• The idyllic beaches around Budoni: whether fine-sand family beaches or quiet coves amongst the dunes – the coast has plenty to offer. You can find an overview of all our favourite beaches here: 👉 Nearby beaches.

• From Budoni: Tavolara & Molara Marine Reserve / Stella Marina Tour: boat trips and mini-cruises to the breathtaking Tavolara and Molara Marine Reserve (including on the Motonave Principessa Haydée). Experience crystal-clear waters at idyllic beaches such as Capo Coda Cavallo and Cala Brandinchi, swim in Molara’s natural ‘pools’ and visit the imposing limestone island of Tavolara. Alternatively, the operator also offers guided dinghy trips or RIB boat hire directly from Budoni. Website tip: stellamarinatour.com

• From La Caletta – Gulf of Orosei / Motorboat tours: Extensive boat tours and cruises in the stunning Gulf of Orosei – past spectacular cliffs to world-famous dream beaches such as Cala Luna, Cala Goloritzè or Cala Mariolu (including on the Motonave Imperatrice from La Caletta and Orosei). Website tip: calagononecrociere.it

• From Golfo Aranci – Tavolara Island, SUP & dolphin watching: Guided stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking tours, as well as dolphin watching (including around Golfo Aranci and the island of Figarolo). Operator: Sardinia On Board, website tip: sardiniaonboard.com

• From Palau – La Maddalena Archipelago: Day trip to the north with a German-speaking tour guide. Operator: Boat Tours Palau, website tip: boat-tours-palau.com

SUP, jet skiing & snorkelling:

• from San Teodoro – SUP with breakfast: an active start to the day (search term / code: GetYourGuide / gyg.me/KAYsM3Bi).

• Jet-ski & snorkelling: Action near San Teodoro (via Freedome or Click&Boat) as well as guided snorkelling tours (search for: Snorkelling Cala Gonone – journey time approx. 1 to 1.5 hours each way).

• Coastal walk from Budoni beach towards Tanaunella: A beautiful, varied stroll or easy walk right along the coast. The path takes you past fine sandy beaches, fragrant pine forests and short stretches of cliffs. Particularly in the morning or evening, this route offers a stunning backdrop with magnificent views of the turquoise-blue sea.

• Coastal walk from Budoni towards Porto Ottiolu: A varied circular route along the beaches and the coastal wetland (Stagno di Cucutti) to the pretty marina at Porto Ottiolu – ideal for a slightly longer beach walk.

• Hiking on Monte Nieddu: An insider’s tip near San Teodoro, featuring waterfalls (Cascata di Piscina Urta) and panoramic views.

• Evening markets: In season (approx. June to September) – atmospheric craft markets in the evenings in Budoni and San Teodoro.

• Posada (old town & tower): Perfect for a stroll at sunset.

• Day trip to Barbagia & nuraghi: Cultural excursions into the mountainous interior of Barbagia and to the fascinating prehistoric tower structures (such as the famous Nuraghe Su Nuraxi in Barumini).

Right on your doorstep in Tanaunella & Budoni:

• The shallow lagoons and pine forests (such as the Pineta di Salamaghe) offer ideal conditions for leisurely walks along the boardwalks that have been laid out there. Here, you can observe wild pink flamingos, herons, stilts and cormorants at close quarters.

• Horse riding, dolphins & donkey treks: Local riding stables around San Teodoro and Budoni offer guided rides through the macchia. There’s also a good chance of spotting dolphins on boat trips (e.g. from Golfo Aranci), whilst donkey trekking tours in the mountains (Dorgali/Ogliastra region) are a real highlight for families.

Trips into the interior:

• Cala Gonone Aquarium: About a 50-minute drive away lies the modern Mediterranean aquarium with 25 tanks and a touch pool – ideal for families or in inclement weather.

• Day trip to Parco Donnortei & wild horses: The nature park in the Gennargentu Mountains is home to Sardinian deer and mouflons, and the Giara di Gesturi plateau is where Europe’s last wild horses roam freely.

• Olive oil from the producer (Siniscola): If you’re looking for genuine, organic extra virgin olive oil straight from the producer, you’ll find excellent local producers in Siniscola (at the foot of Monte Albo), such as Oleificio Chiedda – ideal as a souvenir.
  (The charming little town of Siniscola is also a great starting point for walks and boasts a beautiful, authentic old town with narrow alleyways and traditional stone houses, far away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds.)

• Winery tip: It’s well worth taking a trip into the surrounding countryside to visit the region’s renowned wineries (e.g. Cantina Surrau near Arzachena), where you can taste and buy the typical Vermentino di Gallura straight from the source.

Whether it’s fresh fish right by the sea, traditional Sardinian cuisine (such as Porceddu suckling pig or Culurgiones) or a cosy pizzeria in Budoni and Tanaunella – the choice is vast. Those who prefer to cook for themselves will also find well-stocked supermarkets in the surrounding area for their daily needs.

Our personal tips: We’ve clearly summarised all our favourite spots, restaurant recommendations and information on shopping and cafés for an espresso on the go in our digital Airbnb-Travel-Guide. 

Customs and culture
Weekly market – every Tuesday (in summer) in Budoni

Every Tuesday (in summer), the weekly market takes place in Budoni. Here you can buy local produce, handicrafts and souvenirs.