Why choose a hotel in Porto Taverna
Porto Taverna is an ideal base for those wishing to experience north-eastern Sardinia in a more authentic and thoughtful way.
Overlooking the island of Tavolara and set along a stretch of coastline with a strong natural identity, it offers a gentler pace than many other coastal destinations. Choosing a hotel in Porto Taverna means discovering one of Sardinia’s seven Marine Protected Areas and immersing yourself in a landscape, in an experience deeply connected to nature.
Where the beach meets an ecosystem
The 700-metre beach of Porto Taverna looks out onto crystal-clear waters with Tavolara rising directly opposite. It forms part of a remarkably rich natural setting, where the shoreline merges seamlessly with the landscape beyond. Just behind the beach, a system of dunes plays a vital role in preserving the ecological balance of the area.
The dunes help protect the shoreline from erosion, while the lagoon supports a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna. Flamingos are among its most striking inhabitants, and inspired the name of our boutique hotel, discreetly set within the immediate hinterland of Porto Taverna, around one kilometre from the beach, the hotel enjoys a peaceful location. From the nearby car park, a wooden boardwalk crosses the lagoon on its way to the beach, offering a peaceful walk through this protected natural landscape.
The biodiversity of a living landscape
The environmental quality of Porto Taverna has been powerfully confirmed by the recent hatching of a loggerhead turtle nest within the Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area. A rare and precious event that highlights the ecological balance of this stretch of coastline and the success of the ongoing conservation work across the area.
More than simply a natural event, the hatching of these turtles is a clear sign of a coastline able to sustain and protect life, reinforcing Porto Taverna’s identity as an authentic part of the Gallura landscape. Those who choose to stay here can experience a place where natural beauty goes hand in hand with a genuine commitment to preserving biodiversity.
A vantage point overlooking Tavolara Island
The feature that defines Porto Taverna more than any other is its uninterrupted view of Tavolara Island. Rising over 500 metres above sea level, this striking limestone and granite massif is a constant landmark for those staying along the coast. Tavolara’s distinctive silhouette frames much of the surrounding shoreline and naturally draws visitors towards the many nearby beaches.
Beaches around Porto Taverna
Towards San Teodoro (southbound)
Cala Girgolu
Cala Girgolu is known for its striking granite rock formations shaped by tafoni, natural cavities formed over time by the erosion of quartz crystals. A little further south lies Spiaggia delle Vacche, a smaller and more secluded cove. Here, rocky seabeds and exceptionally clear waters create ideal conditions for snorkelling in surroundings that still feel wonderfully unspoilt.
The distance from the Hotel
3,5 km 7 minutesCala Coda Cavallo
Cala Coda Cavallo is a peaceful and sheltered bay whose shape gave its name to the surrounding headland, covered in typical Mediterranean vegetation including juniper, lentisk, strawberry tree and myrtle. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for snorkelling and relaxed swimming, with natural shelter from the wind.
The distance from the Hotel
9,8 km 17 minutesCala Brandinchi
Known for its fine white sand and turquoise waters, Cala Brandinchi – also known as Little Tahiti – offers scenery reminiscent of Polynesian shores. Its shallow waters are ideal for long walks along the shoreline. Behind the beach, a dense pine forest and the Brandinchi lagoon complete the setting, providing shade, tranquillity and an important habitat for many bird species.
The distance from the Hotel
5,7 km 9 minutesLu Impostu
Separated from Cala Brandinchi by a narrow strip of land, Lu Impostu stands out for its greater size and more open feel. Sandy dunes and the lagoon behind create a broader, more spacious landscape. Like Cala Brandinchi, access to Lu Impostu is restricted during the summer season, with advance booking required.
The distance from the Hotel
7,5 km 10 minutesLa Cinta
One of the largest beaches in the San Teodoro area, La Cinta is characterised by a long stretch of pale sand separating the sea from the lagoon behind it. A dedicated kitesurfing area makes it especially popular with water sports enthusiasts, while the beach’s generous size allows visitors to find quieter spots even during the busiest periods.
The distance from the Hotel
7,5 km 12 minutesDuring the summer months, four Beach Bus routes in San Teodoro connect the main beaches to the south. Bookings for beaches with paid access can be made on the official website of San Teodoro Spiagge.
Towards Olbia (northbound)
Costa Corallina
A short distance from Porto Taverna, Costa Corallina offers a series of small bays and coves, ideal for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere. Its privileged position provides close-up views of Tavolara and seabeds particularly suited to snorkelling.
The distance from the Hotel
5,2 km 7 minutesPorto Istana
Porto Istana is made up of a series of inlets with fine white sand separated by pink granite outcrops. Here the sea takes on vivid shades of blue, while views of Tavolara are among the most striking on the whole coast, making it especially popular with those seeking a balance of accessibility and natural beauty.
The distance from the Hotel
8,8 km 11 minutesCapo Ceraso
This headland is one of the most interesting natural areas along the coast. Paths through Mediterranean scrub lead to secluded coves and panoramic viewpoints, offering an experience that combines the sea with gentle walks.
The distance from the Hotel
12,9 km 24 minutesLi Cuncheddi
Li Cuncheddi is a wide beach on the Capo Ceraso side overlooking the Gulf of Olbia, appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and lower visitor numbers compared with other nearby spots. The shoreline features light, coarse sand, with small pebbles and rocky sections.
The distance from the Hotel
9 km 12 minutesLe Saline
Le Saline, south of Olbia, is a long beach of pale coarse sand, popular with surfers thanks to its exposure to the wind. Here too, the nearby lagoons provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
The distance from the Hotel
10,5 km 12 minutes
Discover Porto Taverna through the eyes of those who live here every day. Our boutique hotel, with just 11 suites, is the ideal base for exploring the most beautiful beaches of Gallura and the Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area. Contact us to plan your next Sardinian stay focused on nature, peace and personalised hospitality..