The Maddalena Archipelago is a national park made of 7 main islands and dozens of islets, off the coast of Palau. Ferries to La Maddalena leave every 15 minutes in summer, and from there you can reach Caprera, Spargi and the other islands. Here are the 12 beaches not to miss.
Cala Coticcio
Nicknamed the "Sardinian Tahiti", it is a small cove in the north-eastern part of Caprera. Fine sand and clear water set among granite rocks.
How to get there: By land via a regulated trail with an environmental guide (Park fee, max 3-hour stay) or by sea with boat tours from Palau.
Spiaggia Testa del Polpo
Quiet and secluded, made of several micro-coves; named after the cliff that resembles an octopus head. Great for those seeking peace.
How to get there: Free parking nearby and short dirt trails. No services on site: bring water, food and umbrella.
Spiaggia Rosa
Famous for its distinctive pink-tinted sand, made from fragments of shells and corals. One of the icons of the archipelago.
How to get there: Not accessible on land for environmental protection reasons. Visible from the sea during boat tours of the archipelago.
Spiaggia del Relitto
Named after the wreck of a motor sailboat run aground in the 1950s, still visible on the shore. Shallow, turquoise water.
How to get there: Easily reached by car with a small free parking area nearby. No services: bring water and umbrella.
Cala Spalmatore
Wide bay in the north of the island, a historic fishermen's cove with a characteristic central pier. Shallow water sheltered from the winds.
How to get there: Reachable by car on paved road or by sea. A bar on site serves drinks and small snacks.
Spiaggia Bassa Trinità
In the north-west of the island, made of three connected coves and a long stretch of very white sand backed by dunes.
How to get there: Refreshment stands in the parking areas. Trekking lovers can also reach it on foot from the Trinità Church trail.
Cala Corsara
Historically tied to pirate legends, it offers clear water and rich seabeds, including the Roman wreck of Spargi. Close to Cala Canniccio, with reddish hues.
How to get there: Reachable only by sea, with organised tours or private boats.
Spiaggia Monti d'à Rena
A long stretch of fine sand about 300 metres long, suitable for families and for those looking for space even in high season.
How to get there: By land with free dirt parking or public bus; by sea with tours. Kiosk on site for essential services.
Cala Garibaldi
A bay linked to Giuseppe Garibaldi, who lived in Caprera during his exile years. One of the best-known on the island.
How to get there: Accessible by land with free parking or by sea. No services: bring water and food.
Cala Serena
Set in a wild patch of nature, ideal for those seeking silence and privacy surrounded by greenery.
How to get there: On foot with about a 20-minute trek from the Cala Garibaldi parking area. No services on site.
Cala Francese
Small cove in the south of the island with a limited capacity of about 30 people: perfect for a private day out.
How to get there: Easily reached by car, with free and paid parking nearby. No bar on site.
Cala Lunga
Secluded cove in the northern part of the island, ideal for those travelling by boat in search of quiet spots.
How to get there: Reachable only by sea with private boats, rentals or organised tours.
Stay in Palau, ferry to La Maddalena on foot
Our Vento&Mare apartments are in the historic centre of Palau, 10 minutes on foot from the port: the ideal base to explore the archipelago in a day.
See apartments in Palau