The Beaches of La Maddalena Island - La Maddalena Archipelago

The island of La Maddalena, the heart of the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park along the northeastern coast of Sardinia, is crisscrossed by a spectacular scenic road about 20 kilometers long, lined with countless coves of pink granite and natural pools of turquoise water. Among the most popular beach destinations accessible by land are the picturesque Testa del Polpo Beach and the well-equipped Spalmatore Bay. Testa del Polpo Beach (Giardinelli Island) The beach is located on the eastern side, on the islet of Giardinelli (connected to the main island of La Maddalena by a short road-accessible isthmus). This curious place name—known in the Maddalena dialect as “Capocchia d’u Purpu”—derives from a distinctive, rounded granite boulder, smoothed by the wind, that overlooks the cove; its shape closely resembles the head of a large octopus. The beach consists of a strip of very fine, powdery white sand, framed by pink granite cliffs and Mediterranean scrub. The unique shape of the cove creates a true natural pool sheltered from the wind, with crystal-clear waters in shades of blue and a very shallow sandy seabed stretching for a long distance—perfect for children to swim and for snorkeling. There are other small, secluded coves in the immediate vicinity. ℹ️ Services: Before the final stretch on foot, there is a dirt parking area. The beach is completely open to the public and has no beach clubs, kiosks, or food and drink stands (so we recommend bringing your own water and beach umbrella). 🚗 How to get there: From the center of La Maddalena, head east toward the Moneta neighborhood and the bridge to Caprera; Just before the Passo della Moneta, turn left and cross the short bridge that leads to Giardinelli Island. From here, continue along a dirt road, following the signs for "Testa del Polpo." Leave your car in the parking area and walk along a short, flat trail until you reach the sand. Spalmatore Bay Located along the northeastern coast of the island of La Maddalena, Spalmatore Bay is nestled in a deep inlet between two pink granite headlands (Punta Spalmatore and Punta Nido d'Aquila) that effectively shield it from the Mistral and prevailing winds. The bay includes three distinct small sandy beaches, separated by low cliffs and a picturesque pier. The main beach consists of medium-grained golden and amber sand, lapped by crystal-clear emerald waters with a shallow, sandy seabed that slopes gently. Thanks to its sheltered location and wide range of amenities, it is one of the island’s most popular beaches and consistently earns the international Blue Flag designation. ℹ️ Services: The bay features parking areas, walkways, and accessibility for people with disabilities; a dock for small boats; a beach resort offering rentals of umbrellas, lounge chairs, pedal boats, and canoes; as well as a bar and a seaside restaurant. 🚗 How to get there: Spalmatore Bay is about 5 kilometers from the historic center and the port of Cala Gavetta in La Maddalena. It can be easily reached by car, scooter, or local public bus by taking the Strada Panoramica (SP 114 / SP 91) heading northeast. 💡 Fun fact: • The origin of the name “Spalmatore”: The place name Cala Spalmatore dates back to the era of sailing ships, when sailors found in this bay—perfectly sheltered from the Mistral—a safe harbor where they could haul their hulls ashore and "coat" them with pitch (caulking) to waterproof the wood. • The Panoramic Road Loop: Continuing along the 20-kilometer Panoramic Road past Spalmatore Bay toward the north and west, you’ll encounter other iconic beaches on the island of La Maddalena, such as the large white dune of Monti d’à Rena, the three turquoise coves of Bassa Trinita, Cala Lunga in Porto Massimo, and the granite cliffs of Punta Tegge. • How to get to La Maddalena: The island of La Maddalena can be reached year-round from the port of Palau (where Mare In offers numerous lodging options) via scheduled ferries that run frequently every 15–30 minutes, offering a scenic 15-minute crossing where you can conveniently bring your own car, motorcycle, or bicycle.