Tavolara San Teodoro’s 5 Island and Beach Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Sardinia and looking for a way to explore its stunning coastlines and islands beyond just lounging on the beach, this 5 Island and Beach Tour from San Teodoro might be just what you need. We’ve gathered plenty of feedback and details about this experience, so you can decide if it’s right for your holiday plans.

What we really like about this tour is its well-organized itinerary and the chance to see some of Sardinia’s most iconic spots, like Cala Brandinchi and Tavolara Island. The fact that it’s a small group experience often led by friendly, knowledgeable skippers makes it feel personal and enjoyable. Plus, the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and take photos in some truly gorgeous settings is hard to beat.

One thing to keep in mind is that, since this is a full-day boat trip, it’s not ideal if you’re expecting a quiet, leisurely beach day. The tour does involve multiple stops, which means a lot of moving around, and the day can be quite activity-packed. Also, it’s primarily a water-based excursion, so if you’re not comfortable on boats or in the water, some parts might be less enjoyable.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out on the water, exploring Sardinia’s coastlines with a small, friendly group. It’s especially suited for those who love swimming and snorkeling, and who appreciate knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the islands’ sights and stories.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters make this a visually stunning experience.
• Knowledgeable skippers and guides add a layer of fun and education.
• Multiple stops at iconic beaches and islands show off Sardinia’s best spots.
• The price point offers good value considering the full day and included stops.
• Small group size keeps the experience intimate and flexible.
• Not suitable for children under 5 and can be busy with up to 30 travelers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of around $92.89 per person covers fuel, taxes, and facility fees—so no hidden costs there. You can expect a well-organized day with the boat, guided stops, and swimming opportunities. However, lunch and alcoholic drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at the beaches or restaurants during free time.

The tour is run by Mediomare, a reputable provider, and has high ratings from past travelers. They emphasize safety, with skippers certified as lifeguards, and organize boats to keep groups manageable, so you’re not overwhelmed by crowds.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Point of View and Photo Stops

The tour kicks off with a scenic view of Punta Aldia, with your skipper guiding you and sharing insights into the area. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the landscape right from the start and snap some memorable photos.

Cala Brandinchi

Next, you’ll stop at Cala Brandinchi, often called “Little Tahiti” for its powdery sand and clear water. It’s one of the most famous beaches in the Mediterranean, and for good reason. But be aware—since it’s one of the most popular sites, there’s a daily visitor limit to preserve its charm. You’ll have about 30 minutes here for photos, swimming, and walking.

Punta della Guardia and Lu Impostu

Then, the boat takes you along the coast to see Punta della Guardia, historically used as a lookout for pirates, and towards Lu Impostu beach. These spots give you a glimpse into Sardinia’s rugged coast and some local history.

Salina Bamba, Salinedda, and Capo Coda Cavallo

Next, the boat visits the islands in front of Salina Bamba and Salinedda, including Proratora Island, which features a magical cave with reflections on the water. You can swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the scenery.

Molara Island and Cala Spagnola

Molara Island’s natural pools steal the show with their turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The tour also stops at Cala Spagnola for more relaxing time, with no admission fees for the stops, just enjoying the natural beauty.

Tavolara Island and Surroundings

Tavolara Island is a highlight, with sights like the Cathedral Cave, the “Eye of God,” and limestone formations like La Sedia. The guides are often asked about the island’s mysteries, adding an educational aspect. You’ll have 1 hour and 30 minutes here for swimming, photos, and exploring, with options to eat at nearby restaurants or relax on the beach.

Isola Cana and Cala Girgolu

After Tavolara, the boat moves to Isola Cana’s pristine pools for more swimming and snorkeling. Later, you’ll visit Cala Girgolu, known for its sculpted granite formations like the Turtle, Coffee Pot, and Dromedary. It’s a feast for the eyes and perfect for taking pictures.

Final Stop: Spiaggia Capo Coda Cavallo

The last stop is Coda Cavallo’s quiet cove, ideal for unwinding, swimming, and soaking in the last views of Sardinia’s coast before heading back.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a consistent picture: this is a well-organized, scenic trip with friendly guides and safe vessels. Many mention how their guides shared interesting facts about the islands, making the trip both fun and informative.

A reviewer noted, “Our safety was first,” highlighting the company’s concern for passenger well-being, which is reassuring. Past travelers also mention how memorable and beautiful the stops were, with one saying, “The scenery was breathtaking,” and describing the pilot as very good at French-speaking.

In terms of activity level, most reviews suggest that swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities are plentiful, making it especially appealing if you love being in the water. Several reviews mention how they appreciated the chance to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches, which they say you’d likely never find on your own.

Some reviews also commend the professionalism of the crew, with mentions of skippers like Fabrizio and Luca, emphasizing their friendly, helpful nature. Many repeat visitors note that the tour is worth booking every year, thanks to the friendly staff and unforgettable scenery.

Practical Details: Price, Duration, Group Size

At around $92.89 per person, this tour provides a full-day experience of Sardinia’s most scenic spots. The total duration is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, which includes travel time, stops, swimming, and sightseeing. With a maximum group size of 30, the experience feels intimate enough for personal interaction while still being lively.

You’ll meet at the Mediomare base in San Teodoro, with activities running from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM during the season from May to October. Remember to bring your snorkeling gear, sunscreen, towel, and possibly a packed lunch if you want to maximize your time on the beaches.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want to see Sardinia’s coast in a day, especially those eager to swim and snorkel in beautiful, protected waters. It’s perfect if you enjoy being on boats, exploring multiple locations, and having guides share interesting facts about the islands and their secrets.

If your idea of a holiday includes relaxing on beaches with plenty of water activities, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value. It’s worth booking in advance, especially during peak season, given its popularity and the limited number of spots.

However, if you’re sensitive to boat rides or have young children under 5, you might want to consider other options. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so plan accordingly. And if you’re looking for a completely laid-back beach day, you might find this a bit too packed with stops and activities.

FAQ: Quick Practical Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5, and children between 5 and 17 need to be accompanied by an adult. It’s a full-day water adventure, so consider your kids’ comfort level on boats.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops, swimming, and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel surcharge, taxes, and facility fees are included. However, lunch and alcoholic beverages are not.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring your own gear, though some goggles might be available on board.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Mediomare in San Teodoro at Watersports La Cinta, 07052 San Teodoro SS, Italy.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price covers the main costs; extras like lunch or souvenirs are on you.

How many people typically join?
Most trips involve up to 30 travelers, maintaining a friendly, small-group atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, people book about a week ahead, especially in peak season.

Final Words

If you’re after a full day of exploring Sardinia’s islands and beaches with a friendly crew and stunning scenery, this Tavolara 5 Island and Beach Tour offers great value. It’s a chance to see some of Sardinia’s most iconic spots while swimming in crystal-clear waters and learning about the islands’ secrets from knowledgeable guides.

While it’s not the perfect fit for those seeking a quiet, leisurely beach day or traveling with very young children, it excels if you want a fun, active, and scenic experience on the water. Many past travelers have found it unforgettable, and the high rating and glowing reviews suggest you might too.

Happy sailing!