Snorkeling in Stintino: where the sea of Sardinia turns into pure transparency
Entertainment - 1 December 2025
There are seas that invite you to dive in. And then there is Stintino, where the water seems made of light.
Here, snorkeling in Sardinia reaches one of its most beautiful expressions: crystal-clear seabeds, colorful fish, meadows of seagrass, and wind-sculpted rocks.
If you’re wondering where to go snorkeling in Stintino, this guide will take you through the most spectacular spots on the island’s northwest coast.
Why go snorkeling in Stintino
The Stintino area is considered one of the best places in Sardinia for snorkeling and diving.
The waters of the Asinara Gulf are incredibly transparent and sheltered from strong currents—ideal conditions for spotting fish, starfish, sea urchins, small crustaceans, and sometimes even octopus or groupers.
Whether you’re passionate about scuba diving in Sardinia or simply want a peaceful day exploring lively seabeds, you’ll be amazed by the biodiversity here.
Where to go snorkeling in Stintino: unmissable spots
Here are some of the best beaches to explore underwater life:
La Pelosa
Often ranked among the best snorkeling beaches in Sardinia, La Pelosa offers shallow, crystal-clear waters.
In the rocky area on the right side, you can easily spot damselfish, salema, blennies, and small seabream. Perfect for families and beginners.
La Pelosetta
Right next to La Pelosa, quieter but just as beautiful.
Ideal for those who want to snorkel in shallow, safe waters full of marine life.
Discover La Pelosetta
Ezzi Mannu and Le Saline
Here, the sea opens into vast stretches of transparent water.
Rocky sections at both ends are home to salema, mullet, and small goatfish. Perfect for a quiet day away from the crowds.
Discover Ezzi Mannu e Le Saline
Cala Coscia di Donna
Wilder and less known, one of the best places for snorkeling on the western side of Sardinia. Emerald water, rocks, and seagrass meadows full of life.
Asinara: the paradise of snorkeling
Asinara is one of the most famous destinations for those seeking diving in Sardinia.
The water here is even clearer, thanks to strict protection within the national park.
Some of the richest areas include:
- Cala Sabina
- Cala d’Oliva
- Fornelli
Snorkeling in Asinara feels almost Caribbean: turquoise water, untouched meadows of Posidonia oceanica, white sandy seabeds, and fish everywhere.
What fish can you see while snorkeling in Sardinia?
A common question: what fish can you see while snorkeling in Sardinia?
In Stintino, you might encounter: salema, striped seabream, damselfish, seabream, wrasses, small moray eels, blennies, octopus.
You’ll also recognize the unmistakable posidonia meadows, essential to the marine ecosystem.
How much does snorkeling cost in Sardinia?
It depends on the type of experience you want.
Free snorkeling: always free, just bring your own gear.
Guided snorkeling or boat excursions:
- €35–€50 for basic snorkeling tours
- €60–€90 for longer experiences or trips to Asinara
Diving centers operating between Alghero, Stintino, and Santa Teresa di Gallura also offer packages for beginners and families.
Useful tips for snorkeling in Stintino
If it’s your first time, or you want to enjoy the experience to the fullest, here’s what to bring:
- a high-quality mask with anti-fog valve
- snorkel
- water shoes (very useful in rocky areas)
- rashguard or UV-protective shirt
- sunscreen
- water bottle
In summer, the best times to enter the water are early morning or late afternoon.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or simply curious about what lives beneath the surface, Stintino is the ideal destination.
Every cove, every rock, every shimmer invites you to slow down and look more closely at a world that is silent, alive, and authentic.
Snorkeling in Stintino isn’t just an activity, it’s a way of listening to the sea.