If you’re after the best beaches in Porto Rotondo, Sardinia, you’ve found the right place. As a well-traveled expert who’s just come back from two weeks in this Mediterranean gem, I’m here to share the beaches that dazzle with natural beauty, convenience, and authentic atmosphere. Porto Rotondo sits on the northeast coast of Sardinia, where sugar-white sand, turquoise waters, and upscale marinas set the tone for a dreamy beach holiday—whether you’re lounging with a book, exploring hidden coves, or watching yachts glide by the famous Costa Smeralda coastline.
Best Hotels in Porto Rotondo🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Delle Rose Arzachena
- 🏨 4-Star: Villa Oleandri Porto Rotondo
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Locanda Nina e Lu Entu di Supra Cugnana
- 💸 Cheap: Annade Guest House
- 🏢 Apartment: Il Nido Porto Rotondo
- 👪 For Families: Apartament Porto Rotondo Rudargia
- 🏩 For Couples: VivimiHome Mare e relax nel cuore di Porto Rotondo
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Great White Sands — Spiaggia di Ira Beach
- 🌅 Quiet Cove Beauty — Spiaggia Punta Volpe Beach
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Bay — Spiaggia Marinella Beach
- 🤿 Rocky Snorkel Haven — Spiaggia dei Sassi Beach
- ⛵ Marina Buzz — Porto Rotondo Marina Beach
- 🥾 Easy Coastal Walk — Spiaggia Su Nuragheddu Beach
- 🐕 Pet-Friendly Sands — Spiaggia Rudargia Beach
- 🐚 Secluded Stones — Hruska Beach
- 🌿 Tranquil Escape — Shirley Bassey Beach
- 💦 Boating Base — Punta Nuraghe Beach
1. Spiaggia di Ira Beach: White Sands, Calm Waters, and Celebrity Flair
You’ll feel the soft, fine sand between your toes as you step onto Spiaggia di Ira, the most famous beach in Porto Rotondo. I spotted elegant yachts dotting the horizon while lounging beneath an umbrella—locals say Ira von Fürstenberg used to own a villa here, giving the beach its name. This 200-meter stretch of white sand is flat and calm, ideal for swimming and families with young kids; the water stays shallow far out, making it a safe spot to splash around. Visit between late May and early October for the best weather and calmest seas.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll from Ira Beach to the Marina di Porto Rotondo, stopping for gelato along Via Porto Rotondo as you take in the beautiful beach scenery and crystal clear, clear water typical of the beaches of Porto Rotondo. For a quieter morning, head to the tiny neighboring Spiaggia Rudargia—locals love its peaceful vibe and pet-friendly zone, and there are nearby beaches toward Cala Sabina and Golfo Aranci if you’re planning a longer coastal walk from Olbia or even onward to Porto Cervo. Arrive before 10:30am to snag a prime spot; the beach has free parking, but it fills up quickly in high season. Don’t miss the views of Isola Tavolara from the shore—it’s a local favorite for sunset selfies.
- Pro: Shallow, calm waters make it perfect for families and less confident swimmers.
- Con: Can get crowded in peak months—arrive early or visit in shoulder season for more space.
Best For: Families, mature couples, and anyone who values convenience and gentle swimming conditions.
Skip If: You want wild waves or remote, rugged scenery—try Punta Volpe instead.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia di Ira Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- VivimiHome Mare e relax nel cuore di Porto Rotondo — Compact, central apartment steps from the marina and dining, ideal for a short beach break with easy town access.
- Porto Rotondo Home with Pool Access & Sea Views — Bright holiday home offering shared pool access and a balcony with sea views, great for relaxed evenings after the beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Porto Rotondo Luxury Penthouse — Cozy, well-equipped apartment with a handy kitchenette, ideal for relaxed stays near coastal walks and coves.
- Apartments Nicole — Bright, practical apartments with balconies and parking options, a smart base for day trips to beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Vacanza da Gabry Sardinia — Simple, well-kept holiday home with a functional kitchen, ideal for budget-friendly beach days around Porto Rotondo.
2. Spiaggia Punta Volpe Beach: Quiet Cove with Dramatic Views
Punta Volpe is a crescent-shaped cove with coarse, golden sand and a backdrop of dramatic granite cliffs—you’ll hear only the lap of waves and the occasional cry of seagulls. I walked barefoot along the shoreline one quiet afternoon and found a spot beneath a fragrant juniper bush, where locals often escape the midday sun. The water gets deep quickly here, so this beach is best for confident swimmers and snorkelers; the rocky seabed is great for marine life, but bring water shoes. July and August are busiest, but even then, it’s never packed.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park at the end of the access road and walk a short path to the small beach—the last hundred meters are best on foot in this picturesque Gallura destination. Bring your own shade; trees are scarce and the low Mediterranean vegetation offers limited cover near the center of Porto Rotondo. After a swim, explore the coastal path to Spiaggia dei Sassi for a different perspective, or continue toward Spiaggia Ira to see why this Sardinian attraction is so beloved. Locals love the hidden spot behind the rocks on the eastern edge of the beach for its privacy and cool afternoon breeze before heading back to bars and restaurants in town.
- Pro: Tranquil, photogenic, and great for snorkeling in crystal-clear water.
- Con: Few amenities—pack snacks, water, and shade.
Best For: Couples, solo travelers, and anyone seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Skip If: You need lifeguards, shallow entry, or lots of services—head back to Ira Beach.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Punta Volpe Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa Oleandri Porto Rotondo — Stylish villa accommodation with garden space and outdoor seating, great for alfresco evenings after the beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Penthouse — Top-floor stay with an outdoor terrace for evening aperitivi, close to dining and the marina promenade.
3. Spiaggia Marinella Beach: Wide, White, and Well-Equipped
Marinella Beach feels like a postcard—endless white sand, calm turquoise water, and a backdrop of green maquis. I watched kids build sandcastles while a breeze carried the scent of salt and wild herbs. This 800-meter beach is one of the longest near Porto Rotondo, with gentle slopes and shallow water—perfect for families. Summer brings sunbeds, bars, and water sports, but it’s never rowdy.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the beach lot and follow the wooden walkway to the sand, where the small beach is located and remains easily accessible within walking distance of the main road. For a quieter stretch, walk east toward the less busy end with clear turquoise water that stays calm outside the peak summer season. Locals swear by the tiny beach bar Il Regolo for fresh seafood at sunset in this corner of the province. There’s a bus stop nearby, but driving is simplest, and visiting in June or September brings warm water and fewer crowds.
- Pro: Excellent facilities, lifeguards, and shallow water—great for kids.
- Con: Can feel busy in peak season, especially near the main entrance.
Best For: Families, groups, and anyone who wants convenience and reliable amenities.
Skip If: You’re looking for total seclusion—try Hruska or Shirley Bassey Beach.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Marinella Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Apartament Porto Rotondo Rudargia — Simple, practical apartment near Spiaggia Marinella Beach, a smart pick for budget-minded travelers who value a calm, local area.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Loft Via Della Marina Porto Rotondo — Contemporary loft by Via Della Marina, perfect for couples who want walkable access to cafés, waterfront strolls, and the marina.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Caletta 10 — Compact coastal apartment in a quiet nook, handy for low-key stays near coves and walking paths.
4. Spiaggia dei Sassi Beach: Pebbles, Snorkeling, and Local Charm
Spiaggia dei Sassi sits between granite cliffs, its shore a mix of coarse sand and smooth pebbles that glisten in the sun. I waded into the clear, calm water, spotting colorful fish among the submerged rocks. The beach is only about 100 meters long, but it’s a favorite for snorkeling and escaping the crowds—locals love the small, shady cove behind the main beach, hidden from view.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Arrive early to claim a spot on the free section; the lido side charges for loungers and the viewpoint is located near the path toward Spiaggia di Volpe. The beach is a short drive from the marina—park along the road and walk down, or continue 25 minutes toward the Gulf di Marinella if you want a longer coastal spin. For a local secret, find the tiny viewpoint above the beach for panoramic photos of what many consider one of the most beautiful corners of the bay. Visit in late spring or the quieter summer months for tranquility and warm water.
- Pro: Excellent snorkeling, unique scenery, and a peaceful vibe.
- Con: Pebbles can be tough on bare feet—bring water shoes.
Best For: Adventurous couples, solo explorers, and snorkel lovers.
Skip If: You want classic sandy beaches or need full amenities—Marinella Beach is better.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia dei Sassi Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Porto Rotondo Luxury Penthouseo — Airy apartment with a balcony for golden-hour views, well-situated for quick drives to Ira and Spiaggia dei Sassi beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Il Nido Porto Rotondo — Compact, convenient apartment close to the center, ideal for quick access to shops and evening dining.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Affitta camere da Gigi e Antonella — Friendly B&B with tidy rooms and a homestyle breakfast, great for travelers who value personal touches.
5. Porto Rotondo Marina Beach: Lively Waterfront and Yacht Views
The heart of Porto Rotondo buzzes with life, especially around the marina. I sipped a cappuccino at a café overlooking the sleek yachts, soaking up the Riviera vibe. While not a traditional beach, the marina’s pedestrianized waterfront has small sandy patches perfect for dipping your toes. There’s always something happening—boats coming and going, open-air markets, and chic bars.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll along Via degli Archi for boutiques and gelato, then relax on a bench by the water at the marina of Porto Rotondo, a classic beach resort stop when you visit Porto Rotondo to see the beautiful beaches of Porto Rotondo. Locals love the Sunday morning fish market for fresh seafood salads, and it’s a handy meeting point for planning routes to beaches near Porto Rotondo or the main beach of Porto Rotondo later in the day. The marina is fully accessible, and there’s ample parking nearby, which makes it easy to time arrivals around the best time to visit during peak season.
- Pro: Lively atmosphere, great people-watching, and easy access to town amenities.
- Con: Not a classic swimming beach—head to Ira or Marinella for sand and surf.
Best For: Couples, groups, and anyone who enjoys a mix of beach and town life.
Skip If: You’re after a day of swimming and sunbathing—choose Ira or Marinella instead.
Best Hotels near Porto Rotondo Marina Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Locanda Tartarughino — Bilocale Sole — Simple, sunny bilocale with a functional layout, good for travelers who value a quiet base near the coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Locanda Nina e Lu Entu di Supra Cugnana — Country-style guesthouse a short drive from Porto Rotondo, perfect for quiet nights and easy beach access by car.
6. Spiaggia Su Nuragheddu Beach: Quiet Cove with Scenic Walks
Su Nuragheddu is a small, peaceful beach with golden sand and a backdrop of green hills. I followed the coastal path from Ira Beach to get here—it’s an easy 20-minute walk along the shore, with great views the whole way. The water is calm and shallow, but there are no services—come prepared.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Access is on foot from Ira Beach or by car via a small parking area in the town of Porto Rotondo on the north-east of Sardinia. Locals rave about the coastal walk past Punta di Volpe as a way to escape crowds and enjoy the island of Sardinia’s natural beauty, with views stretching toward Baja Sardinia on clear days. Bring snacks and drinks—there’s no bar or beach service here, and any private beach sections nearby don’t offer facilities for passersby.
- Pro: Quiet, scenic, and perfect for a peaceful retreat.
- Con: No facilities—bring everything you need.
Best For: Couples, walkers, and those seeking solitude.
Skip If: You want amenities or easy parking—stick to Ira or Marinella Beach.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Su Nuragheddu Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Sunset Suite 010 — Modern suite with a private terrace for golden-hour views, well positioned for easy drives to beaches and the marina.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Domos Pintadas — Happy Rentals — Clean, comfortable apartment with self-catering setup, a smart pick for longer stays on the Costa Smeralda.
7. Spiaggia Rudargia Beach: Pet-Friendly and Low-Key
Rudargia is a charming little cove just south of Ira Beach, with fine sand and calm water in a beautiful bay on the island of Sardinia near Olbia. I spotted a few dogs playing in the surf—this is one of the few local beaches that welcome pets along these idyllic beaches of the Gulf of Marinella. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it never feels crowded for those exploring the pristine beaches of nearby Porto.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at the Ira Beach lot and walk south along the coast toward the Gulf of Marinella. Locals love this spot for early morning swims with their four-legged friends on some of the most idyllic beaches near Olbia. It’s best in spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the beach is quiet in this beautiful bay.
- Pro: Pet-friendly, peaceful, and easy to reach from Ira Beach.
- Con: No facilities—pack out what you bring in.
Best For: Travelers with pets, couples, and anyone who prefers a low-key vibe.
Skip If: You want full amenities or a lively scene—choose Ira or Marinella Beach.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Rudargia Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Apartment in Via del Molo — Harbor-side location near Spiaggia Rudargia and Via del Molo, great for morning coffee runs and sunset walks along the waterfront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Centro Servizi Marinella — Value-minded option close to Marinella services, convenient for quick beach runs and supermarket stops.
8. Hruska Beach: Secluded Stretch of White and Grey Pebbles
Hruska Beach is a little-known stretch of white and grey pebbles, with shallow, crystal-clear water—perfect for a quiet swim. I found it while exploring the coast on foot, and it quickly became my go-to for morning solitude. The atmosphere is serene, with only the sound of waves and seabirds.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Access is by a short walk from the main road—park near the turnoff to Punta Volpe, where the beach is within walking distance of the waterfront paths and the yacht club. Locals come here for sunrise swims and peaceful picnics at a popular beach that feels hidden despite how close Porto Rotondo is located to the headland. There are no facilities, but the organic elegance more than compensates.
- Pro: Secluded, beautiful, and off the tourist radar.
- Con: No services—bring your own supplies.
Best For: Solo travelers, couples, and anyone seeking tranquility.
Skip If: You need amenities or easy access—Marinella is your best bet.
Best Hotels near Hruska Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Tartaruga Porto Rotondo — Cheerful holiday apartment with a balcony, offering easy access to local eateries and beach day trips.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Valentina Home — Costa Smeralda Vista Mar — Airy apartment with sea-view balcony, ideal for sunset drinks and easy drives to beaches.
9. Shirley Bassey Beach: Quiet Shingle and Deep Blue Waters
Named after the singer, this small bay is lined with bright white pebbles and deep blue water that sparkles against the cliffs. I sat on a smooth rock and watched boats pass by, feeling a world away from the bustle of the main beaches. The water is calm and great for swimming, but there are no facilities—pure peace.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Reach Shirley Bassey by walking from Spiaggia dei Sassi along the coastal path—locals treasure this spot for its untouched feel and the small, hidden cove just around the corner with a wide view of the islands toward Cala di Volpe and Romazzino on clear days. Visit in the morning for the best light and solitude.
- Pro: Quiet, beautiful, and perfect for a peaceful swim.
- Con: Pebbles, not sand, and no facilities.
Best For: Couples, photographers, and solitude seekers.
Skip If: You want sand and amenities—Ira or Marinella Beach are better choices.
Best Hotels near Shirley Bassey Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Rotondo Dream Suite — Happy Rentals — Comfortable, well-furnished suite in a quiet setting, a practical pick for longer stays near Porto Rotondo’s beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Costa Esmeralda Sol y Luna — Relaxed countryside base with parking, good for couples planning day trips across the northeast of Sardinia.
10. Punta Nuraghe Beach: Rocky Bluffs and Panoramic Views
Punta Nuraghe is a stretch of coast with rocky outcrops, shallow pools, and panoramic views over the Golfo di Cugnana. I walked here from Ira Beach at low tide, spotting crabs in the tidal pools and seabirds overhead. It’s not a classic sandy beach, but the scenery is spectacular.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The best access is on foot from Ira Beach—follow the coast west at low tide, deep in the heart of the Costa Smeralda located in Porto Rotondo. Locals come here for sunrise hikes and quiet contemplation in a setting often referred to as paradise. There’s no sand to speak of, but the views and natural pools make it a unique spot.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery, great for photography and exploring.
- Con: Rocky, not suitable for swimming or sunbathing.
Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and hikers.
Skip If: You want to swim or relax on sand—head to Ira or Marinella Beach.
Best Hotels near Punta Nuraghe Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Vacanza Porto Rotondo — Self-catering holiday home with outdoor space, ideal for small groups planning beach days and relaxed home-cooked dinners.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa vacanza La Collina — Charming, well-kept apartment with a practical kitchen and balcony, ideal for easy drives to Ira and Marinella beaches and relaxed evenings near the marina.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Porto Rotondo?
Expect to spend moderately on meals, drinks, and activities, with prices higher at beach bars and marinas, especially in peak summer months—pack a picnic for midday and enjoy happy hour at waterfront cafés to save.
Which beaches in Porto Rotondo are best for families with young children?
Spiaggia di Ira and Spiaggia Marinella are perfect for families, with calm, shallow waters, lifeguards, and plenty of amenities—avoid rocky beaches like Punta Volpe and Sassi if you have small children.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Porto Rotondo?
Ira Beach offers windsurfing and paddleboarding, while Spiaggia dei Sassi is best for snorkeling—pack your own gear for the most flexibility.
What is the best time of year to visit Porto Rotondo’s beaches?
Late May through early October offers the best weather, with June and September ideal for warm seas and fewer crowds—July and August are busiest but have the most lively atmosphere.
How can you easily get around Porto Rotondo’s beaches?
Most beaches are a short drive or walk from the town center, with ample parking at Ira and Marinella—use the local bus or hire a bike for easy access to the marina and nearby coves.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Porto Rotondo?
Hruska, Shirley Bassey, and Punta Nuraghe beaches are quieter, with natural scenery and few visitors—arrive early or visit in shoulder season for the most peace.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Porto Rotondo’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for rocky beaches, arrive before 10:30am for the best parking, and pack out your trash—free beaches have fewer facilities, but the natural beauty makes it worthwhile.
