A week in Sardinia
Clear blue water, long lunches and boat days worth building the trip around. My version of a week on the Costa Smeralda, with enough left unplanned to actually enjoy it.
Make room to wander.
Use this as a rhythm, not a strict schedule. Choose a day to see how the week could unfold.
Two ways to stay.
Choose the hotel that fits the kind of Costa Smeralda week you want.
W Sardinia
Choose this for a younger, livelier Costa Smeralda stay with easy access to Poltu Quatu and its marina.
Belmond Romazzino
Choose this for the iconic resort experience: beautiful beach, polished service and a stay that feels distinctly Sardinian.
Beach days, your way.
Alternate a planned beach lunch with quieter swimming. Access, facilities and conditions vary, so confirm the details before you go.
Liscia Ruja
A broad stretch of sand for a relaxed beach day along the Costa Smeralda.
Rena Bianca
White sand and clear water near Portisco, a good change of scene if you want to explore south of the core resort area.
Romazzino coast
Make time to swim along this beautiful part of the coastline if your base or plans take you nearby.
From the boat
Some of the most memorable water is best experienced by sea. Ask your captain to choose sheltered coves for the day.
Choose your boat day.
Pick the coastline that suits your mood. Let the captain adjust the stops for the wind and sea conditions.
Budelli’s Pink Beach is protected; do not swim, sail or anchor in front of it. Confirm routes and conditions locally before setting out.
My Sardinia Shortlist
Also on my list: Coucou + Spinnaker. Confirm current openings and reservations before traveling.
Before you go.
A little planning gives you more freedom once you arrive.
When to go
This is a summer-led itinerary. September can be lovely for a slower pace, but hotel, beach club and restaurant seasons vary. Check opening dates for your exact week.
Getting around
Olbia is the natural arrival point for this northeast-coast plan. Arrange an airport transfer or a car depending on how often you want to explore beyond your hotel.
Book first
Secure your preferred hotel and boat day, then reserve the lunches and dinners you care most about. Keep at least one afternoon unscheduled.
On the water
Tell the skipper the kind of day you want, then let the weather guide the route. The protected La Maddalena marine park has rules for boating and access; your operator should handle permits and permitted stops.
At Budelli’s Pink Beach, swimming, sailing, anchoring and mooring in front of the beach are prohibited, and beach access is restricted. Follow current park guidance. La Maddalena National Park ↗