Nestled off the coast of northern Sardinia, the La Maddalena Archipelago is an enchanting cluster of islands known for their crystal-clear waters, untouched beaches, and a serene atmosphere that makes for an idyllic day trip. Whether you’re a lover of the sea, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a slice of paradise, La Maddalena offers something magical for every traveller. Here’s how to spend a perfect day exploring this hidden gem of the Mediterranean.
Getting there
The journey to La Maddalena begins with a scenic ferry ride from Palau, a small town on Sardinia’s northern coast. We have personally booked this trip on Viator. Boarding time was scheduled at 09:30hrs with departure at 10:15hrs, allowing 7 hours for this trip to the Archipelago. As you approach the islands, the turquoise waters give a hint of the pristine beauty that awaits.
Morning: Explore Santa Maria Island
The first stop of the trip was on Santa Maria Island, which is an incredible island, but here’s a tip: avoid making the same mistake many others have (including us). There’s a path that initially seems like an easy walk, so naturally, we followed it. However, after about 10 minutes, the trail narrows, with dense bushes encroaching on both sides. In the summer heat, with everyone dressed in lightweight clothing, many people, including us, found themselves getting scratched by the overgrown branches. We even saw a few brave women walking in their swimsuits, but they quickly turned back after realising how uncomfortable the path was becoming.
Determined to reach the Faro di Santa Maria, we continued walking, relying on our map, which showed we were only 10 minutes away. However, along the way, we encountered others who had made it to the end, only to be disappointed. They told us it wasn’t worth the effort, as the destination was simply an old building under restoration with little to see.
At that point, we decided to stop, take a break, and escape the discomfort of the bushes. To avoid further frustration, we put up the drone to get a sneak peek at what lay ahead. It quickly became clear that turning back had been the right call. The path led only to the restoration site, and there wasn’t much of interest there. However, the aerial views from the drone were spectacular, making up for the detour and giving us a stunning perspective of the island.
However, I’d still recommend walking up the path for about 5 minutes, just before it starts to narrow. There’s an amazing viewpoint along the way that offers breathtaking views—you definitely won’t be disappointed! It’s the perfect spot to soak in the island’s beauty without dealing with the more challenging parts of the trail.
Late Morning: Budelli Island
Our next stop was around Budelli Island, a stunning area renowned for its turquoise waters. While visitors aren’t allowed to set foot on the island, you can still enjoy a snorkeling session straight from the boat. The water was perfect for a 15-20 minute swim, allowing snorkelers to explore the marine life beneath the surface. However, staying on the boat was also an option, and that’s what we chose, as we were traveling with our 3-year-old daughter. Watching the clear waters and enjoying the serene surroundings from the boat was a peaceful alternative to snorkeling.
One of the highlights of Budelli Island is its famous Spiaggia Rosa, or Pink Beach, which was our next stop on this trip. This beach is renowned for its unique pink-hued sand, created by tiny fragments of coral and shells. The colour of the water around the beach is truly breathtaking—an incredible blend of blues and greens that seems almost unreal.
However, there’s a bit of a catch. Boats are only allowed to anchor at a distance from the shore, as the beach is protected to preserve its delicate ecosystem. From that distance, the pink hue of the sand is quite subtle, and, unfortunately, it doesn’t appear as vividly pink as you might expect. So while the water is stunning and crystal clear, don’t be too disappointed if the famous pink sand doesn’t quite live up to your expectations from afar!
Lunch
After our stop at Budelli Island, it was time for lunch, which was served right on the boat. You had the option of ordering something from the onboard bar, and once the food was ready, they brought it directly to your seat. Although I didn’t personally check the menu, I noticed someone in front of us enjoying a Caprese salad, which looked decent. We decided to keep it simple and ordered a portion of chips for our daughter, and I have to say, they were really tasty.
That said, don’t feel obliged to buy food from the bar. A lot of people brought their own packed lunches onboard, as it’s perfectly allowed. We did the same, so if you prefer to bring your own snacks or picnic, you won’t feel out of place at all. It’s a good option, especially for those who want something more specific or familiar while enjoying the boat ride.
Afternoon: Spargi Island
After lunch, we arrived at Spargi Island, where we had about 1 hour and 40 minutes to explore and relax. Spargi is known for its secluded, unspoiled beaches, and the time there was perfect for either lounging on the soft sand or taking a dip in the crystal-clear water. It was an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the island, with plenty of time to take in the stunning surroundings, swim, or even go for a short walk along the shore. The peaceful atmosphere made it feel like a true escape from the busier parts of the archipelago.
Late Afternoon: La Maddalena Island
The last stop of our trip was on La Maddalena Island, where we had about an hour to explore the charming town. This was a great opportunity to wander the picturesque streets, lined with colorful buildings, cozy cafés, and local boutiques. We took a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the laid-back island atmosphere and enjoying the views of the harbor. If you’re looking to pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a quick espresso, La Maddalena town is the perfect spot to wrap up the day. Even with just an hour, there was plenty to see and enjoy before heading back to the boat for the return journey.
I highly recommend stopping by La Vera Focaccia Genovese to try their amazing focaccias! Here’s a picture to give you a glimpse of the deliciousness.
Final thoughts
A day trip to La Maddalena Archipelago is a dreamy escape into nature, offering a perfect blend of history, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring its hidden coves, swimming in its crystalline waters, or soaking up the peaceful island atmosphere, this destination will leave you longing for more. As you ferry back to the mainland, you’ll carry with you the unforgettable memories of a true Mediterranean paradise.
Tip: After returning to Palau, it’s definitely worth taking some time to explore this charming little town. I highly recommend stopping by Bea’s Bakery for a taste of their incredible desserts—they were absolutely to die for! Be sure to snap some photos while you’re there, too.
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Dive into my latest article, Top 5 Beaches on the East Coast of Sardinia, where I’ve curated a list of the most stunning beaches that this beautiful region has to offer. Whether you’re looking for secluded coves or lively beach spots, you’ll find tips and insights that will help you plan the perfect getaway. I hope this guide inspires you to explore the breathtaking coastline of Sardinia and discover your own slice of paradise!
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