Capo Coda Cavallo

Where Land Meets Dreamlike Waters

Location & Distance

Capo Coda Cavallo is located about 25 km southeast of Olbia, within the municipality of San Teodoro.
It is part of the protected marine area of Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo, a natural reserve of extraordinary biodiversity.

The drive from Olbia takes approximately 30 minutes, offering scenic coastal views along the way.

What Makes Capo Coda Cavallo Special

Capo Coda Cavallo is a narrow promontory surrounded by a series of bays, coves, and inlets with some of the most transparent waters in Sardinia.
The headland’s name, which translates to “Horse Tail Cape,” refers to the distinctive, elongated shape of the land seen from above.

The views from the tip of Capo Coda Cavallo are extraordinary: the imposing limestone massif of Tavolara Island dominates the horizon, and on clear days you can even spot Molara and the tiny Proratora Island nearby.

The beaches here are a mix of soft white sand and polished rocks, with shallow waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling.
The area is especially appreciated for its natural silence, panoramic footpaths, and the vibrant contrasts of the Mediterranean vegetation against the sea.

How to Get There

By car:
Follow the SS125 from Olbia towards San Teodoro. After about 20 km, follow signs for Capo Coda Cavallo.
Ample parking is available, both free and paid, depending on the season.
By bus:
In summer, seasonal buses connect Olbia and San Teodoro to Capo Coda Cavallo. Service frequency may vary, so checking ahead is recommended.
By train:
There is no direct train access. The nearest train station is Olbia, from where you can rent a car or take a bus.

Trails and Access

There are several walking paths across the promontory, allowing visitors to explore secluded beaches and admire breathtaking views from different angles.
The trails are generally easy and well-marked, suitable even for casual walkers.

One of the most rewarding hikes leads to the small lighthouse at the tip of the promontory, a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Camper Info

There are no camper areas directly on Capo Coda Cavallo, but several campsites and camper parks are available in the nearby areas of San Teodoro and Puntaldìa, just 10 to 15 minutes away by car.

Larger motorhomes may find parking challenging during peak summer months, especially close to the beach entrances.

Facilities and Services

Beach bars and small restaurants nearby (mainly seasonal)
Beach umbrella and sunbed rentals available on larger beaches
Water sports equipment rental (kayaks, SUP boards)
Public toilets in some beach access points
Boat excursions to Tavolara Island depart from nearby Porto San Paolo

What to Bring

Sun protection
Comfortable footwear for trail walking
Plenty of water if planning hikes
Snorkelling equipment
Camera or binoculars for panoramic viewpoints

Legends & Curiosities

Marine Protected Area:
Capo Coda Cavallo is part of one of the first marine protected areas in Italy, established to safeguard its rich marine ecosystems, including dolphins, sea turtles, and rare fish species.
Tavolara Kingdom:
Tavolara Island, clearly visible from Capo Coda Cavallo, is famously known as “the smallest kingdom in the world.” The Bertoleoni family, descendants of a shepherd proclaimed king in the 19th century, still lives on the island today.
Film and Photography:
Due to its striking natural beauty, Capo Coda Cavallo has been a backdrop for several Italian and international photography and fashion projects.