Porto San Paolo Marina - Image 1
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Porto San Paolo Marina

4.4
·256 reviews·Porto San Paolo, Italy

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdHigh
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Porto San Paolo Marina - Image 1

Porto San Paolo Marina

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(256 reviews)

"Beautiful location for sailing! Access to Tavolara Island is a must-do."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tavolara Island Excursion

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

Porto San Paolo Beach

Adjacent to the marina

A quiet, picturesque beach offering a relaxing escape with beautiful views of Tavolara.

Marina Dining

Marina Dining

Along the Porto San Paolo Marina

Enjoy fresh seafood and local Sardinian flavors at the various restaurants lining the harbor.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting to Tavolara Island

Porto San Paolo Marina is your gateway to the stunning Tavolara Island. Ferries depart regularly, but check schedules in advance, especially outside peak season. Consider booking boat tours for a more comprehensive experience of the marine protected area.

Marina Amenities & Parking

While the marina offers shops and restaurants, some visitors note a lack of basic amenities like toilets and showers. Parking can be a hassle; the ticket machines are notoriously slow. Arrive early or explore alternative parking options if you're on a tight schedule.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
High
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fav spot 🧡 #porto #oporto #portugal #sunset #foryou
@marcobritesss
154.5K likes • 2M views

Book Tavolara Boat Tours

Secure your spot on a boat tour to Tavolara in advance, especially during summer! Instagram

Parking Patience Required

The parking ticket machines can be slow. Allow extra time or look for alternative parking spots. Reddit

My boyfriend chose the colours of his favourite football club 🤭 the people were so kind at the workshop as well! 🥰 #porto #citytrip #citytripporto #portoactivities #tileworkshop
@lynndebuyser
106.4K likes • 1.4M views
From yacht trips to savoring delicious Greek flavors at @saganaki.restaurant, @portohotelsandresortsofficial and @amergroupofficial Porto Marina is the go-to destination this summer
roleen_al_qassim
1.1K likes • 141.9K views

Pack Beach Essentials

Bring your own towels, sunscreen, and water for a comfortable beach day. Instagram

Explore Local Flavors

Savor authentic Sardinian cuisine at the marina's restaurants. Instagram

Buongiorno a tutti se volete gustare un ottima frittura Sarda vi aspettiamo a partire da questa sera per tutto il week end in queste location: 📍Marina Piccola, Cagliari 📍Valledoria 📍Porto San Paolo Vi aspettiamo 🤩
friggitoria_sarda_siamo_fritti
304 likes • 10.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tavolara Boat Tours

Secure your spot on a boat tour to Tavolara in advance, especially during summer! Instagram

Parking Patience Required

The parking ticket machines can be slow. Allow extra time or look for alternative parking spots. Reddit

Pack Beach Essentials

Bring your own towels, sunscreen, and water for a comfortable beach day. Instagram

Explore Local Flavors

Savor authentic Sardinian cuisine at the marina's restaurants. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(256 reviews)

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

Access to Tavolara Island
Good restaurants
Quiet beach

What People Dislike

Slow parking meters
Lack of toilets/showers

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. Reddit

Parking is available but can be challenging, especially during peak season. The parking meters are known to be slow and frustrating to use. Reddit

Yes, Porto San Paolo Marina is the primary departure point for ferries and boat tours to Tavolara Island. Instagram

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. Reddit

Yes, booking boat tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Yes, the nearby beach is quiet and suitable for families, and boat trips to Tavolara offer a fun adventure. Instagram

It's generally a pleasant and relatively quiet marina, offering a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful views, especially during sunset. TikTok

Yes, it is possible to refill water and charge your boat at Porto San Paolo Marina. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a good selection of restaurants offering fresh seafood and traditional Sardinian dishes. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

Golden hour, just before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the marina and the surrounding landscape. TikTok

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

Porto San Paolo Marina is a great base for families looking for a relaxed coastal experience. The Porto San Paolo Beach adjacent to the marina is known for its calm waters, making it ideal for children to play and swim safely. Instagram

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. Instagram

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

Porto San Paolo Marina is a well-equipped stop for boaters, offering essential services like water refills and boat charging. The marina provides a secure and scenic location to dock your vessel, with the stunning backdrop of Tavolara Island. Reddit

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. Instagram

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

Porto San Paolo Marina serves as the primary launchpad for exploring the breathtaking Tavolara Marine Protected Area. This unique destination is dominated by the imposing limestone massif of Tavolara Island, which rises dramatically from the sea. Boat trips from the marina offer the chance to circumnavigate the island, stopping at secluded coves for swimming and snorkeling in incredibly clear, turquoise waters. Many tours also visit the smaller, equally beautiful island of Molara. Instagram

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. Instagram

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

Porto San Paolo Marina is a charming hub for boaters and visitors alike, offering a pleasant atmosphere with a backdrop of the striking Tavolara Island. The marina is lined with a variety of shops and restaurants, providing convenient options for dining and souvenir hunting. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and local Sardinian specialties while taking in the scenic views of the harbor. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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.

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