San Teodoro Holidays

San Teodoro is one of north-east Sardinia’s best-known holiday resorts, set just south of Olbia on a stretch of coast famous for pale sand, clear shallow water and views towards Tavolara island. It has a relaxed daytime feel, with beach life at the centre of most holidays, but the town also offers enough restaurants, bars and evening atmosphere to make it a good choice if you like somewhere lively without feeling too large.

The main beach is La Cinta, a long sweep of white sand backed by dunes and a lagoon. Its shallow water suits swimming and paddling, and the length of the beach means there is room for walks as well as sunbathing. The lagoon behind it is part of the local natural landscape and is known for birdlife, including flamingos at certain times of year. A short drive from the resort brings you to other celebrated beaches such as Lu Impostu and Cala Brandinchi, often nicknamed “Little Tahiti” for its bright turquoise shallows.

San Teodoro’s centre is compact and easy to enjoy on foot, especially in the evening when visitors head out for dinner, gelato and a stroll. Restaurants range from casual pizzerias and seafood spots to Sardinian trattorias serving regional pasta, grilled fish, roast meats and local cheeses. During the main summer season, the resort has a sociable nightlife scene, with bars in town and beach venues around the coast, though it is still more beach-resort than big-city clubbing destination.

Popular things to do include boat trips into the Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, snorkelling in clear coves, kayaking, paddleboarding and coastal walks. The surrounding area also works well for hiring a car, whether you want to explore more of the Gallura coast, visit Olbia, or spend a day discovering smaller bays and countryside villages.

For UK holidaymakers, San Teodoro is particularly convenient because Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is relatively close by. It suits couples, groups and families who want attractive beaches, a walkable resort centre and a good choice of places to eat, with plenty to explore nearby if you do not want to stay in one place all week.