Things to do in
La Maddalena

Our most recommended things to do in La Maddalena

From Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Boat Tour

From Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Boat Tour

Start your trip at Palau or La Maddalena port, where the crew will meet you and make sure you get comfortable on board. Choose from a variety of drinks and food available for purchase as you enjoy the sea breeze. Take a swim during the first stop at Budelli island, known for its turquoise waters. Stop at Santa Maria to lie on the sand or swim in the natural pools. Once back to the boat, admire the Spiaggia Rosa and its unique pink sand. Visit Spargi to discover its white sandy beaches, rocky coasts, and turquoise waters. Go snorkeling in calm waters or lounge on the beach of Cala Granara. Along the way, see the Island of Santo Stefano, Caprera, and the Bear Rock of Palau from the boat. Listen to a multilingual explanation from your expert guide about the history of the archipelago. If you departed from Palau, have 1 hour of free time to shop for souvenirs or Vermentino wine in traditional Sardinian shops. Take a walk around the charming town. Admire the port of Cala Gavetta and the picturesque church of Santa Maria Maddalena before you get dropped off at Palau. If your journey started at La Maddalena, end your trip here.

From Cannigione: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip

From Cannigione: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip

Board the Luxury Virginia, our motor yacht. The boat has three decks. The first two floors are dedicated to the Ponte Standard, an open space area where seats are not allocated. The third floor of the boat is dedicated to the VIP Deck, an area with limited access for adults where each will have its own chaise longue assigned for the whole day. Experience the archipelago of La Maddalena away from the crowds on this full-day cruise. Swim in the crystal clear waters around Cala dell'Amore and Porto della Madonna. Visit the town of La Maddalena and enjoy the view of Bear Rock and Porto Rafael. Start your adventure at Cala dell'Amore on Spargi Island. Take in sight inaccessible to many tourists as your motor yacht is the only licensed tourist boat that can stop in this fabulous bay. Continue to the famous Port of the Madonna and experience the striking shades of blue water.   Next, continue to Pink Beach on Budelli Island. Finally, stroll around the island of La Maddalena, the only inhabited island and the largest among the more than 60 islands that make up the archipelago. Go shopping or visit the historic city center during your free time. 

From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Day Tour by Boat

From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Day Tour by Boat

LUNEDI'- MARTEDI'- MERCOLEDI'- GIOVEDI'- VENERDI- SABATO Our journey starts from the port of Palau at 10:30 First stop: this will take place on the beach of Cala Corsara on the island of Spargi, this island is striking for its rounded shape which offers a wild and uncontaminated nature to the eye, on the coast stand out granite cliffs sculpted by the wind, the island of Spargi is the ideal place for sports lovers, in fact, snorkelling is very widespread but it also presents the ideal panorama to linger and enjoy the beauties of nature. once back on the boat after swimming, relaxing or walking on the incredible island of Spargi there will be a stop for lunch. Lunch is not included in the ticket price. Second stop: On the Island of Santa Maria, the purity of the light, the crystal clear sea and the white beaches will conquer you. . Third stop: The tour continues with a stop at the Natural Pools. A dip in the Natural Pools of the La Maddalena National Park restores body and spirit and feeds energy reserves. These natural pools are found on the island of Budelli and are truly known and renowned all over the world. After that we will have a panoramic visit to the famous Rosa beach, one of the most important and well-known symbols of the La Maddalena Archipelago, closed to all since 1993 to protect and give time to the ecosystem that allows you to give this fantastic color to the sand, to recreate yourself. Fourth stop: Leaving the Piscine Naturali we will sail towards La Maddalena. We will finally land in the characteristic historic center of Cala Gavetta, a settlement chosen by the first inhabitants, the Corsican shepherds, as it is more sheltered from the famous prevailing Maddalenian wind, the "mistral or mistral". This stop is ideal for enjoying the wonders of the ancient island, full of history and wonderful views. Leaving the island of La Maddalena we will resume navigation for the return to the port of Palau. The arrival at the port of Palau is estimated between 18:00 SOLO LA DOMENICA per disposizione dell’ente parco di La Maddalena Partenza 10:15 dal porto di Palau 1 sosta: Cala Garibaldi (Caprera) e sosta per il pranzo (che non è incluso nel prezzo del biglietto) 2 sosta: bagno dalla barca nelle meravigliose piscine naturali, il nostro punto di forza. Entreremo direttamente dentro la laguna per fare un bagno nel cuore dell’arcipelago Maddalenino 3 sosta: Spargi, Cala Corsara sosta in spiaggia. Rientro al porto di Palau verso le 18:00

From Palau: La Maddalena Islands Full-Day Trip by Boat

From Palau: La Maddalena Islands Full-Day Trip by Boat

Depart from La Maddalena or Palau to discover the beautiful National Park of the archipelago of La Maddalena, the crew will be at your disposal and thanks to our expert multilingual guide you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of this archipelago. In less than 15 minutes of navigation we will arrive at the island of Spargi, an unspoilt paradise and one of the pearls of the archipelago. Enjoy the beaches, crystal clear water and pristine nature or you can also explore the historical features found in the bay of Cala Corsara. On your return to the boat, there is the possibility of having some lunch or snacks while continuing to cruise the various coves of Spargi island. Admiring its fantastic eastern coast full of coves, we will cruise to the island of Budelli to go and photograph (from the boat) the famous Spiaggia Rosa and the Natural Pools of Porto Della Madonna, where the emerald color of the water will take your breath away. Continuing we will cruise to the island of Santa Maria (Cala Santa Maria) to make our second stop on the beach. Also here you can easily get off via the dock to reach the large beach or, if you want, you can go for a walk to the old lighthouse (1km). Depending on the day you choose (Monday-Tuesday-Friday) for the tour, we will cruise to the island of Caprera for the last swim stop from the boat in the bay of Cala Coticcio, known for its exotic characterists has taken over the years also the name of Tahiti and since it is a real Natural Aquarium, for this last stop we strongly recommend to take with you a snorkelling mask. During your return to Palau you can admire the island of Santo Stefano, former NATO base, Napoleon’s fort and the G8 works. While the remaining days (Wednesday-Thursday-Saturday-Sunday) we will make the last stop in the historic center of La Maddalena, where you can discover the characteristic streets, visit the church of Santa Maria Maddalena or go shopping. While cruising towards La Maddalena you will discover the old granite quarries of Cala Francese, the weather station of Guardia Vecchia, Villa Webber where Benito Mussolini was imprisoned and finally the historic port of Cala Gavetta.

From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour with Pasta

From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour with Pasta

Spend the day exploring the archipelago of La Maddalena on a relaxing boat trip from Palau. Stroll through the quaint town of La Maddalena, swim at Cala Corsara on the Island of Spargi, marvel at the clear waters of Budelli's natural pools, and cruise past fascinating rock formations. Board your cruise in the morning in Palau and begin your adventure. Sail to Santa Maria Island and stop for 2 hours to sunbathe, swim, and relax on beautiful Santa Maria Beach. Next, cruise to the Island of Budelli where we stop for lunch. Before leaving Budelli, stop for photos at Rosa Beach. Continue your cruise to the picturesque Island of Spargi. Spend 1.5 hours swimming and relaxing at Cala Corsara, surrounded by fascinating rock formations, including The Bulldog, the Head of the Witch, and Italy. Finish your cruise with a stop at La Maddalena Island. Stroll through the historic center, down old and narrow streets. Stop to buy a souvenir or relax in one of the many bars and ice cream parlors. During your cruise, enjoy a plate of pasta with mussels and prawns. If you wish, purchase a drink from the onboard bar to enjoy as you sail.

From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Catamaran Tour

From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Catamaran Tour

The best way to know the true essence of a new place is to act like a local. And that’s why we have designed our catamaran excursion, to make you feel the protagonist and integral part of it. Departure at 9.30 AM directly from Palau. We will then sail to the archipelago of La Maddalena. Our captain will involve you during the navigation entertaining you with some information and curiosity, while those who want can try the thrill of being at the helm for a few minutes. Our itinerary includes several stops during the day and is focused on relaxation and nature. We will have more than 7 islands to choose from such as: Razzoli, Budelli, Santa Maria, Spargi, Caprera and Santo Stefano. Our captain will choose the most beautiful coves based on wind and sea traffic. You will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear waters of this paradise, snorkel and sunbathe. During the day you will be served an aperitif based on Sardinian products, sardinian typical Sardinian first course, with Sardinian gnocchi in sausage sauce with a sprinkling of pecorino (Sardinian cheese), snacks and fruit. you will have water all day and unlimited soft drinks. The aperitif will be accompanied by a glass of prosecco and during lunch you will be served white wine. To conclude you will taste the Mirto, the typical Sardinian liqueur. In short, you will only have to bring a beach towel, a hat and sunscreen. We will take care of everything else. The return is scheduled for 16.30/17 and we will take you back to Palau.

Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Trip by Boat

Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Trip by Boat

Enjoy an unforgettable 7-hour boat trip to the islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago. You will visit all the most beautiful islands: Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria and La Maddalena in a unique and informal setting. On board you will appreciate a bar-restaurant service with many typical Sardinian products. We guarantee new boats with large spaces and the highest standards of safety and comfort. A highly qualified crew, friendly and always caring of every need to offer a top experience. We are equipped with international quality certifications ISO. A multilingual audio guide (Italian, English, French) is available on board (the purchase is optional at 1 euro only). It's recommended to bring your own earphones. Daily departures from both port of Palau and La Maddalena. Discover the historic center of La Maddalena with the church of Santa Maria Maddalena and the "Caruggi", the characteristic streets of the island. Use the Elena Tour card for your purchases in the traditional shops of the island. Stop on the soft white sandy beaches of Cala Corsara on the island of Spargi for a swim in its crystal-clear waters. After skirting the east coast of Spargi, admire the Island of Budelli with its Pink Beach and swim in the natural pools from the boat and on the beach of the isle of Santa Maria. After skirting Punta Sardegna and Porto Rafael with its small square, the boat returns to the ports of Palau 17:15 and La Maddalena at 17:30 pm. In case of a bad weather or for directive of the National Park the itineraries might be changed. In high season, on Tuesday it is possible that in Spargi you go to a cove other than Cala Corsara.

Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour with Stops

Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour with Stops

A boat tour to the archipelago of La Maddalena: an authentic experience of contact with the beauty of the sea and nature. Choose our comfortable and never crowded ship. Are you looking for the best way to get to know the islands of La Maddalena, Spargi, Budelli, Santo Stefano and Caprera ( panoramic navigation ) and the coast in all its splendor? Book a relaxing excursion that can satisfy the desire to see with your own eyes how much the Sardinian sea shines in the most pristine and renowned places on the island. We leave every day from the port of Palau at 10.30 am with return expected at 5.30 pm, the tour takes over 7 hours. The itinerary is complete and full of magical moments, wonders to see and immortalize. You can dive into the most evocative waters in the world. Our boat excursion to La Maddalena depart from Palau. From here we set sail for the island of Spargi, the island of Budelli, the island of Santa Maria, and finally La Maddalena. The La Maddalena tour moves between the various islands. During the trip there are many stops: significant, unforgettable places, chosen for their rare beauty and for the importance they have at a naturalistic and historical level. The tour sails enjoying the panoramic view of the other smaller islands of the archipelago. When the sky is clear you can also see Corsica, the horizon is a breathtaking blue and it seems to touch the concrete image of an earthly paradise. It is difficult to describe, impossible to forget. We have reserved various special stops for you, to celebrate so much beauty with swimming in the best places. *The excursion First STOP - island of Spargi with the wonderful inlet of Cala Corsara, you will admire the famous rocks of the Head of the Witch, the Bulldog Dog and Italy in miniature. Second STOP - Natural pools-Island of Budelli. We will reach the Port of the Madonna, the famous natural pools known for the color, the slums and the transparency of the water: you will dive from the boat in front of the coast. Third STOP - Island of Santa Maria to the delight of young people and children, you will make a long stop for visit the omonimus beach Cala Santa Maria. Looking up, you will be able to admire the beauty of the bay. Fourth STOP - Maddalena historical center Our boat is very large, but we only carry only 80 passengers, much less passengers out of 250 of maximum capacity to make your trip unique and with the highest comforts on board, with us you will also visit this part of the archipelago, very suggestive, we will soon arrive at the center of La Maddalena. You can go down for a walk, enjoy an excellent ice cream and freely enjoy the town by shopping through the streets of the historic center and the alleys, the typical alleys of La Maddalena. *The itinerary may be subject to change without notice and according to the directives of the La Maddalena national park authority or the coast guard. The beaches are CROWDED during high season.

From Santa Teresa Gallura: La Maddalena Full-Day Boat Tour

From Santa Teresa Gallura: La Maddalena Full-Day Boat Tour

Discover the wonders of the La Maddalena Archipelago! The motorboat leaves daily from the port of Santa Teresa Gallura at 9:00 am ( meeting point at h 8/8.15 ) and makes an evocative navigation in the area of the Straits of Bonifacio and then reaches the most beautiful coves and coastlines of the Archipelago. Visiting the beauty of the La Maddalena Archipelago by boat will be an experience you will always carry with you! With the motorboats of the Consorzio delle Bocche you will be able to admire and swim in an unspoiled territory. With the motorboats we can dock at the jetties of the beaches of S. Maria and Spargi through the help of footbridges. For years a vast sea area of about 20,000 hectares and its seven main islands: La Maddalena, Caprera, Budelli, Santo Stefano, Santa Maria, Spargi, and Razzoli are part of the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, which actively preserves the marine and terrestrial environment. We will also take a close look at the Pink Beach one of the symbols of the Park, a wonder of nature, whose myth was also extolled and made immortal by Michelangelo Antonioni's famous film Deserto Rosso. We will come back to Santa Teresa di Gallura around 5pm. Bring cash with you because the landing fee required by the municipality of La Maddalena is not included, it must be paid only in CASH (NOT with credit cards) during check-in. The landing fee is €5 per person. If you are a group of friends or several families, it is recommended not to make separate reservations as otherwise there is no certainty of embarking on the same boat. All our stops are on beaches which are accessed from our walkways directly onto the piers. Diving from the boat is NOT permitted.

Maddalena Archipelago: Island-Hopping Sailing Tour and Lunch

Maddalena Archipelago: Island-Hopping Sailing Tour and Lunch

Explore the Maddalena Archipelago on a sailboat trip, and enjoy a provided lunch and drinks. Stop at the islands of Spargi, Budelli, and Santa Maria, and enjoy stops for swimming and snorkeling on this daytime sailing tour. Enjoy a journey in a comfortable yacht that departs from the Marina Cala Camiciotto. Leave the marina, and relax while the boat sails for over an hour until Isola Spargi, Isola Budelli, and Isola Santa Maria. Admire a beautiful and unique view of the coastline during the trip to the islands, before dropping anchor in Cala Santa Maria, famous for its white sands and turquoise waters. Then, take an aperitif with snacks, beer, and cold fresh drinks. Savor lunch on board and try pasta, bruschetta, bread, and local sausage and cheeses with a glass of wine. Next, move on to visit the Spiaggia Rosa on Isola Budelli and stop for two hours, where you will travel by dinghy to Isola Budeli and walk at Spiaggia Rosa. Take time to enjoy a delicious lunch with wine, beer, and cold fresh drinks. Sail to Cala Granara, Isola Spargi, and take some free time to swim from the deck, snorkel, and Stand Up Paddle Board experience. Return to Cala Camicotto at the end of the tour.

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Frequently asked questions about La Maddalena

What top attractions are a must-see in La Maddalena?

The must-see attractions in La Maddalena are:

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What are the best day trips and excursions from La Maddalena?

The best day trips and excursions from La Maddalena are:

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Insider Tips: Planning a trip to La Maddalena

Claudia Tavani is the mastermind behind Strictly Sardinia, a Sardinia focused blog where she shares all her knowledge about her beloved island.

What should I do on my first trip to La Maddalena?

If it's your first time visiting La Maddalena, you really need to do a boat tour around the archipelago. There are many to choose from, and they depart regularly from the harbor. Look for smaller boat tours as they are a bit faster, you get to see more as there's less time navigating and more time enjoying the clear waters of the national park. Make sure to also hike to Cala Coticcio Beach, the most precious beach in the archipelago. You will need to hire a guide from the national park's website for that.

What are some hidden gems to see in La Maddalena?

You will find many great hiking trails in Caprera, a smaller island connected to La Maddalena by a bridge. For a unique experience, hike to the Fortificazione Candeo, a hidden fort that was built into the rock in the Interwar period. You will find a small bay that is a wonderful snorkeling spot. If you are looking for a secluded beach, hike to Cala Brigantina. This is a protected beach, and you will need to hire a guide from the national park's website, but once there, you're likely to have the beach to yourself.

How much time should I spend in La Maddalena?

La Maddalena has a lot to offer. Plan to spend a minimum of three days there — one to enjoy a full-day boat tour, one to hike to Cala Coticcio, and one to drive around La Maddalena Island. A week is an ideal amount of time to take in what the archipelago has to offer: gorgeous beaches, historical sites and fortifications, hiking trails, and more.

What is the best way to get around La Maddalena?

Having your own wheels is a great idea for your trip to La Maddalena; you can rent a car in Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, the best place to fly to when you visit. Having a car lets you move around at your own pace. Alternatively, you can also get around by bike — though the island is very hilly — or by moped. Buses connect La Maddalena town to the main beaches on Caprera island.

What are the best months to visit La Maddalena?

Visit La Maddalena from April to October — the spring and fall months are the best to enjoy the hikes without the strong heat of the summer months and to see the islands in bloom. If you want to enjoy swimming in the sea and relaxing on the beach, a trip in July or September is great too. Avoid visiting in August as that's the peak month, and the islands will be crowded and can be too hot.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in La Maddalena?

Caprera Island is probably the most interesting island of the archipelago. Here you can visit the house of Italy unification hero Giuseppe Garibaldi, now turned into a museum dedicated to his life and work, and several forts built between the late 19th and the early 20th century. You can hike to the highest peak in Caprera, Mount Tejalone, for a fantastic sunset. You will have bird's-eye views of Cala Coticcio on one side and of the entire archipelago on the other.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit La Maddalena?

Various islands in the La Maddalena archipelago have beautiful resorts, but independent travelers should plan to stay in La Maddalena town. You can opt to stay in one of the many small hotels or apartments in the center of town, but if you have your own car, you will be better off opting for something less central, but within walking distance of the center. Look closer to Punta Tegge, which is actually the best sunset spot in La Maddalena.

What's are 4 best tips for a person traveling to La Maddalena?

1. Give yourself enough time on the island: Yes, you can visit on day trips from mainland Sardinia (there are boat tours departing from Palau, Cannigione, and even Santa Teresa di Gallura), but a more in-depth visit is recommended.

2. Bring your hiking shoes: The best beaches can only be reached via a hike, and the terrain is such that you will need proper shoes to walk.

3. Get a map of the beaches: A good map will point the direction of the beach and will suggest which beach to visit or avoid based on the wind.

4. Respect the delicate environment: Don't leave any garbage behind. You will see that most beaches don't have a garbage can. That's because they are too secluded and would never be emptied. Plan to take any garbage back home with you.

What should people avoid doing in La Maddalena?

Do not take sand, shells, or pebbles with you, and leave starfish and jellyfish in the water, no matter how beautiful it is or how worried you are about getting stung by it. Taking sand is forbidden in Sardinia — airport and harbor staff are trained to catch anyone that has even a small quantity of it in their luggage, and you may get a fine if you are caught with it. Likewise, starfish, jellyfish, and other marine creatures are protected.

What are your top 5 favourite GetYourGuide experiences in La Maddalena?

Sardinia: Maddalena Archipelago Catamaran Tour with Lunch

From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Day Tour by Boat

Northern Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip

Maddalena Archipelago: Island-Hopping Sailing Tour and Lunch

La Maddalena Archipelago: Double Dive with Scuba Point

What is one thing that surprised you about La Maddalena?

What's striking about La Maddalena is the incredible variety of activities on offer. You visit thinking it will mostly be a beach vacation, but you will end up hiking, visiting forts, sipping cocktails while the sun goes down, and learning about the local history.

What is the best family-friendly thing to do in La Maddalena?

A boat tour. If your kids enjoy swimming, they will love the chance of jumping on and off the boat.

What is the best thing to do in La Maddalena for solo travelers?

A small group boat tour gives you the chance to meet other travelers. La Maddalena is a very safe place to visit alone.

What is the best thing to do in La Maddalena for couples?

Hike to Mount Teialone for the best sunset views in the archipelago. Bring your own wine and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the area. Just make sure to have a torch for the walk back down.

What are the best annual events in La Maddalena?

Each year, on July 22, a large parade is held in the streets of the town center to celebrate Santa Maria Maddalena, the patron saint of the island. Fireworks follow the parade. It's a very traditional festival that can be interesting for international travelers.

What are the best areas for outdoor activities around La Maddalena?

La Maddalena Archipelago is one of the Italian national parks in Sardinia. You will be spending much of your time outdoors when visiting — whether hanging out at the beach, snorkeling and swimming, or enjoying a hike to the beach or one of the many forts scattered across the archipelago.

What are the best beaches around La Maddalena?

Cala Coticcio, Cala Napoletana, and Cala Brigantina are all located on Caprera Island, connected to La Maddalena by a bridge. You will have to hike to get there, but the stunning scenery will pay off the effort. Another incredible beach is the Pink Beach in Budelli Island; you can only visit on guided tours with a local guide from the national park, as the stunning beach is protected. Cala Granara on Spargi island is another beautiful beach, but you can only get there by boat.

What are the best food/drink spots in neighborhood La Maddalena?

In the center of La Maddalena, Puffer Fish is an easygoing fish and seafood restaurant with quick service and locally caught fish. In front of it, you will find L'Alternativa, a great steakhouse perfect for meat lovers. The best cocktails are at the Punta Tegge kiosk. Grab a pillow and sit on the rocks as you enjoy a wonderful sunset.

Top Attractions in La Maddalena

Things to Do in La Maddalena

Cities in Italy

Other Sightseeing Options in La Maddalena

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What people are saying about La Maddalena

Overall rating

4.5
(5,561 reviews)

Very very friendly and courteous staff. They contacted us in advance about the meeting point and responded immediately on whatsapp to our request. The tour includes an audio guide on the ship (italian and english) explaining the scenery. There was more than enough time to enjoy 3 swims (2 beaches). At one we could jump off the boat for a swim. After the second beach they offered freshly cooked food (f.e. pasta with shrimps) for 10€ and they even asked if we want a second portion (for free). There was enough space on the boat. The boat departs later than other cruises so there was a time gap at each stay where the other ships have already departed. Choosing the right seat was not an issue because the captain turns the boat multiple times at every view point so everyone can take some pictures. Overall, would book again! It was an awesome day 😎

Fantastic day. The beaches we visited were stunning and we had plenty of time to enjoy them.

the stops the location the experience everything was amazing great tour value for money.

We were able to see the dolphins. The guys are very friendly and well trained.

Nice tour of the islands with explanation in various languages.