5 Best Places to Stay in Ogliastra for Easy Access to the Sea

We invite you to discover the wonders of Sardinia east coast with thrilling boat trips into the heart of Ogliastra. Whether you’re dreaming of an adventurous cruise to hidden coves or peaceful days on the sand, choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference.

Ogliastra is the most untouched part of Sardinia, where sea, sun, and freedom meet. Its coast is lined with towering cliffs, secret beaches, and turquoise waters — many accessible only by boat. From Arbatax to Santa Maria Navarrese, this region offers ideal bases for your sea adventure, whether you choose to depart independently or rely on the expertise of our Nautilux crew.

Here are the top 5 places to stay in Ogliastra if you want to wake up near the sea and be just minutes from the most stunning boat tours in Sardinia.

1. Santa Maria Navarrese – The Gateway to Ogliastra’s Hidden Coast

Santa Maria Navarrese is more than a picturesque seaside village — it’s the ideal launching point for exploring Sardinia by sea. From its small marina, you can set off on unforgettable tours with Nautilux Travel or rent a boat and chart your own course.

Why choose Santa Maria Navarrese:

• Port of departure for both guided tours and rentals with Nautilux
• Central location along the Ogliastra coastline, close to Cala Goloritzé, Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna
• Charming village atmosphere with excellent restaurants, local shops, and beach bars
• Walkable beach right in town, perfect for relaxing between boat excursions

From here, you’re truly in the heart of Ogliastra’s sea adventures.

2. Arbatax – A Coastal Hub for Freedom and Discovery

Arbatax is another key port town on the Ogliastra coast and a primary base for Nautilux departures. It blends a laid-back fishing village vibe with convenient access to boat trips, beaches, and inland excursions.

Why stay in Arbatax:

• Direct access to Nautilux boat tours and rentals
• Close to Tortolì Airport, ideal for travelers arriving by plane
• Proximity to Lido di Orrì and Rocce Rosse, some of the region’s best-known beaches
• Choice of accommodations, from boutique hotels to seaside resorts

From Arbatax, you can independently rent a boat or join a small group or private tour led by experienced local skippers.

3. Cala Gonone – Adventure on Land and Sea

A little farther north, Cala Gonone is a favorite for active travelers looking to combine sea tours with hiking, rock climbing, and natural excursions. The town is surrounded by cliffs and forests, and the port offers frequent boat departures.

Highlights of Cala Gonone:

• Lively town center with restaurants, bars, and artisan shops
• Departure point for boat tours to Cala Luna, Bue Marino Caves, and the Gulf of Orosei
• Great for mixed experiences — sea and mountains in one location
• Plenty of beach options within walking or short driving distance

While Nautilux operates primarily from Arbatax and Santa Maria Navarrese, Cala Gonone is still a fantastic base if you plan to combine boat exploration with active land-based adventures.

4. Tortolì – A Comfortable Base Near the Coast

Tortolì is one of the larger towns in Ogliastra and offers a balance of urban convenience with easy access to both the sea and the ports of Arbatax and Santa Maria Navarrese.

Why consider Tortolì:

• Close to Arbatax, perfect for accessing Nautilux boat tours
• Excellent services — supermarkets, pharmacies, car rentals, and local markets
• Wide sandy beaches nearby, including Lido di Orrì and Cea Beach
• More accommodation options, including villas, B&Bs, and hotels

Tortolì is a practical choice if you’re planning to explore by sea while also enjoying Sardinian culture and local cuisine inland.

5. Cala Liberotto – Quiet Beaches and Natural Beauty

For those seeking a quieter, nature-rich escape, Cala Liberotto offers soft sandy beaches and calm waters. While it’s farther north than Nautilux’s main departure points, it’s an excellent stop for travelers planning a road trip down the east coast.

Why Cala Liberotto stands out:

• Serene, scenic beaches ideal for families or couples
• Unspoiled natural surroundings, including pine forests and nature reserves
• Relaxed village atmosphere with a few local restaurants and markets
• Can be combined with a visit to Ogliastra if you’re planning a multi-base stay

Although not a direct starting point for Nautilux tours, Cala Liberotto complements an Ogliastra-based itinerary perfectly, offering a peaceful contrast to more active days on the boat.

How to Plan Your Stay

Whether you choose a base like Santa Maria Navarrese or Arbatax, staying near the sea means more time enjoying the coast and less time commuting. Here’s how to make the most of your Ogliastra holiday:

Combine sea and land

Many travelers divide their time between coastal exploration by boat and inland hiking or cultural visits. Staying in towns like Cala Gonone or Tortolì makes this easy.

Choose your boat adventure

With Nautilux, you can:

• Join a private tour for a custom route and schedule
• Join a small group tour to share the day with other sea lovers
• Rent a boat independently, no license needed

👉 Explore all Nautilux Sardinia Boat Tours

Travel light, pack smart

Bring water shoes, a dry bag, and sun protection. Many of the beaches we visit are pebble coves or involve short swims from the boat.

Ogliastra is one of Sardinia’s most breathtaking and untouched coastal regions — and choosing the right place to stay ensures you’re always close to its wonders. Whether you wake up steps from the sea in Santa Maria Navarrese, or plan your boat adventure from the port of Arbatax, the beauty of this region is always within reach.

At Nautilux Travel, we’re proud to be your gateway to authentic Sardinia. Join us for an unforgettable journey where turquoise waters, secret coves, and the freedom of the sea await you.

Ready to plan your Sardinia sea escape?
👉 Book your boat tour or rental today