“Porto Istana is the beach the people of Olbia keep to themselves — dazzling white sand, turquoise sea, a seabed that slopes gently for hundreds of metres, and views of Tavolara Island. 15 km from Olbia, 50 minutes from Porto Cervo. One of the best in north-east Sardinia.”
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.
Porto Istana is a seaside hamlet in the municipality of Olbia, on the east coast about 15 km from the town centre. A residential and holiday area that has grown up around what is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in north-east Sardinia — dazzling white sand, turquoise sea, panoramic views of Tavolara Island.
It is less “discovered” than San Teodoro or the Costa Smeralda: the visitors are mostly people from Olbia, northern Sardinians and well-informed travellers looking for premium sea quality without paying Porto Cervo prices. A peaceful atmosphere, excellent seafood restaurants, beach clubs with facilities but no glitzy excess.
In Porto Istana, AffittaSardegna directly manages a selection of homes for those who want a top beach, Olbia close by (airport and port) and the Costa Smeralda within easy reach. It's the ideal base if you want to combine the comforts of town with a sea of the very highest quality.
The beach of Porto Istana is divided into 4 continuous stretches (1ª, 2ª, 3ª, 4ª Spiaggia) running for about 1.5 km. Very fine, dazzling white sand, a seabed that slopes gently for hundreds of metres (ideal for children) and a sea with turquoise reflections that will leave you speechless.
The Tavolara backdrop makes the beach one of the most photographed settings in north-east Sardinia. Monte Tavolara (565 m) rises from the sea like a theatre set.
Porto Istana lies within the Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, one of the largest and best-protected in the Mediterranean (150 km²). Its seabed is among the richest in the Mediterranean — intact posidonia seagrass, plentiful fish, exceptional biodiversity.
The legendary restaurant on Tavolara Island, run by the island's “royal” family. The day's local catch in an out-of-this-world setting. Daily ferries from Porto San Paolo (10 minutes from Porto Istana). Book weeks ahead in high season.
Porto Cervo is 50 minutes away, Porto Rotondo 35. An evening aperitivo in the Piazzetta + back to Porto Istana for a quiet dinner — the best combination for enjoying the Costa Smeralda without paying to stay there.
A panoramic headland 15 minutes away by car. 360° views over Tavolara, the coast and Cala Brandinchi. Unforgettable sunsets.
15 minutes away by car, Olbia's pedestrianised centre has excellent seafood restaurants at much more reasonable prices than the Costa Smeralda. Olbia mussels, bottarga (cured fish roe), fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).
Essential to make the most of the strategic location. We compare options through Discover Cars.
| Period | Sea | Crowds | Prices | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May–June | 🌊 21–23°C | 🟢 Low | 🟢 Reduced rates | ⭐ Best season |
| July | 🌊 25°C | 🟡 Moderate | 🟡 Standard | Book 3 months ahead |
| August | 🌊 25–26°C | 🟡 High | 🔴 Peak | Book 4–5 months ahead |
| September | 🌊 24°C | 🟢 Low | 🟢 Reduced rates | ⭐ Best month |
| October–April | 🌊 17–19°C | 🟢 None | 🟢 The lowest rates of the year | Snorkelling possible |
12 km, 15–20 minutes by car. One of the most convenient in Sardinia.
15 km. Ferry companies: Moby, Tirrenia, Grimaldi, GNV.
Seasonal connections from Olbia centre/airport.
15 km. Regional trains Olbia–Cagliari.
In Porto Istana we manage selected homes, designed for those who want a top beach + Olbia close by:
Each home has different amenities: you'll find them on every home's page.
Holiday homes managed directly since 2011. Book direct and save up to 15%.
15 km. Airport/port hub, pedestrianised old town, restaurants.
About 45 km. Heart of the Costa Smeralda, the Piazzetta, the marina, luxury boutiques.
20 km. La Cinta, Cala Brandinchi, lively evenings.
About 60 km. Port for La Maddalena, Capo d'Orso.
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.
