Tavolara San Teodoro’s 5 Island and Beach Tour

If you’re heading to Sardinia and looking for a way to see some of the most iconic and beautiful spots without the hassle of planning each detail yourself, the Tavolara 5 Island and Beach Tour might just be what you need. This full-day boat excursion, operated by Mediomare, offers a mix of stunning scenery, historical insights, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax in crystal-clear waters. Rated a perfect 5.0 by recent travelers, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and breathtaking views.

What really stands out is the focus on authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences—from quiet coves to protected marine areas—making it ideal for travelers who want more than just a beach day. One of the things we love most is how the trip caters to different groups, organizing younger and family travelers separately to ensure everyone stays comfortable. A potential consideration? The tour is quite full on certain days, so booking well in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

This tour appeals most to those who enjoy boat rides, snorkeling, and nature, as well as history buffs keen to hear stories about Tavolara’s mysterious caves and the pirate spotting point. If you’re after a relaxed but adventurous day with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour might be your perfect match.

Excellent guides: The crew, including skippers like Fabrizio and Luca, are highly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel safe and entertained.
Incredible scenery: Expect to see stunning beaches, limestone formations, and turquoise waters that make every photo look like a postcard.
Snorkeling and swimming: Multiple stops allow you to get into the water, often in protected marine areas, with some reviewers noting the abundance of fish and clear visibility.
Well-organized itinerary: The tour covers a broad range of spots—beaches, caves, islands—without feeling rushed.
Value for money: At $92.89 per person, the trip offers an impressive amount of time in beautiful locations, with most stops lasting 30 minutes to an hour and a half.
Weather dependence: The experience is weather-sensitive; cancellations due to high winds or bad weather are possible but are handled professionally with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Each stop on this 6.5-hour adventure brings its own charm and unique features, making it a richly varied journey through Sardinia’s coastline and islands.

Punta Aldia and the Guided Tour

The trip begins with a scenic view of Punta Aldia, where your skipper—a local expert—provides a brief tour filled with stories of the area’s history and mysteries of Tavolara. This initial overview sets the tone and gets everyone excited for the day ahead. Reviewers mention the guides, especially Fabrizio and Luca, as being friendly, engaging, and full of interesting facts.

Cala Brandinchi

Next, the boat pulls into Cala Brandinchi, often called the “Little Tahiti” of Sardinia. Known for its pristine white sands and crystal waters, it’s a favored spot for photos and swimming. The area has a daily visitor limit, underlining its ecological importance. Reviewers note, “this was a lovely, well-organized trip,” and highlight the calm, turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling.

Punta della Guardia and Lu Impostu

The boat then heads to the ancient Punta della Guardia, a lookout point historically used by locals to spot pirate ships. From here, you’ll see Lu Impostu beach, another picturesque spot with golden sands. This stop offers a mix of scenic views and a peek into the area’s past—a favorite among history enthusiasts and photo lovers.

Salina Bamba and Salinedda

Sailing past the Ruia Island, the tour offers glimpses of natural beauty and geological interest. The scenery here is described as breathtaking, with many reviewers mentioning the vivid contrast of white rocks against green shrubbery and blue waters. It’s a quick photo stop before heading to the next island.

Capo Coda Cavallo and Proratora Island

One of the highlights is Proratora Island, famous for its cave with a hole at the top—creating magical reflections in the water. You’ll have time to swim, take photos, and marvel at the unusual limestone formations, which are often compared to a natural art installation. Reviewers mention the peacefulness of this spot and the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters.

Isola di Molara

The turquoise pools of Molara Island are a hit for snorkeling and swimming. Most guests spend about 30 minutes here, enjoying the natural beauty and the chance to see marine life. The vivid colors of the water earn consistent praise—many describe it as like swimming in a postcard.

Tavolara Island

Tavolara is arguably the star of this tour, with its jagged limestone cliffs and caves. Notable features include the Cathedral Cave, the Eye of God, and the limestone formations called La Sedia. The guide explains the mysteries of Tavolara’s caves and the significance of each site. Guests can swim, snorkel, and relax at the beaches, often commenting on how the waters here are particularly clear, making snorkeling especially rewarding. The optional walk to the “vanishing beach” is a quiet, scenic spot, perfect for some solo exploration.

Isola Cana and Cala Girgolu

Moving on, the boat visits Isola Cana, known for its crystal-clear natural pools, ideal for a quick swim and photo session. Nearby, Cala Girgolu showcases fascinating granite formations—rock sculptures shaped by wind and water, resembling animals like turtles and camels. Reviewers love this part, noting the unique geology and the chance to snorkel in calm, inviting waters.

Coda Cavo Cavallo

The final stop is at the sheltered cove of Coda Cavallo. Here, the tranquil waters provide a perfect last swim, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery. Guests often comment on the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal way to wind down the day.

Comfort and Group Size: The tour is limited to about 30 travelers, which means a more intimate experience without feeling crowded. The boats are organized to separate families with children from younger groups, ensuring everyone stays comfortable.

Guides and Skippers: The crew, including well-reviewed skippers like Fabrizio and Luca, are noted for their professionalism, friendliness, and local knowledge. They are also qualified lifeguards, adding an extra layer of safety.

Snorkeling and Swimming: Many reviewers highlight how plentiful and vibrant the marine life is, especially around Molara and Tavolara. Bringing your own snorkeling gear is recommended, although some goggles are available on board. The calm waters and protected marine areas make it suitable for a wide range of swimmers—from beginners to more experienced snorkelers.

Photography Opportunities: Every stop offers stunning vistas, caves, and unusual granite formations—perfect for photos. A quick tip from reviewers: bring a waterproof camera or phone in a waterproof case to capture the underwater scenes.

Food and Drinks: The tour does not include lunch or alcohol, so plan accordingly. You might find local restaurants or kiosks at some stops, but bringing snacks, water, or a light lunch is advisable.

Weather and Cancellation: The experience is weather-dependent. In case of high winds or bad weather, the trip could be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Reviewers commend the professionalism and safety consciousness of the staff during such situations.

At around $92.89 per person, this tour packs a lot into a half-day adventure. You get nearly 6.5 hours of boat time, with multiple stops at some of Sardinia’s most iconic spots, all led by expert guides. The price includes fuel, landing fees, and taxes, meaning there are no hidden charges. Considering the included stops—some renowned for their natural pools and others for their fascinating caves—the tour offers excellent value for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of organizing transport or individual excursions.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore Sardinia’s coast from the water, especially those who love snorkeling, photography, and scenic landscapes. It’s well-suited for families with children over five, as the boat rides and stops are generally safe and accommodating. It also appeals to history and nature enthusiasts interested in learning about the area’s landmarks and marine protection efforts.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, well-organized day with a friendly crew, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you prefer a more private or leisurely experience, or if seasickness is a concern, you might want to consider private options or other excursions.

The Tavolara 5 Island and Beach Tour from San Teodoro offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, engaging guides, and fun water activities. The consistent 5-star reviews reflect its high-quality organization and authentic experience. Travelers leave with not only stunning photos but also stories of caves, islands, and the vibrant marine life that Sardinia is famous for.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this tour provides a fantastic way to see Sardinia’s most iconic spots in a half-day adventure packed with excitement and relaxation. The careful organization, knowledgeable crew, and breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile option for anyone wanting to maximize their time in this gorgeous part of Italy.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and travel time.

What is the price per person?
It costs around $92.89, which covers fuel, landing fees, and taxes, offering good value for a full-day experience.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Children over 5 years old can participate when accompanied by an adult. The tour is not suitable for children under 5.

What should I bring?
Bring sandals, snorkeling gear, sunscreen, a towel, and possibly lunch if you wish. A passport or ID is also recommended.

Is the 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.

Can I take photos during the trip?
Absolutely, the scenery is stunning, and you’ll want to capture the limestone formations, caves, and turquoise waters.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and alcoholic beverages are not included, but there are options at some stops for food and drinks.

How many people participate?
The group size is limited to about 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of expert guides, scenic stops, and marine protected areas makes it a memorable, authentic Sardinian adventure.

Can I snorkel in the marine reserve?
Yes, many stops are in protected marine areas with clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Bring your gear to enjoy the underwater sights.

This comprehensive review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this popular Sardinian boat trip. With its perfect mix of natural beauty, knowledgeable guides, and relaxing water activities, it’s an adventure worth considering for your trip to Sardinia.