Having heard a lot about Sardinia being the jet set destination of the rich and famous, we were curious to see what all the fuss is about. The fact that Luxair Tours flies directly to Sardinia (Olbia and Cagliari) during the summer season (May – October), made our choice even more easy. So let’s see some of the best activities and restaurants to help you plan a vacation in Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids.
Approaching Olbia airport
We did some research about which area would be the best to stay and finally decided for Poltu Quatu. It is a quaint little village on the Costa Smeralda about 40 minutes from Olbia airport. Poltu Quatu’s only hotel is the MGallery Grand Hotel managed by Sofitel. We were very pleased with this choice. You can read more about it here.
Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids – Poltu Quatu
Whether or not you are staying in Poltu Quatu, this small little village is worth a stop. It is said that it was once a refuge for pirates because of its narrow inlet invisible from the sea. Nowadays you’ll find huge yachts docked in the marina and a lovely promenade with restaurants and cafés inviting you to take a seat and enjoy the view.
Our daily stop for “Chez Panin” gelato
Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids – Spiagga del Principe
All the beaches we have seen were fabulous but if there is one you shouldn’t miss, it’s Spiagga del Principe, close to Capriccioli. There is a big parking lot above the beach but you need to walk 10 minutes to access the beach. And please don’t wear sandals, be smarter than we were and wear good shoes. The path is quite uneven and not at all stroller friendly. So don’t forget the baby carrier and a beach umbrella if you want some shade!
Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids – No licence boat rental
One day we rented an inflatable boat (RIB) from Poltu Quatu Charter. The 40 hp boat for 6 or 7 passengers doesn’t require a licence. From Poltu Quatu we headed for Cala Cotticcio, Italy’s Tahiti beach. Because of the fact that it is a marine park, you can’t dock on the beach and you need to stay outside the buoys. Of course, swimming to beach is allowed. The water was quite chilly but clear blue. We could see the ground and an amazing amount of fish. We noticed that the beach was pretty crowded and so we enjoyed it even more on the boat.
Cala Cotticcio – Tahiti Beach
Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids – La Maddalena
After the refreshing dip, we continued touring the island of Caprera. On the northern tip we could see Corsica and the wild nature of Caprera. The sea was quite rough so we headed straight to Cala Garibaldi for a picnic on the boat. Our next stop was La Maddalena, but due to a lack of information on where to dock and unfortunate circumstances (the key broke in the starter and the wind was picking up to 25 knots) the harbor officials urged us to quickly navigate back to Poltu Quatu… fortunately we arrived safe and sound but not without a dose of adrenalin. So while it was really fun to explore Caprera and La Maddalena by boat, our RIP RIB trip could have ended in a disaster. Make sure to have ideal weather conditions eg no wind and calm sea on the day you venture out.
Beautiful La Maddalena
If you are not at ease with navigating yourself, you can either join a charter cruise around the islands of La Maddalena or go by car. Take the ferry in Palau to La Maddalena and cross the 600m bridge to access Caprera.
Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids – Arzachena
In case you prefer to stay on the island, you can visit the lovely old town of Arzachena. Our first stop was Santa Lucia Church and its impressive 76 stairs that lead to a panoramic viewpoint over the town and valley. Worth noticing, are the caves scattered around the area. These granit rocks used to serve as shelters or worship places during the Prehistoric and Early History Age. The weekly market takes place on Wednesday mornings.
View of Arzachena from Santa Lucia Church
After Arzachena we took the winding road and ended up in Cannigione, a popular sea resort for families. Nothing really exciting to see except for the kids who were happy to find a playground.
Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids – Porto Cervo
Last but not least, you cannot leave Costa Smeralda without having had a look at the glitzy seaside resort of Port Cervo. Created in the 1950 by Prince Aga Khan, Porto Cervo was and still is one of the most luxurious resorts in the world with designer boutiques, fine restaurants and exclusive nightlife spots. Worth seeing!
Costa Smeralda Sardinia with Kids – Where to eat and drink?
La Briciola
Our favorite for local food or just a great tasting pizza! Of course, paired with a good bottle of Sardinian wine. Located in Liscia de Vacca.
Aruana Churascarria
Beautiful outside location. Brazilian all-you-can-eat meat restaurant served on skewers. If you like meat, this is your place. Located in Poltu Quatu.
Chez Panin
Our go- to café for the afternoon gelato craving. Lovely staff serving the best ice cream. Try the Fiore di Latte. Yum! Located in Poltu Quatu.
Aqua Lounge Porto Cervo
Stylish lounge in the new marina of Porto Cervo with view on the yachts.
Café du Port
Lovely spot at the port, although right next to the parking. Located in Porto Cervo.