Tavolara Island Punta Spalmatore
Discover Tavolara Island's Punta Spalmatore: pristine clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and a unique island charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Tavolara Island Punta Spalmatore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Tavolara Island's Punta Spalmatore: pristine clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and a unique island charm.
"Absolutely an amazing place on Earth with clear water and fantastic weather."
🚢 Ferry Booking Essential
Book ferry tickets in advance, especially in summer, to secure your spot to this island paradise.
🚤 Boat Rental Adventure
Rent a boat for a unique experience; drop anchor and enjoy the clear waters and marine life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Punta Spalmatore Beach
Tavolara Island
Crystal-clear waters and shallow depths make this beach perfect for swimming and observing small fish.

Tavolara Rock Formation
Tavolara Island
Marvel at the dramatic, imposing rock formations that define the island's stunning natural landscape.
King Tonino's Realm
Tavolara Island
Keep an eye out for the island's unique 'king,' a local tradition adding a touch of whimsy to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access & Timing
Island Amenities & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Booking Essential
Book ferry tickets in advance, especially in summer, to secure your spot to this island paradise.
🚤 Boat Rental Adventure
Rent a boat for a unique experience; drop anchor and enjoy the clear waters and marine life.
🍽️ Restaurant Reservations
Restaurants get busy fast! Book your table ahead to avoid disappointment.
🪞 Shallow Waters Fun
The shallow, sandy pebble beach is great for kids and easy swimming.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Booking Essential
Book ferry tickets in advance, especially in summer, to secure your spot to this island paradise.
🚤 Boat Rental Adventure
Rent a boat for a unique experience; drop anchor and enjoy the clear waters and marine life.
🍽️ Restaurant Reservations
Restaurants get busy fast! Book your table ahead to avoid disappointment.
🪞 Shallow Waters Fun
The shallow, sandy pebble beach is great for kids and easy swimming.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Tavolara Island's stunning clear waters and dramatic scenery, with Punta Spalmatore beach being a favorite for its shallow, safe swimming conditions. The unique 'King Tonino' tradition adds a memorable touch. However, some note that the beach sand isn't the finest, and booking restaurants in advance is essential due to their popularity.
"Rent a boat, go there, drop the ancher and enjoy this beautiful place with clear water, a lot of small fish to see and fantastic weather."
Ro Lab
"Worth the visit to this beautiful island. After a short and enjoyable ferry ride, we arrived to the island and were able to rent a few beach chairs and umbrella. There are two main beaches, one with rocks and the with sandy pebbles but that wasn't an issue at all. There are also a few restaurants, be sure to book upfront as they get full very quickly."
Faheem Khan
"Absolutely an amazing place on Earth"
Zsófia Kántor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Tavolara Island is by taking a ferry from nearby coastal towns like San Teodoro or Porto San Paolo. Ferries run regularly during the tourist season. It's advisable to check ferry schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak times, to ensure availability.
Ferries to Tavolara Island typically depart from San Teodoro and Porto San Paolo. These locations are easily accessible and offer regular services to the island.
While private boat rentals are an option for a more exclusive experience, the ferry is the primary and most accessible mode of transport for most visitors.
The ferry ride to Tavolara Island is generally quite short, usually around 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and easy journey from the mainland.
Yes, parking facilities are usually available at the ferry departure points in San Teodoro and Porto San Paolo, though they may be paid parking areas, especially during the high season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a specific entry ticket for Tavolara Island itself, but you will need to purchase a ferry ticket to get there. Some areas on the island might have charges for services like sunbed rentals.
Ferry operating hours vary depending on the season and the ferry company. Generally, ferries run throughout the day during the summer months, with the last departures usually in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the specific schedule for your travel dates.
While it's possible to buy ferry tickets on the day of travel, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment and long queues.
Discounts may be available for children or group bookings, depending on the ferry operator. It's worth inquiring directly with the ferry companies when booking your tickets.
The cost of a round-trip ferry ticket can vary, but typically ranges from €15 to €25 per person. Prices may differ slightly between ferry operators and depending on the season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the beautiful beaches like Punta Spalmatore with its clear waters and shallow areas, the dramatic rock formations of Tavolara itself, and the unique tradition of 'King Tonino.'
Tavolara Island features beaches with sandy pebbles and some rocky areas. Punta Spalmatore is noted for its clear, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and observing marine life.
Yes, there are a few restaurants on the island. However, they can get very busy, so booking in advance is strongly recommended. Basic facilities like restrooms are also available.
Absolutely! The shallow, calm waters of beaches like Punta Spalmatore are perfect for children to play and swim safely.
Besides relaxing on the beach and swimming, you can enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters, exploring the island's unique landscape, and perhaps even encountering the island's 'king.' Renting a boat offers a fantastic way to see more of the surrounding waters.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic rock formations of Tavolara island itself offer stunning photographic opportunities. The clear turquoise waters and the coastline provide beautiful scenic shots. Look for vantage points from the beaches or higher ground for panoramic views.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful soft light for photography, enhancing the colors of the sea and the island's landscape. Morning light can also be excellent for capturing the clarity of the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected marine areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and sea views. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable for capturing underwater shots of the marine life in the clear waters.
The imposing silhouette of Tavolara island against the sky, the vibrant blue of the sea, and the chance to spot local wildlife like fish in the shallow waters offer unique photographic moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a boat for a more adventurous day, allowing you to find quieter spots and enjoy the marine life together. While restaurants are available, booking ahead is crucial to avoid long waits, which can be challenging with young children.
🚤 Adventure Seekers & Boat Enthusiasts
This offers a unique perspective of the island's dramatic rock formations and allows for a more intimate connection with the marine environment. It’s an opportunity to explore at your own pace and discover the hidden beauty of the Tavolara archipelago.
🧘♀️ Relaxation & Nature Lovers
Appreciate the stunning scenery of the imposing rock formations and the vibrant blue sea. The island's natural charm, combined with its unique traditions like 'King Tonino,' provides a tranquil yet engaging experience for nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Tavolara Island by Boat
When you rent a boat, you gain the freedom to discover hidden gems and enjoy the tranquility of the sea at your own pace. It's an excellent option for those seeking a more adventurous and personalized island experience. Remember to check local regulations for boat rentals and ensure you have the necessary permits or licenses if required.
This approach to visiting Tavolara Island provides a unique perspective, allowing you to appreciate the island's natural splendor from the water. It’s a chance to create lasting memories and capture stunning photographs of the coastline and marine environment.
The Beaches of Tavolara Island
While the sand might not be the fine, powdery type found on some other Sardinian beaches, the tranquility and natural beauty of Tavolara's shores offer a unique appeal. Visitors often describe the experience as quiet and relaxing, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the Mediterranean sun.
Beyond Punta Spalmatore, the island offers other coastal areas that are worth exploring, each with its own distinct character. Whether you prefer a sandy stretch or a more pebbly cove, Tavolara Island provides a serene escape with stunning natural scenery.
Unique Island Traditions and Wildlife
The clear waters surrounding Tavolara are teeming with marine life, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and observing fish. The shallow depths of beaches like Punta Spalmatore make it particularly easy to spot these underwater inhabitants, enhancing the natural appeal of the island.
These elements – the quirky traditions and the vibrant underwater world – contribute to Tavolara Island's distinct identity, making it more than just a beautiful beach destination. It's a place with character and natural wonders that leave a lasting impression on visitors.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit