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Sardinia

Only 2 hours away, the charming emerald coastline of Sardinia offers scuba diving around reefs rich in moray eels, stonefish, barracuda, grouper, octopus, lobster, and nudibranchs.

Beach on Maddalena Island in Sardinia

Sardinia, the stunning island in the heart of the Mediterranean, is renowned not just for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage but also for its exceptional scuba diving opportunities. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and diverse underwater ecosystems, Sardinia offers many exciting dive sites suitable for all levels of experience.

From the dramatic underwater cliffs and caves of the Gulf of Orosei to the colourful reefs teeming with fish off the southern coast, divers can explore submerged wonders that showcase the region's unique biodiversity. Whether you're a seasoned diver seeking adventure or a beginner eager to discover the underwater world, Sardinia promises an unforgettable experience beneath the waves.

Why We Love Sardinia

The beauty and ambience reminded me of the famous diving movie "Big Blue." The underwater life was rich and healthy, offering a vibrant array of marine creatures to explore. Above water, the atmosphere was wonderfully relaxed, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of diving. This place is a must-visit for any diving enthusiast.

Shem, RegalDive

Sardinia

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Highlights

  • Archipelago of La Maddalena for amazing wall diving.
  • Costa Smeralda exceptional marine ecosystem.
  • Caves and Caverns teeming underwater life typical for the Mediterranean sea.
  • Bonifacio Strait - one of the top three best dive destinations in Europe.
  • Most pristine marine ecosystem and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Warm diving condition in summer in Autumn with average water temperature of 22°C.

Sardinia Dive Locations

Your next diving holiday starts here

Panorama of Emerald Coast in Sardinia, Italy

Emerald Coast

Located on the north-east of the island, the Emerald Coast offers the best diving in Sardinia. Resembling the white sands and…

Sardinia Resorts & Hotels

Entrance to Hotel Piccada in Sardinia

Emerald Coast

Hotel Piccada

A traditional Sardinian hotel just a short walk from Palau port & marina. Featuring 60 traditional rooms, the 3-star hotel…

8 days from £1,395

Piano & X Sito bar at La Vecchia Fonte Hotel in Sardinia

Emerald Coast

La Vecchia Fonte Hotel

A 4-star contemporary hotel situated close to Palau's new marina in the north-east of Sardinia, La Vecchia Fonte is stylishly…

8 days from £1,495

Sardinia

Scorpionfish in Sardinia
Sea fan in Sardinia
Beach at La Maddalena in Sardinia
Capo d'Orso in Palau, Sardinia
Shipwreck in Sardinia
Sciumara Beach in Palau, Sardinia
Palau lighthouse, Punta Faro in Sardinia
Port of Palau in Sardinia

Sardinia Information

About Sardinia diving

A Mediterranean isle steeped in history and folklore, modern Sardinia is known for its beautiful coastline, wonderful climate, and - increasingly - exceptional scuba diving.

Located off the western coast of Italy, Sardinia is a large, mountainous island that can offer a variety of experiences for visitors. The rugged interior contrasts with the dazzling coastline and white sand beaches, while culture and history abound.

Sardinia's colourful history can be dated back to at least the bronze age and a people called the Nuraghi. The island features several historic monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Divers are attracted to the island's beautiful northern shores and the La Maddalena archipelago, a group of islands famed for their scuba diving opportunities. A protected national park since 1994, sparkling seas surround more than 60 islands and islets, creating a playground for avid scuba divers.

Diving from northern Sardinia also provides access to the dive sites of southern Corsica, notably the wonderful marine reserve of Lavezzi.

The gateway to this region of Sardinia is Olbia, with regular direct flights from several regional departure points on the UK.

Which location should I visit?

The enchanting Palau, a small town and harbour in the northern part of Sardinia, is the best place to stay. Everyone can experience the warmth of Sardinia's hospitality and immerse in the rustic atmosphere that defines this idyllic Italian destination. Just a stone's throw away, a local dive centre will guide you to the best-kept secret dive sites in Europe, promising unforgettable marine life beneath the surface.

Discover the captivating underwater world of the Mediterranean by embarking on an unforgettable boat diving adventure with a local dive operator. Journey to the hidden gem of the northeastern coast of Sardinia - La Maddalena Island. This enchanting destination boasts some of the best diving sites in the region, where vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes await.

Just north towards Corsica, the Lavezzi Marine Reserve offers another thrilling dive experience, perfect for adventurers eager to explore its pristine waters. For those passionate about wreck diving, don't miss the chance to explore the easily accessible wreck of the Angelica and the haunting remnants of a World War II bomber. Dive into history and nature's beauty in one spectacular trip with your family, friends or a dive club.

What to see when

Scuba diving in Sardinia is truly amazing, especially during the summer and autumn months! That's when the water temperatures are perfect for long dives, and the variety of marine life is at its best. Dive enthusiasts can look forward to spotting a colourful array of sea creatures such as moray eel, stonefish, barracuda, grouper, octopus, lobster and nudibranch, making it a fantastic time for capturing stunning photos and enjoying the beauty of underwater ecosystems. With such great conditions and so many vibrant species around, it's no wonder Sardinia is a top choice for European divers.

Dolphin in Sardinia
May-Oct

Dolphin

Likelihood: Very likely

Dolphins often accompany dive boats in season in Sardinia

Barracuda in Sardinia
May-Oct

Barracudas

Likelihood: Very likely

Sardinia’s diving season brings the opportunity to encounter barracuda

Comb and dusky grouper in Sardinia
May-Oct

Grouper

Likelihood: Very likely

Another regular feature of the dive sites between Sardinia and Corscia

Octopus in Sardinia
May-Oct

Octopus

Likelihood: Very likely

These extraordinary creatures can be seen on many dives sites around Sardinia in season

About Sardinia

When to dive Sardinia

The best time to dive in Sardinia is between late May and October. Early spring can see water temperatures around 15°C, but the summer and autumn months are ideal, with pleasant water temperatures between 19°C and 25°C. This period allows for excellent visibility and a chance to explore the diverse marine life in the area, which flourishes in summer.

Who is Sardinia diving suitable for?

The Archipelago of La Maddalena and Bonifacio Strait are some of Europe's best scuba diving spots! The summer months are the perfect time to dive in Sardinia, making it a popular choice for families and dive groups looking for an exciting holiday. With easy access to some amazing dive sites in the Mediterranean, local dive centres offer a complete range of recreational diving courses, catering to everyone from beginners to advanced divers. It's a fantastic place for families to learn to dive together.

What's the best way to dive Sardinia?

If you're looking for fantastic diving spots, Palau Sardegna is the perfect base to start your adventure! Within a quick 50-minute boat ride, you can access some amazing dive sites. While there are plenty of local shore dives to explore, most guided scuba diving is done from a dedicated boat. With so many beautiful islands and islets around, there are plenty of sheltered spots to dive, making it a great place for beginners and seasoned divers alike.

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