Tavolara Island: how to get there, what to do and when to visit
Tavolara is the mountain in the sea that dominates every view along the Olbia coast: 565 meters of limestone towering over one of the richest Marine Protected Areas in the Mediterranean. There are no roads or regular ferries: you can only reach it by boat, which is part of its charm. Here are all the ways to get there, costs, and what to do once you land.
How to get there: boats and excursions
There are two options. The simplest is the shuttle boats from Porto San Paolo (15 km south of Olbia): continuous departures from the morning, 15 minutes crossing, round trip ticket around €15-20, with return at a time you prefer. The second option is organized excursions from Olbia: half day or full day with a stop on the island, guided snorkeling at the Molara Pools, and often an aperitif on board — more expensive (starting from €70) but much more comprehensive. With small children, the boat is the flexible choice; to experience the Marine Protected Area, the excursion wins.
What to do on the island
Spalmatore di Terra, the sandy strip where everyone lands, is the heart of the visit: a sandy beach, clear water, and the two historic restaurants on the island (reservation almost mandatory in summer: Ristorante da Tonino is an institution). From there, short paths lead to scenic viewpoints. The climb to Punta Cannone, for experts and only in safe conditions, offers one of the most breathtaking views in Sardinia. The rest is sea: masks and fins are enough to meet bream, scad and, with luck, barracuda close to shore.
Snorkeling in the Marine Protected Area
The AMP Tavolara - Punta Coda Cavallo is divided into zones with different rules: fishing is prohibited almost everywhere and the seabeds are among the most fish-rich in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The classic spots are the Molara Pools — a stretch of shallow turquoise sea between Molara and its rocks, reachable only by boat — and the seabeds around Spalmatore. Guided excursions make a difference: they know where the fish are most accustomed to human presence and provide the equipment. Remember reef-safe sunscreen: in protected areas, it's more than a courtesy.
Practical tips and when to go
The best time is from late May to September; in July and August, choose the earliest departures in the morning, when Spalmatore is still quiet. Bring water shoes, an umbrella or hat (natural shade is limited), water, and cash for the boat. The island has no shops: only restaurants and a seasonal kiosk. The return with the boats is flexible but the last run departs in the late afternoon: check the schedule upon disembarking to avoid being... stranded for a night.
How much does it cost to get to Tavolara?
The boat from Porto San Paolo costs about €15-20 round trip. Organized excursions from Olbia, including snorkeling and multiple stops, start from €70 per person with equipment included.
Can you sleep on the island?
No: Tavolara has no accommodation facilities; it is inhabited only by a few historic families. It can be visited in a day; the best bases are Porto San Paolo, 15 minutes by boat, or Olbia.
How long does the crossing take?
From the Porto San Paolo dock about 15 minutes; for excursions departing from Olbia port, it’s a 30-40 minute sailing, often with scenic passages along the coast of Capo Ceraso.
Is Tavolara suitable for children?
Yes: Spalmatore beach has a shallow sandy bottom, and the crossing is short. Just avoid the paths to the viewpoints, which are not suitable for small children, and bring an umbrella: shade is scarce.
Do I need to book the boat?
In July and August, it’s advisable to reach the dock by 9:30 am or to book online where possible; during other months, going is problem-free. For the island's restaurants, however, summer reservations are almost mandatory.