The La Maddalena Archipelago National Park comprises 62 islands and islets off the northeastern tip of Sardinia, with some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean. The main island of La Maddalena has a charming town, and day boat trips visit the most spectacular beaches including Spiaggia Rosa on the island of Budelli (the famous pink sand beach — now protected and viewable only from offshore), Cala Coticcio on Caprera, and Cala Napoletana.
The La Maddalena Archipelago National Park sits off the northeastern tip of Sardinia, reached by driving roughly one hour from Olbia to the port town of Palau, then crossing on the frequent car-and-passenger ferry to La Maddalena island, a short 15-minute hop that runs throughout the day. Most visitors leave the car in Palau or on La Maddalena and join one of the boat tours that thread between the 62 islands and islets, the only practical way to reach the protected beaches. The park guards some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean, and a single day allows a generous sample of it. A typical day starts in the morning with the ferry from Palau and a boat tour departing La Maddalena harbour around 10am. Tours call at Cala Coticcio on Caprera, nicknamed 'Sardinia's Tahiti' for its turquoise shallows, and pass Spiaggia Rosa on Budelli, the famous pink-sand beach now fenced off and viewable only from offshore to protect the fragile coral sand. Many itineraries also stop at Cala Napoletana and Cala Granara, with swimming and snorkelling time at each anchorage. The afternoon is well spent back on La Maddalena town, whose pastel waterfront, Piazza Garibaldi, and narrow lanes reward an unhurried stroll, or on Caprera visiting Giuseppe Garibaldi's house-museum, the Compendio Garibaldino. For food, the harbourfront trattorias in La Maddalena town serve Gallura specialities and fresh seafood; many boat tours include a simple onboard lunch of pasta and local wine, so checking what is provided before booking helps with planning. Travellers driving themselves should factor in summer ferry queues at Palau. The best window runs from June to September, when the sea is warmest and boats run most frequently, though the season stretches from April to October. Arriving on an early ferry beats the midday crowds and secures a place on the better-value morning tours. The water clarity is the highlight, so packing a mask and snorkel is worthwhile. Ferry tickets cost around €3.50 return per passenger, with archipelago boat tours typically €35–60 per person depending on the route and duration.
Highlights
- Spiaggia Rosa — the famous pink sand beach of Budelli (viewable from offshore)
- Cala Coticcio on Caprera — 'Sardinia's Tahiti'
- La Maddalena town — charming Italian island town
- Garibaldi's house on Caprera island
- Extraordinary clear water of the protected marine area
Tips for visiting
- Book boat tour in advance in July–August
- bring snorkelling gear — the water clarity is exceptional
When to visit
June to September brings the warmest sea and the fullest boat schedule, though tours run from April to October. An early-morning ferry from Palau avoids the midday crowds and secures the better-value departures.
Frequently asked questions
How do visitors reach the La Maddalena Archipelago?
Drive about an hour from Olbia to Palau, then take the 15-minute ferry to La Maddalena island. Boat tours of the surrounding islands depart from La Maddalena harbour.
Can visitors walk on Spiaggia Rosa, the pink beach?
No. The pink-sand beach on Budelli is a protected area and can only be viewed from the boat offshore; landing is prohibited to preserve the fragile sand.
Is it necessary to book a boat tour in advance?
In July and August booking a day or two ahead is advisable, as morning departures fill quickly. In the shoulder season tickets are usually available at the harbour kiosks.
How much does the day cost?
The Palau ferry is around €3.50 return per person, and archipelago boat tours run €35–60 per person depending on the itinerary.