Best Beaches Within 20 Minutes of Olbia
Bottom line: Pittulongu, Bados, Mare e Rocce, Il Pellicano, and Cala Banana are your closest, consistently breathtaking beaches within about 10–20 minutes of central Olbia by car. This guide shows you which beaches are best for families, couples, swimming, snorkelling, and sunrise walks, with practical tips, parking advice, and FAQs to help you plan the perfect beach day in North East Sardinia.
Pittulongu Beach
Pittulongu is the iconic “city beach” of Olbia and the easiest first choice if you want a classic Sardinian beach day without long driving. Within roughly 10–15 minutes of the centre, it offers wide golden sand, gentle shallow water, and a deep-blue horizon with Tavolara Island in full view.
You will find several bars, sunbed and umbrella rentals, showers (in season), and SUP or kayak hire for those who want a bit of activity. It is especially ideal for young children and new swimmers, thanks to the soft entry and gradual depth. For updated traveller impressions, see TripAdvisor reviews.
In high season (July–August) parking spaces on the seafront fill fast, so aim to arrive before 10:00 or come for a late-afternoon swim and sunset aperitivo. Many guests enjoy a fresh seafood lunch right on the sand at Mama Beach, then stroll the new walkway for panoramic views. Buses operate seasonally from Olbia centre — check current timetables locally, as routes and times can change.
Bados
Just past Pittulongu in the direction of Golfo Aranci, Spiaggia di Bados is famous for its aquamarine water, soft sand, and relaxed holiday atmosphere. The bay curves gently, with a mix of shallow areas for paddling and slightly deeper water that is perfect for swimming and light snorkelling around the rocks.
Off-season mornings are tranquil and loved by locals for long walks and photography. In summer, especially on weekends, the car park fills quickly. Check our Olbia parking and ZTL guide so you know where to leave your car and how to avoid fines. If you have sensitive feet, reef shoes can be helpful around rocky patches at the edges of the bay.
After the beach, grab an aperitivo or casual meal at the lively Dolphin Bar overlooking the water. Families appreciate the gentle surf, seasonal lifeguard presence, and pedalos or SUP boards to rent. Couples and groups often stay until sunset to enjoy the changing light over the water and Tavolara in the distance.
Mare e Rocce
As the name suggests, Mare e Rocce (“sea and rocks”) blends small sandy areas with rocky outcrops and crystal-clear water. It lies between Pittulongu and Bados and feels more intimate than both, making it a great option when the main beaches feel busy.
The mix of sand and rocks creates excellent conditions for snorkelling close to shore. You can usually find a sheltered spot even on breezier days, and the scale of the cove makes it easy to keep an eye on children while still enjoying a more natural atmosphere. Services are lighter than at Pittulongu or Bados, so bring your own umbrella, water, and snacks if you plan to stay longer.
Many guests staying in nearby RENTAL12 apartments like to rotate between these three beaches: Pittulongu for amenities, Bados for its turquoise “postcard” water, and Mare e Rocce when they want something smaller and more peaceful within the same short drive from Olbia.
Calm Beaches around Olbia, Sardinia
Sardinia at its calmest. 🌊✨ A short look at the peaceful beaches and turquoise water around Olbia, filmed by RENTAL12.
Watch on YouTube: Olbia Beaches Shorts by RENTAL12
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Il Pellicano
Il Pellicano is a smaller strip of sand with a cozy, sheltered feel — perfect for windy days or quieter afternoons when you still want clear water but fewer crowds. Tucked between other bays, it often feels more local and intimate than the “headline” beaches nearby.
Facilities are simpler (usually a kiosk or small bar in season), so do not expect the same variety of services as Pittulongu. What you gain instead is a more relaxed pace, families from the neighbourhood, and a natural setting that is ideal for a quick morning swim or a late-afternoon break. Many locals mention the unique view towards Isola Tavolara — this is a beach where you will definitely want your camera or phone ready.
Cala Banana (Spiaggia del Nibaru)
Cala Banana, also known as Spiaggia del Nibaru, is a lesser-known jewel with soft white sand, low dunes, and shallow turquoise water. It feels more wild and natural than the city beaches and is a favourite for early risers who like to watch the sun come up over the bay.
Services are sparse — usually a seasonal bar or food truck at most — so bring your own umbrella, snacks, and plenty of water if you plan to stay. The reward is a peaceful, photogenic corner of coastline that still sits within an easy drive of Olbia but feels far away from the rush. For up-to-date reviews and travel photos, see Cala Banana on Google Maps.
Many dog owners favour this area outside strict summer regulations (always check current signage and rules). If you are looking for a less crowded beach near Olbia and do not need lots of services, Cala Banana should be high on your list.
Practical Tips
- Driving & parking: from mid-June to September, arrive early (before 9:30–10:00) to find parking easily. Bring coins or a card for meters where required, and always check local signage.
- Wind & weather: exposed beaches such as Pittulongu and Bados can see stronger Maestrale winds. On breezy days, try Mare e Rocce or Il Pellicano, which often offer more shelter.
- Essentials: pack high-SPF sunblock, water, reef shoes for rocky corners, hats, and simple snacks. Most kiosks open from late May to late September. For seasonal information and local events, you can also check Visit Sardegna’s Olbia page.
- Respect the coastline: use the provided bins, avoid loud music, and do not take sand or pebbles home. Sardinia’s beaches are protected; small habits keep them beautiful for everyone.
- Stay close by: if you want to walk or take short drives instead of commuting from far away, explore our RENTAL12 apartments and villas near the coast or browse the full property index by map, size, and amenities.
FAQs – Beaches Near Olbia
How far are these beaches from Olbia?
All beaches listed here are usually within 10–20 minutes by car from central Olbia in normal traffic. Pittulongu and Bados are closest, with Mare e Rocce, Il Pellicano, and Cala Banana slightly further along the same coastal road. In peak summer, allow extra time for parking and slower traffic near the shore.
Which beach is best for families with small children?
Pittulongu and Bados are the most popular for families thanks to their wide sandy shorelines, shallow entry, and seasonal lifeguards and kiosks. Mare e Rocce also works well if you like a smaller, more intimate setting, but services are fewer. For prams and beach trolleys, look for ramps and wooden walkways near the main entrances.
Do these beaches have services like sunbeds, toilets, and bars?
In season, Pittulongu and Bados usually offer sunbeds, umbrellas, bars, basic food, and toilets. Mare e Rocce and Il Pellicano tend to have fewer options, so they are better if you enjoy a quieter day and bring your own gear. Cala Banana is the most natural: expect minimal services and plan to bring water, snacks, and shade.
Is there beach wheelchair or stroller access?
Pittulongu usually offers the best access, with relatively flat parking and walkways during the main season. Some sections of Bados also provide easier access, but this can vary year to year. If accessibility is essential, we recommend contacting a specific kiosk or beach club in advance to confirm current ramps, mats, or accessible toilets.
Can I bring my dog to these beaches?
Rules change by season and municipality. Cala Banana is often considered more dog-friendly outside peak restrictions, but you must always follow posted signs, keep dogs under control, and clean up carefully. In high season, many main beaches restrict dogs during core daytime hours, so check local regulations before you go.