What to See in Palau, Sardinia: 2026 Guide to the 10 Must-See Attractions

1. Capo d'Orso, the Symbol of Palau

The famous granite rock shaped like a bear, sculpted by the wind for millennia, is located 6 km from the town center. The walk from the parking lot takes 15 minutes and offers a panoramic view of the La Maddalena archipelago. Admission: €3. Open from April to October.

Tip: Go at sunset; the warm light on the granite is spectacular, and there are fewer tourists.

2. La Maddalena Archipelago

Seven protected islands just a 15-minute ferry ride from Palau: La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi, Budelli (with the famous Spiaggia Rosa), Razzoli, Santa Maria, and Santo Stefano. Clear water, deserted coves, and excellent snorkeling spots.

You can visit them independently with your own car (ferries every 15-30 minutes) or book a full-day boat trip with lunch on board.

3. Beaches of Palau and Surroundings

Palau has dozens of beaches reachable within a 5-15 minute drive. The most beautiful are Porto Pollo (a windsurfing paradise), Cala Battistoni (turquoise waters), Spiaggia delle Vacche, Punta Sardegna, and La Sciumara, convenient as it is right in the town center.

• Porto Pollo — windsurfing, kitesurfing, white sand
• Cala Battistoni — Baja Sardinia, snorkeling
• Spiaggia delle Vacche — pink sand, rocks
• La Sciumara — in town, ideal for families

4. Caprera Island and Garibaldi's Residence

Connected to La Maddalena by a bridge, Caprera hosted Giuseppe Garibaldi for the last 26 years of his life. His white house is now a museum (Compendio Garibaldino) that can be visited in 1 hour. On the island, you'll also find Cala Coticcio (the 'Tahiti' of the Mediterranean) and Spiaggia del Relitto.

Important: Access to Cala Coticcio is restricted — online booking is mandatory on the Park's website.

5. Costa Smeralda

Palau is located on the northern border of the Costa Smeralda. In 25 minutes by car, you can reach Porto Cervo, in 35 minutes Porto Rotondo, and in 30 minutes the most famous beaches: Spiaggia del Principe, Capriccioli, Liscia Ruja. It's worth a visit just to see the yachts and boutiques of the 'piazzetta.'

6. Palau Port at Sunset

Palau's waterfront, with ferries departing for La Maddalena and the lights of the port, is one of the best places for an aperitivo. Don't miss the artisan gelato and a walk to the fishermen's pier.

7. Boat Trip to the Archipelago

Daily boat trips depart every morning from Palau's port and include 4-5 swimming stops in the archipelago's most beautiful coves, lunch on board, and a stop off Spiaggia Rosa (landing is forbidden). Prices: €50-80 adult, €25-40 child.

8. Wind and Kitesurfing in Porto Pollo

Porto Pollo is one of the most renowned spots in the Mediterranean for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the windy channel between Palau and Isola dei Gabbiani. Several schools offer lessons for beginners (€50-70/hour) and equipment rental.

9. Monte Altura Fortress

A late 19th-century military fortress above Palau, restored and open to visitors. It offers a 360° view of the archipelago and Capo d'Orso. Admission €4, open from May to September. It's a 10-minute drive from the center plus a short walk.

10. Excursion to Santa Teresa Gallura and Bocche di Bonifacio

A 25-minute drive west, Santa Teresa Gallura offers Rena Bianca beach, Capo Testa lighthouse, and the ferry to Corsica (1-hour crossing to Bonifacio). A day in Corsica is an unmissable trip.