Porto San Paolo Beaches

Overview

Porto San Paolo, nestled on Sardinia's northeastern coast, is a delightful destination for beach lovers. The area boasts a stunning coastline where crystal-clear turquoise waters gently lap onto shores, often sheltered by the majestic Tavolara Island. This makes it an excellent choice for various visitors, including families looking for calm, shallow waters, and those seeking either a relaxing escape or opportunities for water activities.

Among the highlights, Spiaggia Porto Taverna is a popular, expansive beach offering fantastic views of Tavolara. The famed Brandinchi Beach, often called 'Little Tahiti', enchants with its Caribbean-like white sand. For breathtaking beauty and family fun, Porto Istana Beach is a picture-perfect choice with its fine sand and clear waters. And for sheer convenience, Spiaggia di Porto San Paolo serves as the accessible main beach of the town.

Beyond these gems, Porto San Paolo's coastline offers a variety of experiences, from lively spots to more tranquil coves waiting to be discovered. The consistently clear and inviting waters are a hallmark of the region, perfect for swimming and enjoying the sea. For a comprehensive look at all the beautiful stretches of sand this area has to offer, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches in this guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Porto San Paolo good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Porto San Paolo is considered a good destination for families. Many beaches in the area, like Porto Taverna and Porto Istana, have shallow, sandy seabeds suitable for children. Some beaches also offer amenities like sunbed rentals and are close to facilities.

Spiaggia Porto Taverna

Porto Istana Beach

What are the swimming conditions like in Porto San Paolo?

The waters around Porto San Paolo are generally crystal-clear, with colors ranging from blue to turquoise, making them excellent for swimming and snorkeling. The sea is often calm, especially due to the presence of Tavolara Island, which acts as a natural barrier against strong currents and winds.

When is the best time to visit Porto San Paolo for beaches?

The best time to visit Porto San Paolo for beach activities is from May to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is usually calm and pleasant for swimming. July and August are peak tourist months, so May, June, and September offer a quieter experience with good weather.

How do I get to Tavolara Island from Porto San Paolo?

You can reach Tavolara Island by ferry from the small port of Porto San Paolo. The journey takes about 25 minutes. Several companies offer this service, with departures typically starting in the morning.

Are there accommodations with direct beach access in Porto San Paolo?

Yes, there are some accommodations in and around Porto San Paolo that offer close proximity or direct access to beaches. For example, Hotel Castello Di Tavolara is mentioned as being just steps from the beach. Porto San Paolo Apartments also highlight beachfront access. It's always best to check the specific details of a hotel or rental.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are the beaches in Porto San Paolo crowded?

Some popular beaches like Porto Istana can get very crowded, especially during July and August. To avoid crowds, it's recommended to visit these beaches in the early morning or at sunset, or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September). There are also less crowded coves and smaller beaches in the area.

Porto Istana Beach

Is parking available at the beaches near Porto San Paolo?

Parking availability varies by beach. Some beaches like Porto Istana have ample parking, though it might be a short walk from the beach. Others, like Marina Maria, have limited parking. Some popular beaches like Cala Brandinchi have limited and often paid parking. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season.

Porto Istana Beach

Spiaggia Marina Maria

Brandinchi Beach

What kind of amenities can I find at Porto San Paolo beaches?

Many beaches offer amenities such as beach umbrella and sunbed rentals, bars or kiosks for refreshments, and sometimes toilets and showers. Some beaches also have facilities for water sports. The main Porto San Paolo beach is described as well-equipped.

Spiaggia di Porto San Paolo

People Also Ask

Are there any dog-friendly beaches in or near Porto San Paolo?

Yes, there are some beaches in the wider area that allow dogs. For example, Porto Taverna beach has a designated pet-friendly area where small and medium-sized dogs are allowed on a leash. Costa Caddu near San Teodoro is another option. Always check local regulations, as specific rules apply, such as keeping dogs on a leash and having health certificates.

Spiaggia Porto Taverna

Which beaches are within walking distance of Porto San Paolo town?

There are a few beaches accessible on foot from Porto San Paolo town. The main beach of Porto San Paolo is centrally located. Costa Corallina also has beaches that can be reached on foot or by bicycle from the town.

Spiaggia di Porto San Paolo

What are some quieter or hidden beaches near Porto San Paolo?

While the main beaches can be busy, there are options for those seeking quieter spots. Punta Don Diego offers sheltered coves and is generally uncrowded. Cala Finanza is good for snorkeling and often less busy. Exploring the coastline by boat can also reveal more secluded coves.

Is Porto San Paolo suitable for a relaxing beach holiday or more for an active one?

Porto San Paolo can cater to both. Its beautiful beaches with calm waters are perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. However, it's also a hub for activities like boat trips to Tavolara and Molara, snorkeling, diving in the marine park, and even surfing at beaches like Marina Maria when conditions are right.

Spiaggia Marina Maria

How does Porto San Paolo compare to San Teodoro for beaches?

Both Porto San Paolo and San Teodoro offer stunning beaches. San Teodoro is known for larger, very popular beaches like La Cinta and Cala Brandinchi (often called 'Little Tahiti'). Porto San Paolo offers a mix of its own beautiful beaches like Porto Taverna and Porto Istana, and serves as a key departure point for Tavolara Island. Porto San Paolo might be considered slightly quieter overall than the bustling San Teodoro, but both are part of the same beautiful coastal area and marine park.

La Cinta

Brandinchi Beach

Spiaggia Porto Taverna

Porto Istana Beach

What is the water temperature like in Porto San Paolo during the summer?

During the summer months (June to September), the sea water temperature in Porto San Paolo is generally warm and suitable for comfortable swimming. Average summer water temperatures rise to around 24°C (75°F). The swimming season typically lasts from June to October when the water temperature does not usually drop below 20°C (68°F).

Are there any specific local tips for visiting the beaches in Porto San Paolo?

To make the most of your beach visit, consider arriving early at popular spots to secure parking and a good spot on the sand, especially in July and August. Renting a dinghy or taking a boat tour can allow you to explore more secluded coves. Some beaches are exposed to wind, so checking the forecast can be helpful, especially if you're interested in windsurfing.