How to visit
Tavolara Island.
A limestone mountain rising from the sea, more than five hundred metres tall, inhabited by a single family (and a king). Here's everything you need to know to plan the day.
What is Tavolara Island
Tavolara is a small island off Porto San Paolo, part of the Marine Protected Area of Tavolara — Capo Coda Cavallo. The western part, Spalmatore di Terra, is open to the public: this is where the boats land and where you find the beach, restaurants and trails. The rest of the island is military zone and nature reserve, off-limits.
Curiosity: Tavolara is considered "the smallest kingdom in the world". The descendants of Giuseppe Bertoleoni, the island's first inhabitant in the 1800s, hold the symbolic title of King of Tavolara.
How to get there
The boat sails from Porto San Paolo harbour (1.2 km from our Porto San Paolo Suite and 9 km from the Murta Maria Suite). The crossing takes about 15 minutes.
- Frequency: in high season (June–September) every 30 minutes from 09:00 to about 18:00.
- Cost: around 12–15 € round trip (verify on the day).
- Ticket office: on the pier of Porto San Paolo. In high season it's best to arrive 30 minutes early.
- Alternatives: private dinghy, kayak (for the trained), sailboat.
What to do on the island
1. Spalmatore di Terra Beach
Fine sand, crystal-clear sea, shallow seabed. It's an equipped beach: umbrellas and sunbeds rent at reasonable prices. Ideal for a slow sea day.
2. "Punta della Mandria" trail
The simplest trail: it starts behind La Corona restaurant and rises gently to a spectacular viewpoint over the Olbia coast. About one hour round trip, modest elevation. Family-friendly.
3. Trail to Monte Cannone
For experienced hikers: three hours round trip, demanding elevation, vertiginous views. Hiking shoes, water and a hat are essential.
4. Snorkeling
The rocks around Spalmatore are rich in marine life. Mask and fins are a must: the water clarity is exceptional.
Where to eat
- Ristorante La Corona: seafood and Sardinian starters, family atmosphere. To be booked in high season.
- Da Tonino: a more casual bistro, perfect for lunch on the beach.
- There is also a small bar on the island.
When to go
The best months are May, June, September: the boat is already running, the heat is manageable, the island is less crowded. July and August make it more lively but also hotter — bring a hat and sunscreen.
What to pack
- Comfortable shoes (also for the beach: parts are rocky)
- Water: available on the island but at tourist prices
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Beach towels
- Mask and fins if you love snorkeling
FAQ
Are dogs allowed on the island?
Only outside the reserve trails, and always on a leash. Check the seasonal rules of the Marine Protected Area.
Can I sleep on the island?
No, there are no accommodations. Tavolara is a day trip.
Does the boat run with rough sea?
Crossings can be suspended in case of strong wind. Check that morning at the pier or by phone.
The best way to plan the day
We recommend our guests to leave on the 09:30 or 10:00 boat, take a first swim, have lunch on the beach, do the trail in the afternoon when the sun softens, and return on the 17:30 boat. A perfect day.