Planning a holiday in Sardinia with young children requires a little more thought than a trip for adults. But when it comes together, it’s one of those memories children carry with them for years. This guide draws on years of welcoming families to the Siniscola coast.
The Siniscola coast — La Caletta and Capo Comino in particular — is one of the most family-friendly areas of Sardinia for those travelling with children under 12. The beaches have shallow waters, the sea is calm, the pace is slow and the essential amenities are close at hand. This isn’t the chaotic Sardinia of August: it’s the one people are actually looking for.
Before you leave: what to pack
- High-factor sunscreen (50+) — the Sardinian sun is strong even in June and September
- Water shoes for the children — some beaches have rocks or sea urchins
- Snorkelling gear — the seabed here is worth the effort even for little ones
- Mosquito repellent — in summer there are some mosquitoes in the evenings, especially near the scrubland
- A rental car — essential for reaching the most beautiful beaches such as Berchida and Bidderosa
The day-by-day plan
This is not a rigid itinerary — it’s a framework. With young children, flexibility is everything: if a beach is a hit, stay longer. If someone is tired, head back.
Day 1 — Arrival and first look around On arrival day, don’t plan anything demanding. Check in, pick up groceries at the supermarket in La Caletta, and take a first dip at Capo Comino beach.
In the evening, a simple dinner at the apartment or at a restaurant on the La Caletta seafront.
Day 2 — Berchida, the most beautiful beach Dedicate a full day to Berchida. Leave early in the morning, before 9. The beach has all the facilities you need. The south side has shallower water, ideal for children. In the afternoon, head back during the hottest part of the day.
Day 3 — Bidderosa: the nature reserve Bidderosa must be booked in advance. Entry is limited, which keeps crowds low and the environment unspoilt. The water is a shade of turquoise that amazes even the most unimpressed children. In the afternoon, return and treat everyone to an ice cream at a bar in La Caletta.
Day 4 — Trip to the Grotte del Bue Marino Just 30 minutes away by car, Orosei is the starting point for the Grotte del Bue Marino: among the most spectacular sea caves in the Mediterranean, reachable by boat. Children aged 8 and over tend to be absolutely captivated. Book the boat trip well in advance in high season.
Day 5 — A quiet day at Capo Comino A day off from excursions. Morning at the beach near the properties, lunch at the apartment, free afternoon. The children play, the parents rest. In the evening, a barbecue in the garden if the property allows.
Day 6 — Orgosolo and the interior Half a day inland is worth the trip. Orgosolo, 50 minutes away, is famous for the murals covering the walls of the village — a simple, eye-catching visit for children too. Back in the afternoon for one last swim.
Day 7 — Last day, last swim Check-out and a final morning at the beach. If the flight is in the afternoon there’s time for one last swim, picking up local produce at the La Caletta market and the classic ice cream before heading off.
What to avoid
Avoid going to Berchida or Bidderosa between 11am and 4pm in July and August: the heat is intense and with young children it quickly becomes exhausting. Plan the more distant beaches for early morning or late afternoon.
Don’t overload the schedule. Holidays with children work best when there’s room for improvisation. One fewer excursion and one more afternoon at the beach is worth more than a perfect-on-paper itinerary that’s stressful in practice.
Tip: pack less for Sardinia than you think you’ll need. Mineral water is available at the supermarket, beach toys can be found everywhere, and the local food is excellent. Travel light — especially with children.
If you’re looking for a family apartment on the Siniscola coast, Home Garden and Green House are the most suitable properties: generous spaces, outdoor areas and everything you need to be comfortable with children.