What to do in Golfo Aranci: beaches, dolphins, and Capo Figari
Golfo Aranci is a former fishing village that has become one of the most convenient bases in the northeast: beaches in town, the wild promontory of Capo Figari behind it, and — above all — the dolphins, which regularly frequent the bay and have made this port the Sardinian capital of dolphin watching. It's also one of the easiest destinations to enjoy without a car. Here’s what not to miss.
The dolphins of the bay
The colony of bottlenose dolphins living between Golfo Aranci and the Gulf of Olbia is among the most observed in the Mediterranean: boat tours have very high sighting percentages, often above 90%. Excursions depart multiple times a day from the port, lasting 2-3 hours and usually include a snorkeling stop at Figarolo or Cala Moresca. The early morning and sunset trips are the most beautiful: calm sea, golden light, and more active dolphins. A perfect experience even for children.
The town's beaches
Golfo Aranci has a small luxury: five numbered beaches right in town, all accessible on foot, with fine sand and gentle seabeds. The First and Second Beaches are the most convenient and equipped; the Fifth, towards Capo Figari, is the quietest. Just outside the center, Spiaggia Bianca is the star: a stretch of pristine sand with lagoon-like waters, facing the islet of Figarolo. Arrive early in August: parking is limited.
Cala Moresca and the trek to Capo Figari
Cala Moresca, a bay of light gravel and clear water framed by pine trees, is the starting point for the most beautiful trail in the area: the climb to Capo Figari, the limestone promontory from which Guglielmo Marconi conducted his radio experiments in 1932. The route (about 2 hours round trip) passes by the old military battery and reaches the abandoned lighthouse at 340 meters above sea level, offering a view that spans from Tavolara to Corsica. Best done in the early morning or at sunset, with water and hiking shoes; it's not uncommon to encounter mouflons along the trail.
Figarolo, the port, and village life
The conical islet of Figarolo, facing the town, is the symbol of Golfo Aranci: you can reach it by boat or kayak to snorkel in its clear waters (the island is protected and you cannot land freely everywhere). The town revolves around the port, among fish restaurants, the promenade along the waterfront, and the fishermen's church: less cosmopolitan than other coastal locations, but for this reason loved by families. Golfo Aranci is also a practical hub: the train station and the ferry port connect it directly to Olbia.
When can you see dolphins?
All year round: the colony is resident. Tours operate from April-May to October, with sighting rates often exceeding 90%. Early morning and sunset outings offer the most beautiful encounters.
Can you visit Golfo Aranci without a car?
Yes, it is one of the few places where it works well: the five beaches of the town, the port for excursions, and Cala Moresca are all reachable on foot, and the railway connects directly to Olbia. A car is only necessary to explore the coast beyond Spiaggia Bianca.
How long does the trek to Capo Figari take?
About 2 hours round trip from Cala Moresca, with 340 meters of elevation on dirt road. It's not technical but is exposed to the sun: avoid central hours in summer and bring at least a liter of water per person.
Is Spiaggia Bianca accessible on foot?
It's about 30-40 minutes on foot from the center or a few minutes by car; in summer, parking fills up quickly, so it’s best to arrive by 9:30 or move on foot or by bike along the scenic road.
Is Golfo Aranci suitable for families?
Very much: town beaches with shallow waters, dolphin excursions designed for kids, little nightlife, and minimal distances. It’s one of the most relaxing bases in the northeast for a family vacation.