All you need to know to travel to La Maddalena can be found right here! La Maddalena is situated in northeastern Sardinia, and is a dreamy place to visit for sure. Made up of 62 islands (most of them pretty tiny), and officially called the National Park of the Archipelago of La Maddalena, this slice of paradise is home to so much.
From adventurous hikes that meander to the coast with white-sand beaches, these islands are lined with turquoise seas and rugged rocks, making it a great place for finding a secluded spot to sunbathe. La Maddalena is a comprehensive destination for anyone looking for somewhere blissful to while away summer days.
With 62 islands in the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, and the best way to see them is by taking boat tours. Some will take you to almost every island in the archipelago, or you can visit the popular snorkeling and diving spots. The main islands visited are La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi, Budelli, Santo Stefano, Santa Maria and Razzoli. Most of the islands are entirely deserted or only have a few human settlements, but all of them – and their surrounding seas – are environmentally protected. Visit all of the Best Beaches of Italy here on on Pinterest.
La Maddalena Weather – When to Visit
The best time to visit La Maddalena is from April to June (mid 60s to upper 70s) when the flowers are in bloom, the sea waters are warm, and the temperatures haven’t yet reached their July and August (mid 80s) highs. Still, summertime in La Maddalena has its perks. The Tyrrhenian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea waters are incredibly refreshing this time of year, and there’s a lineup of festivals and events that fill the calendar. September and October (mid 70s) offer travelers mild weather (mid 60s to low 70s) and fewer crowds, while the months between November and March constitute low season with chilly temperatures and fewer tourists.
Best La Maddalena Beaches
Testa Di Polpo Beach
Located on the western side of the island, near the town of Isoleddu, the Testa di Polpo Beach is absolutely stunning. Just picture it: thin and white sand, crystal clear waters, big rocks… here we go! You can get there by car. Although the road is a bit bumpy you can definitely drive and park there.
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Punte Tegge Beach
The beach itself is not massive but it’s such a beautiful spot. There are tons of rocks, making it a great photo spot. You will also find a diving center nearby, and it is also a great beach for snorkeling. So pack your snorkeling gear.
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Cala Dello Spalmatore
Cala Dello Spalmatore is one of the most beautiful and frequented beaches of the island, with golden sand, crystal clear waters and wide shallow waters. This beach provides many services such as bars, restaurants, rental equipment such as canoes and surfboards, and is a blue flag beach.
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Monti Delle’Arena Beach
The beach is distinguished by a dune of white sand, and by a large clear sandy shore with coarse sands surrounded by rocks. Its crystal clear waters will leave you breathless! This beach as wide parking spaces, and is particularly suitable for families with children.
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Bassa Trinita Beach
It’s definitely one of the most stunning beaches in Italy however it can get pretty busy too so make sure you go a bit early to avoid the crowds in summer. There is a walking trail by the beach so if you love hiking, that will be one of the best places in La Maddalena to do so.
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Best La Maddalena Area Tours & Activities
Private Tour of La Maddalena Archipelago – Inflatable Boat – Skipper Included
Discover the exclusive areas of wonderful emerald and turquoise coves. Bathe or lie in the sun, or in the shade, perhaps with a book and a good cool drink, or listening to relaxing music. You will be pampered from start to finish. Spend the most beautiful day of your holiday in the archipelago of La Maddalena in Sardinia. Book your Private Tour of La Maddalena Archipelago Here.
Bosa & Nuraghe Santu Antine From Olbia – Costa Smeralda
Bosa is a fabulous village where history and modernity as a set generating curiosity and fascination. The Old Village, also known as Sa Costa, lies around the Serravalle Castle, built by the Malaspinas between the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. It will reward you by showing you the charm of the town from a scenic location that will remain forever in your memory. Book your Bosa & Nuraghe Santu Antine Tour Here.
Alghero From Olbia – Costa Smeralda
With its 44,000 inhabitants, it is the 5th largest city of Sardinia. Alghero is the island’s main harbor, home to Fertilia airport and one of its best-loved cities walkway along the port’s bastions, the red roofs that touch into the emerald sea. The shoreline is some 90 km long and known as the Coral Riviera. The most famous beach here is Le Bombarde, it is a favorite destination for families, young people and surfing enthusiasts. Book your Alghero from Olbia Tour Here.
Castelsardo & Tempio Pausania From Olbia – Costa Smeralda
Castelsardo is a medieval fortress surrounded by nature and steeped in history, religious traditions and ancient crafts. It sits perched on promontory in Anglona, in the center of the Asinara Gulf in north-western Sardinia. It was already an impenetrable centuries-old fortress protected by thick walls and 17 towers, until the advent of modern weaponry. The original nucleus of Castelsardo grew up around the castle of the Dorias, which tradition dates to 1102, Book your Castelsardo & Tempio Pausania from Olbia Tour Here.
Boat Trips La Maddalena Archipelago – Departure from La Maddalena
La Maddalena Archipelago is one of the most dazzling clutches of islets in the Mediterranean, but it is accessible almost exclusively by sea. Experience its natural beauty for yourself with this full-day boat tour that makes stops at the top beaches and coves along the coastline. Snap photos, take a dip, and marvel at the turquoise-hued water as you listen to the onboard commentary about La Maddalena and its treasures. Book Your Boat Trips La Maddalena Archipelago Here
Best La Maddalena Restaurants
Trattoria Dal Genovese $11 – 30
With its terracotta tile floors, white-washed walls, and homely atmosphere, this rustic restaurant serves delicious dishes with delicate flavors. The owner is from Genoa (hence the name), so you can expect some Genoese home-cooking here. Telephone: 39 379 244 7746 Web: Trattoria Dal Genovese
Sottovento $11 – 30
For a real homely feeling, head to Sottovento. It’s known to be one of the best La Maddalena restaurants. Here, you’ll find lots of local Sardinian food options, including homemade pasta and other dishes using fresh ingredients. It’s so good that you’ll find it’s often quite busy. Telephone: 39 345 501 9623 Web: Sottovento
La Locanda del Mirto $11 – 30
The food, comprising local Sardinian dishes, is utterly delicious. Everything’s so fresh and well-made that you’ll wonder why this place hasn’t won awards. The porchetto (Sardinian suckling pig), in particular, is exquisite. Telephone: 39 347 339 7069 Web: La Locanda del Mirto
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Ristorante L’Agriturismo $30 and Over
The flavors used reflect the traditions of the land, with cold cuts and cheeses, soups, ricotta tortellini, stews, and a whole host of pasta dishes on offer. You will most certainly eat well here. The beautiful setting is the bonus to this taste sensation. Telephone: 39 347 369 5003 Web: Ristorante L’Agriturismo
Best La Maddalena Bars
Taverna Baro
For pub-style ambience, head to this contemporary taverna. Though it may look modern and stylish inside, with newly decked out interiors of stone and wood, don’t be fooled; you’ll still find quintessential Sardinian friendliness and hospitality here. Telephone: 39 379 109 5742 Web: Taverna Baro
I Vitelloni La Maddalena
A great place to grab a drink or two before heading out to dinner, this easygoing bar has a low-key, local atmosphere to match. The interior, with its cozy decor, heightens that mood even more. Telephone: 39 339 474 3737 Web: I Vitelloni La Maddalena
Bar Oasi
With its plastic tables and sparse decor, this bar might seem basic, but it’s the setting that takes centre stage here. Set overlooking the gleaming slice of sand and sea that is Spiaggia di Cala Spalmatore, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or two in the sun. Address: 07024, La Maddalena
The Duke Cocktail Lounge Bar
Truly fabulous place with beautiful cocktails, very nice atmosphere and the most beautiful service. Address: Via Garibaldi 55, 07024, Sardinia
Zi Anto
Very windy but excellent bar to see the sunset. Speakers with lounge music all over the rocks to make it worthwhile! Telephone: 39 0789 722150 Address: Loc. Punta Tegge, 07024 La Maddalena SS
Best La maddalena Hotels & Resorts
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I have too many things on my bucket list to add one more so La Maddalena in Sardinia is not a likely destination, but it looks like it would be an amazing place to visit. The pictures and descriptions really make me want to get out and explore. With Winter coming on I like to explore and dream about some warmer destinations.
Yes, I think we all do. I live in Florida and it has been in the low 70s which feels pretty darn cold here! Thanks for visiting Mike.
Good day, I have read so much about la Maddalena in books and watched it in TV as well but I have never seen a detailed article like this One, it was really nice and timely because I have been thinking of an ideal vacation spot until this came up, I’m definitely rushing this during Christmas. It’s a really nice place indeed
It is wonderful Collins, please let me know if I can answer any questions.
This looks like the perfect place to vacation! It has so many cool things to see! I love history so Castelsardo and Serravalle Castle are a must but I would also the private tour of La Maddalena Archipelago. As for my hotel, I would love to stay someplace very close (walking distance) to Cala Dello Spalmatore, as this sounds like a hub where I can easily walk around to shop and dine. Is there a hotel you can recommend?
I would agree Cynthia! The hotels at the bottom of the post are all of my best choices for hotels in La Maddalena. Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thanks for visiting my La Maddalena Travel Guide.
ok you got me!
I need to book a trip soon i need to swim in some of those clear waters and suntan on those white sand beaches.
Loved how i discovered some new destinations that i never heard of before , and the review you gave me the confidence necessary to look into booking some of these cool places .
Great Alex! Please come back to beach travel destinations when you are ready to book 🙂 I would be glad to help with your travel plans.
La Maddalena looks like a very nice place and it is made of 62 tiny islands, which is really great. i love this place and I like the way you present this information and the information regarding the restaurant, the resort is great, it is a complete package to know about La Maddalena. I will add this beautiful place to my bucket list and visit it during my vacation time.
Great Raja. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave me comments as well.
Wow, La Maddalena looks beautiful! I am in need of a warm vacation!
The Cala Dello Spalmatore beach and the Monti Delle’Arena Beach look gorgeous and definitely my style. I am not a huge diver or scuba diver, so relaxing and sun bathing would be my choice. You mention that Cala Dello Spalmatore beach is a blue flag beach. What does that mean? Sounds scary haha, does it mean it has potentially harmful waves or water dwellers?!
Thanks for the article!
You are welcome Brooke, glad you enjoyed 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave me comments.
Excellent article about an excellent place to visit! I´m thrilled with the photos you used and the way you explain and provide information about La Maddalena! It´s not a famous place, so this kind of articles are pure gold! Can´t wait to visit Punte Tegge Beach!! And really good information regarding restaurants and prices, saved me a lot of time and money!
Great Johnny, I hope you enjoy La Maddalena. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Wow! Italy is definitely at the top of my list. There are so many places I’d like to visit that it’ll be an impossible task to narrow them down.
Testa di Polpo looks amazing! I also like Cala Dello Spalmatore. However, I think I’d visit it on a weekday to escape the crowds. I imagine it must get packed on weekends. The one thing I like most about it is its blue flag certification. Tourism has to be sustainable if we want to travel for many more years.
Thanks for sharing. I already added this to my list. It just keeps getting longer!!!
LOL, well always good to have a bucket lists of places to visit, especially once Covid starts winding down. I am glad you enjoyed your visit to beach travel destinations.
I’ve read several of your reviews now, and I absolutely have to ask. How many of these beautiful vacation spots have you visited? If you have spent a lot of time in these wonderful locations, then you are truly a lucky person.
I would go for the boat tour. Maybe I could learn enough Italian to get by before taking this trip. I’m sure everyone involved in the tourist trade speaks better English than I do Italian. They do speak Italian there, don’t they?
I’ve read quite a few books that were set in Italy so I would love to visit. You always start off with a beautiful video of the area. Do you contract with a photographer or how do you get them? If I’m being too nosy, just say so. They look like they were shot with a drone. Are the laws regarding drones more relaxed over there or do they make an exception where tourism is involved?
Thank you for another wonderful review. If I read enough of them, I will start to feel like a world traveler.
You are very welcome, and yes they do speak Italian. You will also be able to get by with English. I am glad you enjoyed your digital visit to La Maddalena. Thanks for stopping by.
Wow! This place really is out of a dream! I have put the Monti Delle’Arena Beach on my list as the one to go to. I have also decided the Petra Segreta Resort and Spa is where we will be staying! I have been to your site before, so I already had it bookmarked, but I can see now that I will be doing a lot of travelling through your site! I love all of the detail you put into your articles; very thorough.
Thank you Siobhan, I am glad you are enjoying your visits to beach travel destinations.
This looks like a pretty interesting place to visit. I have always wanted to travel to Europe so this seems like a good place to start. I will be sure to add it to my bucket list and let all my friends and family know about it. We all want to travel together one day. Thanks for all the great information for planning.
You are welcome Daniel. You and your friends will enjoy. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Hi there, La Maddalena is one of the most beautiful areas that I have ever been fortunate enough to visit. The sea is crystal clear and the water is very refreshing. We were actually staying in Palau, across the bay from La Maddalena, but there is a boat that runs regularly between the two towns, so it was a very easy trip.
I would certainly recommend doing a boat trip around the beautiful shores of La Maddalena and Sardinia.
I concur and thank you for taking the time to share your experience in La Maddalena.
I went to Sardinia when I was 5 years old. I remember a bit going to these different islands, but not much more. But I sure would like to go back. There are so many cool things to do. I love hikes. And would like to go on a hike through the coast with white-sand beaches. And take lots of pictures!
Wow, if I went when I were 5, I doubt I would remember. Although my son remembers trips he made at that age to Mexico and Germany with me. It is a great experience, especially to go back and re-expercience as an adult. Thank you for taking the time to stop and leave me comments.