Porto San Paolo Marina
Your picturesque gateway to Tavolara Island, offering boat trips, a quiet beach, and charming marina dining.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Porto San Paolo Marina
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your picturesque gateway to Tavolara Island, offering boat trips, a quiet beach, and charming marina dining.
"Beautiful location for sailing! Access to Tavolara Island is a must-do."
Book Tavolara Boat Tours
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Tavolara in advance, especially during summer!
Parking Patience Required
The parking ticket machines can be slow. Allow extra time or look for alternative parking spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tavolara Island Excursion
Departing from Porto San Paolo Marina
A must-do boat trip to the protected marine area, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

Porto San Paolo Beach
Adjacent to the marina
A quiet, picturesque beach offering a relaxing escape with beautiful views of Tavolara.

Marina Dining
Along the Porto San Paolo Marina
Enjoy fresh seafood and local Sardinian flavors at the various restaurants lining the harbor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Tavolara Island
Marina Amenities & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tavolara Boat Tours
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Tavolara in advance, especially during summer!
Parking Patience Required
The parking ticket machines can be slow. Allow extra time or look for alternative parking spots.
Pack Beach Essentials
Bring your own towels, sunscreen, and water for a comfortable beach day.
Explore Local Flavors
Savor authentic Sardinian cuisine at the marina's restaurants.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tavolara Boat Tours
Secure your spot on a boat tour to Tavolara in advance, especially during summer!
Parking Patience Required
The parking ticket machines can be slow. Allow extra time or look for alternative parking spots.
Pack Beach Essentials
Bring your own towels, sunscreen, and water for a comfortable beach day.
Explore Local Flavors
Savor authentic Sardinian cuisine at the marina's restaurants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Porto San Paolo Marina is praised for its stunning location and access to the beautiful Tavolara Island, with good dining options available. However, some visitors find the parking system frustrating and note a lack of public amenities like toilets and showers within the marina itself.
"Small Port, good restaurants, quiet beach, but only the only place to get the boat to isola Tavolata. Public bus schedule to take up there from Olbia. Olbia doesn't have a bus station. Most extraurban buses leave from Corso Vittorio Venetto"
Iulia Apostol
"Very good place but looks like some of stuff in port has lack of experience. And there is no toilet and shower. But it is possible to refill water and charge your boat"
Lew Sem
"Nice port, plenty of shops and restaurants. Great for boat hire and water activities. Nice beach and general area."
N M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by public bus from Olbia. Buses typically depart from Corso Vittorio Veneto. Check local schedules as Olbia doesn't have a central bus station.
Parking is available but can be challenging, especially during peak season. The parking meters are known to be slow and frustrating to use.
Yes, Porto San Paolo Marina is the primary departure point for ferries and boat tours to Tavolara Island.
Taxis may be available, but it's advisable to pre-book one, especially if you have a specific arrival or departure time. Inquire at local tourist information points.
For exploring the immediate area and nearby beaches, a car is recommended. However, for island hopping, walking around the marina and using boat services is sufficient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Porto San Paolo Beach is generally free to access. However, there might be charges for sunbed and umbrella rentals.
Ferry prices can vary depending on the operator and season. It's best to check current prices at the ticket booths in the marina or inquire about boat tour packages.
There are no general entrance fees for the marina. However, parking fees apply if you are driving and parking within the designated marina area.
Yes, booking boat tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
Operating hours vary by establishment. Most shops and restaurants are open daily during the tourist season, with extended hours in the evenings. It's wise to check individual business hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The marina is a hub for boat hire, water activities, and excursions to Tavolara Island. There are also shops and restaurants to enjoy.
Some visitors have noted a lack of public toilets and showers within the marina itself. It's advisable to check for facilities or plan accordingly.
Yes, the nearby beach is quiet and suitable for families, and boat trips to Tavolara offer a fun adventure.
It's generally a pleasant and relatively quiet marina, offering a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful views, especially during sunset.
Yes, it is possible to refill water and charge your boat at Porto San Paolo Marina.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a good selection of restaurants offering fresh seafood and traditional Sardinian dishes.
While there are several restaurants, exploring slightly away from the immediate marina front might reveal more budget-friendly options. Look for local trattorias.
Some establishments may offer takeaway options, particularly for snacks or lighter meals. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurants.
Seafood is a specialty, so try fresh fish, mussels, or clams. Local Sardinian pasta dishes are also highly recommended.
Yes, you can typically find cafes for coffee and pastries, and often gelaterias for a sweet treat, especially during the warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The marina itself offers picturesque views, especially at sunset. The beach with Tavolara Island in the background is also a classic shot.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the marina and the surrounding landscape.
The distinctive silhouette of Tavolara Island is a key photographic element. The boats in the marina also add character to your shots.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive marina and coastal views.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected marine areas and near airports. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The highlight for families will undoubtedly be a boat trip to Tavolara Island. These excursions offer a sense of adventure, with opportunities for kids to see marine life and enjoy swimming in clear waters. Many boat tours are family-friendly and can be a memorable part of your Sardinian holiday.
Tip: Pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection, as amenities on boat trips can be limited. Consider a shorter boat tour if your children have shorter attention spans. The marina also has restaurants that can cater to family needs.
⛵ Boaters and Sailors
While the marina itself is functional, be prepared for potentially limited public facilities like showers. However, the primary draw for sailors is the easy access to the Tavolara Marine Protected Area, a fantastic cruising ground with opportunities for anchoring in beautiful bays and exploring the islands.
Tip: Research local regulations for anchoring within the marine protected area. It's also advisable to have your own onboard facilities or be prepared to use those on your boat, given the noted scarcity of public amenities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Tavolara Island
When planning your trip, consider the different types of boat excursions available. Some are short trips focused on swimming and sunbathing, while others might include a stop at Tavolara's small village or a guided tour highlighting the area's natural history. It's wise to book these tours in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to ensure availability and get the best experience.
Remember that Tavolara is a protected area, so visitors are encouraged to respect the environment. Pack out everything you pack in, avoid disturbing marine life, and adhere to any guidelines provided by your tour operator or park authorities. The pristine nature of this area is its greatest asset.
Marina Life and Amenities
However, it's worth noting that some travelers have pointed out a lack of certain basic amenities within the marina itself, such as public toilets and showers. This is something to be aware of, especially if you plan to spend extended time at the marina or are traveling with young children. While water and charging facilities for boats are available, personal comfort amenities might require planning ahead.
Parking at the marina can also be a point of contention. The automated ticket machines have been described as slow and cumbersome, requiring visitors to input license plate details and pay by card. Arriving early or exploring alternative parking solutions nearby can help mitigate potential frustration, allowing you to focus on enjoying the beautiful surroundings and the convenience of the marina's location.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit