How to get to and what to see on the island of La Maddalena

La Maddalena Island is the largest of the archipelago of the same name, located in northeastern Sardinia. Rich in coves, beaches, and inlets along the coast, its interior offers a gently rolling landscape.

La Maddalena is one of the most fascinating places in Sardinia and a strategic starting point for visiting the other islands of the archipelago and the splendid beaches in the area, especially for those who choose to admire this earthly paradise with an unforgettable boat excursion.

The history of La Maddalena

La Maddalena was founded in 1770 and served as a navy base for a long time, as evidenced by the presence of the Nino Lamboglia Naval Museum . Its strategic position in the heart of the Mediterranean has led to a series of vicissitudes, including an attempted invasion by Napoleon Bonaparte, when he was still a simple officer. But the island also attracted the attention of Admiral Nelson, remembered by the eponymous bay.

The most famous figure in the history of La Maddalena and its archipelago is Garibaldi . It was on the island of Caprera, in fact, that the general decided to live out his exile and subsequently chose this place as his home.

La Maddalena Island: What to See

The island of La Maddalena is entirely crisscrossed by a 45-kilometer panoramic road, allowing you to visit the island's splendid beaches and coves. Here are some must-see spots and the island's best beaches.

The village of La Maddalena

La Maddalena Island is part of an archipelago, with the main island hosting the only inhabited center . The town's narrow, characteristic alleys will guide you through a place that has preserved the spirit and traditions of times past. We recommend visiting the Parish Church of Santa Maria Maddalena , which houses a crucifix donated by Admiral Nelson, before moving on to the small port of Cala Gavetta, a charming seaside spot.

La Maddalena: the most beautiful beaches

One of the island's best beaches is Monte d'Arena , with its pale sand and crystal-clear sea. Near the hamlet of Case Ornano is Bassa Trinità beach, reachable after a 500-meter walk: an effort rewarded by the Caribbean-like sand and turquoise sea. Another must-see beach is Testa di Polpo : characterized by the pink granite rock formations typical of northern Sardinia, it is lapped by a transparent, clear sea. The last beach we recommend is perhaps the most famous on the island: Cala Spalmatore , a white-sand beach particularly suitable for families and children.

We recommend exploring the wonders of the Maddalena Archipelago by booking a boat excursion from Palau or La Maddalena, accompanied by a local guide. You'll have the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe in a true earthly paradise .

Getting to La Maddalena by ferry

To reach the island of La Maddalena by ferry, you need to arrive at the port of Palau , located a short walk from the town center. The main companies are Delcomar and Maddalena Lines, which operate frequent connections year-round, with departures every 20–30 minutes in high season. The crossing takes an average of 15–20 minutes , and in the summer there are up to 22 departures per day , with the first ferry departing around 8:15 AM and the last around 7:45–8:00 PM.

A one-way ticket for an adult starts at around 3–5 euros , while for vehicles, it starts at 10 euros for cars and 5 euros for motorcycles , with supplements for larger vehicles. Some fares already include the municipal landing fee, which varies from 0.50 euros in the winter months to 2.50 euros in the summer. Children up to 3 years old travel free, while those up to 11 years old receive a discount.

Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the port or online , either on the company websites or on booking platforms, which often offer return packages or discounts for groups and residents.

How to get to Palau

Palau is easily accessible from several locations in northern Sardinia , via scenic road connections that pass through coastal and hilly landscapes. Distances vary depending on your starting point:

• It is approximately 24 kilometres from Santa Teresa di Gallura ;
• from Olbia it is 40 kilometers and just under 50 minutes of travel;
• from San Teodoro you can travel approximately 65 kilometres in an hour and a quarter;
• from Alghero , on the opposite coast, the journey is longer because it is approximately 250 kilometres and just under 4 hours;
• From Porto Cervo it takes about 28 kilometers (about 35 minutes) to reach Palau.

How to get around the island of La Maddalena

To explore the beauty of La Maddalena, the most convenient way is definitely by car . This way, you can get around independently and easily reach the island of Caprera, connected by a bridge. Alternatively, you can join an organized tour or rent a scooter .

Furthermore, during the summer, a bus service connects the main beaches and towns, ideal for those who prefer to leave the car at the hotel and enjoy a hassle-free journey.