Porto Cervo Port Guide: Your Gateway to Sardinia’s Emerald Coast

Porto Cervo is an iconic Sardinian port. Located on the northeast coast of the island, it is the gateway to the stunning Costa Smeralda, or Sardinia’s “Emerald Coast.” Also, it’s among the most exclusive yachting spots in the Mediterranean with Europe’s highest property prices, the world’s leading boutiques in the shopping quarter, and a billionaire’s playground. The town and marina in their present form were created in the ’60s by Prince Aga Khan, who employed a group of renowned architects to establish a luxurious haven for the world’s wealthy in the Mediterranean. While it’s famous for its glitz, Porto Cervo is also a gateway to the most magnificent corners of North Sardinia, offering numerous peaceful coves, miles of unspoilt shrubland, and cyan-blue sea. Here’s the comprehensive guide to Porto Cervo to help you have the best yachting trip.

Where to Drop Anchor 

Marina di Porto Cervo

Italy‘s top harbor, Marina di Porto Cervo, is a magnet for some of the world’s most luxurious yachts. It offers a whopping 700 moorings, including 100 for megayachts. The marina sits in a picturesque blue bay, getting you to the heart of the Mediterranean beauty of Costa Smeralda.  One of its most coveted attractions is the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, an exclusive sporting establishment founded in 1967 with a scenic lounge bar. A seaside promenade connects Marina di Porto Cervo to Piazzetta, the town’s commercial and dining heart. 

Poltu Quatu Marina Dell’Orso

A boutique alternative to Marina di Porto Cervo, Poltu Quatu Marina Dell’Orso is part of the five-star W Sardinia hotel, which opened in 2025. If you’re seeking the most exclusive mooring in Sardinia, this is it. Set in a stunning narrow cove, Poltu Quatu offers 300 berths for boats ranging from 8 to 35 meters. Porto Cervo is less than 8 minutes away by car. The marina is right beside a luxurious cluster that includes a high-end hotel, local art galleries, and stylish beach bars. 

Porto di Cala Bitta

Set south of Baja Sardinia, Porto di Cala Bitta is another good marina for Costa Smeralda. Luxury seekers will profit from proximity to the 7Pines Resort Sardinia, Hyatt’s five-star stunner. It’s also a good base for day trips to the Maddalena archipelago. 

What to Do Onshore

Porto Cervo is a new town, meaning that you won’t find any historical attractions on par with Olbia, Sassari or Cagliari here. It works best for soaking up the upscale atmosphere and for exploring the mesmerizing wild coastline of Costa Smeralda, with all its hidden coves and turquoise beaches. 

Indulge in upscale shopping

https://nikkibeach.comAll roads lead to the Piazzetta. It’s a complex of luxurious boutiques set in the pan-Mediterranean whitewashed houses, envisioned by the Italian architect Luigi Vietti in the ’60s and ’70s. You’ll find brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Valentino, and Moschino here. Close to the water are high-end beach bars such as Nikki Beach, La Virgola, and Riva Lounge. PiazPiazzettaza is the beating heart of Porto Cervo. Another de luxe shopping cluster is the Promenade du Port.

Hike to the Church Stella Maris 

Inaugurated in 1968, Church Stella Maris is a beautiful example of modern religious architecture. Designed by the Italian architect Michele Busiri Vici, it doubles as Porto Cervo’s top viewpoint. The trademark whitewashed look, with rounded forms, is inspired by the Mediterranean nature. Don’t miss the interior, as it houses the “Mater Dolorosa” by the celebrated Spanish artist El Greco. 

Sail to dreamy Costa Smeralda coves 

One of the primary reasons yacht enthusiasts love Porto Cervo is its proximity to Sardinia’s most spectacular blue coves. The luxurious resort town is a perfect base for leisurely day trips to beautiful beaches. Right beside is the Spiaggia del Grande Pevero, a long white-sand stretch with crystalline waters. The voyage south along the coast will lead you to stunners such as Cala Liccia, Spiaggia Del Romazzino, Spiaggia Poltu Di Li Cogghj, and Spiaggia di Capriccioli. Head north for wonderful sandy Cala Granu. For something truly untouched, visit the Isola di Mortorio, which offers amazing snorkeling. 

Explore the spectacular Maddalena archipelago

With 6 inhabited islands and over 50 uninhabited ones, the sublime La Maddalena Archipelago National Park is a yacht enthusiast’s dream. Imagine all the secret coves you can discover here. The water is the trademark Thyrrean turquoise, making it a pleasure to sail. Also, the sea around La Maddalena is a perfect spot to watch dolphins, sperm whales, and turtles. Caprera is the closest island to Porto Cervo, which is known for Italy’s best beaches, like Spiaggia del Relitto, and Cala Coticcio. You will find historic houses and plenty of local eateries in the sun-soaked town of La Maddalena. 

Where to Eat and Drink

Porto Cervo combines the sophistication of fine dining with the simplicity of traditional Sardinian food. Known as the “Millionaire’s Bay,” it’s far from an affordable food destination. You can expect a high level of service, a sophisticated international menu at the restaurants, and stunning terrace views. 

Italo Bassi Confusion Restaurant leads the culinary scene in Porto Cervo. The only Michelin-starred establishment in town, it reinterprets classic Mediterranean dishes in inventive ways. It’s part of the iconic Piazzetta, overlooking the Porto Cervo bay. 

Lu Pisantinu is for traditional Sardinian cuisine. Set above Porto Cervo, it serves Gallura-inspired dishes on a gorgeous terrace. Choose funky Crazy Pizza for the rounded Italian classic. In the evening, the restaurant organizes DJ sets for a more energetic vibe. Another Mediterranean cuisine fine-dining highlight is the elegant La Pergola in Giardino. 

Like every jet-setting destination in Europe, Porto Cervo becomes a party hotspot during the summer. Italian-Asian fusion dining and late-night dancing await you at the Billionaire Porto Cervo, a fashionable entertainment establishment near Golfo Pevero. Phi Beach, close to Baja Sardinia, is where you go to catch the sunset vibes and party until dawn. For cocktails, there’s no better address than the hip Nikki Beach Cocktail Club right in the heart of Piazzetta. 

Suggested Itinerary

This is a proposed sailing itinerary to enjoy the best of Porto Cervo. Following this route allows you to experience the top attractions of Costa Smeralda without rushing. It also includes a two-day excursion to the exceptional La Maddalena Archipelago. 

Day 1 – Porto Cervo and Grande Pevero Beach

Spend the whole day in Porto Cervo, strolling the picturesque promenade, sampling the Mediterranean cuisine at fine-dining restaurants, and shopping in the Piazzetta. Watch the sunset at the magnificent Grande Pevero Beach. 

Day 2 – Sailing to the beaches

Continue exploring the beaches to the south of Porto Cervo. Make a detour to admire the wild beauty of the Isole di li Nibani. Stop for swimming at the spectacular Cala Liccia, Spiaggia Del Romazzino, and Spiaggia Poltu Di Li Cogghj. The village of Capriccioli offers a great spot for overnight mooring. 

Day 3 – Mortorio Islands and Porto Rotondo

More spectacular beaches await you on a sail to the untouched Mortorio Islands. You can stop for snorkeling and enjoy the natural pools around the island’s many coves. Another great beach is Spiaggia Punta Volpe, a vast sandy stretch near Porto Rotondo. 

Day 4 – Polto Quartu and Baja Sardinia

Moor at Polto Quartu for a luxurious harborside break. It’s a high-end marina with a five-star hotel, excellent restaurants, and relaxing lounge bars. Continue to Baja Sardinia for a gorgeous sandy beach. Dance the night away at the hip Phi Beach. 

Day 5 – La Maddalena Archipelago – Caprera

Proceed to Caprera, the best island in the La Maddalena Archipelago for sublime beaches. Spiaggia del Relitto is famous for its transparent waters and a submerged shipwreck. Shallow Spiaggia I due Mari will be great for families. Cala Coticcio is among the most photogenic coves in Italy. Cala Napoletana, in the north, is a blue paradise, surrounded by the ochre-colored rocks. 

Day 6 – La Maddalena Archipelago – Isola Maddalena

Get a different Archipelago experience at the Isola Maddalena, the largest of the group. Its main town charms you with narrow streets and a gorgeous seaside promenade. Stop for a gelato, or indulge in a traditional Sardinian street food, such as panada (a pie with meat and potatoes), casu arrustu (Sardinian roasted pecorino cheese), and casadina (ricotta and pecorino tart). 

Charter Tips/Best Time to Go

• June to August is the best time to go to Porto Cervo. The town comes alive, and all the restaurants, beach bars, and shops are open. It’s also a time when the crowds arrive. Shoulder season offers a quieter experience, but also keep in mind that many places close at the end of September. 
• As previously mentioned, Porto Cervo is a new town. Also, it’s not really a town in a classic sense, but rather a well-developed marina with exclusive shopping, sumptuous hotels, and restaurants. If you’re looking for a more vibrant city life, base yourself in La Maddalena or Golfo Aranci. 
• It’s advised to book in advance to secure the berths at Porto Cervo Marina, especially if you plan to come during the high season. 
• La Maddalena Archipelago is a must-visit, so make sure to add it to your itinerary. Keep in mind that most of the beaches there are semi-wild, so there won’t be much civilization around. 
• Go on day trips to Arzachena and Olbia to experience the local Sardinian lifestyle.