{"id":51566,"date":"2025-09-02T14:57:34","date_gmt":"2025-09-02T12:57:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/demo.winalist.fr\/blog?p=51566"},"modified":"2026-04-20T11:36:36","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T09:36:36","slug":"visit-costa-smeralda","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/italy-wine-region\/sardinia\/visit-costa-smeralda","title":{"rendered":"Visit Costa Smeralda Italy: Beaches and Best Itinerary"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Dreaming of a place where emerald seas meet elegant coastlines? Visit Costa Smeralda, Sardinia\u2019s most iconic stretch of coast, known for its postcard-perfect beaches, glamorous towns like Porto Cervo, and rugged Gallura landscapes. Originally developed in the 1960s by Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, this northeastern gem mixes barefoot luxury with authentic Sardinian character. Beyond luxury yachts and designer shops, the region invites you to discover quiet coves, local fish markets, and some of the best wine tasting and wineries in Sardinia<\/a>. This guide highlights the top things to do, beaches to see, and wine experiences to book, so you can enjoy the very best of Sardinia\u2019s most exclusive coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Visit Costa Smeralda<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Stroll the glamorous streets of Porto Cervo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Designed by architect Michele Busiri Vici, Porto Cervo is the glossy epicenter of Costa Smeralda\u2019s luxury scene. Its Piazzetta is a polished stage of designer boutiques, gelaterie, and discreet celebrity sightings, while the Marina is packed with sleek yachts from around the world. Stroll the winding lanes, snap photos of Vici\u2019s signature whitewashed curves, sip an espresso with a sea view, and dive into Sardinian high fashion, Porto Cervo is where style meets shoreline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Explore the idyllic beaches of Liscia Ruja<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Liscia Ruja is one of Costa Smeralda\u2019s longest and most iconic beaches, where white sand meets transparent turquoise sea in a wide, inviting curve. Surrounded by fragrant juniper shrubs and Mediterranean brush, it\u2019s a favorite for both quiet sunbathing and stylish aperitivos at beachfront bars. Get there early to claim a prime spot or book a lounger for the full laid-back-luxury experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Wander the artsy stone lanes of San Pantaleo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tucked into the granite hills above Costa Smeralda, San Pantaleo feels like a secret worth keeping. This tiny village blends Sardinian tradition with bohemian flair, think rustic houses, panoramic views, and an artisan market every Thursday that draws locals and travelers alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Relax at the less crowded Spiaggia del Principe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tucked between sculpted granite rocks and kissed by turquoise waves, this crescent-shaped cove was a favorite of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, and it's not hard to see why. With soft white sand and crystal-clear water, it\u2019s one of Costa Smeralda\u2019s most stunning hidden spots. Less crowded than the main beaches, it feels like your own private slice of paradise. Don\u2019t forget your snorkel gear, the water\u2019s as inviting below the surface as it is above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Visit the best things to do around Costa Smeralda<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Wander the Roman Ruins of Olbia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Just 15 miles south of Costa Smeralda, the lively city of Olbia<\/strong> is more than just a gateway, it\u2019s a destination worth exploring in its own right. Visit Olbia Italy<\/a> to discover Roman baths, centuries-old churches like the Basilica of San Simplicio, and vibrant piazzas where locals gather for evening strolls and aperitivi. The food scene is as authentic as it gets, with traditional Sardinian restaurants serving up fresh seafood and handmade pasta. And for wine lovers? Olbia wineries<\/a> offer fantastic tastings of Vermentino and Cannonau wines grown in the surrounding Gallura hills. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Visit the Bronze Age Nuraghe <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Step into Sardinia\u2019s ancient past at Nuraghe La Prisgiona in Arzachena, 37 minutes from Costa Smeralda. This impressive megalithic site features a central tower and a surrounding village that once buzzed with daily life nearly 3,500 years ago. Built by the mysterious Nuragic civilization, it\u2019s one of the most fascinating archaeological stops in northern Sardinia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Relax in Baja Sardinia\u2019s laid-back atmosphere<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Just 3.5 miles west of Porto Cervo, Baja Sardinia (Baia Sardinia) offers a laid-back escape from the glitz of Costa Smeralda without sacrificing the stunning scenery. This relaxed seaside village is all about crystal-clear waters, peaceful piazzas, and casual beachfront dining. It\u2019s a favorite for travelers who want the beauty of the Emerald Coast with a slower pace, perfect for a swim, a sunset spritz, or fresh seafood by the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Plan the ultimate Sardinia itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Build your Sardinia itinerary<\/a> around the island\u2019s perfect blend of wild beaches, ancient history, and local flavors. Start in the north with Costa Smeralda\u2019s luxury, Porto Cervo\u2019s glamour, and the raw beauty of La Maddalena. Add a stop in Olbia to dive into Roman ruins, traditional cuisine, and excellent wineries. Head west for sunset strolls in Alghero, colorful alleys in Bosa, and sea caves at Neptune\u2019s Grotto. Further south, discover the charm of Cagliari, the pink flamingos of Molentargius, and the white sands of Poetto Beach. Inland, explore Nuragic sites and rustic villages for a deeper look at Sardinia\u2019s roots. With every stop, you\u2019ll taste, see, and experience the real character of the island, no rush, just a road trip full of salt air, local wine, and unforgettable views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Good to know before visiting Costa Smeralda<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Is Costa Smeralda worth visiting?<\/h3>
Absolutely. Costa Smeralda is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It's a top destination for both relaxation and recreation, making it ideal for couples, families, and luxury travelers alike. Its blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm makes it one of the most sought-after destinations in the Mediterranean.<\/div><\/div>

What should I visit in Costa Smeralda?<\/h3>
Costa Smeralda offers a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Don\u2019t miss out on: