12 Bucket List Adventures You Can Only Have in Northern Sardinia
Planning a trip to Sardinia and wondering what should make your must-do list in Santa Teresa di Gallura?
This lovely northern town has everything: dreamy beaches, ancient history, diving spots, and boat trips that whisk you away to otherworldly coastlines.
After spending 10 days here, I’ve rounded up the ultimate Santa Teresa di Gallura bucket list — so you know exactly what not to miss.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH MY FAVORITE RESOURCES
Best accommodation site: Booking.com
Book top-rated tours: GetYourGuide.com
Need wheels? Rentalcars.com
✅ 1. Sink Your Toes into Rena Bianca Beach
Golden sand, crystal-clear water, and postcard-worthy views — Rena Bianca is the beach of Santa Teresa di Gallura.
Just remember, since 2024 you’ll need to book a spot in advance in lovesantateresa.it (or head to the rocky side if you miss out).
Sunset here? Absolutely magical.
Pro tip: If you want to skip the booking altogether and enjoy front-row views of the beach, stay at a hotel like Hotel Corallaro or Hotel Moresco. Both are just steps from the sand and give you easy access without the hassle.
Check availabilities and book your stay at Hotel Corallaro or Hotel Moresco here.
✅ 2. Climb the Historic Longonsardo Tower
This coastal watchtower is more than a quick history stop.
From the top, you’ll spot sweeping sea views and even Corsica on a clear day. Bring your camera — you’ll use it.
✅ 3. Go Diving Among Wrecks and Caves
Santa Teresa di Gallura is a diver’s dream, with red gorgonians, hidden caves like Sifone, and even a historic shipwreck waiting beneath the waves.
Beginners can try intro dives, while certified divers can explore the Marine Protected Area of Capo Testa.
If you’re into diving, read my full guide: Diving in Santa Teresa di Gallura, Sardinia: Ultimate Guide.
✅ 4. Take a Boat Trip to La Maddalena Archipelago
Seven main islands, turquoise bays, and the famous Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach).
A full-day boat trip here is pure bucket list material — expect swimming stops, photo ops, and salty hair by the time you return.
Check prices of La Maddalena Full-Day Boat Tour here.
✅ 5. Watch a Movie Under the Stars
Yes, Santa Teresa has an open-air cinema.
Grab a seat, feel the evening breeze, and enjoy a film under the night sky. It’s a unique, laid-back way to end a busy day.
✅ 6. Hop Over to Corsica for the Day
In just 25 minutes by boat, you can swap Sardinia for France.
Cruise past white cliffs and sea caves, explore the medieval town of Bonifacio, and swim at Lavezzi Island — all in one unforgettable day trip.
Check prices of Corsica and Bonifacio Boat Tour here.
✅ 7. Step Back in Time at Lu Brandali
Visit the nuraghe, Giants’ Tomb, and ruins of an ancient settlement dating back over 3,000 years.
This quiet archaeological site adds a cultural twist to your Sardinia trip.
✅ 8. Feast on Sardinian Food
From porceddu (slow-roasted suckling pig) to culurgiones (stuffed pasta) and local seafood, Sardinia’s cuisine is part of the adventure.
Bonus: you can even join a market tour and cook with a local for a true taste of tradition.
Check availability and book your Small Group Market tour and Dining at a Cesarina’s home Santa Teresa di Gallura here
✅ 9. Hike Down to Cala Spinosa
It’s a bit of a scramble, but the reward is a secluded cove with shallow, fish-filled water that’s perfect for snorkeling.
Bring decent shoes, a picnic, and plenty of time to soak it in.
✅ 10. Beach-Hop Like a Local
Don’t stop at just one beach. Try Rena di Ponente for calm waters, La Marmorata for dramatic granite rocks, and Baia di Santa Reparata for a scenic swim.
Each one feels different, and all are worth a dip.
✅ 11. Walk the Trails Around Capo Testa
This rugged headland is crisscrossed with trails that lead to surreal granite formations, a lighthouse, and even Valle della Luna (Valley of the Moon).
On a clear day, you’ll spot Corsica shimmering across the sea.
✅ 12. Catch the Sunset at Capo Testa
If there’s one sunset to put on your Sardinia bucket list, it’s this one. Picture cliffs, waves, and fiery skies. Arrive early, grab a spot on the rocks, and let nature do the rest.
The Wrap-Up
Santa Teresa di Gallura in Sardinia isn’t just another pin on the map — it’s a place where bucket list moments come easy.
From beach days and diving adventures to ancient ruins and fiery sunsets, it’s the kind of trip that leaves you already dreaming about your next visit.
👉 Ready to dive deeper? Don’t miss my full guide with all the best tips, hotel picks, and planning advice: Best Things to Do in Santa Teresa di Gallura, Sardinia