Porto Istana

Porto Istana is one of the best-known beaches on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia. The bay is divided into four sandy stretches separated by granite rocks at the foot of Capo Ceraso, with soft pale sand and clear turquoise water. It lies near the northern edge of the Tavolara–Punta Coda Cavallo marine protected area and offers wide views towards Tavolara.

The four small coves that make up Porto Istana have bright sandy seabeds that slope gently into clear emerald and turquoise water. Mediterranean scrub, including rockrose, strawberry trees and wild olive, frames the beach, while pink granite rocks add warmer tones to the landscape.

Services and accessibility

Porto Istana combines a natural setting with useful visitor services. The beach is easy to reach and is connected with Olbia. Parking, seasonal beach facilities and nearby restaurants and bars make it a practical choice for families and travellers staying in the Olbia area. Availability and accessibility services may vary by season, so it is worth checking locally before your visit.

Activities

The bay is popular for swimming, snorkelling and water sports. When conditions are suitable, the clear seabed offers good visibility, while the wider Capo Ceraso and Tavolara area provides further opportunities for diving and exploring the coast.

The coast around Olbia offers many other beaches worth exploring. Heading south towards San Teodoro, you can reach places such as Li Cuncheddi and the beaches around Capo Ceraso; farther north, the coastline leads towards Marinella and Porto Rotondo. Porto Istana works well as part of a wider itinerary around Olbia and the north-east of Sardinia.

Rather than trying to fit several beaches into a single day, choose one main coastal area and allow enough time for swimming, walking and enjoying the landscape.