Doctor's Beach at Capo Ceraso: how to get to one of the most beautiful beaches near Olbia
In the heart of north-eastern Sardiniaa few kilometres from Olbiahides a small, unspoilt pearl: the Doctor's Beach, one cove wild between granite rocks and maquisperfect for those seeking peace, nature and the sea crystalline. In this article I tell you everything you need to know to arriving at the Doctor's beachwhat to expect and some advice from Local on how best to enjoy it. If you love Sardinian beaches more secluded, the snorkelling and the views of Tavolara, this guide is for you.a beach?
1. Where is the Doctor's beach and why visit it?
La Doctor's Beach is located in the area of Capo Cerasoin the municipality of Olbia, overlooking the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, just opposite theisland of Tavolara. It is a cove hidden between the pink granite rocks and a promontory covered with maquis, one corner still pristine and much less frequented than others Olbia beaches.
The name 'del Dottore' is said to come from a doctor who had his holiday home here in the 1970s. Today the beach is free, with no establishmentsloved by hikers and those who practice snorkelling o SUP. Here the water has reflections emerald greenthe backdrop is sandy with rocky stretches ideal for observing marine fauna.
2. How to reach the Doctor's beach by land?
Reaching the Doctor's beach by land is possible but requires a bit of an adventurous spirit. The beach is not marked with official signs.
Itinerary by car from Olbia to the Doctor's beach
1. Departure from Olbia centre
Set the navigator to Murta Maria, a small hamlet south of Olbia. From the city centre, take the SS125 Orientale Sarda in a southerly direction.
2. Over Murta Maria
After about 10 kmpast the centre of Murta Maria, you will see a crossroads with signs for Capo Ceraso on the left. Turn and take the Capo Ceraso municipal road.
3. Turn into Via Punzutu
About 2.5 km after the turn, watch out for a small road on the left, called Punzutu Street. It is not very visible and there are no signs for the beach.
This street runs between scattered houses and vegetation. Follow it until the end (about 1 km), where you will find a forecourt: this is where you can park the car.
Path to the Doctor's Beach
From parking starts a path not officially signpostedbut clearly visible. It takes you between maquis, granite rocks and slightly downhill stretches.
Trail characteristics:
Length: about 800 metres
Walking time: approximately 15 minutes
Difficulty: easybut recommend comfortable shoes
Not suitable for pushchairs
There are no drinking fountains or bars: bring water and food
Along the way there are splendid views of theisland of Tavolara. The arrival at the Doctor's Beach is clearly recognisable: a cove of clear sand and transparent water, framed by rocks and vegetation.
3. Can you get to the Doctor's beach by sea?
Yes, it is possible to reach the beach of the Doctor also by seaand is indeed one of the preferred options for those who want to avoid the path. You can renting an inflatable boat from Porto Istana, Olbia or from the area of Pittulongu and approach the cove by water. The stretch of coast between Porto Istana and Capo Ceraso is spectacular, with small cale reachable only by boat and panoramic views of Tavolara e Molara.
Remember, however, that you cannot dock directly on the beach: you will have to stop a few metres beforehand and swim or use a small tender. Some tours organised by boat also stop at the Three Sisters Beachwhich is a short distance away.
4. Where to park for the Doctor's beach?
The parking for the Doctor's Beach is not official. After travelling via Punzutu, you will find a small road dirt road that widens into a small area where you can leave your car. La capacity is limited: maximum 10-12 vehicles. In high seasonI advise you to arrive early, because after 10 a.m. it is very attended and finding a place can become difficult.
Warning: do not park outside spaces or on vegetation. Checks are not frequent, but you risk a fineespecially in August. Alternatively, consider leaving your car at Murta Maria and have an NCC or taxi service bring you closer.
5. How long is the path to the beach?
The path which connects the car park to the Doctor's Beach is about 800 metresin 15 minutes to the beach. The track runs between granite rocksjuniper and arbutus bushes, and is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties.
The final part of the trail directly overlooks the sea, with a breathtaking view of the promontory of Capo Ceraso. If you love the trekkingyou could also explore the side paths leading to the other cale of the area, such as the Sas Enas Appara beach or the Three Sisters Beach.
6. Is the Doctor's beach suitable for snorkelling?
Absolutely: the Doctor's Beach is one of the best in the area for doing snorkelling. The backdrop It slopes gently and alternates between sand and rocky stretches, perfect for observing fish, starfish and the occasional urchin. At certain times of the year, shoals of bream and small bream can even be seen.
Water crystallinesilence and the absence of establishments make this stretch of coastline ideal for swimming in tranquillity or paddling in SUP. Take your mask and fins with you - you won't regret it.
7. Doctor's Beach or Three Sisters Beach?
Often those seeking the Doctor's Beach also comes across the name of the Three Sisters Beachlocated a short distance away. The two beaches are similar, but not identical. The Doctor's beach is wider, with white sand e backdrop sandy, while that of the Three Sisters is smaller, surrounded by cliffs e pink granite rocks.
Both are pristine and reachable with trailsso why choose? If you have time and willingness to walk a bit, you can visit both in a day.
8. Useful tips from Local: what to bring and when to go
If you want to enjoy the Doctor's Beach as a local, here are a few tips: go to low seasonfrom May to mid-June or from mid-September onwards. You will find fewer people, pleasant temperatures and more lush nature. Avoid the middle of July and August, when the beach can be very popular and the sun really strong.
Don't forget: parasol, plenty of water, packed lunch, comfortable shoes for the path and a bag to take away the rubbish. There are no services or natural shade.
9. What to see nearby: Capo Ceraso, Porto Istana and Tavolara
After exploring the Doctor's BeachI recommend a stop at the Porto Istana beachwhich is only a few minutes away by car and offers fine sand and shallow water, also suitable for children. Just beyond is the Sas Enas Appara beach, within walking distance with approximately 30 minutes walk from the main path.
The area of Capo Ceraso is studded with cale hidden, scenic headlands and ideal stretches for the trekking. With a boat or a dinghy you can explore the entire coast to Siniscolaenjoying views of some of the most beautiful coastline north-east of the Sardinia.
10. The Doctor's beach in low season: a little paradise
Visit the Doctor's Beach at low season is one of the most authentic experiences one can have in Sardinia. Away from the crowds, you can enjoy the silence, the scent of the maquisthe sound of waves between the cliffs and a sand that looks like emerald under the sun.
It is also an ideal time for nature photographers, for those who like to meditate in front of the sea or simply for those seeking a beach to live without a watch. In May and October, you may also have the cove all for you.
Doctor's Beach Reviews
Strengths
- Water crystalline and spectacular, almost 'natural pool' colours
- Breathtaking views of Tavolara and the pristine environment
- Excellent location for snorkelling thanks to the varied backdrop
Aspects to consider
- Short but not trivial trail: recommend comfortable shoes
- Improvised parking: risk of fine high if you park badly
- Presence of boats and dinghies can disturb the tranquillity
In summary: what to remember for the Doctor's beach
It is located in the municipality of Olbia, in the area of Capo Ceraso, a a few kilometres from Olbia
It is reached by a footpath of about 15 minutes
The car park is small and on gravel, along via Punzutu
It is also accessible by seawith dinghy o boat
Good for making snorkelling, paddling in SUP and relax
There are no establishmentsbring water, food and parasol
Nearby you will also find Porto Istana
In low season is a true oasis of peace
It is one of the most beautiful beaches and dungeons of the north-east Sardinian