Tucked into Sardinia’s northeastern shore, Costa Smeralda dazzles with crystalline waters, pastel-hued villages, and a jet-set reputation—but true insiders know the real magic lies in its secret coves, cozy beachfront eateries, and unforgettable evenings afloat. Ready to trade crowded marinas for hidden bays? Slip on your flip-flops (or go barefoot), and let’s uncover Costa Smeralda’s best-kept secrets.
1. Discovering Hidden Coves
While Spiaggia del Principe and Liscia Ruja draw the crowds, these tucked-away gems offer privacy, whisper-quiet waves, and kaleidoscopic sea floors:
-
Cala di Volpe Beach Alcove
Park near the luxury hotel, then walk west along the rocky promontory. You’ll find a sheltered inlet with soft sand and a shallow, emerald-green shallows perfect for wading. -
Cala Granu Inlet
Accessible via a short hike through maquis-covered trails, this cove features pale granite boulders that plunge into sapphire depths—ideal for cliff-jumpers and snorkelers alike. -
Spiaggia del Giglio
A little farther east past Porto Cervo, this tiny pebble beach is framed by juniper and tamarisk. Few visitors make the extra detour, so you can claim a stretch of shoreline all to yourself.
Local Tip: Pack a picnic and a folding chair—none of these coves have facilities. A sunhat and plenty of water are non-negotiable under Sardinia’s bright July sun.
2. Barefoot Beach Bistros
Trade white-tablecloth formality for sand-between-your-toes charm at these laid-back seaside eateries:
-
Baretto di Coco (Cala di Volpe)
A rustic wooden deck perched above the water serves fresh lobster spaghetti, chilled Vermentino, and generous fruit platters. Here, you order from a chalkboard and dine on low stools while waves lap the stilts below. -
Il Chioschetto Segreto (Capriccioli)
Look for the pastel-blue kiosk tucked beneath pine trees. Their focaccia sandwiches, drizzled with local olive oil and stuffed with prosciutto, pair perfectly with an Aperol spritz in plastic cups. -
Sabores del Mare (Liscia Ruja backshore)
Hidden behind a dune ridge, this tiny shack grills prawns and calamari over charcoal. Don’t miss their lemon-garlic aioli—ordinarily a dipping sauce, here it’s practically a food group.
Local Tip: These bistros accept cash only and close early—plan to arrive by 1 PM to snag the best seats.
3. Sunset Sail Trips
There’s magic in a Costa Smeralda sunset: pastel skies reflected off still waters as you glide past rugged coastline.
-
Classic Gozzo Charter
Board a traditional wooden gozzo boat for a 2-hour cruise from Porto Cervo. Sip Prosecco as you drift past granite cliffs and maybe spot dolphins playing offshore. -
Catamaran Cocktail Cruise
For a livelier vibe, hop aboard a small catamaran that serves aperitivos on deck—think Campari cocktails and gourmet canapés—while a local DJ spins chill lounge beats. -
Private Day-to-Dusk Yacht
Splurge on a larger yacht (up to eight guests) that departs midday, drops anchor in a secluded bay for snorkeling, then sails into the sunset with a four-course seafood dinner prepared by an onboard chef.
Local Tip: Sunset times shift from around 8:30 PM in May to 7:30 PM by late August—confirm departure times when you book.
4. Insider Extras
-
Snorkeling Spots: Cala Romazzino’s underwater meadows of Posidonia and Cala Serena’s small reef systems are brimming with colorful fish. Bring your own mask and fins for best results.
-
Beach Club Alternatives: If you crave a DJ-pumped lounge but still want exclusivity, try Phi Beach in Baja Sardinia—its cliff-side decks deliver panoramic sunset views.
-
Road Trip Departure Point: Rent a convertible in Olbia and follow the coastal SP59 road north—every viewpoint invites a quick photo stop of hidden bays glinting below.
5. Practical Tips
-
Getting Around: A car gives you freedom, but small roads can be narrow and winding. Drive slowly and watch for scooters.
-
When to Visit: Late May–early July or September–early October offers warm water, fewer tourists, and still-warm evenings.
-
Packing Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, a lightweight sarong (doubles as picnic blanket), a waterproof dry bag for phones—and a sense of adventure.
Costa Smeralda’s glitzy image sometimes overshadows its secret treasures, but with this insider’s guide you’ll trade velvet ropes for barefoot bliss, overcrowded beaches for hidden coves, and fluorescent clubs for candlelit decks floating on a pink-hued sea. Now raise a glass of chilled Vermentino, breathe in the salt-kissed breeze—and let Sardinia’s finest coastline unveil its best-kept secrets.
Buon viaggio e buona estate!
