Prince’s Beach Sardinia (Spiaggia del Principe) is one of those places that genuinely earns the hype. Two sandy coves separated by a pink granite outcrop, water that shifts from cobalt blue to whitish-pink above submerged granite slabs, and almost zero development in sight. It sits in the municipality of Arzachena, Province of Sassari, in the heart of the Costa Smeralda. If you are planning a visit, here is everything you need to know: how to get there, what to do, and where to sleep nearby.
What is Prince’s Beach? The essentials
Prince’s Beach is known locally as Poltu di li Cogghji, a Gallurese name meaning “Port of Skins.” The name comes from an older trading history: leather and locally manufactured goods were once shipped from this small natural cove. Today, the name most people use is Spiaggia del Principe.
The beach is about 250 meters long in total, split into two separate coves by a rocky granite spur that juts into the sea. Both coves have fine white sand and shallow, calm water. The key visual feature here is the granite on the seabed itself: the pink and grey rock formations change the color of the water constantly, producing gradients that go from deep cobalt, to bright emerald, to a near-white turquoise depending on the angle of the sun. It is one of the few beaches in Sardinia where the water color is this varied within such a small area.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Municipality of Arzachena, Gallura, NE Sardinia |
| Distance from Porto Cervo | ~9 km by car (12-15 min) |
| Distance from Olbia Airport | ~32 km (35-40 min) |
| Beach type | Double cove, fine white sand |
| Facilities | Small bar, umbrella and lounger rental |
| Parking | Free area near the trailhead (paid in season: ~€18/day) |
| Best months | June, September (lower crowds) |
| Snorkeling | Excellent, especially mornings |
The history behind the name
The beach earned its current name in the 1960s through Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the founding figure of the Costa Smeralda resort complex. The Prince, who arrived in this stretch of Gallura coastline around 1962, chose this cove as his favorite in the entire area. According to the Costa Smeralda Consortium, he initially planned to build a private villa at Poltu di li Cogghji. The villa was never built. The beach, however, kept his name as an informal tribute, and the name stuck.
The broader project the Aga Khan launched transformed the surrounding coastline into what became known as the Costa Smeralda, or Emerald Coast: a consortium of luxury resorts, marinas, and controlled architectural development. The Consortium’s policies still protect the immediate surroundings of Prince’s Beach from commercial construction, which is why the beach remains essentially wild.
How to get to Prince’s Beach
By car from Porto Cervo
There is no public transport to this beach. A car is the only practical option.
From Porto Cervo, head southwest on the Via Porto Cervo and then join the SP59. After about 4.6 km, take the exit onto the SP160 and follow it for approximately 3 km toward Spiaggia del Principe. Total distance from Porto Cervo: about 9 km, around 12-15 minutes. The roads are narrow in places, typical of the Costa Smeralda interior.
From Olbia airport, the drive is about 32 km via the SS125 and then through Arzachena toward Cala di Volpe. Budget 35-40 minutes.
Parking: what to expect
There is a free parking area near the trailhead leading down to the beach. In peak season (July-August), access has a fee reported at around €18 per day (pricing from 2022; verify on site as rates change). More importantly: in July and August, the parking area fills completely by 9 am. Not 10. Not 10:30. Nine in the morning, sometimes earlier. If you arrive later than that, you will be turned away or waiting.
In June and September, the parking is free or lightly charged and filling up by 9 am is not a concern.
The walk down to the beach
From the parking area, a signed path leads down to the beach. The distance is approximately 500-800 meters, taking around 10-15 minutes at a moderate pace. The path is rocky and uneven in sections, particularly on the steeper parts near the bottom. Do not attempt it in flip-flops or sandals without ankle support. On the way back up, particularly midday in July and August, the path feels noticeably harder. Bring water from the parking area: the bar on the beach exists but prices at Costa Smeralda beach bars are exactly what you would expect.
One important upside: from the cliff at the top of the path, just before the descent begins, there is a panoramic view over both coves that is one of the best shots on the entire Costa Smeralda. Worth a stop before going down.
Things to do at Prince’s Beach
Snorkeling
The combination of shallow water and submerged granite formations makes Prince’s Beach one of the better natural snorkeling spots in the Gallura area. Visibility is high, the seabed is interesting (the granite creates ledges and small recesses), and various small fish species move through the shallow sections throughout the day. No diving equipment needed: a mask and fins are enough.
Best conditions for snorkeling are in the morning, before wind picks up. The Maestrale (northwest wind, frequent in Gallura) can create surface chop in the afternoon that reduces visibility. No currents to worry about in either cove under normal conditions.
Swimming and sunbathing
Both coves have calm, shallow water well-suited for swimming. The southern cove tends to be slightly more sheltered. The fine white sand is genuinely good quality: compact enough to walk on easily, soft enough to be comfortable. A small bar operates on site during the season, serving drinks, ice cream, and light food. Umbrella and lounger rental is available: pricing around €10 for an umbrella and €15 per lounger (2022 rates; expect seasonal variation).
The beach has no large commercial structures, no beach clubs in the full Costa Smeralda sense. It is deliberately kept simple.
Photography and viewpoints
The cliff viewpoint above the descent path offers a full view over both coves and the island of Mortorio in the background. Golden hour, roughly 45 minutes before sunset, produces exceptional light on the granite and the water. The viewpoint is accessible without going all the way down to the beach, which matters if you are visiting just to photograph.
Hiking the coastal trail
Footpaths through the Mediterranean scrub connect Prince’s Beach to Capriccioli (to the southwest, about 1.5 km) and toward Romazzino (to the northeast). These are informal trails rather than marked routes, but they are walkable with appropriate footwear. The landscape is juniper, rosemary, heather, and the occasional wild orchid in spring. Views of the archipelago are visible from the higher sections.
Things to do near Prince’s Beach: top activities
The beach is the main event, but the surrounding area offers a range of experiences worth booking in advance, especially in summer.
Costa Smeralda Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Sail along the Costa Smeralda coastline on a private boat, with stops for swimming and snorkeling at spots including the waters near Prince’s Beach, Grande Pevero, and Liscia Ruja. Ideal for groups of 2 to 8 people. Includes a Sardinian aperitif on board.
Book the Costa Smeralda Boat Tour on Viator
Private Boat Tour to La Maddalena Archipelago by Yacht
A full-day private yacht tour departing from Porto Cervo or Poltu Quatu toward the La Maddalena National Park. Stops at Budelli, Spargi, and the island of Mortorio (visible from Prince’s Beach). Fully customizable itinerary. The premium option for the area.
Book the La Maddalena Yacht Tour on Viator
Costa Smeralda Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling (GetYourGuide)
Small-group private tour from the Santa Teresa Gallura area covering the most scenic coves of the Costa Smeralda, with multiple snorkeling stops in crystal-clear water. Good alternative if the Viator options are fully booked.
Book the Costa Smeralda Private Boat Tour on GetYourGuide
Small Group Tour: Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo and San Pantaleo
Half-day guided group tour by minivan from Olbia, covering Porto Cervo, the Belvedere viewpoint over the northeastern coast, and the village of San Pantaleo. A practical option for those without a car or who want an introduction to the area before heading to the beaches independently.
Book the Costa Smeralda Group Tour on Viator
Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda Tour with Hotel Pick-up (GetYourGuide)
A 4.5-hour guided tour with hotel pickup, covering Porto Cervo, Baja Sardinia, and San Pantaleo. Includes an optional audio guide in multiple languages. Good value for a structured half-day introduction.
Book the Porto Cervo Tour on GetYourGuide
Wild Beaches and Snorkeling Tour, Sardinia
A full-day guided tour covering 6-8 small, less-visited beaches by car, with stops for snorkeling in protected areas and a tasting of Sardinian products. Run by a licensed guide with a marine biology background. Worth considering if you want to go beyond the main tourist spots.
Book the Wild Beaches and Snorkeling Tour on Viator
From Olbia: Half-day Guided Tour of Costa Smeralda
Departs from Olbia with stops at the Belvedere panoramic viewpoint, Porto Cervo, and Baja Sardinia. Approximately 4 hours. A solid option if you arrive by flight and want an organized first look at the area before planning beach days independently.
Book the Olbia to Costa Smeralda Tour on GetYourGuide
For more water-based options in northern Sardinia, see our overview of the best boat and motorboat tours in Sardinia.
Getting around: car rental near Prince’s Beach
There is no bus, shuttle, or taxi service that serves the road to Prince’s Beach directly. A rental car is essential, not optional. This applies to almost every beach on the Costa Smeralda, and Prince’s Beach is no exception.
The most convenient pickup point is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, which is about 32 km away. Booking in advance is strongly recommended in June, July, and August, when availability drops and prices rise sharply.
Compare prices and book your rental directly from:
For general tips on getting around the island, see our guide on traveling to Sardinia.
Where to sleep near Prince’s Beach
The beach has no accommodation on site, and the immediate surroundings are protected from development. The nearest options are spread across the Cala di Volpe bay area and the Costa Smeralda coastline. Here are five properties at different price points.
Cervo Hotel, Costa Smeralda Resort
Situated in the heart of Porto Cervo, Cervo Hotel offers stylish accommodations with direct access to the town’s marina. The hotel boasts several restaurants, bars, a wellness center, and easy access to nearby beaches, including Prince’s Beach.
Hotel Nibaru – Set among Mediterranean vegetation about 2 km from Prince’s Beach near Capriccioli, Hotel Nibaru is one of the closest proper hotels to the cove itself. Guests can walk to Capriccioli beach and drive to Prince’s Beach in a few minutes.
Book Hotel Nibaru on Booking.com
CPH Pevero Hotel – A premium 4-star resort overlooking the Pevero Gulf, about 4 km from Prince’s Beach. Five outdoor pools, private beach access at Piccolo Pevero, three restaurants, and a free shuttle to Porto Cervo. Solid choice for those who want comfort and proximity to multiple beaches.
Book CPH Pevero Hotel on Booking.com
Green Park Hotel – Located in Cala di Volpe, about 1 km from the beach of the same name and roughly 8 km from Prince’s Beach. Outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and walking distance to the Pevero Golf Club. The mid-range option in this area.
Book Green Park Hotel on Booking.com
Hotel Il Piccolo Golf – Overlooks the Cala di Volpe bay from Loc. Cala di Volpe, 3 km from Capriccioli and about 5 km from Prince’s Beach. Outdoor pool, 17 rooms with terraces, reasonable prices by Costa Smeralda standards.
Book Hotel Il Piccolo Golf on Booking.com
Hotel Monti di Mola – In Abbiadori, about 5 km from Prince’s Beach. Spacious rooms, outdoor pool, and a more affordable price bracket than the resort-level properties. A practical base for exploring multiple beaches.
Book Hotel Monti di Mola on Booking.com
For a wider selection, see our full guide on where to stay in Northern Sardinia.
The local perspective: what Sardinians think
Those who live in this part of Sardinia have a fairly clear-eyed view of Prince’s Beach. It is genuinely among the best beaches on the island. But there are practical things the tourist brochures skip.
Geography and wind. The Gallura area, where Prince’s Beach is located, is one of the windiest parts of Sardinia. The Maestrale (northwest wind) blows regularly, especially from afternoon onward, from late June through August. Prince’s Beach faces roughly southwest, which gives it partial natural shelter from the Maestrale compared to more exposed north-facing beaches nearby. On a calm morning, the water is glassy and the snorkeling is excellent. By 2 pm on a Maestrale day, surface chop can appear. Plan beach time accordingly: mornings almost always deliver better conditions than afternoons in midsummer.
The Scirocco (southeast wind) occasionally affects Sardinia in spring and autumn but rarely causes problems on this stretch of coast.
Logistics and crowds. In July and August, the parking area fills by 9 am. This is not an exaggeration used to fill word count. Locals who visit in peak season either arrive before 8:30 or go to Capriccioli (less famous, slightly less crowded). June and September are the months we would actually recommend to anyone who asks. The water is warm (19-24°C in June, up to 26°C in September), the parking is manageable, and the beach itself has space. The walk down is also significantly less taxing when it is not 35°C.
The Consortium’s role. The Costa Smeralda Consortium has enforced strict limits on construction near protected beaches since its founding. This is why Prince’s Beach still has no beach club, no restaurant, and no hotels within visual range. The wild character of the beach is not accidental: it is the result of a deliberate policy that has held for decades.
For more context on the Costa Smeralda and its neighboring beaches, see our guide to Porto Cervo and the La Maddalena archipelago.
FAQ about Prince’s Beach Sardinia
Why is it called Prince’s Beach?
The beach takes its name from Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who fell in love with this cove in the early 1960s and planned to build a private villa here. The villa was never built, but the informal name stuck and eventually became the common name for the beach.
How do you get to Prince’s Beach from Porto Cervo?
By car via the SP59 and SP160: roughly 9 km, about 12-15 minutes. There is no public transport serving the beach directly. For driving options, a car rental from Olbia Airport is the most practical solution.
Is there parking at Prince’s Beach?
Yes, there is a free parking area near the trailhead. In July and August it costs around €18 per day (verify on site) and fills completely by 9 am. Arriving early is essential in peak season.
What is the best time to visit Prince’s Beach?
June and September are the best months: warm water, manageable crowds, and no parking stress. In July and August the beach is very busy. Morning visits are always better than afternoon, especially on Maestrale days when wind can create afternoon chop.
Are there facilities at Prince’s Beach?
Yes: a small bar serving drinks, ice cream, and light food, plus umbrella and lounger rental (approximately €10 umbrella, €15 lounger as of 2022). There are no restaurants, large beach clubs, or permanent structures. Bring sunscreen and water from the parking area.
Can you snorkel at Prince’s Beach?
Absolutely. The shallow, clear water and submerged granite formations make it one of the better natural snorkeling spots in the Gallura area. A basic mask and fins are enough. Best conditions are in the morning before wind picks up.
What beaches are near Prince’s Beach?
The closest are Capriccioli (about 1.5 km southwest), Romazzino (about 2 km northeast), and Liscia Ruja (approximately 3 km). All are within a short drive. For a complete overview of the best options in the region, see our guide to the top beaches in Sardinia.
FAQ
- Who is this beach named after?
It is named after Prince Aga Khan, who fell in love with this corner of the Costa Smeralda in the 1960s. - How close is it to the center of social life?
It is very close to Porto Cervo, making it a perfect spot to relax before an evening in the village. - Is the path to the beach difficult?
It’s a short walk from the parking area. For more logistics on getting around, see our Sardinia travel tips.
Sources: Consorzio Costa Smeralda (costasmeralda.it); Sardegna Turismo official regional tourism portal (sardegnaturismo.it); Viator and GetYourGuide for activity availability and pricing.
