Golfo Aranci
- Golfo Aranci offers white sandy beaches and a relaxing atmosphere, and is located just 20 kilometres northeast of Olbia.
- The location is cheaper and quieter than the towns in Costa Smeralda such as Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo.
- Despite its name, Golfo Aranci owes its name to a mistranslation from the Sardinian dialect meaning Gulf of Crabs.
Where is Golfo Aranci
Golfo Aranci is located on the east coast of Sardinia, 20 kilometres northeast of Olbia, in northern Sardinia, on the promontory of Capo Figari.
What to do in Golfo Aranci
1. Boat trips:
Boat trips, first thing! The sea at Golfo Aranci is wonderful and you can enjoy it by looking for an inflatable boat rental or by going snorkelling
Exploring the coast from the sea is an experience not to be missed:
- Tour of the Islands: Boat excursions to the nearby islands of Tavolara and Molara, known for their natural beauty and crystal-clear waters.
- Sunset Cruises: Evening trips to admire the colours of the sunset over the sea, often accompanied by aperitifs on board.
- Dolphin watching: perhaps you did not know that at Golfo Aranci... dolphins are at home.
Water sports:
Golfo Aranci is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts:
- Snorkelling and Diving: The clear waters offer excellent opportunities to explore marine life. There are several diving centres offering excursions and courses.
- Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: The coast is ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with schools and rentals available.
- Sport fishing: It is possible to organise offshore fishing trips, a very popular activity among visitors.
Hiking and Trekking:
The nature around Golfo Aranci offers numerous hiking and trekking routes:
- Path of Capo Figari: A route that offers breathtaking views and the possibility of spotting mouflons and peregrine falcons.
- Mount Ruju: A more challenging hike leads to the top of the mountain, from where there is a spectacular view of the coast.
The most beautiful beaches in Golfo Aranci
Golfo Aranci is a locality in Sardinia that boasts beautiful beaches within walking distance of the town centre. The advantage of these beaches is that they are easily accessible on foot, without having to resort to a car. The town's beaches are numbered from the first to the fifth beach.
The Gulf of Aranci, located on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, is renowned for its enchanting beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here are some of the most beautiful beaches in the area:
Cala Moresca Beach
This beach is characterised by fine sand and transparent waters. Nestled in a protected bay, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful natural scenery.
Marinella Beach
Located a few kilometres from the centre of Golfo Aranci, this beach is famous for its fine white sand and shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children.
White Beach
As its name suggests, this beach is characterised by its fine white sand that creates a spectacular contrast with the turquoise colour of the sea. It is one of the most popular beaches in the area.
Bados Beach
With its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, Bados Beach is another popular destination. It is well equipped with services and facilities for visitors.
Beach of Cala Sassari
Cala Sassari is a beach located in the municipality of Golfo Aranci, Sardinia. Tucked between rocks and Mediterranean maquis, this beach offers a wilder and more intimate atmosphere. It is perfect for those who seek an escape from the crowds and want to enjoy unspoilt nature. It is known for its fine, golden sand, crystal-clear waters and Mediterranean vegetation. The beach is about 500 metres long and is characterised by a gently sloping seabed, making it ideal for families with children.
Baracconi Beach
This beach is characterised by a rocky reef and small sandy inlets. It is an ideal place for snorkelling and exploring the rich marine life.
Third Beach
It is located in the centre of Golfo Aranci and is characterised by golden sand and crystal clear waters. It is a good option for those who want an easily accessible and well-served beach.
What to see at Golfo Aranci
You can't get bored in Golfo Aranci. Thanks to its unique nature and geographically strategic location, you will be spoilt for choice
1. The beaches of Golfo Aranci
Golfo Aranci is a locality in Sardinia that boasts beautiful beaches within walking distance of the town centre. The advantage of these beaches is that they are easily accessible on foot, without having to resort to a car. The town's beaches are numbered from the first to the fifth beach.
In the immediate vicinity of Golfo Aranci, just outside the centre, the following are worth a stop Cala Moresca, Cala Greek and, on the other side of the peninsula, Cala Sleep.
Instead, if you move away from the town in a northerly direction, you will come across the small and beautiful beach of Cala Sabina, which has the particularity of being very close to the railway station and therefore easily accessible by train. Continuing towards Porto Rotondo, you will come across the wide Marinella Beach, where there are numerous clubs such as the Blue Beach offering music until late at night.
Continuing on to the Arzachena area, you can visit the iconic beaches of the Costa Smeralda such as the Spiaggia di Capriccioli and the Spiaggia del Principe.
If you head south from Golfo Aranci, keep in mind the Spiaggia Bianca (White Beach), very beautiful but also very crowded in August, and one after the other, the small beaches of Sos Aranzos, Cala Banana and Nodu Pianu, until you reach the Spiaggia
Beaches Golfo Aranci: map and reviews
If you're looking for a map of the beaches of Golfo Aranci, you've come to the right place! Here you will find a detailed map of the beaches in and around Golfo Aranci.
Click on the map to find:
- a small photograph of the beach
- links with directions
2. Waterfront Golfo Aranci
Although Golfo Aranci is a seaside destination, the city centre offers several attractions to keep you entertained during breaks from the sea. A stroll along the waterfront is a must, where you can admire the quotes by poets and philosophers of the past engraved on the benches and the sound stones by Pinuccio Sciola. In addition, you can watch the Little Mermaid by Golfo Arancia bronze sculpture that emerges from the sea and plays music at mid-morning and sunset.
For shoppers, the shopping area La Dolce Vita is located near the marina. The old fishermen's village, with its low roofs, has become an interesting open-air photo exhibition thanks to the giant photographs of German photographer Marianne Sin Pfältzer.
A short walk from the town centre is the Nuragic archaeological site of the Sacred well Milis. Despite the damage caused by the railway construction, the steps leading to the water source are still perfectly preserved.
During the summer, along Via Libertà, the evening market with artisans exhibiting their works. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and take home a piece of Golfo Aranci.
2. The Sound Stones of Pinuccio Sciola
The Golfo Aranci Sound Garden is a magical place where you can lose yourself among the sculptures and let yourself be enveloped by sound vibrations. An opportunity to connect with nature and discover the harmony hidden in matter. An invitation to unleash creativity and experience a new way of enjoying art.
3. Capo Figari
A spectacular promontory with hiking trails and a panoramic view of the sea.
How to get to Golfo Aranci
by plane
The nearest airport is Olbia Airport Costa Smeralda, located about 20 km from Golfo Aranci. The airport is well connected with national and international flights.
by ferry
It is possible to reach Golfo Aranci by arriving directly at the port of Golfo Aranci or at the port of Olbia (depending on the shipping companies)
see ferry offers
by car
If you are already in Sardinia, you can reach Golfo Aranci in about 20 minutes by car from the city of Olbia by driving along the SP82 that passes through Pittulongu or through the Strada Panoramica that passes near Osseddu. If, on the other hand, you are coming from Porto Rotondo or Costa Smeralda, you will have to drive along the SP16, a beautiful panoramic road with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Marinella.
Book a taxi
by train
It is also possible to get to Golfo Aranci by train from Olbia, but the train is slow and with few daily departures, so it might only be a viable option if you are not equipped with a car and want to make a day trip to Golfo Aranci.
see train offers
Here is a brief summary of the ways to Golfo Aranci:
| Means of Transport | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Plane | Olbia Airport | |
| Ferry | Livorno, Savona, Genoa, Piombino | Golfo Aranci |
| Cars | Olbia | Golfo Aranci |
| Train | Olbia | Golfo Aranci |
Where to sleep in Golfo Aranci
Golfo Aranci, a beautiful location on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to cheaper bed and breakfasts. Here are some options to choose from:
Luxury Hotels
Hotel Gabbiano Azzurro: This 4-star hotel offers breathtaking sea views, a private beach, and numerous high-quality facilities, including swimming pools, gourmet restaurants and a spa.
Villa Margherita: A 4-star boutique hotel with well-tended gardens, swimming pools and elegant rooms. Perfect for a relaxing stay with high standards of comfort.
Mid-range hotels
Castle Hotels: Located near the beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine and a rooftop terrace.
Tabby Hotels: A cosy and comfortable 3-star hotel, located within walking distance of the beach and the city centre. It offers excellent value for money.
Bed and Breakfast
B&B Casa Derosas: A cosy family-run establishment with clean, well-appointed rooms, breakfast included and friendly owners.
B&B Ippocampo: Located in a quiet area, this B&B offers an intimate and relaxing environment with comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.
Flats and holiday homes
Residence Spiaggia Bianca: Apartments equipped with kitchens, ideal for families or groups who prefer a self-catering option. Located close to the beach, they offer easy access to the sea.
Baia Caddinas Village: Offers flats and villas with full services, including swimming pools, restaurants and entertainment. Excellent for families with children.
Farmhouses
Lutagiu Farmhouse: Located in the countryside surrounding Golfo Aranci, it offers an authentic experience with home cooking and a peaceful ambience.
Agritourism Li Tauli: Another option for those seeking tranquillity and direct contact with nature, with comfortable rooms and traditional Sardinian cuisine.
These are just some of the options available in Golfo Aranci. The choice depends on your personal preferences, budget and the type of experience you want to have during your holiday.
Where to eat in Golfo Aranci
Golfo Aranci offers a variety of restaurants and trattorias serving delicious Sardinian and Mediterranean cuisine. Here are some of the best options where you can enjoy excellent meals:
The cuisine of Golfo Aranci is a journey through the authentic flavours of Sardinia:
- La Spigola Restaurant: Specialising in fresh fish dishes, with a beautiful sea view.
- Trattoria Al Buongustaio: Traditional Sardinian cuisine, with dishes such as Gallura soup and roast suckling pig.
- Pizzeria La Vecchia Marina: For those looking for good pizza and an informal atmosphere.
Events Golfo Aranci
The events you can find every year at Golfo Aranci
1. Fish Festival
Given the maritime character of Golfo Aranci, the fish festival could not be missed. Every year, a feast is organised at mid-August that involves the whole village and attracts tourists and residents of neighbouring towns where fish is celebrated. In huge pots, a fish fry for thousands of people which is then offered free of charge to everyone.
2. Aquabike
Every year, Golfo Aranci is the venue for major international sporting events. Among the most important events, which have become regular fixtures, are the Aquabike World Championship and the Open Water, a world championship of new
Getting around Golfo Aranci
At Golfo Aranci, like many resorts in Sardinia, it is very organised
Rental carsThere are several companies that rent cars and scooters. Some of these companies also offer low-cost car rental services without the need for a credit card. If you prefer to organise yourself in advance, there are the large multinational car rental companies at the airport and port of Olbia
TaxiThere are not many taxis and they are always very busy. That is why I advise you to book one in good time. If, for example, you have to leave early in the morning or want to go out for the evening, don't wait until the last minute because you will almost certainly not find a free taxi
Public transportGolfo Aranci is well connected to Olbia and other locations in Sardinia by public transport, such as buses. Check timetables and stops before you leave, as the service may be limited compared to larger cities.
Bicycle: If you prefer to explore the area more actively, you might consider renting a bicycle. Many areas are suitable for cycling, offering a different perspective of the region.
On foot: The centre of Golfo Aranci is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance. If you plan to stay mainly in the city, getting around on foot is certainly feasible.
Ferries and Boat ExcursionsGolfo Aranci is a port, and you can consider taking ferries or participating in boat excursions to visit the surrounding islands or explore the coast from a different point of view.
Countries to visit near Golfo Aranci
Olbia: About 20 km from Golfo Aranci, Olbia is a lively city with an interesting historic centre, shops, restaurants and bars. Don't miss the Basilica of San Simplicio and the Archaeological Museum.
Porto Rotondo: Located about 15 km from Golfo Aranci, Porto Rotondo is a luxury tourist resort famous for its marina, enchanting beaches and exclusive boutiques.
San Pantaleo: This picturesque village is located about 25 km from Golfo Aranci and is known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere, craft markets and beautiful surrounding mountains.
Arzachena: About 30 km from Golfo Aranci, Arzachena is known for its archaeological sites, including the Tombs of the Giants and nuraghi, which offer a glimpse into Sardinia's ancient history.
Porto Cervo: About 30 km away, Porto Cervo is the heart of Costa Smeralda, famous for its white sandy beaches, exclusive marina and glamorous nightlife.
La Maddalena: A little further away, about 50 km, is theLa Maddalena Archipelago. You can take a ferry from Palau to visit these beautiful islands with spectacular beaches and turquoise waters.
Palau: Located approximately 40 km from Golfo Aranci, Palau is an ideal starting point for excursions to the Maddalena archipelago and offers beautiful beaches and breathtaking views, such as the Bear Rock.
Frequently asked questions
quick answers ⚡
What are the most beautiful beaches in Golfo Aranci?
Golfo Aranci is famous for its beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches include Cala Sassari, Spiaggia Bianca, Cala Moresca, and Cala Sabina. Each of these beaches has its own unique characteristics, but all offer crystal-clear waters and white sand.
What's in the centre of Golfo Aranci?
The historic centre of Golfo Aranci is a fascinating place to visit. Historic churches, such as the Church of St John the Baptist, and the Archaeological Museum can be found here. In addition, the historic centre is full of shops, restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy local cuisine and shop.
How do I get to Golfo Aranci?
Golfo Aranci is easily accessible by ferry from several Italian cities, such as Livorno, Piombino, and Civitavecchia. Ferry companies operating in the area include Moby Lines, Tirrenia, and Grimaldi Lines. It is advisable to book in advance to guarantee a place on the ferry.
What to do at Golfo Aranci?
Besides the beautiful beaches and the historical centre, there are many other attractions to visit in Golfo Aranci. These include the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, the Cala Banana Beach, and the Port of Golfo Aranci. In addition, the area is famous for its outdoor activities, such as snorkelling excursions and dolphin spotting.
