“Golfo Aranci is an island within the mainland — a peninsula that holds five coves of dazzling white sand (Cala Banana, Cala Sabina, Cala Greca), a ferry port and a genuine seafaring atmosphere. 15 km from Olbia, 40 minutes from Porto Cervo, off the mass-tourism radar.”
With our direct rates you save up to 15%. Message us BEFORE you book and we'll compare dates together: we'll find you the right home.
Golfo Aranci is a town of about 2,500 people on the Capo Figari peninsula, 15 km north-east of Olbia. It's an “island within the mainland”: a peninsula surrounded by sea on three sides, with five coves of dazzling white sand — Cala Banana, Cala Sabina, Cala Greca, Cala Moresca, Terza Spiaggia — that have made it one of the hidden gems of north-east Sardinia.
The port of Golfo Aranci is one of the arrival points for ferries from mainland Italy (Sardinia Ferries, Corsica Ferries) — an alternative to Olbia. The village has kept a authentic seafaring atmosphere: small, tidy, with bars and fish restaurants along the seafront.
Just a few kilometres from Olbia airport and the heart of the Costa Smeralda, Golfo Aranci is off the mass-tourism radar — the people who come here are mostly Sardinians, well-informed travellers and those who want top-quality sea without paying Costa Smeralda prices. In Golfo Aranci, AffittaSardegna directly manages a selection of homes.
The most famous. A banana-shaped cove with dazzling white sand, emerald water and Mediterranean vegetation. Access by footpath.
Very fine white sand, a gently sloping seabed and turquoise sea. An intimate feel, reached by car + a short path.
Set among granite rocks, with spectacular snorkelling. A wild feel.
One of the most secluded, at the foot of Capo Figari. Pale sand and views of the island of Figarolo. Nature reserve.
Close to the town centre, long and with facilities, ideal for families. Services and restaurants nearby.
A panoramic headland and managed nature reserve, with hiking trails and 360° views over Tavolara and the Costa Smeralda.
A managed nature reserve, paths through Mediterranean scrub and breathtaking views over Tavolara, the Costa Smeralda and the island of Figarolo. The main trail starts from Cala Moresca (2–3 hours).
Golfo Aranci is one of the few places in Italy where boat trips are run to see dolphins in their natural habitat. In summer you're very likely to see them. Paid activity: check prices and times.
Trips to the Tavolara Marine Protected Area, one of the richest in the Mediterranean, leave from Golfo Aranci. Snorkelling, lunch on board.
Golfo Aranci's waterfront has some of the best seafood restaurants in the area — authentic, and far cheaper than Porto Cervo. Bottarga, sea urchins, fritto misto (mixed fried seafood), fregola with clams.
40 minutes away: a glamorous evening in the Piazzetta + back to Golfo Aranci for a quiet dinner. A combination many of our guests love.
Indispensable. We compare via Discover Cars.
| Period | Sea | Crowds | Prices | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May–June | 🌊 21–23°C | 🟢 Low | 🟢 Reduced rates | ⭐ Empty coves |
| July | 🌊 25°C | 🟡 Moderate | 🟡 Standard | Book 3 months ahead |
| August | 🌊 25–26°C | 🟡 High | 🔴 Peak | Book 4 months ahead |
| September | 🌊 24°C | 🟢 Low | 🟢 Reduced rates | ⭐ Best month + dolphins |
| October–April | 🌊 17–19°C | 🟢 None | 🟢 The lowest rates of the year | Hiking at Capo Figari |
Sardinia Ferries and Corsica Ferries arrive here from Livorno/Civitavecchia.
20 km, 25 minutes by car.
End of the line on the Olbia–Cagliari route. Regional trains run direct into town.
Frequent connections from Olbia centre/airport.
In Golfo Aranci we manage selected homes for people who want a genuine seafaring atmosphere + quick access to the Costa Smeralda and the airport:
Holiday homes managed directly since 2011. Book direct and save up to 15%.
20 km. Airport hub, old town, restaurants.
About 35 km. The heart of the Costa Smeralda.
15 km. The Olbia locals' beach, with views of Tavolara.
About 45 km. La Cinta, Cala Brandinchi, nightlife.
We know every corner of Sardinia and select only accommodation that meets clear standards of comfort and reliability. From booking to on-site assistance, we're with you every step of the way.
Every property is checked by our local team: real photos, verified amenities and genuinely convenient locations for your holiday.
Transparent contracts, secure payments and fast support in several languages before, during and after your stay.
Official rates, seasonal offers and no hidden costs: the right value for the right home.
