Experience 15 Unforgettable Watersports in Sardinia

Watersports to do in Sardinia

Diving, Canyoning, Paddleboarding, Jet Ski, Water Skiing, Canoeing and Kayaking, Kitesurfing & Windsurfing are just some of the sports you can enjoy on holiday.

Vacation is synonymous with sea, fun, sports, and nature; Sardinia is indeed the perfect destination for lovers of all kinds of water sports.

Some water sports can be practiced in summer, thanks to the water temperature and favorable weather conditions. Other watersports can be enjoyed year-round, keeping an eye on the weather conditions.

Here are some examples of water sports to try during your holiday in Sardinia.

  • there are 6 Marine Protected Areas and hundreds of places for diving; wherever you are in Sardinia, the dives will certainly be wonderful;
  • for speed and adventure water sports such as jet skis, the Costa Smeralda is definitely the ideal place: jet skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding, parasailing, and all the fun you desire;
  • for Kitesurfing, La Cinta Beach in San Teodoro is a famous kite spot in Sardinia, suitable for both professionals and beginners, perfect with both Maestrale and Scirocco winds;
  • for canyoning in Sardinia, you can choose one of the most renowned places: Monte Nieddu Rio Pitrisconi;
  • you have access to what are known as the capitals of windsurfing and surfing: Porto Pollo, Capo Mannu, and San Teodoro;
  • Discover also the experiences for kids and adults to get close to scuba diving in Villasimius, in Cannigione, and in Golfo Aranci.

It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or a professional; on YepSea, you will find water sports to enjoy in Sardinia for all ages and levels.

Adventure Sports Fun in Sardinia

Here are the tips for a fun-filled vacation in Sardinia in nature. Discover the watersports you can do in Sardinia.

01. Diving

Diving Immersion in Sardinia
Diving at Tavolara

Diving in Sardinia means having an underwater experience in one of the most beautiful and renowned seas in the world, the Mediterranean Sea.

Diving allows you to breathe underwater using a tank and regulator, letting you experience and live the sea like a fish.

You don’t need to be an expert diver to have this experience. You can choose introductory scuba diving lessons for kids and adults, the Discover Scuba Diving program.

If this experience excites you, as it often does, you can access a scuba diving course to obtain a diving certification and become a diver.

The diving centers and scuba schools listed on yepsea.com are all certified centers (PADI, SSI…) and have experienced diving instructors who will guide you and your children through this experience, ensuring fun in complete safety.

Is scuba diving safe?

Of course, the instructor will guarantee the proper conduct of the activity in complete safety. Consider that it is more dangerous to go bowling 🙂 because few sports have such a strong emphasis on education and safety. It is still essential that you are in good health.

Is the scuba gear safe?

Yes, the equipment used for scuba diving is regularly checked for the proper functioning of all tools.

If I wear glasses, can I wear a mask?

However, consider that if your vision problem is mild (not having significant issues), you will likely have no difficulty seeing because the water's refraction tends to make things appear 25% closer and about 30% larger. If you grow passionate and want to obtain diving certifications in the future, you can purchase masks with prescription lenses.

02. Jet Ski

Jet Ski at Sunset
Jet Ski at Sunset

If you are on holiday in Sardinia and want to have an experience that will captivate you forever, you must rent a jet ski.

With a Jet Ski, you can speed across the sea and reach the most beautiful beaches in the area.

Find the centers that rent jet skis near you. Read the description in each experience's details for information on the vehicle you wish to rent.

Kawasaki, Sea Doo, Yamaha are just some of the jet ski brands you can rent on YepSea.

Make your choice and get ready to explore the wonderful sea of Sardinia.

Is a boat license required to rent a jet ski?

Yes, these vehicles have a powerful and high-performance engine; they can only be rented by those who hold a valid boating license. Remember to bring it with you on the rental day, as you will need to present it along with a form of ID.

03. Canoeing and Kayaking

Sardinia Exploring Watersports Kayak
Sardinia Exploring Watersports Kayak

The term Canoe and Kayak is often used in a general sense to identify a wide range of small boats propelled by a paddle.

In a stricter sense, a kayak is moved using a double-bladed paddle, while a canoe is powered by a single-bladed paddle.

If you are on holiday in Sardinia and want to enjoy a splendid sea while exploring coasts and beaches in an eco-friendly manner, a kayak is the ideal means.

Canoeing and kayaking are very relaxing and fun activities that do not require any particular physical preparation.

You can choose to rent a single or double canoe and take a kayaking trip at sunset to be in direct contact with the sea and nature.

Is canoeing suitable for everyone?

Yes, canoeing is a very simple means to use; it is suitable for youths and adults (minimum age 14). Generally, children can be transported in a double canoe accompanied by an adult.

What can I see by renting a canoe in Golfo Aranci?

You will experience one of the most beautiful seas in the world… at water level! The sea of Golfo Aranci is among the cleanest and clearest in the world, and canoeing will give you the thrill of feeling one with this wonder.

04. Canyoning

Experience 15 Unforgettable Watersports in Sardinia

Canyoning, known in Italian as torrentismo, is a water sport that involves descending through gorges and canyons.

During canyoning, you walk along the riverbed of a stream without using any means such as a raft or canoe.

The path is filled with waterfalls, rock jumps, toboggans (slides), corridors, and ponds. Canyoning is not exclusively an extreme sport; the difficulty level varies according to the type of course.

The canyoning of Monte Nieddu in San Teodoro is one of the most famous in Sardinia because water is present almost all year round; it is suited for everyone, fun and ideal for beginners and experts.

If you desire a less adventurous but equally rewarding activity in total contact with nature, suitable for all family members, choose a 4×4 Tour to Monte Nieddu, Natural Pools, and Waterfalls of Rio Pitrisconi from San Teodoro.

What is canyoning?

Torrentismo (in English, canyoning) is a water sport that consists of descending gorges, the canyons, traversed by small streams. During canyoning, you walk along the stream without using a raft or canoe. The path is filled with waterfalls, rock jumps, slides, corridors, and ponds. Canyoning is not exclusively an extreme sport; the difficulty level varies in relation to the “obstacles” encountered along the way. The canyoning of Monte Nieddu in San Teodoro is one of the most famous in Sardinia and is suitable for everyone, fun, and ideal for beginners and experts.

Is canyoning suitable for everyone?

The canyoning route in San Teodoro is suitable for both beginners and experts. You need to know how to swim and not suffer from vertigo.

What is the minimum age for canyoning in Monte Nieddu in Sardinia?

The minimum age required for canyoning is 10 years.

I'm a beginner, what should I know about canyoning?

If you're a beginner, you don't need to worry; the guide will take care of everything, you just have to have fun and enjoy the course. Before starting the experience, there will be an introductory briefing explaining the path and describing the main techniques and operations. It will be exciting, in fact, unforgettable!

What equipment do I need for canyoning?

For this experience, you will be provided with all the necessary equipment: helmet, wetsuit/shorty depending on the season and water temperature, harness, ropes, and carabiners. You need to bring a swimsuit, a beach towel, and a pair of shoes that you will wear for the descent. Keep in mind that the footwear you wear will get wet, so bring an extra pair of shoes or flip-flops.

05. Kitesurf

Exciting Watersport Kitesurf
Exciting Watersport Kitesurf

Kitesurfing, also known as kitesurfing or simply kite, is a sailing sport that initially started as a variant of surfing.

The principle is more or less the same as flying a kite; you use the wind for propulsion and maneuver the bar connected to the kite (the 'sail') with thin, strong lines.

Simply put: with a board under your feet, you can glide on the water pulled by a kite.

Kitesurfing for beginners is recommended with winds defined as light breezes, preferably blowing towards the land so as not to drift too far from the shore.

Kite professionals, on the other hand, practice kitesurfing in various wind strengths.

Sardinia is ideal for kitesurfing; on any given day, you can find a slope, a coastline, or a beach where you can practice kite at any level of experience.

The beach La Cinta in San Teodoro is one of the most famous kite spots in Sardinia for kitesurfing.

You can take a Kitesurfing course and rent kitesurfing equipment in San Teodoro. Ready to kitesurf in the most famous spots in Sardinia?

Where is the kitesurfing school located on La Cinta in San Teodoro?

The school is located near the end of La Cinta beach in San Teodoro, close to the Peschiera. At this point, the beach is very wide, open, and frequented by few people. So there is plenty of space to have fun and practice all the exercises with the kite.

What is the minimum age requirement to participate in the Kitesurf course?

The minimum age to participate in this activity is 10 years.

06. Stand Up Paddling

Stand Up Paddle SUP
Stand Up Paddle SUP

SUP or Stand Up Paddle is, so to speak, a variant of surfing that now lives on its own. Stand Up Paddling consists of standing on a board using a paddle for propulsion to glide across the water.

The Stand Up Paddle Board is similar to what is used for surfing but is larger for more stability.

The practice of SUP in Sardinia is spreading rapidly also because it is an extremely easy sport to learn and provides enormous satisfaction.

It’s fun and at the same time a great mix of balance and physical training for the whole body.

If you’re at the beach and want to try something new, you can rent a SUP. With a SUP, you can explore the coast and coves, enjoying views that are otherwise unreachable.

SUP offers a gratifying sense of freedom and well-being, gliding over the sea in total touch with nature.

Using the SUP is quite simple; you just need to get a little comfortable once you’ve gotten on it. Before each rental, you’ll be explained the basics for safe use.

For safety reasons, the minimum age to rent a SUP is generally 12-14 years.

Your safety is our top priority. If bad weather or rough seas are predicted, you won’t be able to go in the water. We will then move your reservation to the first available date or provide a full refund.

07. Water Skiing

Water Skiing
Water Skiing

Water skiing is a discipline that allows you to speed across the water being pulled by a boat while balanced on a pair of skis.

It's a sport suitable for beginners because, at least for the basic maneuvers, it doesn’t require special skills or knowledge.

If you think that water skiing requires a lot of strength in the arms, don't worry, it's mainly a matter of balance.

Once you're on your skis, the sensation of speed is very exciting. At first, you need to find the right position, and before finding it, you might fall a few times.

Don’t worry, after a few tries, it will all be very simple and standing up will be really thrilling.

Want to know where to water ski in Sardinia? If you’re on vacation in Cannigione or Porto Rotondo, check out the adventures you can have and get ready for a wonderful day of fun and adrenaline.

Where to water ski in Costa Smeralda?

Look at all the places where you can go water skiing, choose the beach closest to you, Cannigione, Porto Rotondo... and start your adventure!

How long does water skiing last?

The experience lasts about 15-20 minutes. Generally, this is more than sufficient, especially for a beginner. However, if you want to have fun for longer, you can buy 2 tickets. The duration reserved for you will then be 40 minutes of water skiing. Pure adrenaline!

08. Speed Banana, Sumo, and Doughnut

Speed Banana Boat and Doughnut
Speed Banana Boat and Doughnut

Whether you choose a speed banana, a speed doughnut, or the brand new sumo, get ready for an experience of speed, adrenaline, and pure fun.

These activities need no introduction. Who hasn't seen a banana boat speeding across the sea with people laughing heartily on top?

Book an experience on a banana or a speed doughnut and let yourself be pulled over the water with friends and kids.

If you haven't done it before, you must try the Sumo Tube, an electrifying mix between a water skiing ride and bouncing on an inflatable. Absolutely a must-try!

Are Banana Boats and Doughnuts dangerous?

No, they are not dangerous activities. Naturally, these activities are safe when operated by professionals in the field.

09. Windsurf

Windsurf
Windsurf

Windsurfing is a sailing specialty, a very fun sport that you can practice during a holiday in Sardinia even without being a professional.

Windsurfing involves gliding over the water propelled by the wind and waves, using a board and a sail.

The speed you can reach with a windsurf can be very high, depending on your experience level, the equipment used, and the weather conditions.

If you want to get close to this sport during your vacation, you can choose a windsurfing school in San Teodoro on La Cinta or the two large bays of Porto Pollo beach in Palau, which are among the most famous windsurfing spots in Sardinia.

With an instructor, you can take beginner windsurfing courses or introductory lessons to see if this sport is right for you.

The combination of windsurfing and children is perfect, but in this case, it is always recommended to rely on a recognized windsurfing school, so the approach is professional and the child’s experience is safe and enjoyable.

If you are a professional and can't bring your own gear, you can choose to rent windsurfing equipment in San Teodoro.

You can find many types of boards and sails for rent; you will definitely have fun.

10. Surfing

Surfing
Surfing

Surfing is a very well-known and practiced sport in Sardinia. With a surfboard, you can glide on the water riding the waves.

It's a great physical and mental exercise that helps keep you fit and clears your mind from daily commitments.

The technique involves gliding along the wave wall and performing tricks, ideally staying upright on the board.

It’s a really fun sport and not too difficult to get into, just follow the right advice.

Surfboards come in various sizes and are chosen considering various factors including body type, marine weather conditions, experience, and style.

If you’re a beginner, choose a surf school and rely on a professional to take your first steps. If you’re already an experienced surfer looking for a place to surf and rent a board, you can have fun at the most famous surf spots in Sardinia.

Is it hard to learn to surf?

It’s fairly easy to learn the basics of surfing, let’s just say it requires some balancing skills. In fact, most surfers will tell you that surfing has a relatively smooth learning curve and you can start quite quickly. Like in any other sport, there will be people who say they learned quickly, a small minority found it tough, and some will tell you they started to feel discouraged and eventually gave up. But the moment you stand up on the surfboard and glide on the water’s surface for a couple of seconds, you become a surfer! A beginner surfer – sure – but already a member of the surf tribe!

Are there surfboards for children?

Of course, there are different boards available for adults and children. For beginners and professionals.

Can I rent the surfboard even if the weather is bad?

Your safety is our top priority. If the weather conditions are not optimal, you won’t be able to go in the water. You can then choose to reschedule your booking or request a full refund.

11. Sailing Courses

Sailing boat navigating the sea of Sardinia
Sailing boat navigating the sea of Sardinia

Sailing courses in Sardinia are a wonderful way to get close to the sea and the sport at any age.

Whether you are a beginner or a pro, Sardinia will always satisfy you, the wind is an inexhaustible resource of emotions that always brings adrenaline and unforgettable moments.

You can take a sailing course on laser dinghies and Hobie Cat catamarans and learn the basic techniques to ride the waves.

Courses are also available on larger boats that allow you to learn how to operate a sailing boat and refine sailing techniques.

Safety on board, sailing maneuvers including spinnaker, moorings in the harbor, night navigation, and many drills.

All sailing courses for beginners can start every day of the week, and you can schedule lessons throughout the summer season.

At the end of the course, you will be independent and able to navigate safely. Choose the sailing course that suits you and get ready to set sail!

Is it dangerous to take a sailing course on a dinghy?

Like any activity, sailing requires attention and practice. Rely on a certified sailing instructor and follow their advice. You’ll see it will be an unforgettable experience.

12. Rental of Laser Dinghies & Hobie Cat

If you are already an experienced sailor or just want to spend a few hours of your vacation sailing on the north Sardinian sea, you can rent a small Laser dinghy, lightweight, fun, and fast.

The Hobie Cat is a sailing catamaran, a multihull that needs no introduction. Hobie Cats are extremely competitive and very fast boats whose performance cannot be compared with any other type of sailing.

The best way to spend quality time at sea in the name of fun is to rent a Hobie Cat or a fun Laser dinghy. Sardinia is a perfect natural gym for learning how to sail and perfecting your technique.

How many people can get on a rented Hobie Cat?

The indicative number of passengers that can board a Hobie Cat catamaran depends on the model:

Hobie Cat 15 2/3 people
Hobie Cat 15 Club 2/3 people
Hobie Cat 16 2 people

13. Wakeboarding

Wakeboard
Wakeboard

Wakeboarding is a water sport that is a mix between snowboarding and water skiing. It's a newly popular water sport where you ride on a board while being towed by a boat.

If during your vacation in Sardinia you want to experience new emotions, this activity is truly ideal, pure adrenaline.

Wakeboarding boards are thin and rectangular in shape with rounded edges. Once you have the board, it's simply a matter of balance.

Listen to the instructions of the wakeboarding instructor, and you'll see that standing up is not difficult at all.

Wakeboarding is a very popular water sport, and throughout the Costa Smeralda, you can find adventurous and fun experiences.

Is wakeboarding dangerous?

Like any activity, utmost attention must be paid to the instructions provided during the initial briefing. Experiences are conducted with the utmost attention to safety and then to maximum fun.

14. Sea Bob Aquascooter

The Sea Bob is an aquascooter, an electric propulsion device that allows you to move safely, quickly, and enjoyably both on the water's surface and underwater.

It is an eco-friendly machine that allows you to move freely in the sea with the same agility as a dolphin.

The Sea Bob is silent and lets you explore the wonderful waters of Sardinia without obstacles and limits, especially without scaring the fish. It's the perfect mix between a snorkeling experience and freediving, absolutely thrilling!

The battery life depends on many factors, especially the riding style of the user. With normal use, the battery lasts about 8 hours. If you are already an experienced Sea Bob user and practice sporty riding, the battery lasts about 4 hours. If desired, a fast charging station can also be rented at checkout.

15. Subwing

The Subwing consists of two underwater wings towed slowly by a boat, you can attach yourself to these devices to fly underwater.

The wings are connected via a joint and are independent, so you can tilt them at different angles and change your direction.

You can tilt both wings down to dive and up to surface. Incredibly fun!

Is the Subwing dangerous?

Like any activity, utmost attention must be paid to the instructions provided during the initial briefing. Our experiences are conducted with the utmost attention to safety, and then to maximum fun.