Costa Smeralda, Sardinia: A Complete Guide to the Emerald Coast (Best Beaches, Stays & Tips)

Costa Smeralda is Sardinia’s most famous stretch of coastline. This pocket of northeastern Sardinia is known for its mix of turquoise coves, late dinners, and easy day trips. My family and I spent over a week exploring the area. Now, I’m sharing where to stay, which beaches to visit, and how to make the most of this glamorous destination.

If I had to pick one area of Sardinia to visit and use as a base, Costa Smeralda, also known as the Emerald Coast, would be it. Only an hour from Olbia Airport, the easy access to this pristine stretch of beaches and nearby day trips sold me. After taking my family there for an extended week, I can confidently say Costa Smeralda is all that I hoped it would be.

In this guide, I’m sharing the beaches I’d prioritize and how to choose the right one based on wind direction. I’m also covering where to stay and the easiest day trips, including La Maddalena.

While this part of Sardinia may be popular among celebrities and the many mega yachts that come in summer, there’s more here than the scene. What it does have is some of the best (and cleanest) beaches of Sardinia, access to the La Maddalena Archipelago, beautiful towns, and memorable meals. I think the best Costa Smeralda trips here balance the glam with long beach days, great meals, and a few easy day trips.

I found myself settling into the easygoing, laidback beaches and late-night meals that Sardinia offers. We stayed for over a week near Porto Cervo. Every day we ventured out to a new beach, each one better than the next. We also rented a boat to go to the La Maddalena Archipelago one day, rented beach chairs another day, and visited charming villages by night.

Brief History of Costa Smeralda

To help make sense of why you feel whisked away here, it’s important to share the history of how Costa Smeralda came to be. In the 1960s, it was a quiet and lightly developed part of Sardinia. In 1962, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims, visited the area and fell in love with the pristine beaches and granite coastline.

He formed the Consorzio Costa Smeralda, which bought large tracts of land around what would become Porto Cervo. The development was carefully planned to support luxury tourism, rather than mass tourism, which is why he invested so much money in this region. The Aga Khan brought in renowned architects such as Luigi Vietti, Michele Busiri Vici, and Jacques Couëlle. To preserve traditional Sardinian heritage and culture, they used local materials and a low-profile, village-style architecture.

Today, Costa Smeralda is a symbol of high-end, discreet luxury rather than mass tourism and a place many go to hide away for its pristine nature. For those who may not be parking their super yacht in Porto Cervo Marina, it’s a chance to experience beaches, well-preserved nature, and enjoy the local culture of nearby villages and towns.

Why Visit Costa Smeralda?

Because truthfully, these are some of the most pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters I’ve seen in my lifetime of travels in Europe. The turquoise water is immaculate, the restaurants and hotels are in abundance, and there’s seemingly endless coastline and incredible adventures to be had here.

Editor’s Note: Wind direction plays a big role in beach conditions here. I’ve included a simple wind-direction guide later in the post that helps with choosing calmer, clearer beaches day to day.

Does it mean you need to be uber wealthy to visit? Absolutely not. The beaches are there, the islands are plenty, and while the luxury hotels are amazing, vacation rentals are equally great. In this travel guide to Costa Smeralda, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about visiting.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Costa Smeralda:

If you’re deciding where to stay in Costa Smeralda, I’d base yourself near Porto Cervo for the best all-around access (beaches + dining + day trips), or near Capriccioli if beaches are the priority.

Hotels

1. Romazzino, a Belmond Hotel ($$$$), for the best luxury boutique stay directly on the beach with timeless Costa Smeralda style
2. Hotel Cala di Volpe ($$$$), for the best chic luxury hotel with iconic architecture and a glamorous marina setting
3. CPH | Pevero Hotel ($$$), for a relaxed luxury resort near Grande Pevero beach with an easygoing feel
4. Hotel Balocco ($$), for the best design-for-dollar base near Porto Cervo with elevated views
5. Cala Granu 2-Bedroom Vacation Rental ($$$ / Where I Stayed), for space, privacy, and a comfortable home base close to Porto Cervo

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Cala Granu Condo with View/Garden (Where We Stayed), for the best spacious, private home base close to Porto Cervo
2. 1 Bedroom Garden Condo Near Cala di Volpe, for the best quieter garden condo near Cala di Volpe
3. 2 Bedroom Stone Villa House — a charming, traditional stone villa offering privacy and space, well-suited for travelers who want a quieter, more residential feel.

Things to Do

1. Bigger Group La Maddalena Tour, Full Day, and Every Island, full-day group boat tour with swimming stops across the archipelago’s clearest coves and beaches.
2. Full Day Sailboat, Small Group Tour, explore the islands by sail with fewer people, a slower pace, and time to swim and relax.
3. La Maddalena Archipelago Private Tour with Skipper, charter a private boat with a local skipper to customize your route and stops around the islands.
4. From Porto Rotondo: RIB Tour of Porto Cervo’s Beaches, zip along the Costa Smeralda coastline by rigid inflatable boat, stopping to swim off beaches only accessible from the water.
5. From Porto Rotondo: Boat Tour to Porto Cervo & Golfo Aranci, an easygoing coastal cruise covering Porto Cervo, nearby bays, and swim stops along the way.

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

Planning to explore more of Sardinia? Be sure to check out my guide to the best places to stay in Sardinia for the best beaches, towns, and day trips. If you’re mapping out your route, I’ve also put together a thoughtfully paced 10-day Sardinia itinerary focused on Northern Sardinia that balances beach time with historic towns. If you’re deciding which experiences to prioritize beyond the Costa Smeralda, my guides to the best things to do in Sardinia, the best beaches in Sardinia, and how to visit La Maddalena, pull together the island’s standout beaches, towns, and boat trips. Lastly, my guide to the best things to do in Alghero covers the highlights of our 4 days based there, including how to visit La Pelosa beach.

Travel Tip: The best way to explore Sardinia is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car and driving in Sardinia is quite easy. Book your car with Discover Cars here.

The Costa Smeralda Travel Guide

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Things to Know Before Visiting Costa Smeralda

How Many Days Do I Need to Visit Costa Smeralda?

If you’re on a shorter itinerary, I think 3-4 nights is enough time to enjoy the beaches, pop into Porto Cervo, do a half-day trip to La Maddalena, and visit nearby historic sites. That said, you can easily do a week here. There are plenty of day trips within an hour from here. It makes for a great base because you have such easy access to everything. If you have more time, my curated 10-Day Sardinia itinerary outlines exactly how I’d plan my time where I’d go after the Emerald Coast.

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit?

The busiest time of year, like most of the Mediterranean, is June through early September. It’s hot, crowds are fully there, and the prices are the highest. My suggestion is to visit in late September, when it is still warm enough to swim, and things are still open. There is a very defined tourism season here, where most of everything on the coast will start to shut down by early October. In fact, two restaurants were already closed for the season in late September.

How Do I Get Around Costa Smeralda?

Renting a car is the best way to get around Sardinia and makes everything dramatically easier. Unless you plan to head straight to your resort and use their day trip guides and car service, you will need your own car to get around Sardinia.

Rental Car Tip: We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

How Does Parking Work in Costa Smeralda?

Most beaches and towns in Costa Smeralda use paid parking, typically marked with blue lines or signed lots. Rates are usually charged by the hour, and parking attendants are common in summer.

Quick Parking Guide

• Blue lines = paid parking
• White lines = free (when not otherwise signed)
• Yellow lines = reserved for residents or permits and are actively enforced

Parking Tip: Download the EasyPark app before you leave the airport. It’s widely used across Sardinia and lets you start parking from your car (rather than standing in line to pay at a machine), extend your time remotely while you’re at the beach, or stop the session early so you only pay for what you use.

What is the Best Airport to Arrive At?

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is the best airport with many connections throughout Europe. Delta has announced plans for seasonal nonstop service from JFK Airport to Olbia, making Costa Smeralda easier to reach from the U.S. (As always, double-check current season routes before booking.)

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Where to Stay in Costa Smeralda

As I see it, there are 3 options for picking accommodations here: 1) a luxury hotel, 2) a mid-range hotel, or 3) a private vacation rental (likely the same price as the mid-range hotel). The hotels in Costa Smeralda are spectacularly luxurious. If you’re looking to splurge, this is where to do it. I’ve included a few recommendations for all three of these categories below.

The Best Luxury Hotels in Costa Smeralda

1. Romazzino, A Belmond hotel ($$$$) — my number one pick for a luxury boutique stay, set directly on the beach with timeless Belmond polish and an effortlessly classic feel.
2. Hotel Cala di Volpe ($$$$) — the best chic luxury hotel in Costa Smeralda, known for its iconic architecture, glamorous marina setting, and unmistakable jet-set energy.
3. Pitrizza ($$$$) — the best romantic stay in the region, with secluded villas, dramatic granite backdrops, and a quietly intimate atmosphere.
4. CPH, Pevero Hotel ($$$) — a relaxed luxury resort overlooking Grande Pevero, ideal if you want resort comforts without the formality of the ultra-high-end properties.
5. 7Pines Resort ($$$) — a modern luxury hotel with a contemporary, design-forward feel, best suited for travelers who prefer polished and understated over classic Costa Smeralda style.
6. Petra Bianca ($$) — a luxury stay with a calmer, boutique-leaning atmosphere, offering a quieter base while staying close to the coast.

The Best Mid-Range Hotels in Costa Smeralda

1. Hotel Capriccioli ($$$) — the best budget-friendly beachfront hotel in the area, with direct access to Capriccioli beach and a laid-back, approachable vibe.
2. Hotel Balocco ($$) — the best design-for-dollar hotel near Porto Cervo, offering strong interiors, elevated views, and excellent value for the location.
3. Grand Hotel Porto Cervo ($$) — the best mid-range beachfront option, combining comfort, beach access, and an easy location for evenings in town.

The Best Vacation Rentals in Costa Smeralda

1. 2 Bedroom Cala Granu Condo with View/Garden (Where We Stayed) — a comfortable, private home base near Porto Cervo, ideal for slow mornings, easy beach access, and relaxed evenings back at home.
2. 2 Bedroom Stone Villa House — a charming, traditional stone villa offering privacy and space, well-suited for travelers who want a quieter, more residential feel.
3. 2 Bedroom Luxury Villa in Capriccioli — a polished villa close to Capriccioli’s beaches, combining a residential stay with quick access to some of the area’s best swimming.
4. 2 Bedroom Private Villa in Porto Cervo — a spacious, well-located villa that keeps you close to Porto Cervo’s dining and marina while offering privacy away from the crowds.
5. 1 Bedroom Garden Condo Near Cala di Volpe — a practical, well-priced option near Cala di Volpe, best for couples who plan to spend most days out exploring beaches and restaurants.

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Things to Do in Costa Smeralda

Spend Time at the Beaches of Costa Smeralda

When it comes to beach hopping, this is the prime area to do so in Sardinia. There are so many to choose from. Every day we checked out a new beach. Most beaches had a paid parking lot (about 5 euros per hour), which made it convenient to access. You’ll want to bring your own shade. Some beaches do have lidos (umbrella chairs) that you can rent for 15-30 euros, depending on the length of time and location.

My Favorite Beaches in Costa Smeralda

• Spiaggia del Principe — One of the best beaches we did in this area, it is such a gem and feels very local. It has two coves, with Spiaggia Poltu Di Li Cogghj. My recommendation is to park here; it is about a 15-minute walk from the parking lot.
• Spiaggia di Capriccioli — It is a set of two white sand beaches adjacent to each other. The cala-shaped beach here is calm and easygoing for all ages. The parking here can be a touch busy, so keep this in mind.
• Spiaggia Del Romazzino — A beautiful beach in front of the Belmond hotel, well-maintained.
• Grande Pevero beach — One of the largest beaches, this bay was so blue and full of catamarans parked for the day. There are a handful of lidos as well, and a small restaurant.
• Spiaggia Cala Granu — This was our local beach for the trip, and it felt like not many people knew about it. It’s smaller but has a calm swimming area and a lovely restaurant in the corner.
• Spiaggia La Celvia — A hidden gem just around the corner from Cala di Volpe!
• Spiaggia di Liscia Ruja — Often referred to as the red beach, we didn’t make it here, but it looked like a nice option if you want a longer beach.

How to Choose the Best Beaches by Wind Conditions

One of the best ways to choose a beach day in Costa Smeralda is by paying attention to wind direction and strength.

Quick Rule: On windy days, choose beaches that are downwind for the calmest, clearest water.

• North / Northwest / West winds (Maestrale) — This is the best-case scenario, especially if winds stay under about 15 knots. On these days, most beaches work beautifully, with just a gentle, refreshing breeze. Some of my favorite beaches in these conditions are Grande Pevero, Cala Granu, Spiaggia del Principe (my personal favorite), Capriccioli, Romazzino, and Liscia Ruja. If the Maestrale is blowing harder, avoid Grande Pevero, which becomes more exposed. In those conditions, Cala Granu is one of the best sheltered options.
• East winds — These tend to be the least favorable. Sea conditions can be choppier, and currents may bring in seaweed. Your best bets are Grande Pevero and Spiaggia La Celvia, which are more protected in easterly winds.
• South winds — When winds come from the south, it’s best to avoid La Celvia and the southern side of Capriccioli. Most other beaches along Costa Smeralda remain good options.

How to Check the Wind & Wave Forecast: Before committing to a beach for the day, I recommend checking Windfinder, which was our go-to site for wind, wave, and weather forecasts while in Sardinia. A quick morning check will ensure you choose a beach with the calmest, clearest water.

Take a Day Trip to La Maddalena Archipelago

One of the main draws to this corner of Sardinia is a chance to visit the Maddalena Archipelago. The La Maddalena Archipelago is a stunning chain of islands off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, Italy, in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known for crystal-clear water, dramatic granite landscapes, and protected natural beauty. It’s a very popular day trip, with nearly all tours and boat rentals departing from Palau Port, about 45 minutes north of Costa Smeralda.

It was one of our favorite days of our entire Europe trip. We opted to rent our own small dinghy from MD Service Palau, opted for this Marlin 630 (the largest option that didn’t require a boat license), and took off for a full day.

Boat Rental Tip: Dinghy rental prices range from 180 to 400 euros per day, depending on the boat and the time of year (low, medium, or high season). Though it’s possible to rent boats the same day in slow season, I recommend checking the wind, wave, and weather forecasts (more on this below) and reserving a boat at least 48 hours in advance.

For our itinerary, the main islands of Maddalena, Spargi, and Caprera are where we focused most of our time. We never fully docked; we just anchored offshore and swam to beaches that caught our attention. This is a very popular activity (hundreds of dinghy rentals throughout). The companies help get you set up. All you need to bring is your own food, water, and towels.

If you don’t want to rent your own boat, I’d recommend one of these tours. Each of these does similar stops at the famous beaches and the famous “blue pool.” Here are the best of the tours:

• Best Budget Tour: Bigger Group Tour, Full Day and Every Island
• Best Small Group: Full Day Sailboat, Small Group Tour
• Best Private Tour: La Maddalena Archipelago Private Tour with Skipper

How to Check the La Maddalena Wind and Wave Forecasts

The waters of the La Maddalena Archipelago are generally well protected. That said, I recommend starting to gauge the wind, wave, and weather forecast about a week in advance for the days you’re considering going. Windfinder was our favorite site for wind, waves, and weather forecasts. For La Maddalena, we used the forecast for Porto turistico di Cala Gavetta on Maddalena to make our decision.

We had a bit of flexibility in our schedule, so about a week out, we identified the clearest, calmest days, then waited until about 48 hours before to make a final choice, as the weather forecasts were shifting.

Wind and Wave Forecast Tip: If it’s your first time renting your own boat on the ocean or traveling with kids, I recommend choosing a day when the maximum wind gusts are forecast to be under 10 knots. The day we went was forecast at 5-7 knots, but it ended up at 10-15 knots. 15 knots felt borderline at times, but we still had a great time and just had to seek out downwind/sheltered swimming spots.

Visit the Charming Town of San Pantaleo

I remember planning our afternoon for San Pantaleo and thinking we’d only need an hour to see it. I was completely wrong. San Pantaleo is a happening town just 20 minutes inland from the coast. When we arrived, it seemed like every local and chic traveler was here for apero in the main square. I adored San Pantaleo so much that we came back for a second time.

It’s this bohemian village set up in the mountains with dramatic peaks behind it. The village is full of incredible local boutiques (great shopping!) and about a half dozen memorable restaurants. The small main piazza is the center of attention, with several bars around it. Everyone hangs out here come sunset. There’s also a weekly market on Thursdays that’s worth a visit.

I would recommend coming for sunset and then staying for dinner. Restaurant recommendations in the village are Zara Cafè for something more laidback, Casa Boheme for elevated, and Caffe Nina for drinks.

Hit the Shops of Porto Cervo

For all things luxury, Porto Cervo is the go-to spot. The small enclave with a promenade along the water is where all of the top shops are. You’ll find everything from Fendi to Chanel, Hermes to Gucci. Even if you’re not in for the luxury shops, it’s still worth a stroll as it’s architecturally beautiful and the setting is like a postcard. There are a handful of restaurants here as well, like the classic Cafe du Port. You’re also close to Parrocchia Stella Maris, a masterpiece church from the development of Costa Smeralda.

Family Traveler Tip: About 10 minutes out of the marina towards Olbia, there is a wonderful, massive park called Parco Giochi Okidoki. This was the best park we found during our time in Sardinia. It has seasonal operation hours (check directly), but I can recommend it’s a wonderful spot if kiddos need some park time. We came here almost daily during our time in Costa Smeralda.

Stroll the Porto Cervo Marina

Across the water from Porto Cervo village is the Porto Cervo Marina area. It’s a lovely stroll come sunset. Here you can see all the luxury yachts paying thousands of dollars per night to park here. The marina reminds me a lot of the marina in Barcelona. I’d grab a gelato at Insula Gelato Experience by Michele Bosisio and go for a stroll as the locals do here. Another good meal here, if you want something casual, is Lord Nelson Pub. They offer a good selection of beers and pub food.

Visit the Nearby Nuraghe Sites

The nuraghe sites of Sardinia are ancient stone towers built by the Nuragic civilization between about 1800 and 500 BCE. They are found all across the island. Constructed from large, dry-stacked stones without mortar, these beehive-shaped structures served multiple purposes, including defense, community gathering, and ritual activity. There are over 7,000 nuraghi still visible today, ranging from simple single towers to complex fortresses with walls and multiple chambers.

The nuraghe sites of Sardinia are ancient stone towers built by the Nuragic civilization between about 1800 and 500 BCE. These beehive-shaped structures are found across the island and constructed from large, dry-stacked stones without mortar. The towers served multiple purposes, including defense, community gathering, and ritual activity. There are over 7,000 nuraghi still visible today, ranging from simple single towers to complex fortresses with walls and multiple chambers.

Nearby to Costa Smeralda, you have a few very important ones. The first is Nuraghe Albucciu, part of a larger complex of sights you can visit, like the Tomba di Giganti di Moru. The second complex of Nuraghe sites is Nuraghe La Prisgiona, along with its nearby tombs. If I had to pick one to visit, I’d do the Nuraghe La Prisgiona.

They are unique to Sardinia and among Europe’s most distinctive prehistoric sites. They offer a fascinating window into the sophisticated society that thrived on the island thousands of years ago.

Take a Day Trip to Cala Brandinchi

For those after even more incredible beaches, I think you’ll find the hour drive down to Cala Brandinchi absolutely worth it. Set near the town of San Teodoro, it is quite possibly the most beautiful beach in all of Sardinia. Crystal-clear water and fine white sand wrap around a sheltered cove. The big draw? You can walk out nearly 100 yards before hitting waist-deep water.

It’s also one of the most popular beaches on the island. To help protect it, a reservation system is in place that limits daily visitors to around 1,400 (more details below). You’ll need to reserve online, pay a small fee, and select your date in advance. One perk of the system is that it also grants access to Spiaggia di Lu Impostu, since the shared parking area sits between the two beaches.

Beach Reservation Tip: Cala Brandinchi requires an online reservation from June 1 to September 30. Slots open 48 hours in advance and are released daily at 6:00 pm for the day after tomorrow (for example, after 6 pm on Thursday, you can book Saturday). They go fast. If you miss the initial drop, check back later. The following morning around 9 am or later is often best, when unpaid holds sometimes release and spots reappear. In a pinch, occasional same-day availability shows up online, and there may be cash-only spots at the beach, but don’t count on this during peak season. Reserve online here.

Hit the Beach Clubs of Costa Smeralda

If you’re looking for the beach clubs and where to party, there are a few great options akin to the clubs you see in the South of France. Nikki Beach is a world-renowned luxury beach club in Cala Petra Ruja with stylish lounges, cabanas, cocktails, and gourmet food. Phi Beach is one of the most famous on the island for DJs and all-night partying. And White Beach Club is another popular option.

Spend a Day on the Water

There’s really no greater way to spend a day in Costa Smeralda than out on the water. If you have a hotel that offers kayaks or paddleboards, take advantage of that. There are also several boat trips and day trips out of this area if you’re looking for a relaxing day of sailing or being on a catamaran. Some ideas:

• Kayak Tour through Golfo Aranci
• From Porto Rotondo: Boat Tour to Porto Cervo & Golfo Aranci
• From Porto Rotondo: RIB Tour of Porto Cervo’s Beaches
• Golfo Aranci: Hydrobike Experience with Aperitif & Dolphins

See the Scalinata di Santa Lucia of Arzachena

If you spend some time driving into the countryside of Costa Smeralda, make some time to stop in the very local town of Arzachena. There is a very small downtown with a pedestrian street, a handful of boutiques, and some restaurants. One of the main draws here is the Scalinata di Santa Lucia (Santa Lucia Staircase). The historic staircase leading to the Chiesa di Santa Lucia is often painted with murals visible from the bottom. It is very beautiful and worth an hour-long stop here.

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Where to Eat in Costa Smeralda (& Nearby)

Eating well in Costa Smeralda takes a bit of intention. But when you get it right, the meals are memorable. The region is known for its luxury hotel restaurants and high-end dining, but some of our favorite meals came from casual, local spots and classic agriturismi just inland. Below are the restaurants I’d prioritize, from beachfront splurges to laid-back, authentic Sardinian meals worth planning around.

The Restaurants at Romazzino

If I had to pick a coastal restaurant to eat at while in Costa Smeralda, it would be one of the Romazzino options. I stopped in for a meal at the Pool Bar (all that was open) and absolutely adored the food. Afterward, I went up to The Ginepro Bar for a coffee. The terrace is a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the sparkling views. The restaurant I would have booked if it had been open would be Restaurant La Terrasse. I’ve had several friends rave about the food, the panoramic views, and the atmosphere.

Travel Tip: Many luxury hotels in Costa Smeralda have a food-and-drink minimum if you’re not a staying guest. Romazzino was one of the few places that did not have one when I went. On the contrary, the Hotel Cala di Volpe had a ~60 euro minimum per person just to sit at their bar.

Ristorante Pizzeria La Vecchia Costa

If you know, you know. Ristorante Pizzeria La Vecchia Costa opens up at noon, and by 12:15, every single table in this massive restaurant is full. It is one of the most affordable and most delicious meals in the area. Known for its pizza, spaghetti con vongole, and fresh seafood, I’d go out of my way to eat at this very authentic, local restaurant.

Hivaoa Ristorante Pizzeria

Our favorite go-to spot in Porto Cervo was Hivaoa. We actually never went in and ate, just did takeout twice, and loved the food. The restaurant is very busy, so advanced reservations are recommended.

Agriturismo La Colti

For an immersive, multi-course agriturismo meal to remember, book in at La Colti. La Colti is a thing. Reservations fill up months in advance, so it’s best to book as soon as you can. This was our favorite elevated meal of the trip. I would go out of my way to eat here. Every dish was spectacular. I felt like we really experienced Sardinian cuisine here. The fire-roasted suckling pig was to die for.

Frades La Terrazza

Frades La Terrazza is one of the better options near Porto Cervo for elevated Sardinian cuisine. Try to get a table at the bar edge that has the best views of the ocean.

More Restaurants on My List

• Matsuhisa at Cala di Volpe — Splurge-worthy option for elevated Japanese-Peruvian cuisine in an iconic Costa Smeralda setting
• Zara Cafè – Trattoria da Nicolino — Reliable local spot for classic Sardinian dishes; casual, welcoming, and consistently good (ate here once, good local food!)
• Lord Nelson Pub — Laid-back stop in the Porto Cervo marina for drinks, beers, and an easy, unfussy meal (had drinks here, nice spot in the port)
• Ristorante Gianni Pedrinelli — Long-standing favorite for traditional seafood and Sardinian cooking, well-loved by locals

Where to Get Groceries in Costa Smeralda

• Dettori Market Crai Abbiadori — We visited almost every grocery store in the Costa Smeralda area during our stay, and this Dettori location was by far the best.
• Conad Superstore (Olbia / 30-minute drive) — This is the best regional grocery store we found. They also have an amazingly large selection of Sardinian products. We shopped here a couple of times, both on our way from the airport and on our return from a day trip down to Spiaggia La Cinta.

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