Sardinia, an island off Italy’s west coast, offers a fantastic family vacation. Its beaches, ancient ruins, and relaxed pace make it ideal for visitors of all ages. The island’s accommodations are well-suited for families, with options for water activities, kids’ clubs, and adult relaxation time. From glitzy resorts to rustic retreats, Sardinia provides diverse family-friendly stays.
Coastal Exploration
I love exploring Sardinia’s coastline. Driving along the winding roads, you’ll discover hidden coves and stunning beaches. It’s easy to spend days hopping between picturesque towns and enjoying the turquoise waters. Michael and I often pack a picnic, and the kids, Lily and Ethan, especially love finding shells on the sand.
One stretch that always impresses is the southeastern tip. The Almar Timi Ama resort is situated here, within the Capo Carbonara protected marine area. It’s a wonderful spot for observing flamingos and exploring underwater life through diving and snorkeling. The hotel provides bicycles, which are great for leisurely rides through the reserve or into the nearby town of Villasimius. For families, the resort offers dedicated clubs for different age groups, alongside a babysitting service. This gives adults a chance to visit the spa or sample local wines.
Near Alghero, the Hotel Portoconte sits in a sheltered bay. It’s right on its own private beach, making it incredibly convenient for spontaneous dips in the sea. The children have plenty to keep them entertained, including a kids’ club, mini-golf, and a play park. The natural park surroundings offer excellent opportunities for walks and wildlife spotting. Family rooms here can accommodate up to five people, providing ample space.
For a truly memorable experience, the Cala di Volpe hotel in Porto Cervo offers a touch of glamour. This place gained fame from a James Bond film. While the kids are at the club, parents can enjoy the large saltwater pool or relax in shaded cabanas. Reaching the hotel’s private pink-sand beach by boat adds an extra layer of luxury and adventure. The elegantly designed rooms and suites make for a comfortable and stylish stay.
Further along the eastern coast, the [link_990:Hotel Club] Saraceno in Arbatax is a well-rounded option. Its large seawater pool, fringed with palm trees, leads directly onto a private sandy beach. In the summer, children over 12 can take free courses in windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing. There’s also a complimentary kids’ club. The buffet-style meals are convenient for families, and a beachside bar offers lighter options.
Northern Costa Smeralda
The Costa Smeralda in the north is renowned for its upscale vibe and beautiful beaches. It’s a region where luxury meets natural beauty. I find it’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind and enjoy the finer things, but with plenty of family-friendly activities too.
The Abi d’Oru resort is located on the white sands of Golfo di Marinella. Many of the family rooms have terraces with views of the Mediterranean. The kids’ club is included and even helps supervise children in the pool. There’s also a play park and tennis courts. For a fun evening, the resort offers “no grown-ups allowed” dining experiences for the children, alongside a popular pizzeria.
Another option in this area is the 7Pines Resort Sardinia in Porto Cervo. This resort focuses on sustainable practices, which is a philosophy reflected in its kids’ club. Activities like upcycling and gardening are offered. The resort’s private beach is a wonderful place for families to relax. Exploring the nearby Maddalena Archipelago by yacht is also an option, offering a different perspective of the stunning coastline.
The Colonna Resort in Arzachena offers a more secluded experience on its private beach. It features multiple seawater swimming pools, including one specifically for children. A well-equipped play area is available for kids aged 4 to 12. The rooms have a classic Sardinian style, with balconies offering sea or garden views. A shuttle service to Porto Cervo is provided, making it easy to explore the surrounding area.
Countryside Retreats
While the beaches get a lot of attention, Sardinia’s countryside is equally captivating. I’ve found that a few days spent inland offer a different, yet equally rewarding, experience.
In Gallura, the Borgo di Campagna hotel provides a charming farmhouse-style stay. It’s nestled in a hilly hinterland with olive groves, yet still less than seven miles from the coast. The rooms are decorated with a blend of neutral tones and colourful textiles. Some rooms are designed for families, and there’s also a self-contained apartment with its own garden. Exploring nature trails by foot or bike is a great activity for children. The oak-shaded outdoor pool is conveniently located near the restaurant, allowing parents to supervise while enjoying local dishes.
For those seeking a unique boutique experience, Su Gologone in Oliena is nestled beneath the Supramonte mountains. This artsy enclave is perfect for families who appreciate art and culture. The rooms are individually decorated with works by local artists. The hotel offers art itineraries and baking courses. The pool is supervised by a lifeguard, and there’s a small play area. The food, from handmade pasta to roasted meats, is a highlight for all ages.
Southern Sardinia Adventures
The southern part of the island offers a variety of family-friendly resorts and activities, often with stunning beaches and diverse landscapes.
The Chia Laguna Resort Hotel Village is perched on a hilltop in the southernmost part of Sardinia. Its elegant Hotel Village accommodations are spacious and well-suited for families, with some cottages featuring private patios. The resort boasts the largest pool on-site, complete with a shallow area for younger children. The Mezze restaurant offers simple dishes for all ages. What I particularly appreciate here are the four age-specific kids’ clubs, catering to everyone from babies with quiet play areas to teens seeking adventure.
Forte Village is a large resort complex in southern Sardinia, and Le Palme is one of its eight hotels. The family bungalows here can sleep two adults and two children comfortably. This resort is known for its specialized academies for children, offering programs in sports like rugby and dance, as well as classes in magic and chess. Parents can enjoy the Thalasso spa or explore the numerous dining options available within the complex.
The Lantana Resort in Pula is a smaller, charming hotel set in rolling lawns. The family room is generous in size, and apartments are also available. During July and August, complimentary children’s entertainment is offered in the swimming pool. The shallow end of the pool, with its water feature, is a big hit with the younger ones.
Is Morus Relais in Pula offers a rare find: an affordable hotel with its own beautiful beach. It’s close to the well-known Forte Village resort but at a fraction of the cost. The surrounding gardens and traditional buildings create a peaceful atmosphere. There are two restaurants, with La Terrazza offering lovely sea views. A children’s play area and a dedicated pool for kids make it very family-friendly.
Active Families and Little Ones
For families who want to keep busy, or those with very young children, several resorts cater specifically to these needs.
The Falkensteiner Resort Capo Boi in Villasimius is a chic, low-rise hotel that provides a good range of activities for families. Options include alfresco cinema, boat trips, tennis, and indoor and outdoor play areas. Children can join a swimming academy, and the kids’ club offers creative activities like puppet theatre, a petting zoo, and photo workshops, alongside sports. Michael enjoyed the variety of pools for everyone.
VOI Colonna Village, overlooking Golfo Aranci, is an all-inclusive option ideal for families with babies. It provides free canoes for exploring the bay. The hotel’s childcare program is extensive, catering to all ages from infants to teenagers. There’s an assisted sleeping room for the youngest guests, allowing tired parents to relax in the wellness center or by one of the two pools.
Park Hotel Cala di Lepre in Palau,