about 300m, stretching between two granite outcrops, with calm, clear water from May through October, ideal for leisurely swims and quieter breaks from popular beaches nearby.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Reach Romazzino by a small, signposted road from Porto Cervo, with ample parking above the bay if you’re scouting the longest beach options later at Liscia Ruja for comparison. A few chic beach bars dot the shoreline, but for a quiet slice of the coast, walk to the northern end, near the pink rocks, where locals have their picnics after days at beaches like Cala di Volpe and other beaches like Cala nearby. The best time for a swim is late morning, when the sea is perfectly calm and the light luminous, and after a dip you can follow the headland path toward nearby coves before heading to the best restaurants in Porto Cervo for lunch.
- Pro: Long, quiet, and almost impossibly scenic — great for couples and small groups.
- Con: Not much in the way of amenities or shade.
Best / Skip:
Best for lovers of quiet beauty and long, lazy swims. If you want creature comforts or a lively social scene, opt for Porto Cervo Beach.
Best Hotels near Romazzino Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Exclusive Villa Bianca — Porto Rotondo — Elegant villa accommodation with bright interiors and outdoor space, set close to Porto Rotondo’s beaches and yacht-filled waterfront.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa Oleandri — Porto Rotondo — Seaside villa setting with personal beach area, garden, and terrace, ideal for exploring the Gulf of Marinella and Porto Rotondo’s marina.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Pinocchio — Arzachena — Budget-friendly hotel with an on-site pizzeria and terrace, offering free parking and a convenient base near archaeological sites.
9. Cala Granu Beach: A Local’s Escape
This snug bay is just big enough for a few dozen swimmers, with fine sand and water that sparkles in every shade of blue like the stunning beaches that first drew travelers between Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo. I met a local fisherman here, who told me where to find the best sea glass after a storm and pointed out how to reach the beach via the sheltered footpath when the mistral blows. Cala Granu is small (about 70m), protected from wind, and lovely for a dip from June to September, with calmer mornings that rival Piccolo Pevero Beach for clarity.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park at the small lot above the beach (signposted from the road to Liscia Ruja), then walk down the short, easy path if you want to reach the beach before the midday rush and scout the best deals on nearby kayak rentals. There’s no bar, but a mobile gelato cart sometimes sets up in the afternoon, and locals still share stories of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV launching this coastline’s modern era of chic simplicity. Grab a pasticciotto from an Olbia bakery and enjoy it here, watching yachts drift by. The beach stays quiet even in high season, best before 10am; return for a late-afternoon swim at Piccolo Pevero when the light softens.
- Pro: Tranquil, charming, and a real local feel.
- Con: No real facilities, and access is by a dirt track.
Best / Skip:
Perfect for those who want a tiny, low-key cove. If you’re with kids or want more space, try Liscia Ruja or Pevero.
Best Hotels near Cala Granu Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Casa Mariposa — Rudalza — Cozy Rudalza apartment retreat in a quiet residential area, convenient for short drives to Ira Beach and the Marinella coastline.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- WHITE — San Pantaleo — Recently renovated two-bedroom apartment with balcony and city views in charming San Pantaleo, a short drive from the Emerald Coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Marana apartments with private beach — Handy apartment collection close to Marinella Beach, ideal for relaxed stays near Porto Rotondo and the Gulf’s crystal-clear waters.
10. Petra Manna Beach: Nature’s Masterpiece
Petra Manna isn’t easy to reach, but it’s one of those rare Sardinian beaches that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a secret on a stretch where beaches often feel untouched. Fine sand, smooth pink rocks, and water like crushed glass — this is the wilder side of the emerald coast, near the beach also known as Long Beach trails farther south. I spent a morning here, watching crabs scuttle over the rocks and the occasional heron fishing in the shallows in front of the beach where the lagoon hides.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Petra Manna is a 15-minute drive from Baja Sardinia, and you’ll need a car and hiking shoes for the final descent to the beach to reach the beach safely. Park near the small church of San Giovanni, then follow the signposted path through the rocky hillside past a dusty pull-off near the beach. The beach has zero facilities, but there’s a small ice cream van at the parking area on summer afternoons in front of the beach entrance. The real highlight is the hidden lagoon behind the sand, best enjoyed early for solitude. For an easier option, head to Cala Granu, a compact bay right by the hotel and sheltered when winds rise.
- Pro: Remote, dramatic, and incredibly beautiful.
- Con: Tough access, no amenities, and not for weak ankles.
Best / Skip:
Ideal for adventurers and nature lovers, not families. If you need easy access, check out Capriccioli or Porto Cervo.
Best Hotels near Petra Manna Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Domos Pintadas — Rudalza — Quiet Rudalza apartment option with Wi‑Fi and practical amenities, well placed for Ira Beach, Punta Asfodeli, and Porto Rotondo.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Centro Servizi Marinella — Marinella — Value apartments near the services area of Marinella with quick road access to the beach, supermarkets, and coastal restaurants.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Costa Smeralda?
Costa Smeralda is Sardinia’s high-end playground, but you can enjoy a day at the beach without breaking the bank. Parking is 2–10 euros at most beaches, parasols and sun loungers cost 25–40 euros a day, and light meals at a beach bar are 15–25 euros. Keep costs down by bringing picnic supplies and enjoying free public entry at coves like Principe and Petra Manna. Summer is priciest, especially in July and August.
Which beaches in Costa Smeralda are best for families with young children?
Liscia Ruja, Rena Bianca, and Romazzino are top picks for families. They have soft sand, calm shallow water, and plenty of facilities. Capriccioli is good for older kids who can handle a short walk, while Pevero is ideal for those who want less bustle. Petra Manna and Principe are too remote for little ones.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Costa Smeralda?
Capriccioli is great for snorkeling; Cala di Volpe and Romazzino are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. The more adventurous can try windsurfing north of Porto Cervo, near the Baja Sardinia area. Most beaches are best for gentle sports, not big surf.
What is the best time of year to visit Costa Smeralda’s beaches?
May, June, and September are the best months for calm seas, warm water (22–25°C), and smaller crowds. July and August are busy, with higher temperatures and lively holidaymakers. October is good for quiet visits, though some beaches lose their bars and lifeguards.
How can you easily get around Costa Smeralda’s beaches?
The best way is by car, or you can use local buses (ARST line 501) connecting Olbia, Porto Cervo, and other main spots between Liscia Ruja and Baja Sardinia. Some beaches, like Principe and Petra Manna, require a hike after parking. Porto Cervo is accessible by public transport; other beaches are car-only.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Costa Smeralda?
Principe, Petra Manna, and the tiny coves off Capriccioli are all quieter, especially at dawn and dusk. Cala Granu is a local favorite, tranquil even in August. Most beaches in northern Sardinia, like the Maddalena archipelago, are also less packed than the main spots on the emerald coast.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Costa Smeralda’s beaches?
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat — shade is rare. Always secure valuables, and show up early or late for the best experience. Check weather conditions if you’re heading to Petra Manna or other undeveloped coves. Respect Sardinian nature by leaving nothing but footprints.
