Visit Santa Teresa Gallura: The Dream Beach Destination

Looking for the perfect mix of wild coastline, laid-back luxury, and authentic Sardinian life? Head to Santa Teresa Gallura, a northern gem perched across from Corsica and facing the iconic Strait of Bonifacio. This town isn’t just about postcard views (though it has plenty), it’s your launchpad to white-sand beaches, Bronze Age ruins, and some of the most scenic ferry rides in the Mediterranean. Santa Teresa also punches above its weight when it comes to flavor. Between long seaside lunches and sunset aperitivi, you can dive into wine tasting and wineries in Sardinia, especially around the Gallura region, home to the famed Vermentino DOCG.

Visit Santa Teresa Gallura

Relax on Rena Bianca Beach

Just a short walk from the heart of Santa Teresa Gallura, Rena Bianca is one of the most popular beaches in northern Sardinia, and for good reason. Its fine white sand and shallow turquoise waters are ideal for swimming, especially for families with kids or anyone looking for an easy, stress-free beach day. The beach proudly holds Blue Flag status for cleanliness and environmental quality. On clear days, you’ll catch a stunning view across the Strait of Bonifacio, with the cliffs of Corsica visible on the horizon.

Visit the Torre Longonsardo

Perched right above the Strait of Bonifacio, the 16th-century Torre Longonsardo is Santa Teresa’s ultimate photo op. This old Spanish watchtower once kept an eye on invaders, now it’s perfect for your sunset selfie. Climb up for wide-open views over the cliffs and across to Corsica on a clear day.

Swim at Santa Reparata Bay

Santa Reparata is your go-to beach when you want calm waters without the crowds. This quiet little cove has dreamy turquoise shallows made for floating, dozing off, or just zoning out to the sound of the waves. No beach clubs, no chaos, just you, the sea, and the salty breeze.

Lounge at Rena di Ponente

Outside Santa Teresa Gallura, Rena di Ponente is one of those beaches that makes you stay longer than planned. Soft white sand, calm shallow water, and a front-row seat to some of the best sunsets in northern Sardinia. It’s low-key and gorgeous, perfect for floating around, reading on the sand, or just watching the sky turn pink without a crowd breathing down your neck.

Marvel at ancient Nuraghe sites

When you visit Santa Teresa Gallura, keep your eyes peeled for the nuraghe ruins scattered across the countryside. These chunky prehistoric stone towers have been standing for over 3,000 years, quietly showing off Sardinia’s ancient past. No crowds, no fences, just raw history out in the open. It’s like stumbling onto a secret left behind by people who mastered stone-stacking long before Google Maps was a thing.

Best things to do around Santa Teresa Gallura

Snap photos in Valle della Luna

When you visit Santa Teresa Gallura, make time for Capo Testa, it looks like nature went wild with a giant sculpting kit. The granite boulders twist into surreal shapes, and Valle della Luna feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet (true story: hippies camped out here in the 60’s). It’s the kind of place where you can scramble over rocks, catch a killer sunset, or just sit and let the silence do its thing.

Walk to the Faro di Capo Testa lighthouse

Take the coastal trail out to the lighthouse at Capo Testa and let the sea do the talking. This rugged stretch of coastline is pure therapy, wind in your face, waves smashing the rocks below, and views that stretch all the way to Corsica on a clear day. The lighthouse stands right where two seas collide, making it one of the most dramatic spots around Santa Teresa Gallura.

Wander around Capo Testa

When you visit Santa Teresa Gallura, don’t skip Capo Testa, it’s like nature went full sculptor mode. Giant granite rocks twist into wild, surreal shapes, and Valle della Luna looks like it belongs on another planet (fun fact: ’60s hippies thought so too and camped here). It’s the perfect spot to roam at sunset, scramble around boulders, or just zone out in the silence. Wear good shoes, bring some water, and let the landscape blow your mind.

Visit La Maddalena Archipelago

One of the best ways to explore the wild beauty around Santa Teresa Gallura is to hop on a full-day boat tour to the jaw-dropping La Maddalena Archipelago. After a quick drive to Palau (about 25 minutes), ferries and tours will whisk you across to this protected marine area in no time. Think pink-sand beaches on Budelli, the turquoise waters of Spargi, and quiet bays around Santa Maria Island. If you’re planning to visit La Maddalena Italy, this is the way to do it, with sea breezes, swim stops, and unforgettable coastal views that make you forget the mainland even exists.

Good to know before visiting Santa Teresa Gallura