The honey-colored walls and cobblestone streets of Alghero seem more at home on the Spanish coast rather than the Italian island of Sardinia. "Little Barcelona," as it is referred to by some, is the product of centuries of Aragonese and Catalan influence, which are still seen today in both the architecture and the language. But the main attractions of Sardinia's "Coral Coastline" are the miles of gorgeous beaches basking in the Mediterranean climate of hot summers and mild winters. While several excellent options are available within easy driving distance, several excellent beaches are just outside the city limits.
San Giovanni: Wide and White
- Ancient ramparts overlook the clear Mediterranean from the shores of the Lido San Giovanni, or San Giovanni Beach. Conveniently located about 10 minutes from the city center, just north of the marina, this wide white sand beach is a local family favorite. Beautiful palm trees mark the boundary between the city and the beach, and the white powder sand of San Giovanni is well-maintained by the city. A full range of services, including lounge chairs, umbrellas, plenty of public parking, bars and restaurants, means you can enjoy a full day at the beach without ever losing sight of the water. In fact, you can even camp at San Giovanni, which is especially interesting from May through September when tourist season brings thousands of visitors to enjoy the nightlife.
Maria Pia: Dunes Amid the Pines
- Maria Pia, about 2 miles north of the city center just beyond San Giovanni, is a pristine beach set against a thick backdrop of junipers and pines that make it seem like you have left civilization far behind. The white sand dunes amid the verdant oasis on the north end of the beach are the perfect spot for a relaxing day without the crowds that tend to gather at the other nearby beaches. On the southern end of the beach, closer to town, two pizzerias with lounge chairs and umbrellas are right on the sand, offering patrons the chance to enjoy an authentic Italian delicacy along with the stunning views.
Las Tronas: Fit for a King
- About half a mile south of the city center sits a small rocky outcrop with two cylindrical rocks creating the throne-like shape responsible for the name of small beach and rocky cover nearby. Atop the outcrop sits a luxurious hotel, commanding stunning views and offering a host of amenities, including a restaurant and bar, for both guests and beach-goers. The beach is popular with snorkelers because of its calm, protected waters and an abundance of sea life living among the rocks. The sandy side of the outcrop, Las Tronas 2, also features lounge rentals, as well as peddle-boats for those who want to explore the nearby coves at a leisurely pace.
Cala Bona: Safe Harbor
- Cala Bona, translated as "Good Cove," gets its name from the sheltered series of coves that have always served to protect the small boats of the villagers. It is just over a mile from the center of Alghero, making it popular with both tourists and locals. Besides the chance to get a great tan, the limestone coves and gentle water are perfect for fishing. For those who prefer to appreciate sea life from below the surface, snorkeling and scuba diving excursions reveal an area teeming with life of both the plant and animal variety.
