Stintino is a beautiful coastal town in northern Sardinia known for clear water and iconic beaches. Visitors come for Torre della Pelosa, the small old town, and a relaxed seaside feel. This guide covers the best things to do, where to go, and what makes Stintino special.
Stintino is a small coastal town in northern Sardinia known for clear water, white sand, and a relaxed seaside pace. The town sits between rocky coastline and open sea, which gives it a quiet and scenic feel. Because of this, life here moves slowly, shaped by fishing traditions and time spent outdoors.
Many visitors come to Stintino for its beaches, especially the famous Torre della Pelosa. At the same time, the town offers more than beach days alone. The old town, small harbor, and local food spots add character and depth to a visit. Even so, Stintino keeps a calm and welcoming mood.
This guide covers the best things to do in Stintino, from beaches and coastal walks to the old town and nearby sights. In addition, you’ll find tips on when to visit and how to enjoy the area at an easy pace. Whether you stay for a short break or a longer trip, Stintino suits travelers who value nature, water views, and simple coastal life.
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Weather and Best Time to Visit Stintino
Stintino enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and gentle winters. Most days feel sunny, with sea breezes that help keep temperatures comfortable. Because of this, outdoor activities work well for much of the year.
Spring, from April to June, is one of the best times to visit Stintino. Temperatures stay pleasant, and the sea begins to warm. At the same time, crowds remain light, which makes beach visits more relaxed. This season suits walking, swimming, and coastal exploring.
Summer, from July to September, brings hot weather and bright blue skies. Beach days become the main focus during this time. However, July and August attract more visitors, especially around Torre della Pelosa. Early mornings and evenings feel best for exploring.
Autumn, from October to early November, offers a quieter feel. The sea often stays warm into October. As a result, swimming can still be enjoyable. Cooler air also makes walking and sightseeing comfortable.
Winter stays mild compared to much of Europe. While beach weather fades, Stintino remains peaceful and scenic. For this reason, winter suits travelers who enjoy quiet coastal views and slower travel.
Why Visit Stintino
Stintino offers a rare mix of natural beauty, local character, as well as outdoor adventure. The town feels relaxed and scenic, yet there is plenty to see and do. For this reason, many travelers choose Stintino for a calm coastal escape.
Top Reasons to Visit Stintino
World-Class Beaches
Spiaggia della Pelosa ranks among the most famous beaches in Italy. Shallow turquoise water as well as soft white sand create ideal swimming conditions. To protect the area, online reservations are required to visit La Pelosa in 2025. Nearby beaches such as Le Saline and Ezzi Mannu offer more space as well as fewer crowds.
Asinara National Park
Asinara National Park sits just offshore from Stintino. The island once served as a prison colony, but it is now a protected natural area. Visitors come for wild landscapes, clear water, as well as rare albino donkeys. Snorkeling coves around the island remain quiet and unspoiled.
Authentic Coastal Atmosphere
Stintino keeps the feel of a historic fishing village. Colorful low houses line the streets, and daily life centers around the sea. At the same time, the two marinas, Porto Vecchio and Porto Nuovo, add charm without changing the town’s relaxed mood.
Outdoor and Active Experiences
Stintino attracts travelers who enjoy being outdoors. Steady winds support windsurfing and sailing, while clear water suits scuba diving. In addition, hiking routes like the trail to Capo Falcone reward walkers with wide views over the Gulf of Asinara.
Local Food and Fishing Traditions
Seafood plays a central role in Stintino’s food culture. Local dishes often feature For a deeper look, visitors can explore the Tonnara Museum to learn about the town’s tuna fishing past as well as maritime heritage.
Beaches in Stintino
Stintino is best known for its clear water and bright sand. Beaches here range from famous postcard spots to quieter stretches along the coast. Because of this, visitors can choose between lively beach days and calm escapes.
Popular Beaches in Stintino
Spiaggia della Pelosa
La Pelosa is Stintino’s most famous beach. Shallow turquoise water and soft white sand make it ideal for swimming. Online reservations are required to manage visitor numbers. Early visits offer the calmest experience.
Spiaggia delle Saline
This long sandy beach sits just outside town. It offers open space and steady breezes. As a result, it works well for swimming, walking, and wind sports.
Spiaggia di Ezzi Mannu
Ezzi Mannu features a wide shoreline with clear water. The beach feels more open and less crowded than La Pelosa. At the same time, it remains easy to reach by car.
Cala Lupo
Cala Lupo sits close to the marina and town center. Rocky edges and calm water suit swimming and snorkeling. Because of its location, it attracts both locals and visitors.
Le Tonnare Beach
Le Tonnare stretches along the coast near the old tuna processing site. The area feels spacious and relaxed. In addition, strong winds make it popular for kitesurfing.
Hidden and Quieter Beaches
Cala Grande (Asinara)
Cala Grande lies within Asinara National Park. Clear water and natural surroundings define the setting. For this reason, it remains one of the calmest beach spots in the area.
Cala Sabina (Asinara)
Cala Sabina offers white sand and shallow water on Asinara Island. The beach feels peaceful and protected. As a result, it suits slow swimming and quiet time.
Cala d’Oliva
Cala d’Oliva sits near the former prison village on Asinara. The shoreline mixes sand and rock. Because of the location, crowds stay light.
Pazzona Beach
Pazzona Beach lies south of Stintino and feels wide and open. Few facilities keep the area simple. For this reason, it appeals to travelers who enjoy space.
Rena Majore (near Stintino)
Rena Majore offers pale sand and clear water along a quieter stretch of coast. Access requires a short walk. As a result, the beach feels less busy than main spots.
Luxury Hotels in Stintino
Stintino offers a small selection of luxury stays that focus on comfort, views, as well as calm surroundings. These hotels suit travelers who want quality service and a relaxed coastal setting. Many also stand out for strong guest reviews and thoughtful design.
Best Luxury Hotels in Stintino
Club Hotel Ancora ★★★★★ | Guest rating: 9.1/10
Club Hotel Ancora sits close to the sea and offers a calm and comfortable stay. Rooms feel bright and well planned, with outdoor areas that suit slow mornings. Because of its setting, guests enjoy both privacy and easy beach access. The hotel works well for travelers who want quiet comfort by the water.
Park Hotel Asinara ★★★★★ | Guest rating: 9.0/10
Park Hotel Asinara offers modern comfort in a relaxed setting. The property includes open spaces, a pool area, and views of the surrounding land. As a result, many guests choose it for rest and downtime. It suits longer stays and unhurried travel.
Hotel Cala Reale (Asinara Island) ★★★★★ | Guest rating: 9.2/10
Hotel Cala Reale offers a special stay inside Asinara National Park. The setting feels natural and quiet, with clear water nearby. For this reason, the hotel suits travelers who enjoy calm places and nature. Boat access adds to the overall experience.
Romantic Luxury Hotels in Stintino
Romantic luxury stays in Stintino focus on calm spaces, privacy, and scenic views. These hotels suit couples who enjoy quiet evenings and unhurried days. Many also offer settings that feel intimate without being formal.
Best Romantic Luxury Hotels in Stintino
Saline Apartment with AC – Stintino ★★★★★ | Guest rating: Highly rated
Saline Apartment with AC offers a comfortable one-bedroom stay near La Pelosa Beach. The apartment includes a kitchen, private outdoor space, and air conditioning, which suits couples well. Because of the location, beach days feel easy and relaxed. Shared amenities like the pool and outdoor areas add comfort without feeling crowded.
Capo Falcone Bilo Premium ★★★★★ | Guest rating: 9.8/10
Capo Falcone Bilo Premium offers a modern one-bedroom stay near La Pelosa Beach. The apartment feels bright and well finished, with a private patio or terrace for quiet evenings. Because of the location, couples enjoy easy beach access and calm surroundings. Shared amenities like the pool and gardens add comfort without affecting privacy.
Capo Falcone Charming Apartment by Interhome ★★★★★ | Guest rating: 9.6/10
Capo Falcone Charming Apartment offers a bright and modern one-bedroom stay near the coast. The apartment features a private balcony or terrace, air conditioning, and a compact kitchen, which suits couples well. Because of its location, La Pelosa Beach sits just a short walk away. Shared amenities like the pool and garden add comfort while keeping the stay relaxed and quiet.
Other Great Choices in Stintino
These hotels also rate highly with guests and offer comfort in relaxed settings. While they include fewer luxury extras, they remain excellent options for locationn and value.
B&B Il Porto Vecchio ★★★★☆ | Guest rating: 9.1/10
This well-rated stay sits near the harbor. Rooms feel simple and comfortable. Because of the location, guests enjoy easy access to dining and walks by the water.
Hotel Silvestrino ★★★★☆ | Guest rating: 9.0/10
Hotel Silvestrino offers a friendly and casual stay. Rooms feel clean and practical. As a result, it works well for travelers who spend most days exploring.
Sea & Villas Stintino ★★★★☆ | Guest rating: 9.0/10
Sea & Villas Stintino provides apartment-style comfort near the coast. Guests enjoy space and flexibility. The setting suits longer stays as well as relaxed trips.
Roccabianca Rooms & Studios ★★★★☆ | Guest rating: 9.3/10
This small property offers modern rooms in a quiet area. The atmosphere feels calm and personal. Because of this, it appeals to travelers seeking simplicity and comfort.
Things to Do in Stintino
Stintino offers a mix of beach time, outdoor activity, and slow coastal life. Many experiences stay close together, which makes planning easy. Because of this, the town suits both short visits and longer stays.
Relax at the Beaches
Beaches are the main draw in Stintino. You can swim in shallow water, relax on soft sand, or explore rocky coves. At the same time, many beaches offer clear views and calm conditions. La Pelosa remains the most famous choice.
Visit Asinara National Park
Asinara National Park sits just offshore from Stintino. Boat trips take visitors to the island for swimming, hiking, and wildlife spotting. As a result, the park feels untouched and quiet. The island’s white donkeys are a well-known sight.
Walk the Old Town and Harbor
Stintino’s old town feels small and easy to explore. Colorful houses line the streets near the marina. Because of the layout, walking works well. The harbor also offers scenic views throughout the day.
Try Water Sports
Steady winds make Stintino popular for water sports. Windsurfing and sailing are common along the coast. In addition, scuba diving reveals clear water and marine life. Equipment rentals and lessons are easy to find.
Hike to Capo Falcone
A coastal trail leads toward Capo Falcone. The route offers open views of the sea and the Gulf of Asinara. As a result, the hike feels rewarding without being difficult. Early morning walks work best.
Explore Local Food Spots
Food plays a central role in daily life. Small restaurants serve fresh seafood and local dishes. Because of this, dining feels relaxed and unhurried. Evening meals often become a highlight of the day.
Flavors of Stintino
Food in Stintino reflects its fishing roots and coastal setting. Dishes focus on fresh seafood, simple flavors, as well as local tradition. Because of this, meals feel honest and satisfying rather than fancy.
Local Foods and Drinks to Try
Stintinese Octopus
Octopus is a local favorite in Stintino. It is often boiled, grilled, or served in salads. Because of the simple preparation, the flavor stays clean and fresh.
Bottarga
Bottarga, made from cured fish roe, appears in many Sardinian dishes. For this reason, locals often shave it over pasta or serve it with olive oil and bread. The taste is rich and salty.
Seafood Pasta
Seafood pasta dishes feature clams, mussels, or mixed fish. At the same time, sauces stay light to highlight the catch. Many restaurants prepare these dishes daily.
Fregola with Seafood
Fregola is a small toasted pasta typical of Sardinia. It is often cooked with seafood and tomato. As a result, the dish feels filling and comforting.
Local White Wine and Aperitivo
Local white wines pair well with seafood dishes. In addition, many people enjoy an aperitivo before dinner. Drinks by the water remain a popular evening ritual.
Must-Try Restaurants in Stintino
Ristorante Lina
Ristorante Lina is one of the most well-known restaurants in town. For this reason, many visitors come here to try classic seafood dishes. The menu focuses on local recipes as well as fresh ingredients. So, quality stays consistent, which makes it a reliable choice.
Il Gabbiano
Il Gabbiano focuses on fresh fish and simple cooking. Because the menu follows the daily catch, dishes feel seasonal and local. Preparation stays light, and flavors remain clear. So, many guests return for the honest approach.
Trattoria Chiringuito Da Fabiano
This casual spot sits close to the beach and feels relaxed. As a result, it works well for easy lunches and laid-back dinners. Seafood and pasta dishes are popular. Sunset adds to the experience.
Ristorante Capo Falcone
Ristorante Capo Falcone pairs Sardinian food with sea views. At the same time, the atmosphere stays calm and welcoming. Many guests enjoy visiting in the evening. The setting suits slow meals.
Sa Mesa
Sa Mesa offers traditional Sardinian cooking with a home-style feel. For this reason, it’s a good place to explore local dishes beyond seafood. Portions feel generous, and flavors stay rooted in tradition.
Getting to Stintino
Stintino sits on the northwest coast of Sardinia. While it feels remote, reaching the town is straightforward. Because of its location, most travelers arrive by air and continue by road.
By Air
Alghero Airport is the closest airport to Stintino. It lies about 50 kilometers away. As a result, it’s the most convenient option for visitors. Cagliari and Olbia airports also work, though travel time increases.
By Car
Driving is the easiest way to reach Stintino. Roads from Alghero are well marked and scenic. For this reason, many visitors choose to rent a car at the airport. The drive usually takes about one hour from Alghero.
By Bus
Buses run between Alghero and Stintino during the main travel season. At the same time, schedules can be limited outside summer. This option suits travelers who prefer not to drive.
By Ferry
Stintino does not have direct ferry connections. However, ferries arrive at nearby ports such as Porto Torres. From there, a short drive or bus ride reaches Stintino.
Getting Around Stintino
Stintino is small and easy to explore. Many areas sit close together. Because of this, getting around feels simple and relaxed.
On Foot
Walking works well in the old town and near the harbor. Shops, cafés, and restaurants stay within easy reach. In addition, evening walks along the waterfront feel pleasant.
By Car
A car helps when visiting beaches outside town. La Pelosa, Le Saline, and Ezzi Mannu all sit a short drive away. As a result, having a car adds flexibility.
By Bike
Cycling suits short distances around town. Some coastal roads also work well for relaxed rides. At the same time, summer heat can make midday cycling uncomfortable.
By Boat
Boat trips depart from the marina to Asinara National Park. For this reason, boats remain a popular way to explore nearby islands and coves. Tours range from half-day to full-day options.
Essential Tips for Visiting Stintino
A little planning goes a long way in Stintino. The town feels relaxed, yet a few details can make your visit smoother. For this reason, these tips help you enjoy the area with ease.
Reserve La Pelosa in Advance
Spiaggia della Pelosa requires online reservations during peak season. Because of this, planning ahead is important, especially in summer. Entry limits help protect the beach and improve the experience.
Arrive Early at Popular Beaches
Busy beaches fill up quickly in warm months. As a result, early mornings offer calmer water and more space. This also helps with parking near La Pelosa and Le Saline.
Bring Cash for Small Purchases
Many places accept cards, but smaller cafés and beach vendors may prefer cash. For this reason, carrying a small amount helps avoid delays. ATMs are limited in town.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
Summer sun can feel strong near the water. In addition, shade can be limited on some beaches. Hats, sunscreen, and water make a big difference during long days out.
Plan Asinara Visits Carefully
Trips to Asinara National Park often require advance booking. Because of park rules, access is controlled and guided in many areas. Choosing tours early helps secure your spot.
Dress Simply but Thoughtfully
Stintino stays casual, yet people dress neatly for evenings out. At the same time, beachwear works best during the day. Light layers help with changing temperatures.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Stintino
Stintino offers a calm and scenic side of Sardinia. Clear water, white sand, and open sea views shape daily life here. Because of this, the town feels peaceful and easy to enjoy.
Travelers who enjoy simple coastal trips often love Stintino. You can spend your days at the beach, explore nearby islands, and enjoy fresh seafood without rushing. At the same time, the town keeps its local character.
Whether you visit for a short stay or a longer break, Stintino rewards slow travel. Its mix of beaches, nature, and village life creates an experience that feels relaxed and memorable.
Stintino: FAQs
What is the closest airport to Stintino?
Alghero Airport is the closest airport to Stintino. It sits about 50 kilometers away. Most travelers use this airport for the shortest transfer time.
Are there direct flights to Alghero Airport?
Yes, Alghero Airport offers direct flights from several European cities. Seasonal routes increase during summer. Flights from mainland Italy run year-round.
Can you fly to Stintino from the United States?
There are no direct flights from the United States to Stintino. Travelers usually connect through major European cities such as Rome or Milan. From there, they fly to Alghero.
Is Cagliari or Olbia a good alternative airport?
Yes, both airports work as alternatives. However, they are farther away than Alghero. Travel time from either airport takes several hours by car.
How do you get from Alghero Airport to Stintino?
Most visitors rent a car at Alghero Airport. The drive takes about one hour. Buses also operate during the main travel season.
Is it easy to rent a car at the airport?
Yes, car rental services are available at Alghero Airport. Booking in advance helps during summer. A car makes beach visits easier.
When should you book flights to Stintino?
Booking early helps secure better prices, especially for summer travel. Flights fill quickly in July and August. Spring and fall often offer more flexibility.
This Stintino guide paints such a stunning picture — I can practically feel the soft white sand and see those shades of turquoise! I love how you tied in the town’s fishing village roots with its modern, seaside charm. The mix of hidden beaches like Ezzy Mannu and iconic ones like La Pelosa gives the post a great balance. And those restaurant picks — especially Ristorante Silvestrino and Lu Fanali — sound irresistible. I’m curious though, for someone visiting for just three or four days, would you suggest focusing mainly on Stintino and the Asinara National Park, or is it worth setting aside a day to explore the Costa Smeralda or La Maddalena area too?
Thank you! Stintino really does capture that perfect Sardinian mix of wild beauty and small-town warmth. If you’ve got three or four days, I’d recommend spending most of your time in Stintino and Asinara National Park — there’s more than enough to fill your days between the beaches, boat tours, and fresh seafood dining. You can always do a day trip to La Maddalena or Costa Smeralda if you want a taste of that glamorous side of Sardinia, but don’t rush it — Stintino’s magic is best enjoyed slowly, with plenty of time to soak up the views and unwind by the sea.
A great insight into Italy and its beautiful beaches! It’s not somewhere i have been before. The nearest I have been Sicily where i got married and another beautiful place to visit.
I love the idea that you have broken down each of its beaches so that customers can see what suits them best when booking their holiday and the ideal time to go.
It’s also great that excursions are listed as we sometimes have to search separate for those but they’re all in one place and highlights what customers can do.
I am glad you enjoyed your digital visit to the most amazing places to stay in Stintino Italy. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave me comments.
These are some beautiful beaches to visit in Italy. This website is very helpful with planning my next vacation with my wife on our 30th wedding anniversary, can’t make my mind up between Punta Negra Beach and Le Pelosetta a Beach vacation so very relaxing and absolutely beautiful. I will be sharing your website with my coworkers to help me decide which beach would be the best.
Sardinia is one of my dreams. I saw the pictures of beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal clear water and I read it is the European version of the Caribbean. Is that true? Also, Sardinia is the most expensive place in Italy, correct? Which beach would you recommend visiting the most? Based on your description I like Ezzy Mannu Beach. Thank you
Hi leahrae,
I just love your guides on best destinations with all the info on activities, beaches and restaurants. I am thinking about visiting stinting at some point next year and just wanted to know a but more about it. Your post has really been helpful and it will go a long way in my planning. I will be stopping by here every so often to learn more about the places I want to visit. 🙂
Great Dave, glad you are enjoying your digital visits to beautiful beach destinations on my beach travel destinations blog. Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to leave me comments.
The website provides valuable information for the traveler wanting information about Stintino Italy, especially the beaches there. The layout with text and images gives the website visitor not only a well written description, but a picture to substantiate the words. Text and images are placed to make the site welcome and the reader will likely visit other blogs and pages, as well.
Thank you Dave for taking the time to stop by Beach Travel Destinations and leave me comments.
Stintino, such a beautiful place to be, so I heard from a friend who had gone to Italy for her honeymoon. She showed some few pics and told me of some beaches they visited. Haven read this article, I can tell that stintino is really a wonderful place to be and she did have a great time there.
Stintino is wonderful, and definitely a great honeymoon destination. Hopefully you can enjoy the beauty of Stintino too soon 🙂
I have been planning a trip to Sardinia for a long time. And visiting Stintino is at the top of my list. I have always been impressed by the beautiful beaches there. The sand looks so white in the pictures, and the ocean is so pristine. I am interested in visiting La Pelosa beach and the Spanish tower that is there.
You’ll have a great time in Stintino Paolo, please let me know if you need any additional information or if you need any help with your travel planning.
Sardinia is a beautiful island and Stintino looks like an absolute gem. I have been fortunate enough to visit Sardinia on several occasions, but always stayed in Palau and Costa Smeralda, where we found it was essential to have a car.
So is it advisable to have a car when you holiday in Stintino? Would Olbia be the nearest airport? Is it best to fly and rent a car, or can one come by ferry from the mainland and bring your own car? Thanks.
Glad you enjoyed your digital visit to Stintino. The closes airport is going to be Alghero (AHO) Airport. Rental cars in Stintino are going to be quite steep and not necessary. I would say to skip the price of the rental car here, you’ll do fine without it 🙂
Italy seems like an amazing place to go visit. I would definitely go there for a honeymoon haha. Thank you for this informative article, I will be sure to share it around. Also I love the soccer there, I would definitely go to Italy to watch a Juventus match, also for the formula one
Sounds like you would kill two birds with one stone 🙂 Yes, a honeymoon in Stintino would be romantic and wonderful! Then throw in the soccer match (I’m not so sure that would be good for a honeymoon tho) and the formula one, and you have a busy schedule 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed your visit to the Amazing Places to Stay in Stintino Italy Daniel. Thanks for stopping by.
Travelling is one of my hobbies and this makes me long to see your website Everytime, I have always wanted to go to stintino Italy, so seeing it in detail from your website is nothing short amazing. I really like the tourist attractions and I just checked the girls featured here, they are really nice indeed, thanks for this. I really like it.
You are very welcome Collins. Yes, lots to do and see. Stintino is a perfect getaway. Glad you enjoyed.
This sounds like a perfect place to go in April or May when we here in New Hampshire are dying for some warm weather and sunshine. I’d like to go to La Pelosa Beach, of course, but I would spend most of my time exploring the area. The Jeep off-road tour is a must as is the boat tour in the La Maddalena Archipelago. Costa Smeralda sightseeing tour and top it off with the archaeological sites and monuments in Sardinia. Maybe one more day at the beach before I leave. I’ll need it to recover from all the sightseeing!
Yes, a good day relaxing at the beach is the perfect way to wind down and get ready to head home 🙂 Glad you enjoyed your digital visit to Stintino Cynthia, thanks for stopping by.
This to me a complete x ray of Stintino Italy. Yours is well detailed mentioning the beaches, best Stintino restaurants even the nightlife but you seem to be quiet on the security of the place. How secured are the tourists within the place? Generally speaking the entire site is well arranged and properly organised.
There are no travel concerns traveling to Stintino Italy, I guess that is why I don’t list them. If there is an issue or a concern, I would definitely make my readers aware. Glad you are enjoying your visits to Beach travel destinations.