Sardinia holidays: the best beaches in Italy.
Sardinia has the clearest water and the finest beaches in Italy, from the glamour of the Costa Smeralda to wild, quiet coves. It is a destination to build a holiday around.
Sardinia is where Italians go for the sea. The water is famously clear, the beaches are extraordinary, and the island ranges from polished resorts to wild, empty coast. It is large and best treated as a destination in itself, built around a coastal base rather than added to a mainland trip.
Where you stay depends on the kind of seaside holiday you want.
Where to stay
The coast changes character around the island.
The Costa Smeralda in the north east is the famous, glamorous and expensive choice, with beautiful beaches and smart resorts around Porto Cervo. The south, around Chia and Villasimius, has some of the best beaches and a more relaxed feel. The west, around Alghero, is wilder and better value, with a lovely old town. For beaches and value, the south and west are strong.
Planning Sardinia?
We help you choose the right coast and base for your beach holiday.
Getting around
You will want a car in Sardinia. The best beaches and coves are spread out and often reached by small roads, and public transport is limited. Ferries and flights connect the island to the mainland, with the main airports at Olbia, Cagliari and Alghero. Once there, a car is what lets you find the quieter, more beautiful stretches of coast.
When to go
June and September are ideal, with warm sea, plenty of sun and fewer crowds than the August peak. July is busy and August is the Italian holiday high season, when the popular coasts and resorts are at their fullest and most expensive. Outside summer, much of the island is quiet and many coastal places close.
Pick a coast, then a base, then go.
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• Questions
Good to know
Where are the best beaches in Sardinia?
The Costa Smeralda in the north east is famous and glamorous, the south around Chia and Villasimius has superb beaches, and the west around Alghero is wilder and better value.
Do you need a car in Sardinia?
Yes. The best beaches are spread out and often reached by small roads, and public transport is limited.
When is the best time to visit Sardinia?
June and September are ideal, with warm sea and fewer crowds. July and August are busy and expensive.
Is Sardinia expensive?
The Costa Smeralda is expensive, but the south and west of the island offer beautiful beaches at gentler prices.