Monti d'Arena
A long stretch of pale sand facing north, where the open sea meets one of the island’s widest beaches.
Discover Monti d'Arena
Monti d’Arena lies along the northern side of the island of La Maddalena and is one of the most extensive and linear beaches in this part of the coast. Unlike the more sheltered coves, here the landscape opens toward the open sea, offering a wide and luminous perspective that changes with the light and the wind.
The beach is composed of fine, pale sand stretching continuously between low granite rocks shaped by time. The seabed is initially sandy but becomes deeper within a few meters, causing the water to shift from soft green to deep blue. On windy days, the sea can become livelier, with light waves adding movement and contrast to the scenery.
Behind the beach, Mediterranean scrub grows dense, adapted to the more exposed northern conditions. The horizon remains wide and unobstructed, creating a sense of openness where wind and light become integral parts of the experience.
Reaching Monti d’Arena by dinghy allows visitors to appreciate its authentic scale: from the sea, the breadth of the beach and its northern exposure are clearly perceived. It is an ideal stop for those seeking a more open and natural setting, different from the sheltered inlets of the Archipelago, where the relationship between sand, wind, and open sea defines the character of the place.
What to expect in this paradise
Fine, bright sand, seabeds that quickly become deeper, and an open panorama stretching toward the northern horizon of the Archipelago.
Tour Monti d'Arena by dinghy
Fun Facts and Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Monti d’Arena located?
Monti d’Arena is located in the northern part of La Maddalena Island, within the National Park of the Archipelago, in north-eastern Sardinia. The beach lies between Punta Abbatoggia and Punta Marginetto, in an area exposed to the Strait of Bonifacio, known for its wild and windy landscapes.
This stretch of coastline is appreciated for its unspoiled nature, with Mediterranean vegetation, granite rocks shaped by the wind, and a sea with intense colors. Monti d’Arena is part of one of the most scenic areas of the island, together with beaches such as Bassa Trinità, Punta Marginetto and Cala Abbatoggia.
How can you reach Monti d’Arena?
Monti d’Arena can be reached from the town of La Maddalena by following the panoramic road heading north. After passing the Abbatoggia area, continue along the SP91 until you find a dirt road leading directly to the beach.
Access is relatively easy, although the final section may be unpaved. A parking area is available nearby.
The beach can also be reached by sea, offering a completely different perspective of this coastline, where dunes, rocks and small bays alternate.
With Flag Sardinia, you can explore the area aboard luxury RIB boats: if you have a boating license, you can choose a bareboat rental and move freely, while those who prefer to relax can opt for a skippered rental.
What is Monti d’Arena famous for?
Monti d’Arena is famous for its distinctive sand dune, rising over 10 meters high, which dominates the landscape and gives the beach its name. This sandy hill, shaped by the wind, is one of the most unique features on the entire island of La Maddalena.
The beach consists of light, compact sand and gently sloping seabeds, facing a crystal-clear sea with shades ranging from emerald green to bright blue.
The natural setting is further enhanced by granite rocks and Mediterranean vegetation surrounding the shoreline, creating a wild and less urbanized environment compared to more crowded beaches.
What can you do at Monti d’Arena?
At Monti d’Arena, you can enjoy a day at the beach in a natural and authentic setting, away from the more crowded areas of the island. The beach is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying clear water with gently sloping seabeds.
One of the most unique experiences is related to the dune itself: many visitors climb the sandy hill to admire the panoramic view and then descend towards the sea, enjoying a different experience compared to typical Sardinian beaches.
The area is also suitable for short coastal walks and for those who enjoy exploring less urbanized natural environments. Nearby, you can find other interesting beaches such as Punta Marginetto and Bassa Trinità.
Due to its exposed position, Monti d’Arena is often breezy, a feature that can be particularly pleasant during hot summer days.
When is the best time to visit Monti d’Arena?
The best time to visit Monti d’Arena is from late spring to early autumn. During the summer, the beach offers ideal conditions for swimming, although it can be exposed to wind, especially on days with strong mistral winds.
Spring and September are particularly recommended for those who prefer a quieter experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural landscape and the sea colors without the peak season crowds.
On calm, windless days, the water becomes especially clear, enhancing the overall experience.
Why visit Monti d’Arena during a boat tour?
Visiting Monti d’Arena during a boat tour allows you to fully appreciate this stretch of coastline, characterized by dunes, granite rocks and clear waters. From the sea, you can admire the sandy dune from a unique perspective and discover small bays that are not always easily accessible from land.
A boat excursion also makes it possible to connect Monti d’Arena with other beaches in the northern part of La Maddalena, such as Bassa Trinità, Punta Marginetto and Cala Abbatoggia, creating a complete itinerary through some of the most scenic areas of the archipelago.
With Flag Sardinia’s luxury RIB boats, the experience can be fully customized: if you have a boating license, you can choose bareboat rental and navigate independently, while those who prefer to relax can opt for a skippered experience and enjoy the coastline without any concerns.
