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The Most Beautiful Beaches in Alghero
There is a stretch of coast in the northwestern tip of Sardinia where history and nature are intertwined in a unique embrace. This region is known as the Riviera del Corallo, or Coral Riviera. It is a name that refers to the gold of the seabed, the red coral, which has shaped the destiny of the region for centuries. Alghero, the jewel of the coast, is a Catalan fortified city whose cobbled streets and bastions look out onto the sea, preserving the memories of its Spanish past. But beyond the city walls, another world begins: a world of wild, fragrant Mediterranean macchia, juniper bushes shaped by the wind and a sea of the purest shades of turquoise.
Scroll through the table for quick decisions
| Name of the beach | The beach is a fantasy name | Who is it most recommended for? | Access and parking (1-5) | Level of services | Typical Weight | Natural shade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spiaggia del Lido di San Giovanni & Spiaggia del Lido di Alghero | Urban oasis | Travelers without a car, families with small children who prefer comfort | 5 | Fully equipped | High | None |
| Maria Pia Beach | Classic lido | Families (all ages), those looking for a classic beach experience | 4 | Fully equipped | High | Pine forest |
| Bombarde Beach | Bustling center | Young adults, groups of friends, those looking for an active vacation | 2 | Fully equipped | Very high | Limited |
| Lazzaretto Beach | Gulf explorers' dream | Couples, explorers | 2 | Well equipped | High (main beach) | Limited |
| Mugoni Beach | Protected pine forest refuge | For those seeking peace and quiet, families, windy days | 3 | Well equipped | Medium | Pine forest |
| Spiaggia della Speranza (Poglina) | Southern refuge | Car explorers, surfers, crowd-shy people | 4 | Basic services | Low or medium | None |
| Cala Dragunara | Adventurers' Harbor | Adventure seekers, boat trips (Neptune's Cave) | 2 | Basic services | Medium | None |
SAND
Spiaggia del Lido di San Giovanni & Spiaggia del Lido di Alghero
Alghero's city beaches are easily accessible, either on foot or by bike, and with their long, sandy shores, they are ideal for those looking to relax. Along the seaside promenade, there are numerous restaurants, hotels and bars where visitors can enjoy the local gastronomy.
The beaches stretch for 1.5 km and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. To the south you can see as far as Marina di Sant'Elmo, while the small island in the sea called Isola della Maddalenetta can also be seen, which is located about 1.5 km from the coast.
Positive reviews from visitors. Unbeatable location and comfort are the most frequently mentioned advantages. The shallow water makes it a perfect choice for families with small children.
Negative reviews from visitors. The quality of the water and sand is considered by many to be poorer than that of beaches further afield. Posidonia (seagrass) washing up on the shore is a common occurrence, which can be aesthetically disturbing and can cause unpleasant smells. We experienced this when we were there, which is why we only swam here once. The restaurants right on the beach can be chaotic and the quality of service is variable.
Ideal visitors: Travelers staying in Alghero without a car, families with young children who prefer comfort over a wild natural environment, or anyone looking for a quick, uncomplicated beach day.
| Toilet / shower | They are available in catering units located on the beach. There may be a charge for non-consumption. |
| Sunbed/umbrella rental | It is available in several places, prices vary. |
| Dining options | There are plenty of bars and restaurants along the promenade. |
| Lifeguard | In the central part |
| Parking | There is no dedicated beach parking. Street parking is possible, but difficult during peak season. Alternatively, private garages at nearby hotels are available. |
| Public transport | Excellent. Easily accessible from anywhere in Alghero by local bus. Walking along the Via Lido seaside promenade, as this beach is in the city. |
Tip: Use this beach to admire the stunning sunsets, or for an early morning or late afternoon swim when the crowds are smaller. Consider it a starting point for a full day of activities, but for the „wow” experience, take a bus and explore the more distant shores.
WHITE SAND
Maria Pia Beach
Located in the direction of Fertilia, famous for its white sand and warm waters, it is an ideal place to relax. Behind the beach is a shady pine forest where you can have a picnic, making it an excellent choice for families. It is located just a few kilometers northwest of the center of Alghero and, together with Le Bombarde beach, is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in the area. The 1200-meter-long beach has gentle, slowly deepening waters, making it ideal for children.
The beach offers stunning views of the nearby village of Fertilia, the Gulf of Alghero and the small island of Isola della Maddalenetta. The beach is also popular with walkers and joggers, as the area is pleasant and peaceful. Visitors can rent parasols and deck chairs, and there are also snack bars on the beach where you can buy drinks and ice cream.
It is wheelchair accessible and the parking lot is located right near the shore, providing convenient access for everyone.
Positive reviews from visitors. „Crystal clear water” is a common adjective in descriptions. Shallow water is a huge advantage for families. The pine forest is loved by many for its natural shade and picnicking opportunities.
Negative visitor reviews. Can be extremely crowded in July and August. The "marea gialla" (yellow tide), water from the nearby Calich Lagoon, can sometimes murky the sea in the afternoon. Some reviews mention trash in the pine forest.
Ideal visitors: Families with children of any age, groups of friends looking for a classic, fully equipped beach, and anyone who appreciates the combination of natural beauty and easy accessibility.
| Toilet / shower | Yes, there are public toilets and water taps across the road near the car park. The tourist attractions also have facilities. |
| Sunbed/umbrella rental | Yes, several businesses offer rental options. |
| Dining options | There are many bars and restaurants on and near the beach. |
| Lifeguard | Yes, in organized zones |
| Parking | Large, paid parking lots are available (approx. 1.50 euros/hour from June to September). These can get full in high season! |
| Public transport | Excellent. It is on the main bus route between Alghero and Fertilia. Buses 1 and 3 stop here, as does the private Beach Bus. |
Tip: To avoid the „marea gialla”, time your swim for the morning hours. If the water does get murky in the afternoon, retreat to the beautiful pine forest for an afternoon siesta in the shade.
WHITE SAND
Bombarde Beach
Many consider this stunning stretch of white sand to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, 500 metres long and famous for its unique blue waters. The beach has restaurants, bars, playgrounds and various services for visitors. It is also accessible by direct bus from Alghero city centre. It is located just 1 km from Lazzaretto beach and is ideal for families, as it is safe for children to swim here. It consists of two separate parts.
On its western side is a private beach operated by Hotel Dei Pini. This 130-meter stretch of beach can be accessed through the hotel's courtyard. The beach has a lifeguard service and free parasols and sun loungers are available for hotel guests. There are also opportunities for boating and surfing.
The other part is a free beach, which occupies the larger area. Here you can rent umbrellas and deck chairs. It is visited by many people in the high season, so it can be crowded. There are several restaurants and bars near the shore, so visitors can comfortably enjoy their beach vacation.
Positive reviews from visitors. Stunningly beautiful, clear water. Great atmosphere for young people and those looking for a lively, bustling environment. Good opportunities for water sports such as canoeing and surfing.
Negative reviews from visitors. „Too crowded” is the number one complaint. Parking is a „nightmare.” The beach can seem small and eroded. Some mention trash and a feeling of being overpriced.
Ideal visitors: Young adults, groups of friends, and active travelers who want a lively atmosphere and don't shy away from crowds.
| Toilet / shower | Yes, public restrooms are available. Showers are available for a fee. |
| Sunbed/umbrella rental | Yes, in several places, prices vary. |
| Dining options | There are several bars and restaurants right on the beach. |
| Lifeguard | There is service |
| Parking | There is a paid parking lot (around 1-2 euros/hour) and a smaller free parking lot further away. The number of parking spaces is extremely limited and can be a source of great frustration as they fill up early in the morning. |
| Public transport | Excellent. Accessible by scheduled city bus numbers 5 and 9320 from Alghero, and the private Beach Bus also stops here. |
Tip: Don't even try to park your car here after 9am in July or August. Take the Beach Bus or the city bus. It's the only stress-free way to enjoy this beautiful but highly sought-after beach.
SAND
Lazzaretto Beach
Lazzaretto is located a few hundred meters from the popular Le Bombarde beach, between Fertilia and Porto Conte. This small, sandy stretch of beach is interspersed with rocky areas, making it an ideal place for kayaking, snorkeling and diving. The beach offers stunning views of the Torre del Lazzaretto watchtower, built in 1580. It is about 300 meters long and is a safe choice for those traveling with children. The bay itself is curved and stretches for a kilometer. The sandstone cliffs create even smaller, picturesque coves where visitors can enjoy a relaxing beach holiday without any disturbance.
Positive reviews from visitors. The water is breathtakingly beautiful and clear. The opportunity to explore smaller, quieter bays is a huge attraction for those seeking peace.
Negative visitor reviews. The main beach is overcrowded in summer. Parking is limited and expensive. The water is consistently described as "ice cold" or "ghiacciata" (frozen), which can be unpleasant.
Ideal visitors: Couples, explorers, snorkelers, anyone willing to take a short walk to a semi-private corner of paradise in one of the smaller coves.
| Toilet / shower | Yes, there are toilets and showers at the catering facilities in the central part of the beach. Non-consumption may sometimes be subject to a fee. |
| Sunbed/umbrella rental | There is a possibility |
| Dining options | There are two catering units in the central area. |
| Lifeguard | There is a service in the central part of the beach |
| Parking | Paid parking is available (1.50 euros/hour, 10 euros/day), but is very limited and fills up quickly. Parking is free for motorbikes. Parking is a real challenge! |
| Public transport | Excellent. City buses 5 and 9320 from Alghero stop right at the entrance, as does the private Beach Bus. |
Tip: Wear sturdy sandals or trainers, not just flip-flops. The real reward of Lazzaretto is discovering your own secluded cove by following the rocky paths that lead off to the right and left of the main beach. We did the same when we were there. We spent the whole day relaxing and uncrowded just a few hundred metres from the main beach.
GOLDEN SAND
Mugoni Beach
Located 15 km northwest of Alghero, this picturesque beach is 1.5 km long and offers stunning views of the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Conte. With its crystal clear water and golden sand, many compare it to the beaches of Thailand, it is so beautiful. This quiet stretch of beach is located towards Porto Conte–Maristella and is surrounded by a pine forest where you can also have a picnic.
It offers a quiet and friendly environment, ideal for families with children, as the shallow water allows for safe swimming. There are many beach bars and restaurants on the shore, where you can buy refreshments and snacks. It is worth admiring the sunset here, which provides an unforgettable experience.
It is well equipped, with parasols and deck chairs for rent, and is also an excellent location for snorkelling and diving, thanks to the clear water and rich marine life.
Positive reviews from visitors. The pine forest is a huge advantage, providing shade and a beautiful, natural atmosphere. Its sheltered location makes it a reliable choice on windy days when other beaches are unenjoyable. Very family-friendly and safe even for non-swimmers.
Negative visitor reviews. Some reviewers said the water was „not as clean as other places.” The designated RV parking area made some users feel „exiled,” far from the shore.
The ideal visitors. Families looking for calm waters and natural shade. Travelers who are guaranteed a peaceful beach day, especially when the Mistral wind is blowing.
| Toilet / shower | Yes, it is available at beach catering establishments, often for a fee. |
| Sunbed/umbrella rental | Yes, it can be rented from several providers. |
| Dining options | There are several bars and restaurants scattered along the beach. |
| Lifeguard | Yes, in the service area |
| Parking | Large, paid parking lot (1-2 euros/hour, maximum 25 euros per day), with a separate area for campers. |
| Public transport | It can be reached by city buses 5 and 9320, and the private Beach Bus also stops here. |
Tip: This beach is the best choice on a windy day. While other beaches are battered by strong winds, Mugoni remains a calm oasis. When you arrive at the main entrance, head right for the fully equipped areas, or turn left for a quieter, more „wild” experience where you can cool off under the trees.
SAND – SMALL PEBBLES
Spiaggia della Speranza (Poglina)
Poglina is located 8 km south of Alghero and 9 km west of Villanova Monteleone. It is easily accessible from Alghero and Bosa via the SP 105 road, which leads along picturesque coastal landscapes. It is one of the most beautiful and quiet stretches of coast in the Alghero area, perfect for a relaxing holiday.
The 550-meter-long beach is sandy, with some pebble and rocky sections. The beach is relatively narrow and the sea is shallow, making it ideal for swimming with children. On windy days, surfing enthusiasts often come here.
The restaurant near the beach serves fresh, local fish dishes. Sun loungers and parasols are available for rent, and diving and snorkeling are also available, making it an ideal location for those who prefer active relaxation.
Positive reviews from visitors. "A charming and quiet place." The scenic drive there is an experience in itself. Excellent for snorkeling in calm weather.
Negative reviews from visitors. Often windy. The amount of seaweed and sea grass washed ashore can be significant. If you camp far from the central part, you will not be able to use any services.
Ideal visitors. The traveler with a car who wants to explore the coast beyond the main tourist centers. Surfers on a windy day.
| Toilet / shower | Yes, it is possible in the restaurant. |
| Sunbed/umbrella rental | Yes, it can be rented from a single provider. |
| Dining options | There is a well-known bar and restaurant on the beach. |
| Lifeguard | In the area covered by the services |
| Parking | Large, comfortable parking lot with paid and free areas, also suitable for campers. |
| Public transport | Limited. Accessible by regional bus service, city and beach buses do not go there. |
Tip: Check the wind forecast before you set off. On a calm day, it’s a peaceful paradise. On a windy day, bring a surfboard and/or a camera to capture the dramatic waves. The panoramic road between Alghero and Bosa is one of the most beautiful routes in Sardinia – make the journey part of the destination.
SAND – PEBBLES
Cala Dragunara
Cala Dragunara is a functional, rugged and beautiful base for adventures. It is less a beach for relaxation and more a lively starting point for boat trips to Neptune's Grotto and exciting coasteering tours. A very small, rocky/pebble cove with limited space to spread out your towel. The water is clear and cold, set in a dramatic, rocky inlet.
Positive reviews from visitors. Stunning, picturesque location. One of the starting points for boat trips to the Grotte di Nettuno (Neptune's Caves). A hub for adventure sports such as coasteering, kayaking and cliff jumping.
Negative reviews from visitors. The beach itself is small and not suitable for a relaxing day ("Zero space for sunbathing"). Reviews of the bar staff are mixed, ranging from "nice and helpful" to "arrogant and rude".
The ideal visitors. Adventure seekers, explorers and anyone planning to visit Neptune's Cave by sea.
| Toilet / shower | Yes, it is available at the bar for a fee. |
| Sunbed/umbrella rental | Yes, limited number available for rent |
| Dining options | There is only one bar/cafe on site. |
| Lifeguard | There is no lifeguard! |
| Parking | A small, free, unpaved parking lot that fills up extremely early. |
| Public transport | Yes, both the city bus number 5 to Capo Caccia and the private Beach Bus stop here. |
Tip: Don't come here hoping for a traditional beach day. Think of it as a beautiful, functional marina. Arrive early for parking, book a boat or coasteering tour, and enjoy the stunning scenery while you wait.
Alghero beach bus schedule
A private bus company operates scheduled bus services between Alghero and the surrounding beaches. This image is a table of the frequencies and stops announced for the 2026 season. They can be found on posters in some places in the city center or near the central bus station. The most reliable source is bus company website. Here you will get information about various tickets, you can even take the bus all day between the beaches if you would like to try several locations. We visited the Spiaggia del Lazzaretto beach and chose the city public transport company's return trip, which runs between the central bus terminal and Capo Caccia according to the schedule.
Alghero beaches – final thoughts
Alghero and the Coral Riviera are unique destinations that go far beyond the mere sun and sand. Each of the seven beaches featured is a distinct personality, with a unique story and atmosphere. Some are vibrant with urban life, some are nestled in pine forests, some are hidden among rocks and some are adventurous. This guide is a map to help you navigate this diverse world, but the real discovery is when you, the traveler, find your own personal favorite – the stretch of beach where you leave your footprints in the sand and whose memories will stay with you for a long time.
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