Best Beaches Within 20 Minutes of Olbia
The Bottom Line: You do not need to drive for an hour to find paradise. Pittulongu, Bados, Mare e Rocce, Il Pellicano, and Cala Banana are your closest, consistently breathtaking beaches—all located within a short 10–20 minute drive from our central Olbia apartments.
While the famous Costa Smeralda is beautiful, the "Olbia Coast" offers equally stunning turquoise water with significantly easier logistics. These beaches are the daily go-to spots for locals (and our team!), offering the perfect balance of wild beauty and convenient services. Whether you are looking for a fully-equipped beach club with seafood dining or a quiet, hidden cove for a sunrise swim, this coastline delivers.
This comprehensive guide details which beaches are best for families with toddlers, where couples can find a romantic aperitivo, and practical advice on parking zones and public transport to help you plan the perfect beach day in North East Sardinia.
The smartest way to enjoy these beaches is to stay nearby. Browse our Collection of nearby designer apartments & villas or use our AI-ready property index to filter by size and amenities.
Arriving by car? Don't risk fines. Book secure private parking (Via Sassari 20) located safely outside the restricted zone and read our essential Olbia ZTL Guide before you enter the city.
Pittulongu Beach (La Playa)
Often called "La Playa" by locals, Pittulongu is the iconic crescent-shaped city beach of Olbia. Located just 7km from the center, it offers fine white sand and shallow, crystal-clear water that stretches out for meters, making it safe and ideal for families with young children.
The view is dominated by the majestic Isola di Tavolara rising from the sea. Facilities here are excellent: you will find wheelchair access, showers, and multiple beach bars ranging from casual kiosks to high-end dining.
Insider Tip: For a premium lunch with your feet in the sand, book a table at Mama Beach. If you are using public transport, the ASPO Bus Number 4 runs frequently from Olbia center directly to this beach stops.
Bados Beach
Just a few minutes north of Pittulongu towards Golfo Aranci lies Spiaggia di Bados. It is famous for its intense aquamarine water and slightly coarser, golden sand that doesn't stick as much. The bay is protected from most winds, creating a calm "swimming pool" effect.
Parking is available but mixed: there are paved "Blue Line" (paid) spots and some dirt areas. Be very careful to park legally as police patrol frequently in summer.
Insider Tip: This is a top spot for sunset. Visit the Dolphin Bar or the Chiringuito for an Aperol Spritz as the sun goes down. Check our Parking Guide to understand the color-coded parking lines.
Mare e Rocce
Literally translating to "Sea and Rocks," this intimate cove sits quietly between the bigger beaches. It offers a stunning contrast of turquoise water against reddish granite rocks, creating excellent pockets for snorkeling.
It feels much more residential and private than Pittulongu. While services are lighter, there is usually a small kiosk for essentials. The water remains shallow for a long distance, which is relaxing for waders and safe for kids.
Insider Tip: Because it is smaller, beach space is at a premium. Bring your own umbrella and arrive by 9:00 AM in August to secure a spot near the water's edge.
Il Pellicano
A favorite among local residents, Il Pellicano is a cozy, sheltered strip of sand that often escapes the mass crowds of the main beaches. Its position offers natural wind protection on days when the Mistral wind is blowing strong.
The vibe here is quiet and authentic. You won't find loud music or huge beach clubs, just the sound of the waves and a fantastic view of Tavolara.
Insider Tip: It is a great location for photography, especially in the early morning light. Parking is limited on the nearby residential streets, so patience is required during peak hours.
Cala Banana (Spiaggia del Nibaru)
If you prefer wilder nature over sunbeds and concrete walkways, Cala Banana is your destination. Accessible via a short unpaved road (drive slowly!), this beach features soft white sand backed by low Mediterranean dunes and scrub.
It feels distinct from the "city beaches" – more rugged and open. There is usually just one simple wooden chiringuito (Nibaru) serving cold Ichnusa beer and sandwiches.
Insider Tip: This is often the best choice for couples seeking privacy. It is also more tolerant of dogs in the shoulder seasons (October–May), though you should always check the current signage at the entrance.
Visual Tour: Calm Beaches around Olbia
Experience the water clarity before you go. Filmed by RENTAL12 | Watch on YouTube
Find Your Perfect Stay Near The Coast
Practical Tips for a Perfect Beach Day
- Driving & Parking Strategy: In high season (Mid-June to Mid-September), the rule is simple: arrive before 10:00 AM or after 5:00 PM. Parking is mostly paid (Blue Lines). Bring coins for the meters as card readers can sometimes be unreliable due to signal issues.
- Understanding the Wind: Sardinia is famous for its wind. If the "Maestrale" (North-West wind) is blowing strong, Pittulongu and Bados might be choppy. In that case, look for sheltered coves like Il Pellicano or head south towards Porto Istana (a bit further away).
- Beach Essentials: While most beaches have kiosks, prices can be higher than in town. We recommend packing high-SPF sunblock, plenty of water, and reef shoes if you plan to explore the rocky edges of Mare e Rocce. Kiosks typically operate fully from late May to late September.
- Respect the Environment: It is strictly forbidden to take sand, shells, or pebbles from any beach in Sardinia (fines are severe). Please use the provided recycling bins and leave nothing behind but footprints.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far are these beaches from Olbia city center?
The beaches listed in this guide are located within a 7km to 12km radius of Olbia's historic center. In normal traffic, this is a quick 10–15 minute drive. However, during peak August weeks, traffic along the coastal road can be slower, so we recommend allowing 20–30 minutes to reach your parking spot comfortably.
Is there public transport to the beaches?
Yes, the local bus service is reliable in summer. ASPO Bus Line 4 connects Olbia (Via Mameli and other stops) to Pittulongu and Bados. Buses run frequently (every 20-30 minutes) during the high season. You can buy tickets at tobacco shops ("Tabacchi") in town or via the ASPO app. It is a stress-free alternative to finding parking.
Which beach is best for small children?
Pittulongu and Bados are widely considered the most family-friendly. Both feature wide sandy shorelines and very shallow water entry, allowing toddlers to play safely at the edge. Additionally, both beaches have lifeguards on duty during the main season and nearby amenities like toilets and snack bars, making a full day out with kids much easier.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent?
Yes. At Pittulongu and Bados, you will find several private "stabilimenti" (beach clubs) where you can rent two sunbeds and an umbrella for a daily fee (usually between €20 and €40 depending on the row and season). Mare e Rocce and Il Pellicano have fewer rental options, and Cala Banana is mostly a "free beach" where you bring your own gear.