Planning Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena

Palau and La Maddalena solve different journeys

Palau avoids taking your road-trip car onto the island every day. La Maddalena makes sense as a base for several days there and on Caprera. A Porto Cervo stay is not required for Costa Smeralda beaches such as Capriccioli or Grande Pevero; compare the actual hotel and beach parking instead.

Keep one base for three nights. Arrival on day 1, a mainland bay on day 2, an island visit on day 3 and departure on day 4 create two full outing days. A cruise to the outer islands would need another day or replace the land visit.

Ferry to La Maddalena, bridge to Caprera

Check or book Palau–La Maddalena with your chosen company. Maddalena Lines quotes about 15–20 minutes on the water. Approach travel, waiting and car loading are additional. Delcomar separates passengers and vehicle categories in its quote; compare the complete return cost.

A bridge connects La Maddalena to Caprera, so there is no second ferry to arrange. Without a car, check a specific bus, bicycle or tour connection on the islands first. Apparent harbour proximity on an overview map does not make the more remote Caprera coves a short walk away.

Distinguish three booking types

For an ordinary ferry visit, buy a passenger and, if needed, vehicle ticket with its stated charges. This does not automatically require applying for your own national-park vessel permission.

For an organised boat excursion, ask which park charges, permissions and landings are included. With a self-operated rental or your own boat, check the current park permits, zones and anchoring rules for that craft. A rental confirmation alone does not answer those questions.

Cala Coticcio needs a guided hike booking

Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantina on Caprera lie in a specially protected zone. Plan the walk with an authorised guide and a confirmed place. The park updated the application procedure for guides in June 2026; use its current visitor information to clarify guidance, contributions and conditions.

Driving over the bridge or arriving early at the trail does not establish permission to enter. Match the ferry and meeting point to the confirmed excursion. For an unplanned swimming day, choose a specifically permitted beach approach that suits you and respect local closures.

A fourth day gives you a real choice

Four nights allow a boat day alongside the mainland bay and island land visit; five nights add a free day that can absorb a wind-related change. In the full Sardinia itinerary, an island night replaces a Palau night rather than being quietly added to the total.

The daily ranges above are broad editorial allowances per person for two adults sharing accommodation, with food and local transport. They are not current room quotations. Flights, ferries, boat excursions, guided walks and special admissions are additional. For island accommodation in particular, compare the complete journeys and incidental costs.