Guide to the most beautiful beaches and how to get there
The Costa Smeralda, in northeastern Sardinia, is synonymous with crystal-clear sea, white sand, and breathtaking views. Its bays and coves, nestled between granite rocks and Mediterranean scrub, are among the most iconic in the Mediterranean.
This guide features a selection of the area’s most beautiful beaches, with practical information on how to reach them from Olbia—by car, bus, or alternative means of transport.
Spiaggia del Principe
📍 Cala di Volpe (Arzachena)
Considered one of the pearls of the Costa Smeralda, Spiaggia del Principe takes its name from Prince Karim Aga Khan, who loved its tranquility and charm.
The fine sand and turquoise waters create a perfect contrast with the surrounding granite rocks, offering a picture-perfect view.
How to get there:
🚗 By car: From Olbia, take the SP94 towards Porto Cervo; after about 20 km, follow the signs for Cala di Volpe and then for Spiaggia del Principe.
🚌 By bus: During the summer, several lines connect Olbia to the coastal towns, but the nearest stop is a short walk.
Liscia Ruja (Long Beach)
📍 Between Cala di Volpe and Portisco
Known as “Long Beach,” Liscia Ruja is one of the longest and widest beaches on the Costa Smeralda. Golden sand, clear water, and shallow waters make it perfect for those seeking tranquility and space.
How to get there:
🚗 By car: From Olbia, take the SP94 towards Porto Cervo; after about 15 km, follow the signs for Liscia Ruja on the right.
🚌 By bus: Summer lines go to Abbiadori or Porto Cervo; from there, you can continue by taxi or local shuttle.
Capriccioli
📍 Cala di Volpe Area, Arzachena
Capriccioli is one of the most beloved beaches on the Costa Smeralda. Divided into two sections—east and west—it features pale sand and shallow waters, perfect for families and children.
Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and smooth rocks, it offers a natural setting of great charm.
How to get there:
🚗 By car: From Olbia, take the SP94 towards Porto Cervo and, after about 18 km, follow the signs for Capriccioli.
🚌 By bus: Summer connections from Olbia to Porto Cervo, by taxi or short walk to the beach.
Grande and Piccolo Pevero
📍 Porto Cervo
The beaches of Grande Pevero and Piccolo Pevero form two semicircular bays of fine white sand, lapped by transparent waters.
Frequented by tourists and celebrities, they offer beach clubs, restaurants, and services, while maintaining a charming natural setting.
How to get there:
🚗 By car: From Olbia, follow the SP94 to Porto Cervo and then follow the signs for Le Spiagge del Pevero.
🚌 By bus: Direct lines to Porto Cervo; the beaches are easily reached on foot or by local taxis.
Rena Bianca (Portisco)
📍 Portisco, between Olbia and Porto Cervo
Rena Bianca in Portisco is a fine, white sand beach with shallow waters and a sandy bottom, ideal for families with children.
Thanks to its proximity to the marina, it also offers restaurants and refreshments in the immediate vicinity.
How to get there:
🚗 By car: From Olbia, take the SS125 towards Arzachena, then follow the signs for Portisco. The beach is located next to the port.
🚌 By bus: Direct connections between Olbia and Portisco; from the bus stop, the beach is a few minutes’ walk away.
Useful tips for visiting the Costa Smeralda
🚗 Car rental: the most convenient option for exploring the beaches at your own pace. All major companies are present at Olbia–Costa Smeralda Airport.
🚌 Public transportation: in summer, routes to the seaside resorts increase in frequency (check the official ARST or Turmo Travel websites for updated schedules).
🛵 Bike or scooter: ideal for getting to the nearest beaches and solving parking problems.
The Magic of the Costa Smeralda
From the transparent waters of Capriccioli to the views of Liscia Ruja, the Costa Smeralda is a paradise that combines nature, elegance, and freedom.
Each beach reveals a different side of Sardinia: authentic, luminous, and unforgettable.
