A sea to experience

Nature

Sunlit coastal scene with a wooden dock extending over rocky shoreline. Two people relax in chairs as a small boat passes on the calm blue sea.

Discover a world of beauty around Porto Rafael, from peaceful coves and golden sandy beaches to granite promontories overlooking the La Maddalena archipelago. 

Exploring the nearby beaches means experiencing some of Sardinia’s most stunning shores, where crystal-clear waters meet pristine landscapes. Hidden bays, transparent seabeds, and the scent of Mediterranean scrub reveal the authentic charm of Gallura, inviting visitors to explore the sea with calm, curiosity, and wonder.

A wooden pier extends over clear, blue-green water, surrounded by large rocks and lush green bushes; the scene conveys tranquility and natural beauty.
A person sits on large coastal rocks with a distant cityscape and mountains under a clear sky at sunset. A wooden pier with a ladder is on the right.

Cala di Trana

Rocky cove with vibrant turquoise water, surrounded by lush green hills and large boulders. A serene, secluded beach under a clear blue sky.

Peace among the rocks

Nestled between two rocky promontories, Cala di Trana is a 200-meter cove perfect for tranquility. A scenic 45-minute trail through Mediterranean scrub and granite rocks leads to turquoise and emerald waters. Without beach facilities, it offers an authentic, peaceful experience.
Access: scenic trail | Walking distance: 45 min | Facilities: none | Recommended activities: snorkeling, trekking, relaxation
Copyright: @Carlottaddeluca

Spiaggia di Talmone

Sandy beach with clear, shallow water and large rocks under a bright blue sky. A person sits near the water's edge, evoking a peaceful, serene atmosphere.

Snorkeler’s paradise

Composed of small rocky coves, Spiaggia di Talmone features light gray granite rocks and ideal snorkeling seabeds. The water shifts from emerald green to deep blue, offering spectacular views of the La Maddalena archipelago.
Access: scenic trail | Walking distance: 10–15 min | Facilities: limited | Activities: snorkeling, photography
Copyright: Palau Turismo Official

Spiaggia di Porto Pollo

Kitesurfers with colorful kites glide over a calm sea alongside a sailing boat. Dry grasses sway in the foreground under a soft, pale sky.

Where the surfers fly

A short drive from Porto Rafael, Porto Pollo is a haven for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing thanks to constant winds. Behind the beach, dunes of lavender, mastic, and juniper; in front, clear waters perfect for energy and adventure.
Access: direct | Facilities: beach clubs, surf schools | Activities: windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing
Copyright: Alex Moling

Isola dei Gabbiani

Aerial view of a picturesque island surrounded by turquoise and deep blue ocean waters. Sandy beaches curve around lush greenery, conveying a serene, tropical vibe.

Two beaches, one paradise

Connected to the mainland by a thin sandbar, the island features two beaches: Spiaggia di Ponente, exposed to wind and ideal for water sports, and Spiaggia di Levante, sheltered and peaceful, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Access: direct | Facilities: beach clubs | Activities: surfing, swimming
Copyright: Isola dei Gabbiani

Cala Scilla

Rocky coastline with clear turquoise water, large boulders, and lush green vegetation under a bright blue sky, conveying a serene, natural beauty.

Natural pools among the rocks

Small and intimate, Cala Scilla is a rocky bay where large boulders rise from clear waters, forming crevices and natural pools perfect for snorkeling and calm swims.
Access: scenic trail | Walking distance: 15–20 min | Facilities: none | Activities: snorkeling
Copyright: Palau Turismo Official

Cala Martinella

Rocky coastline with clear turquoise water and a small sandy beach. A rustic stone building with a green door sits among lush greenery under a clear blue sky.

The hidden gem

Surrounded by pink granite rocks and Mediterranean scrub, Cala Martinella enchants with crystal-clear waters and fine sand. A small pier invites dives, while the fish-rich seabed makes snorkeling unforgettable.
Access: trail | Walking distance: 10 min | Facilities: limited | Activities: snorkeling, swimming
Copyright: Porto di Olbia

Cala Corsara

Clear turquoise waters stretch across the tranquil beach with smooth rocks in the foreground. A boat floats in the distance under a bright blue sky.

The pirate’s cove

On southern Spargi Island, Cala Corsara is a wild paradise set in a dramatic cove. Accessible only by boat, it captivates with waters ranging from turquoise to deep blue—a timeless escape.
Location: Spargi Island – La Maddalena Archipelago | Access: by boat only | Activities: snorkeling, swimming
Copyright: Zefiro Experience

Spiaggia Rosa di Budelli

Spiaggia di Budelli

A unique charm

Famous for its pink sand made of coral, granite, and shells, Spiaggia Rosa is a symbol of La Maddalena. To protect it, beach access is restricted, but its beauty can be admired from the sea or via panoramic boardwalks.
Location: Budelli Island – La Maddalena Archipelago | Access: regulated via sea and guided boardwalks | Protection: marine protected area

Cala Coticcio

Rocky coastal landscape with clear turquoise water and a small sandy beach. Surrounding green shrubs add a vibrant contrast to the serene scene.

The little Tahiti

Nicknamed “Tahiti” for its intense turquoise waters, Cala Coticcio on Caprera Island is framed by pink rocks and Mediterranean scrub. Sheltered from winds, it is accessible by boat or via authorized guides on land, perfect for snorkeling and swimming in pristine waters.
Location: Caprera Island – La Maddalena Archipelago | Access: trekking or boat | Walking distance: 45 min (with guide)
Copyright: Sardegna Turismo

Cala Napoletana

Aerial view of a serene coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters and sandy coves surrounded by rocky terrain and lush green shrubs under a bright blue sky.

A world suspended on water

Cala Napoletana’s waters are so clear that boats appear to float above them. Beneath the surface, colorful fish animate the seabed, while white sand, wind-polished rocks, and Mediterranean scrub create a harmonious, intimate landscape.
Location: Caprera Island – La Maddalena Archipelago | Access: trekking path | Walking distance: 40–50 min
Copyright: Coast Magazine

A world of beauty

A hilltop fortress

Monte Altura – where military history meets panoramic peace
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Ancient stone fortress atop a rocky hill, surrounded by sparse bushes, under a clear blue sky. Warm lighting gives the scene a historic, serene feel.

The Stazzo heritage

Palau’s Ethnographic Museum tells a rich story of the land.
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Four rustic cast iron skillets hang on a wooden cabin wall. The vintage pans have a worn, textured appearance, evoking a sense of nostalgia.

The bear above the sea

A spectacular natural sculpture wrapped in myth and legend.
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Rock formation on a coastal cliff with intricate natural arches and holes, under a clear blue sky. The scene feels rugged and majestic.

Lighthouse excursion

Reach the historic lighthouse on foot or by sea — steeped in charm and legend.
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A serene coastal landscape with a rocky foreground and a small white lighthouse, overlooking a calm blue sea. Distant mountains provide a tranquil backdrop.

From dunes to shore

Two rocky headlands cradle the beauty of Cala di Trana
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A person in a blue swimsuit floats joyfully on their back in clear, sunlit water. The scene conveys a sense of relaxation and freedom.

Giants of the past

A small Giant’s Tomb with immense charm.
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Aerial view of a stone structure shaped like a keyhole surrounded by lush green trees. A dirt path runs alongside, creating a serene, natural setting.

Church of Santa Rita

Commissioned by Count Rafael, dedicated to Saint Rita, patron of artists.
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View through partially open green doors into a small chapel with religious statues, floral arrangements, and a tiled floor, conveying a serene atmosphere.

The Count’s Descent

A granite stairway linking the little church to the piazzetta
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A serene garden scene at sunset features lush greenery and a tall tree. A white wall with framed photos and a small sign creates a peaceful atmosphere.

The piazzetta of Porto Rafael

The piazzetta of Porto Rafael is the place where Rafael Neville’s dream comes to life.
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Charming Mediterranean scene of Porto Rafael, with white buildings, lush greenery, and umbrellas shading a patio. Relaxed, sunny ambiance.