La Maddalena, Sardinia sits just off the northeast coast of the island, a short ferry ride from Palau. It faces Palau and looks towards Corsica. Here you get a compact island town, a protected marine park and some of the clearest water in Italy.
The main island links to Caprera by a short causeway. Around them stretch many small islands and islets. Together they form the La Maddalena archipelago and the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park.
Why Visit La Maddalena Sardinia
La Maddalena is ideal if you love sea, nature and small‑town evenings.
La Maddalena island is all about beaches, boat trips and easy day tours from Palau and Costa Smeralda.
You get:
A national park with coves, islets and turquoise bays
A walkable town with harbour views and relaxed restaurants
Easy access from Palau, Costa Smeralda and Olbia
Short drives between beaches, viewpoints and hiking paths
Families, couples and small groups all find good options. You can visit as a day trip or stay for several nights.
Understanding the La Maddalena Archipelago
La Maddalena Island and Town
La Maddalena island is the main hub. The town curves around a sheltered harbour with pastel houses and narrow lanes.
Along the waterfront you find cafés, gelato shops and simple seafood restaurants. In the back streets you see small piazzas, churches and local shops. Even in summer the scale stays human and manageable.
Most visitors choose to stay in La Maddalena town. You can walk to the harbour for La Maddalena boat trips. You can also reach bars and restaurants without using a car.
Caprera Island
Caprera island sits next to La Maddalena. A low road bridge makes access easy. Yet the feel is very different.
There is no town on Caprera. You see pine woods, granite hills and winding roads. Paths lead to lookouts and hidden coves. This is the wilder side of the La Maddalena archipelago.
Caprera is also famous for history. Giuseppe Garibaldi spent his final years here. You can visit his house and tomb in a small museum compendium.
One cove, Cala Coticcio, has become an icon. To protect it, access now requires an authorised guide and advance booking. Numbers are limited each day.
The Wider Maddalena Archipelago
Beyond La Maddalena island and Caprera lie Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli, Santo Stefano and many tiny islets.
Most are uninhabited. Many can only be reached by La Maddalena boat tours or private yachts. Together they form the La Maddalena marine park.
The sea here belongs to a wider marine mammal sanctuary. Dolphins appear quite often. Turtles and larger whales also pass through deeper waters off the islands.
Best Beaches on La Maddalena and Caprera
Beaches are the main draw for many visitors. You can swim, snorkel or simply sit and enjoy the colours.
La Maddalena Beaches
A loop road circles La Maddalena island. Short side roads drop to bays and viewpoints. You can easily visit several beaches in one day.
Bassa Trinità beach La Maddalena
This beach sits on the northwest side of the island. It has pale sand, low dunes and shallow, clear water. Families like the easy entry and soft sand.
Cala Spalmatore La Maddalena
Cala Spalmatore is one of the best known La Maddalena beaches. A curve of sand hugs a calm bay. There are some services nearby, which helps if you want comfort.
Punta Tegge La Maddalena
Punta Tegge mixes rock shelves and small sandy pockets. It lies close to town on the southwest coast. The spot is popular for quick swims and sunset photos.
Nido d Aquila beach and Monti d’Arena
On the north side you find Nido d Aquila and Monti d’Arena. These coves feel a little wilder. Monti d’Arena has a dune and soft sand. They work well when central beaches feel crowded.
Testa di Polpo beach
Testa di Polpo, also called Capocchia d’u Purpu, sits at the end of a rough track. Here you see sculpted granite rocks and a shallow lagoon. Drive slowly and avoid very low cars.
You can group these beaches by mood: some are family‑friendly, others are perfect for sunsets and photos.
Caprera Island Beaches
Caprera island beaches feel more remote. Many require short hikes, but the rewards are high.
Cala Coticcio Caprera
Cala Coticcio is the most famous cove. Many call it “Tahiti” because of the intense colours. Sand is fine and pale. Water shines in blue and green tones.
To protect the fragile environment you must go with a licensed guide. Rules limit daily numbers and control the path. Book in advance in high season.
Other Caprera coves, such as Cala Napoletana and Cala Brigantina, also require hiking. Paths can be rocky and exposed. Bring real shoes, water and sun protection.
Snorkeling and Diving in the Marine Park
Snorkeling La Maddalena is easy. Many coves have clear, calm water and seagrass meadows. You can see small fish, starfish and granite blocks below the surface.
Several dive centres operate in the La Maddalena archipelago. They visit walls, reefs and wrecks inside the park. Because this is a protected area, operators follow fixed mooring systems rather than free anchoring.
If you enjoy underwater photography, consider a private trip. You gain more time at each site and fewer fins in your frame.
Boat Trips, Sailing and Park Rules
Shared La Maddalena Boat Tours
The easiest way to see the wider archipelago is a shared La Maddalena archipelago boat tour.
Boats depart from La Maddalena harbour and from Palau. A full‑day cruise usually includes several swim stops and views of many islands.
Typical stops include bays around Spargi and Santa Maria. You may stop on one island and swim from the boat at others. Some tours include a simple lunch on board.
Shared tours are the cheapest option. The atmosphere is social and can feel busy in July and August.
Private Boat Hire and Yacht Charter
You can also rent a small motor boat or rubber dinghy. Some rentals allow small boats without a licence inside defined areas. Others require a skipper with a licence.
Private yacht charter La Maddalena costs more but offers flexibility. You can choose quieter coves, adjust your route to the wind and enjoy more privacy.
For multi‑day sailing La Maddalena archipelago works well. You can sleep on board and wake up in a new bay each morning.
La Maddalena National Park Permits and Anchoring Rules
The La Maddalena Archipelago National Park has clear rules. Boats pay for access permits. Anchoring is restricted in many zones to protect seagrass.
Commercial boats handle permits for you. Private skippers must buy permits directly. Always check current rules before you arrive with your own boat.
Anchoring rules change by zone and season. In some places you must use fixed mooring buoys. In others you cannot stop at all.
How to Visit Budelli Pink Beach
Budelli’s Spiaggia Rosa, the pink beach, is one of the park’s icons. The colour comes from tiny fragments of coral and shells.
Because this sand is fragile, access is very restricted. You cannot walk on the beach. You cannot swim from the sand.
Boats pass offshore so you can see the colour from the sea. Some tours stop in nearby bays where swimming is allowed. Respect these limits. They help preserve the beach for the future.
Things to Do in La Maddalena Beyond the Beach
La Maddalena things to do go beyond sunbathing. You can fill cloudy or windy days easily.
Wander the old town lanes and harbour promenade
Visit forts and viewpoints along the island ring road
Drive to Caprera for short hikes and coastal lookouts
Tour the Garibaldi museum and learn about Italian history
Taste local seafood, Sardinian pasta and Gallura wines
Evenings in La Maddalena Italy feel relaxed. People stroll, children play and bars fill gradually. It is more of a gentle island town than a party resort.
Suggested La Maddalena Itineraries
Choose one day if you are based in Palau, and two or three days if you stay on the island.
La Maddalena 1 Day Itinerary
A one‑day La Maddalena itinerary works best as a mix of town and sea.
Morning ferry from Palau to La Maddalena
Short stroll through town and harbour area
Afternoon shared archipelago boat tour with swim stops
Early dinner near the harbour
This fits visitors based in Palau or Costa Smeralda. It gives a clear taste of the islands without a hotel change.
La Maddalena 2 Day Itinerary
A two‑day La Maddalena Sardinia stay allows one boat day and one land day.
Day 1
Arrive by ferry and check in. Drive the ring road and visit two or three beaches, such as Bassa Trinità and Punta Tegge. Enjoy sunset and dinner in town.
Day 2
Join a full‑day La Maddalena archipelago boat tour. Swim, relax and watch the colours. Return for a final stroll in the old town.
La Maddalena 3 Day Itinerary
A three‑day La Maddalena island stay adds Caprera in a relaxed way.
Day 1
Travel from Olbia or other bases. Walk the town, swim at a nearby beach and enjoy an easy evening.
Day 2
Drive to Caprera. Hike to a cove such as Cala Coticcio with a guide, or choose another trail. Visit the Garibaldi museum if time allows.
Day 3
Take a full‑day boat tour. Choose between a social shared boat or a private charter. End with a final gelato on the harbour.
Getting to La Maddalena and Getting Around
How to Get to La Maddalena from Olbia and Costa Smeralda
Most visitors arrive via Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport. From there you drive or take a bus to Palau.
The drive takes around one hour. Buses run but are less frequent, especially outside summer.
From Palau, ferries cross to La Maddalena island all year. Crossings are short and frequent in high season.
Palau to La Maddalena Ferry
The Palau to La Maddalena ferry carries both cars and foot passengers. The crossing takes about twenty minutes.
You can buy tickets in small offices near the port. In July and August you may meet queues, but sailings are frequent.
La Maddalena ferry with car makes island life easier. You can reach beaches, viewpoints and Caprera without worrying about bus times.
Driving on La Maddalena and Caprera and Visiting Without a Car
Driving on La Maddalena and Caprera is straightforward. Roads are narrow in places but paved on main routes. Some beach tracks are rough.
A car or scooter lets you reach more beaches and hiking starts. It also helps if you travel with children or beach gear.
If you visit La Maddalena without a car, stay in town. Focus on La Maddalena boat trips, one or two nearby beaches and simple walks. Use taxis or any seasonal bus services for extra reach.
Where to Stay in La Maddalena
La Maddalena Hotels and Apartments in Town
Most La Maddalena hotels and apartments sit in or near the town centre. This gives you easy access to the harbour, shops and restaurants.
Stay here if you like evenings out and a short walk home. It is also best if you visit without a car.
You will find a mix of small hotels, guesthouses and self‑catering apartments. Many have balconies or partial sea views.
Villas and Stays Near the Beaches
La Maddalena villas and rentals scatter along the coast and on hills. Some lie close to specific beaches.
Choose this option if you want morning swims before others arrive. Expect to drive into town for dinner and shopping.
This style suits families and groups who prefer space, parking and quieter surroundings.
Who La Maddalena Suits Best
La Maddalena family holidays work well. Distances are short, coves are shallow and boat trips add easy adventure.
La Maddalena with kids is simple to manage. Pick a base with kitchen facilities and nearby swimming spots.
La Maddalena couples holiday breaks feel relaxed and scenic. Think golden hours at Punta Tegge, boat days and slow dinners by the harbour.
Top Rated Hotels in La Maddalena
Review score & reviews: 9.3 / 10 – 168 reviews
Short description
Boutique hotel in a restored historic building close to the port and old town. Elegant, quiet rooms, some with access to a small garden and pool. Ideal for couples wanting a refined, central base.
Neighborhood / landmark
Central La Maddalena, near the harbour and main piazza.
Key facilities
Outdoor pool, spa (sauna, hammam, hot tub), free private parking, free Wi-Fi, bar, highly rated breakfast.
Why it stands out
One of the highest guest-rated hotels in town with a rare combination of central location, spa and pool.
Review score & reviews: 8.9 / 10 – 1,035 reviews
Short description
Country-style hotel about 400 m from Punta Tegge beach and just under 1 mile from the centre. Rooms and suites often include kitchenettes and terraces, making it great for families and longer stays.
Neighborhood / landmark
Quiet south-coast area near Punta Tegge.
Key facilities
Free Wi-Fi, private parking, family rooms, kitchenettes, breakfast with vegan and gluten-free options, bike rental, organised excursions.
Why it stands out
Very high review volume with consistently strong scores for comfort and cleanliness, plus flexible room types near a top beach.
3. 🔍Hotel Cala Lunga
Review score & reviews: 8.9 / 10 – 497 reviews
Short description
Beachfront hotel in Porto Massimo surrounded by rocky coves and clear water. Rooms have a bright Sardinian style, many with sea views. Ideal for couples and families seeking a quiet seaside base.
Neighborhood / landmark
Porto Massimo, around 3.3 miles from the town centre, inside the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park.
Key facilities
Private beach area with sun loungers, outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, three restaurants, bar, airport shuttle, family rooms, excellent breakfast.
Why it stands out
Exceptional coastal setting with private coves, pool and multiple dining options in a secluded bay.
4. 🔍Hotel Miralonga
Review score & reviews: 8.7 / 10 – 722 reviews
Short description
South-coast hotel offering sea-view rooms overlooking the channel towards Palau. Features an outdoor pool and terrace, and is close to beaches with quick access to town. A reliable mid-range pick.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Don Vico, about 0.8 miles from the centre.
Key facilities
Outdoor pool, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, breakfast buffet, bar, family rooms, scooter/quad/bike rental, discounts on boat excursions.
Why it stands out
Balances sea views, price, parking and pool — ideal for beach-hopping and boat trips.
5. 🔍Le Nereidi Hotel & Residence
Review score & reviews: 8.4 / 10 – 433 reviews
Short description
Hotel and residence with both classic rooms and apartments just 300 m from the sea. Offers indoor pool, sports facilities and a quiet location — perfect for active travellers and families.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Don Vico 9, in a calm area of the national park, a short walk or drive from the old town and south-coast beaches.
Key facilities
Indoor heated pool with hydromassage, tennis courts, gym, beauty centre, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, breakfast buffet, apartments with kitchenettes.
Why it stands out
Rare indoor pool and sports facilities in La Maddalena, plus versatile apartment options.
Top Rated Villas in La Maddalena
1. 🔍Villa Itaca – Swimming Pool by the Sea
Review score & reviews: 9.8 / 10 – 14 reviews
Short description
Beachfront villa in the Nido d’Aquila area, set directly above the sea with panoramic views and a private swimming pool. Stylish interiors with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, full kitchen and large living area. Best for families or small groups seeking a high-end, secluded stay.
Neighborhood / landmark
Regione Nido d’Aquila, close to Punta Tegge Beach and a short drive to Cala Francese.
Key facilities
Beachfront, private beach area, outdoor pool, sea view, garden and sun terrace, full kitchen, washing machine, BBQ, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, pets allowed.
Why it stands out
Luxury villa with private pool and direct sea access in one of the island’s quietest coves.
2. 🔍Residenza Moneta
Review score & reviews: 9.7 / 10 – 6 reviews
Short description
Two-bedroom holiday home with its own garden, terrace and outdoor dining area. The single-level layout and fully equipped kitchen make it ideal for relaxed, longer stays. Best for couples or families seeking privacy and easy access by car.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Gianmaria Volonte, about 1.1 miles from the centre, near Giardinelli Beach and the Caprera bridge.
Key facilities
Garden, terrace, kitchen, BBQ, washing machine, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, free private parking.
Why it stands out
Quiet garden setting with strong comfort and practicality for small families.
3. 🔍Maison Chloe
Review score & reviews: 9.6 / 10 – 6 reviews
Short description
Stylish and spacious home with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large living area. Features a private garden and covered terrace, plus modern décor throughout. Best for families or groups wanting comfort and proximity to town services.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Ammiraglio Magnaghi, in a central and well-rated area; close to Punta Nera Beach and shops.
Key facilities
Large indoor space, equipped kitchen with dishwasher, washing machine, private garden, covered terrace with BBQ, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, on-site and street parking.
Why it stands out
A spacious, well-designed home that combines comfort, style and convenience near the centre.
4. 🔍Bilocale Milù – Milù Holidays
Review score & reviews: 9.5 / 10 – 33 reviews
Short description
Modern one-bedroom apartment with a bright living area and kitchenette. Very clean and well-kept, in a quiet street close to the sea and town. Best for couples or small families wanting a cosy base within walking distance of everything.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Goito, close to Punta Nera Beach and near the harbour area.
Key facilities
Kitchenette, washing machine, dishwasher, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private bathroom, daily housekeeping, airport shuttle available.
Why it stands out
Excellent cleanliness and walkability, ideal for couples exploring La Maddalena on foot.
5. 🔍Isola Che Non C’é – Trilocale Casa Vacanze (80 m² with Terrace)
Review score & reviews: 9.4 / 10 – 40 reviews
Short description
Spacious two-bedroom home with a large terrace and balcony, offering comfortable indoor space for longer stays. Features a full kitchen and living area, making it suitable for families or two couples.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Francesco Ornano, quiet residential area with quick driving access to beaches such as Villaggio Piras.
Key facilities
Large terrace and balcony, city view, kitchen, washing machine, air conditioning, free on-site parking, family rooms.
Why it stands out
Great space and easy parking, perfect for travellers exploring the island by car.
Top Rated B&B in La Maddalena
1. 🔍B&B Isola Mia
Review score & reviews: 9.6 / 10 – 270 reviews
Short description
Family-run B&B on a green hillside with sea views, a short drive from Villaggio Piras Beach and the town centre. Rooms are cosy, soundproofed and homely, with a very personal, welcoming feel. Best for couples and families looking for peace, nature and warm hosts.
Neighborhood / landmark
Near Villaggio Piras Beach and well placed for boat trips to the islands such as Spargi.
Key facilities
Free private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, non-smoking rooms, Italian breakfast, garden and terrace.
Why it stands out
Exceptionally high ratings for cleanliness, breakfast and the friendly owners, often described as one of the most welcoming stays on the island.
2. 🔍La Casa di Dario
Review score & reviews: 9.2 / 10 – 175 reviews
Short description
Recently renovated guest house in a quiet residential street, a short walk from the port and Punta Nera Beach. Bright, modern rooms and some larger units with small living and dining areas make it feel close to an apartment stay. Best for couples and small groups wanting comfort near ferries and services.
Neighborhood / landmark
Central La Maddalena, less than 1 kilometre from Punta Nera Beach and close to the harbour.
Key facilities
Free Wi-Fi, family rooms, airport shuttle, non-smoking rooms, in-room coffee machine, many units with fridge, microwave and oven.
Why it stands out
Guests praise the spotless rooms, handy location near the port and the very responsive, helpful host.
3. 🔍Maison Madeleine
Review score & reviews: 9.1 / 10 – 202 reviews
Short description
Stylish guest house in the historic centre with contemporary rooms and elegant, minimalist décor. Offers comfortable beds, quality bathrooms and some rooms with city or partial sea views. Best for couples who want a chic base within walking distance of restaurants, bars and the harbour.
Neighborhood / landmark
Central La Maddalena, in the old town around a short walk from Punta Nera Beach and the ferry area.
Key facilities
Free Wi-Fi, family rooms, non-smoking rooms, tea and coffee facilities in rooms, daily housekeeping, some rooms with balcony or terrace.
Why it stands out
Feels more like a small boutique hotel than a basic B&B, with a quiet yet very central location.
4. 🔍Casa Ilva
Review score & reviews: 8.9 / 10 – 487 reviews
Short description
Modern inn with apartment-style units right by the port, some sold in packages that include use of a small motorboat in season. Interiors are clean and contemporary with subtle nautical touches. Best for couples and families eager to explore the archipelago by boat and stay near all departures.
Neighborhood / landmark
Very central, close to the ferry dock and waterfront promenade, and less than 1 kilometre from Punta Nera Beach.
Key facilities
Free Wi-Fi, family rooms, airport shuttle, bar and coffee area, excellent breakfast with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, child-friendly buffet, terrace.
Why it stands out
Central location, strong breakfast and boat-inclusive options make it a great choice for active island-hopping stays.
5. 🔍L’Ajaccio B&B
Review score & reviews: 8.9 / 10 – 212 reviews
Short description
Friendly B&B in a garden setting, offering simple but comfortable rooms and a relaxed, homely atmosphere. Works particularly well for guests arriving by car who want easy parking and a quieter base close to beaches. Best for couples and drivers who prefer a calm, green environment.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Benvenuto Cellini, within walking distance of Giardinelli Beach and a short drive to boat tour departures.
Key facilities
Free parking, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, Italian buffet breakfast, garden with outdoor seating.
Why it stands out
Warm hosts, homemade-style breakfast and on-site parking combine with a pleasant garden setting near the coast.
Top Rated Apartments in La Maddalena
1. 🔍Appartamenti Milù – Milù Holidays
Review score & reviews: 9.3 / 10 – 117 reviews
Short description
Central apartments just a short walk from the harbour and less than 1 kilometre from Punta Nera Beach. Recently renovated studios with cosy, modern décor, kitchenettes and small welcome touches. Best for couples or friends who want to stay in the heart of town with easy access to boat tours and restaurants.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Goito, right behind the main harbourfront area of La Maddalena, close to ferries, bars and shops.
Key facilities
Kitchen, washing machine, air conditioning, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, luggage storage, pets allowed, airport shuttle available, minimarket and hairdresser on site.
Why it stands out
Super-central location and highly rated hosts who help with local tips and organising boat trips.
Review score & reviews: 9.5 / 10 – 23 reviews
Short description
Stylish one-bedroom apartment with a bright living area and attic bedroom, fully renovated in a contemporary style. A well-equipped kitchen and washing machine make it comfortable for longer stays. Best for couples or a small family who want a modern base in the historic centre.
Neighborhood / landmark
In the central area of La Maddalena, under 1 kilometre from Punta Nera Beach and very close to the port and old-town streets.
Key facilities
Kitchen, washing machine, air conditioning, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, non-smoking rooms; excellent location score.
Why it stands out
Combines a perfect central position with very high ratings for cleanliness and comfort.
Review score & reviews: 9.0 / 10 – 6 reviews
Short description
Compact one-bedroom apartment with balcony and small terrace, giving an intimate and private feel. Includes a kitchenette and living space, ideal for a couple planning to self-cater occasionally between beach days.
Neighborhood / landmark
Very central La Maddalena, about a 13-minute walk from Punta Nera Beach and close to the port where boat tours depart.
Key facilities
Kitchen, balcony, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private bathroom, non-smoking rooms, heating, express check-in and check-out.
Why it stands out
Guests appreciate the ultra-central location and responsive communication from the hosts.
4. 🔍LE MUSE Residence – Punta Tegge
Review score & reviews: 9.6 / 10 – 7 reviews
Short description
Ground-floor apartment with garden, terrace and partial sea views in a quiet residential area near Punta Tegge Beach. Recently renovated interiors with a comfortable living room and well-equipped kitchenette. Best for couples or small families looking for a relaxed base close to the sea.
Neighborhood / landmark
Via Padule, about 1.1 miles from the town centre and around a 7-minute walk to Punta Tegge Beach; easy drive to boat departures for the archipelago.
Key facilities
Kitchen with dishwasher, washing machine, garden, terrace with sea view, free on-site parking, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, non-smoking rooms.
Why it stands out
Peaceful seaside setting with outdoor space, sunset views and free parking, ideal for travellers with a car.
Review score & reviews: 9.1 / 10 – 8 reviews
Short description
Simple but well-equipped one-bedroom apartment with tiled floors, dining table and compact living area. Full kitchenette and streaming-ready TV make it practical for guests who want to cook at home and relax after beach days.
Neighborhood / landmark
Very central position, a short walk from the main streets of La Maddalena, about a 13-minute walk to Punta Nera Beach and close to the harbour.
Key facilities
Kitchenette with fridge, microwave, stovetop, toaster and kitchenware, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, express check-in and check-out, multilingual hosts.
Why it stands out
Praised for cleanliness, central location and handy extras like beach towels and umbrella.
Best Time to Visit La Maddalena
La Maddalena weather follows a Mediterranean pattern. Summers are hot and dry. Winters are milder and more changeable.
La Maddalena in May
Air warms, flowers bloom and paths are green. Sea can still feel fresh but many people start swimming.
La Maddalena in June
Days are long and mostly settled. Sea is warmer, but crowds are still moderate. This is a great month for both hiking and beaches.
High Summer
July and August bring heat, full beaches and higher prices. Book La Maddalena apartments and La Maddalena boat tours early.
La Maddalena in September and October
Sea stays pleasantly warm. Air cools slightly. September remains lively, while October feels quieter. Some services start to reduce.
La Maddalena off season
From late autumn to early spring, life slows. Ferries still run, but many tourist services close. You come for walks, views and quiet, not a classic beach holiday.
Practical Tips for Your La Maddalena Holiday
Pack reef‑safe sunscreen and a hat. Shade is limited on some beaches
Bring sturdy shoes for Caprera hikes and rocky paths
Carry water and snacks; services are limited near some coves
Respect La Maddalena anchoring rules and park regulations
Book guided access to Cala Coticcio well ahead in high season
Start beach days early in July and August to find parking
FAQs
Is La Maddalena worth visiting on a Sardinia trip?
Yes. La Maddalena island offers clear water, small‑town charm and easy boat access to the archipelago.
How many days do I need in La Maddalena Sardinia?
Two or three nights work well. You can enjoy at least one boat day, one beach day and one Caprera walk.
Do I need a car on La Maddalena island?
A car or scooter helps a lot. Without one, stay central and focus on La Maddalena boat tours and a few nearby coves.
Can I visit Cala Coticcio Caprera on my own?
No. Current rules require authorised guides and limited daily access. Always check the latest conditions before you go.
Can I walk on Budelli pink beach?
No. The sand is protected. You can admire it from the sea or from allowed viewpoints only.
Is La Maddalena good for children?
Yes. Shallow bays, calm water and short distances make things easy. Pick family‑friendly La Maddalena hotels or apartments with parking.
Ready to Plan Your La Maddalena Sardinia Holiday?
La Maddalena combines an easy base, a spectacular marine park and a string of beaches and coves.
Choose your base in town or near a favourite bay. Decide your dates and lock in a La Maddalena archipelago boat tour before you search for flights and stays. Then add one Caprera hike and a couple of relaxed beach days.
With smart timing and light planning you can enjoy a La Maddalena island break with clear water, short moves and plenty of sea air.
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