Which are the 10 most beautiful beaches in La Maddalena? A difficult choice, considering that the La Maddalena Archipelago is a true natural paradise. Located off the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, this archipelago is made up of seven main islands (La Maddalena, Caprera, Santo Stefano, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli, Spargi), along with many smaller islets and rocks.
The beaches of La Maddalena are among the most beautiful in Sardinia and welcome visitors with fine white sand, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural scenery. Let’s discover the ones you absolutely cannot miss!
Beaches of La Maddalena Island
What is the most beautiful beach in La Maddalena? There is no single answer. La Maddalena Island is the largest of the archipelago and offers some of the most scenic bays in the area.
1. Cala Francese
The island of La Maddalena, the heart of the archipelago, is shaped by granite that sculpts its coastline and coves. Cala Francese is a testament to this history: once a pink-white granite quarry exported all over the world, it can now be visited with its old machinery and pathways. The wide inlet alternates rocky cliffs and small beaches, including a cove of light sand and smooth pebbles, set in a landscape that blends nature with historical memory. Located in the south-eastern part of the island, the beach can be reached only by sea or on foot via a path starting from Punta Tegge harbour.
2. Bassa Trinità Beach
Located in the south-western part of La Maddalena Island, it is one of the largest beaches on the island, stretching for about 800 metres. It features crystal-clear water and fine white sand, and is also suitable for children thanks to its wide shallow area.
3. Cala Spalmatore
Cala Spalmatore, on the north-eastern side of La Maddalena Island, is a bay sheltered from the mistral wind that for centuries has offered a safe anchorage for fishermen. Today it is one of the most popular beaches in the archipelago, with pink-hued sand and clear waters that slope gently. Equipped with services and surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and a lagoon rich in wildlife, it is ideal for families, relaxation and snorkelling.
4. Testa del Polpo
Testa del Polpo Beach, on La Maddalena Island, is a secluded spot accessible only via dirt paths. It takes its name from the rock formation that resembles an octopus and stands out for its small coves of light sand and crystal-clear sea. Without services but close to a free car park, it is perfect for those looking for unspoilt nature: it is best to bring water, food and a beach umbrella.
Beaches of Caprera Island
Caprera, the second-largest island in the La Maddalena Archipelago, is fully protected and preserves a wild landscape of forests, cliffs and spectacular coves. Connected to La Maddalena by a bridge, it is also famous as the final home of Giuseppe Garibaldi, whose White House and Garibaldi Museum blend history with unspoilt nature.
Let’s take a look at its most famous beaches.
5. Cala Coticcio (Caprera)
Cala Coticcio, often called the “Tahiti” of Sardinia, is one of the most famous gems of the La Maddalena Archipelago. Located in the north-east of Caprera, it captivates visitors with its white sand, turquoise sea and pink granite rocks framed by Mediterranean scrub. This natural pool is under strict environmental protection: it can be reached by boat with organised excursions or on foot only with authorised park guides.
6. Cala Napoletana (Caprera)
Cala Napoletana, on the northern coast of Caprera, is one of the most panoramic coves on the island, offering spectacular views over the archipelago. Its transparent waters, with sandy seabeds that make boats appear suspended, frame three small beaches of fine white sand separated by pink granite rocks. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, it is perfect for snorkelling and enjoying the play of light during the central hours of the day.
Beaches of the La Maddalena Archipelago
The La Maddalena Archipelago also includes other islands, each offering dreamy beaches and coves.
Among the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia within the archipelago, you will find:
7. Pink Beach (Budelli Island)
Pink Beach, on Budelli Island, is one of the symbolic places of the La Maddalena Archipelago and among the most famous in the world. Its unique colour comes from tiny fragments of coral and shells that make up the sand, creating spectacular pink shades. Today it is protected by strict environmental rules: access is not allowed, but it can be admired from a distance with authorised park guides.
8. Cala Lunga Beach (Razzoli Island)
Cala Lunga is the only landing point on Razzoli Island, a deep inlet sheltered from eastern winds. The small beach of sand and pebbles, accessible only by sea, retains a wild and tranquil atmosphere, even during peak season.
9. Cala Corsara Beach (Spargi Island)
Cala Corsara, on the southern coast of Spargi Island, is one of the most iconic bays in the archipelago. Surrounded by granite rocks and Mediterranean vegetation, it fascinates visitors with the contrast between greenery and the sea’s colours, from turquoise to emerald. Accessible only by boat, it is a natural paradise often ranked among Italy’s most beautiful beaches.
10. Cala Granara Beach (Spargi Island)
Cala Granara, on the south-eastern coast of Spargi, is enclosed by low cliffs and Mediterranean scrub. It offers very fine sand, crystal-clear waters and shallow seabeds in shades of turquoise and blue. Accessible only by sea, it delivers the atmosphere of an authentic natural paradise.
How to reach the La Maddalena Archipelago
The La Maddalena Archipelago can be reached by car or also by scooter, departing from Palau and taking the ferry to La Maddalena Island.
If you are planning a trip to Sardinia, you cannot miss the beaches of the La Maddalena Archipelago, which will leave you speechless with their beauty and pristine natural environment.
