Late July delivers Sardinia's turquoise water at its warmest, though the Costa Smeralda gets busy. This route balances famous beaches with quieter coves, moving from the northeast coast down toward Cagliari.
Day 1: Costa Smeralda
Base yourself near Porto Cervo and swim at Spiaggia del Principe, a crescent of white sand backed by granite boulders. Evenings here mean upscale dinners and boat-lined harbors, so budget accordingly.
Day 2: La Maddalena Archipelago
Take a boat tour of the La Maddalena Islands, where Spiaggia Rosa's pink-tinted sand and the clear water around Budelli make for the trip's best swimming stop.
Day 3: Drive South to Cala Gonone
Drive down the coast to Cala Gonone, gateway to some of Sardinia's most dramatic coves. Take a boat to Cala Luna, a beach only reachable by sea or a long hike, backed by limestone cliffs and a cave.
Day 4: Orosei Coast
Continue exploring the Orosei coast, hiking down to Cala Mariolu or Cala Goloritze, both known for their smooth white pebbles and dramatic limestone spires rising from the water.
Day 5: Cagliari
Finish in Cagliari, Sardinia's capital, wandering the hilltop Castello district before an evening flight home.
Practical notes: A rental car is essential outside the Costa Smeralda resort towns. Many of the best beaches require a boat trip or hike in, so book excursions a day ahead in peak season. Bring cash for beach clubs and small konoba-style restaurants.
Where to Stay
Budget: Guesthouses in Cala Gonone run $90-130 a night in July.
Mid-range: Hotels near Porto Cervo cost $250-350 a night in peak season.
Splurge: The Cala di Volpe on the Costa Smeralda is the region's iconic resort, from around $1,200 a night.
Where to Eat
Ristorante da Achille in Porto Cervo: Elegant seafood with a marina view.
Ristorante il Pescatore in Cala Gonone: Local favorite for fresh catch on the harbor.
Su Cumbidu in Cagliari: Traditional Sardinian dishes like culurgiones and porceddu.
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