⛱️ Where to vacation in Sardinia: comparing north and south resorts

Sardinia gives you three different vacations in one week. In the morning you drink coffee in a busy port, in the afternoon you lie on white sand, in the evening you have dinner with fresh fish in a fishing village. But the coastline here stretches for hundreds of kilometers, and a first-time visitor can easily get overwhelmed. Below are 20 resorts on the island by coastline: what to choose, who it's for, and where to stay.

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Resort comparison and our picks

All 20 resorts fall into four coastlines: the northeast around Costa Smeralda, the northwest, the east, and the south. The north is more expensive and livelier, the south is calmer and greener. If you're short on time, pick one resort in the north and one in the south.

💡 In short:

In the north you'll find Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo, and Rotondo: service, yachts, and the highest prices.
In the south and east, Cagliari, Villasimius, and Costa Rei await: long sandy beaches for families.
The island's two main airports are in Cagliari and Olbia.
Resorts, beaches, and transport: as of 09/2026, verified on the official Sardinia tourism portal

Resort	Coastline	Beach	Who it's for
Porto Cervo	northeast	Liscia Ruja, Romazzino	luxury and nightlife
Cagliari	south	city sandy beach	culture and long stays
Rotondo	northeast	Spiaggia Ira, Marinella	yachts and diving
San Teodoro	northeast	sandy beaches with a gentle slope	families and parties
Santa Margherita di Pula	south	calm sea with shallows	families and history
Villasimius	south	cliffs and pine groves	peace and nature
Costa Rei	east	beaches of varying depth	active recreation
Tortolì	east	Orrì, Cea, Porto Frailis	nature and history
Marinella	northeast	white sand and shallows	families with children
Stintino	northwest	Pelosa, Pelosetta	nature and photography
Olbia	northeast	dozens of kilometers of coastline	transport hub
Alghero	northwest	city beaches	history and families
Oristano	west	lagoons and calm sea	history and eclectic charm
Capo Testa	northwest	light sand and a gentle bottom	families and diving
Cala Gonone	east	cozy coves and grottoes	hiking
Santa Maria Navarrese	east	the cleanest coastline	seclusion and history
Arbatax	east	Orrì, Ponente	nature and quiet
Castelsardo	northwest	rocky headland	history and crafts
Costa Paradiso	north	Li Cossi, Rena Bianca	families and diving
Sassari	northwest	golden beaches nearby	culture and study

1. Porto Cervo

Porto Cervo harbor with a dock and town on a hill

Porto Cervo lies in the northeast of Sardinia, in Costa Smeralda. The resort came to be thanks to Prince Aga Khan IV, who set out to create the most beautiful place on the island. Today it is a symbol of high-end travel: villas, boutiques, signature restaurants, and five-star hotels sit right above the water. Renowned architects worked on the resort's look, so the neat buildings blend into the cliffs and blue water.

For swimming, people head to Liscia Ruja and Romazzino beaches: a flat shore and everything you need for a family day. In the evening, guests go to the nightclub Billionaire, to a golf club with panoramic views, or to the restaurants Il Pescatore and La Pergola.

Who it's for: couples and families who value service and proximity to restaurants.
The catch: it's one of the most expensive resorts on the island, finding a budget option is hard.
Hotels in Porto Cervo on Trip.com

2. Cagliari

Panoramic view of Cagliari from above, lagoons and sea

Cagliari serves as the capital of Sardinia and the most convenient city for a long stay. It sits in the south of the island, on the shore of the Gulf of Angels, surrounded by sea, mountains, and old fortresses. A sandy beach stretches right by the city, with everything you need for a day by the water: rentals, showers, and cafes. Snorkeling, canoe trips, and quad bike rides are also available here.

You'll feel the city's history at the Castello di San Michele fortress, at the Roman amphitheater, and at the Basilica of San Saturnino. Set aside a separate day for the archaeological museum. The drive to Cagliari Airport is short, so the city is a convenient base for the whole trip. In winter 2026, new flights appeared: starting December 14, Wizz Air is launching two flights a day to Milan and one to Venice (as of 09/2026, Cagliari Airport).

Who it's for: those who want to combine beach, culture, and flights without extra transfers.
Hotels in Cagliari on Trip.com

3. Rotondo

Panorama of Porto Rotondo with marina and mountains

Rotondo sits in the northeast, within Costa Smeralda. The port was built in the shape of a circle, which is where the name comes from. The place was designed as a resort for affluent guests, so there are plenty of yachts, villas, and restaurants. Bridges, arches, and green streets make Rotondo resemble a little Venice.

You'll find Rotondo's main sights without a map: the Church of San Lorenzo, San Marco Square, and the open-air amphitheater. The yacht club hosts hundreds of VIP-class vessels. The beaches Spiaggia Ira, Marinella, and Spiaggia delle Rocce are set up for a comfortable day. For diving, people head to the nearby island of Tavolara.

Who it's for: those who love marinas and want to stay right next to a yacht harbor.
The catch: it's one of the most expensive areas on the island, there are almost no budget hotels.
Hotels in Rotondo on Trip.com

4. San Teodoro

Capo Coda Cavallo bay with yachts and a view of Tavolara

San Teodoro lies in the northeast of the island and suits those who value culture. Every year it hosts concerts and film festivals that draw directors and performers. Medieval monuments sit alongside green streets, boutiques, and well-known restaurants.

The surrounding nature is just as interesting: the Monti Nieddu cliffs and the Cala Girgolu area. The beaches around the town are flat, with a gradually increasing depth, so they work well for both adults and children. After sunset, the coastline turns into a dance floor for those who enjoy an Ibiza-style vacation.

Who it's for: young people and couples who want both the beach and nightlife.
Hotels in San Teodoro on Trip.com

5. Santa Margherita di Pula

Santa Margherita di Pula in the south of the island draws visitors with its scenery and lively cultural calendar. Panoramas of lakes framed by cliffs and pine groves, along with rich wildlife, deserve your attention. The sea is clean and calm, the bottom slopes gradually, and interesting underwater formations are visible below the surface.

You'll find the history of these places in the remains of Roman baths with floor mosaics and in the amphitheater. Its stands still host evenings of poetry, classical music, and theater. In summer, festivals and open-air discos fill the town's streets, so you won't be bored.

Who it's for: families with children and anyone who enjoys evening concerts.
Hotels in Santa Margherita di Pula on Trip.com

6. Villasimius

Street in Villasimius with cars and houses

Villasimius sits in the south, about an hour's drive from Cagliari. It's a quiet, sunny town with natural diversity. The coastline is clean, accompanied by cliffs and pine groves, so even in high season you'll find a secluded spot. Farms with grazing goats and cows add to the idyllic feel.

History lovers will enjoy the ancient nuraghi, and an old fortress remains within the commune. The beach, horseback riding, diving, boat trips to nearby islands, and the International Center for Experimental Art will fill your itinerary.

Who it's for: those who want peace and nature instead of nightclubs.
The catch: there aren't many hotels, shops, or entertainment options here, and evening choices are limited.
Hotels in Villasimius on Trip.com

7. Costa Rei

Panoramic view of Costa Rei with beach and sea

Costa Rei is called the "coast of kings" and lies an hour's drive from Cagliari. This cozy village in an ecologically clean area is perfect for a quiet seaside vacation. Several beaches have different depths and looks, so you can easily pick the spot that suits you.

Diving, kiting, and a trip to the nearest island provide the activity here. Culturally, Costa Rei is interesting as a living witness to ancient times. Visit the Piscina Rei megalithic complex, walk up the old trail to the Sette Fratelli mountains, and see the ruins of Su Guventu. A separate trip to Serpentara island is worth it for its marine park and the remains of a 16th-century fortress.

Who it's for: families and couples who want the sea and short excursions.
Hotels in Costa Rei on Trip.com

8. Tortolì

Turquoise sea at San Gemiliano beach in Tortolì

Tortolì serves as the main town of the Ogliastra province in the east of the island. Besides agriculture and agritourism, it offers views and historic landmarks. The Arbatax area has deposits of red stone that color the coastal cliffs a distinctive hue. Combined with the greenery, sky, and azure sea, the surroundings make for great photos.

Traces of ancient civilizations are everywhere here: the Sant'Andrea church, the Torre di San Gemiliano tower, and the San Salvatore park. You can swim at the Orrì, Cea, and Porto Frailis beaches. For walks, the La Sughereta town park offers entertainment for all ages.

Who it's for: those who want to combine history and the sea without luxury.
Hotels in Tortolì on Trip.com

9. Marinella

Marinella bay with calm water and mountains

Marinella is located south of Porto Rotondo. White sand, shallow water, and the absence of strong waves explain why this beach is loved by parents with small children, older people, and anyone who swims at a relaxed pace. The infrastructure is well developed: showers, loungers, a playground, and several bars.

The surrounding area can't boast a wide variety of venues. On the plus side, a popular neighbor with expensive restaurants, a yacht club, and boutiques is nearby. Among the local attractions, the San Lorenzo church and celebrity villas stand out.

Who it's for: families with children and those who value calm water.
The catch: few places to go nearby in the evening, you'll have to drive for dinner.
Hotels in Marinella on Trip.com

10. Stintino

Panorama of Stintino with harbor and boats

Stintino lies in the northwest of Sardinia and is famous for its snow-white coastline with a wild look. The main beaches, Pelosa and Pelosetta, let you both relax and touch history. The first faces Asinara island, the second opens a view of the 16th-century Aragonese tower. Asinara island itself is popularly called the "Devil's Island," and it is one of the region's main attractions.

Just a few decades ago, Asinara was home to Italy's main prison and a quarantine zone. Today only the wild beauty of its steep cliffs and rough sea recall that past. Stintino is first and foremost a fishing village, so be sure to try the local tuna dishes.

Who it's for: those who want wild nature and striking photos.
Hotels in Stintino on Trip.com

11. Olbia

Olbia waterfront with palm trees and a view of the bay

Olbia in the northeast serves as the center of the island's commercial, cultural, and tourist life. The port, airport, train station, and buses make it easy to get from here to any part of Sardinia. The province is rich in history: the San Paolo church, the San Simplicio basilica, and the National Archaeological Museum open it up to visitors.

You can take a walk in Fausto Noce park or in the very center of Olbia. Beaches stretch for dozens of kilometers along the Costa Smeralda. Food lovers should come in May for the Sagra delle Cozze festival, where chefs compete in preparing mussels.

Who it's for: those who want to live in a city with an airport and travel around the whole island.
Hotels in Olbia on Trip.com

12. Alghero

Panorama of Alghero with a view of the bay and mountains

Alghero sits in the northwest and stands out noticeably from other Sardinian resorts. Catalan influence is strong here, which is why the town is called little Barcelona. Start your visit in the historic center: the Church of San Michele, the Maddalena Bastion, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and old streets that have kept their original look.

The "house of witches," a tomb from the Nuragic period, will tell you about ancient times. With kids, visit Neptune's Grotto and the Mare Nostrum Aquarium. After a walk, you can relax on one of the town beaches: there are several, and each works well for families. Hotels of various star ratings, shops, and cafes fit any budget.

Who it's for: families with children and those who love Catalan architecture.
Hotels in Alghero on Trip.com

13. Oristano

Piazza Eleonora in Oristano with palm trees and historic buildings

Oristano was founded in the 9th century and appeals to those who appreciate eclecticism. The old center keeps the strictness of the Middle Ages, while the newer streets are laid out chaotically, like in small seaside villages. History has given the city many monuments: the Torre di San Cristoforo, Piazza Eleonora d'Arborea, and the cathedral.

In the outskirts you'll see an even older culture: the Phoenician city of Tharros and the island of Mal di Ventre. The city's name translates as "surrounded by lakes," and nature confirms it. Green hills, mountainous areas, and water stretching to the horizon appeal to almost everyone.

Who it's for: those who want history and lake scenery instead of beach bustle.
Hotels in Oristano on Trip.com

14. Capo Testa

Granite rocks and turquoise cove at Capo Testa

Capo Testa spreads across a cape in the northwest, where an ancient Roman quarry once operated. Fragments of columns are still visible in the sea. Almost no historical monuments remain here, but the whimsical shapes of the rocks draw tourists from all over the world. The wind-polished cliffs resemble a Martian landscape.

The rocky surroundings protect the coast from strong winds and large waves. Light sand and a gently sloping bottom make the beaches convenient for families with small children. Adults can enjoy diving, snorkeling, and jet skis here. Cuisine, hospitality, and sunny weather round out your stay.

Who it's for: families with children and lovers of unusual rock formations.
Hotels in Capo Testa on Trip.com

15. Cala Gonone

Panorama of Cala Gonone with sea and harbor

Cala Gonone belongs to the municipality of Dorgali and sits on a green hill above the Gulf of Orosei. The place attracts lovers of unspoiled nature, picnics, and long walks. Settlements existed here as far back as the Nuragic era. The Grotta del Bue Marino, with its many stalagmites and stalactites, is of particular interest.

The area is part of the national park "Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu." Cozy beaches, mountains, and clear water have become the calling card of these places. You'll appreciate Cala Gonone's main advantage right away: the chance to find a secluded spot in one of the coves. Keep in mind that some beaches have sharp underwater rocks, so with children choose spots near the village.

Who it's for: those who want wild coves and hiking routes.
The catch: sharp rocks on the bottom at remote beaches; for swimming with children, pick the coves near the village.
Hotels in Cala Gonone on Trip.com

16. Santa Maria Navarrese

Santa Maria Navarrese on the east of the island prides itself on having the cleanest coastline in Sardinia. Sea views and sheer cliffs, numerous coves, and a rich old part of town have been attracting tourists for decades. The main monuments here are the Church of Our Lady of Navarra (11th century) and the Spanish tower (17th century).

The park of wild olive trees, laid out on the site of an old Mediterranean forest, is no less interesting. Among its green inhabitants, one standout is an ancient tree with a trunk eight meters in circumference. An archaeological site is also tucked away here: a boulder with cup-shaped markings.

Who it's for: those looking for a quiet sea and history without the crowds.
Hotels in Santa Maria Navarrese on Trip.com

17. Arbatax

Arbatax spreads across the Capo Bellavista headland, known for its red porphyry cliffs. Clear water and white beaches attract not only foreigners but Italians themselves. Its own port provides good connections with Cagliari and mainland Italy.

Beyond nature, there is the main square Scogli Rossi and the ancient towers that gave the town its name. The Church of the Madonna is interesting as a historical and cultural site: extensive festivities are held in its honor in July. Hotels offer excursions, horseback riding, and spas. But even without entertainment, the Orrì and Ponente beaches, surrounded by pine groves, leave a lasting impression.

Who it's for: those who want red cliffs and quiet beaches.
Hotels in Arbatax on Trip.com

18. Castelsardo

Castelsardo: harbor, boats and town on a hill

Castelsardo sits on the shore of the Asinara Gulf and has a great deal to offer a traveler. From here you can see Corsica hovering above the water. Landscapes, authentic cuisine, and historic sites are everywhere you look.

You can study history without leaving town. Monuments several thousand years old are represented by nuraghes and pre-Nuragic tombs, while the ancient burial ground Casa delle Fate dates back to the fourth or third millennium BC. The Middle Ages are represented by the Doria Castle (12th century), the bishop's residence, and the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (16th century). The city's main annual festival, the Lunissanti procession, marks the arrival of spring.

Woven baskets, the island's oldest and most traditional craft, are worth bringing home from your trip. Besides straw goods, the town is also known for ceramics, handwoven rugs, and silver jewelry with coral.

Who it's for: those looking for history, crafts, and views of Corsica.
Hotels in Castelsardo on Trip.com

19. Costa Paradiso

Villas among pink granite rocks above the sea

Costa Paradiso is considered a signature destination for a vacation in Sardinia. An eight-kilometer stretch of coastline brings together every kind of beauty: coves with golden sand, red mountains with grottoes. Among the beaches, Li Cossi, Rena Bianca, and Cala Spinosa are especially popular. Divers and snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the crystal-clear water in this environmentally pristine area.

Easy water access and no surprises on the seabed make Costa Paradiso a good choice for a family vacation. Because of the semicircular shape of the coastline, strong winds are rare here, which parents with small children will appreciate. For comfort, there are hotels and private houses at various levels, cafes, restaurants, and small shops.

Costa Paradiso is an attraction in itself, the reason people come here from all over the world. If you want variety, rent a boat and head to Olbia, Porto Torres, or Corsica to Bonifacio.

Who it's for: families with children and divers.
Hotels in Costa Paradiso on Trip.com

20. Sassari

Piazza Italia with palm trees and a monument in Sassari

Sassari is the second-largest city in Sardinia and an important tourist hub in the northwest. Its rich past, golden beaches nearby, and lush gardens leave no one indifferent. The streets of the historic center are adorned with the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, the Church of Santa Maria di Betlem, the Sanna National Museum, and several palaces.

Medieval walls, the Brigata Sassari museum, and a fortress tower recall the struggle for independence against Genoa, Pisa, Austria, and Aragon. The city's particular pride is its university, one of the first on the island and one of the best in Italy. Ten kilometers from Sassari lies a complex of Nuragic-period structures, the most famous being San Giovanni and Li Luzzani.

If you want to learn more about the cultural life, come in May for the Cavalcata Sarda street festival. Participants in traditional costumes sing, dance, and perform scenes about the region's history.

Who it's for: those who want a big city, museums, and a street festival.
Hotels in Sassari on Trip.com

Sardinia resorts on the map

All 20 resorts are placed on one map. This makes it easier to plan your route and understand how much time you'll spend traveling between the north and south of the island.

Resorts of Sardinia

Places on the map

1Porto Cervo Symbol of upscale holidays on the Costa Smeralda
2Cagliari Island's capital with a fortress and a Roman amphitheatre
3Rotondo Round yacht harbour resembling a small Venice
4San Teodoro Concerts, film festivals and evening beaches
5Santa Margherita di Pula Roman baths with floor mosaics and an amphitheatre
6Villasimius Quiet town with nuraghi and an old fortress
7Costa Rei "Coast of the Kings" with the Piscina Rei megalithic complex
8Tortolì Red cliffs of Arbatax and the Sant'Andrea church
9Marinella White sand and shallow water for families with children
10Stintino Pelosa and Pelosetta beaches facing Asinara island
11Olbia Transport hub with a port and airport
12Alghero Catalan influence and Neptune's Grotto
13Oristano Phoenician city of Tharros and Mal di Ventre island nearby
14Capo Testa Cliffs of a former Roman quarry resembling a Martian landscape
15Cala Gonone Grotta del Bue Marino cave in the national park
16Santa Maria Navarrese Sardinia's cleanest coastline and a Spanish tower
17Arbatax Red porphyry cliffs of Capo Bellavista
18Castelsardo Doria Castle and a view of Corsica
19Costa Paradiso Eight-kilometre coast with bays of golden sand
20Sassari Second-largest city with a university and museums

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Which Sardinia resort should I choose for a family with kids?

For calm sea, go with Marinella, Costa Paradiso, or Capo Testa. Marinella has a flat, shallow bottom, plus a shower, loungers, and a playground. Costa Paradiso has an easy entry into the water and almost no strong wind. Capo Testa has light sand and a coastline protected from waves. If you also want a city, add Cagliari with its long beach within the city limits.

Where is the best nightlife in Sardinia?

Go with Porto Cervo or Rotondo if you want yachts, expensive restaurants, and clubs. San Teodoro is livelier and more laid-back: after sunset the coast turns into a dance floor. In Santa Margherita di Pula, open-air discos often run in summer. For a quiet evening without music, head to Villasimius.

Where is the best diving and snorkeling in Sardinia?

For diving, people head to Rotondo, where the island of Tavolara lies nearby. Capo Testa offers diving, snorkeling, and jet skis right by the rocks. Costa Paradiso is interesting for its clear water and underwater terrain. In Oristano you can add the island of Mal di Ventre, and in Stintino see the underwater world near Asinara.

Which airport should I fly into for Sardinia?

The island has two main airports: Cagliari in the south and Olbia in the northeast. From Olbia it's convenient to reach Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo, and San Teodoro. Cagliari is closer to the southern resorts: Villasimius, Costa Rei, and Santa Margherita di Pula. Check flight schedules and new routes on the airport's website.

Where is the most history and ancient sites in Sardinia?

History is present at almost every resort. Castelsardo offers nuraghe, ancient tombs, and a medieval castle. Cagliari gives you a fortress, a Roman amphitheater, and an archaeological museum. In Oristano, Phoenician Tharros is nearby; in Alghero, a Catalan center and the "witches' house." In Villasimius, nuraghe and an old fortress have been preserved.

In short: what's worth booking

Sardinia offers something for every taste, and you won't have to adapt the island to fit you. If you're a family with kids, go with Marinella, Costa Paradiso, or Capo Testa. If you want a city and culture, stay in Cagliari, Olbia, or Sassari. For luxury and yachts, head to Porto Cervo and Rotondo; for wild nature, to Stintino and Cala Gonone.

Compare your options in advance and check the coast table above to choose a resort that fits your route. Hotel links are in each section, so you can book accommodation as you read through the article.

Sardinia resorts: 20 destinations for sea, history and diving