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Meatballs in the Caribbean? Ehh, hard pass.
Meatballs in Italy with Caribbean-esque waters? Now that’s amore!
We all know the Amalfi Coast is on most travelers’ wishlists when they venture across the Atlantic in search of Italy’s world-renowned shores.
But you might be surprised which region of Italy is breaking all-time tourism records. If you’re backtracking seasons of White Lotus like me, then you might suspect Sicily with cities like Palermo and resort-laden shores.
Not quite, though. Think even further south.
The stunning island of Sardinia drew in nearly 4.5 million tourists last year, and it’s easy to see why when the same report compares their direct competition to the Maldives, the Caribbean, and Thailand, all notable paradises even seasoned travelers long for.
Sardinia: Italy’s New Vacation Hotspot
Let’s be honest, with the exception of Jamaica, most Caribbean food is less than stellar. Heck, even American chain Bahama Breeze looks like it may be heading for bankruptcy.
But sitting seaside taking in views of crystal-clear waters with a cheap glass of pinot and impeccable pizza is well worth the trek to one of Europe’s most cultural countries with the same level of beauty as the Caribbean’s renowned beaches.
Most go to the Amalfi Coast, and who could blame them? But lesser-known Sardinia is having a moment that’s long overdue.
With nearly 1,300 miles of stunning shores wrapping the island, it’s one of life’s mysteries why it’s just now becoming a mainstay of Italy; it’s not like there’s a shortage of thrilling experiences or lack of accommodations.
Blended with Italy’s Old World charm, speckled through vibrant fishing villages and larger cities like Cagliari, anyone fearing they’re missing out on culture shouldn’t worry about missing out on the long lines of the Colosseum or the stringent policies of Venice. Sardinia offers a great balance of history, culture, and jaw-dropping nature.
Sardinia’s Best Beaches To Visit This Summer
You went through all the trouble to get a Real ID and passport, and it’s all going to be worth the journey once you see Sardinia’s spotless shores.
The Maddalena archipelago is another group of map-blip islands for those willing to add even more adventure to their trip, with nearly crowd-free powdery white-sand beaches for your enjoyment.
While not technically a beach, you might feel like you’re in Aruba, paying a visit to Molentargius Nature Reserve, a swath of ponds and canals brimming with wildlife, but most noticeably flocks of flamingos.
Perhaps the best hidden gem beach-wise is Porto Palmas, a secluded oasis located at the end of a winding road from the village of Palmadula.
According to Charming Sardinia, they ranked La Pelosa (Stintino), Spiaggia Rosa (Budelli), and Spiaggia del Principe (Arzachena) to round out Sardinia’s top 3 beaches, with the latter being the most likely to become unbearably crowded.
Sensational Cuisine: Award-Winning Chefs & Italian Staples
Like Sicily, Sardinia has developed its own identity away from the hustle and bustle of Milan and the crowds of Rome.
Not only might you notice a distinct dialect but also unique menus. Yes, you’ll still be able to indulge in Italian staples whether its waking up to a warm cappuccino or delectable pizza at lunch, but given Sardinia’s location, as you can imagine it’s a sensational seafood hub, serving everything from fresh clams, grilled fish, and perhaps both locals’ and tourists’ favorite, Cagliaritan lobster.
Many of the best eateries are located in aforementioned Cagliari, but don’t sleep on the unsuspecting mom & Pop-style establishments speckled around the island either for cheaper and perhaps an even fresher “catch of the day”.
While Italy is certainly never on ‘Europe’s cheapest countries’ list, Sardinia is about as light as it gets on your wallet for daily food budgets.
Lavish Resorts & Old-Timey Inns: Where To Stay In Sardinia
Unfortunately, affordable menu prices don’t translate to hotel rates. Summers in Sardinia are textbook paradise and comes with a premium to make your base here.
For sample size, Cagliari’s 3-star seaside Hotel Nautilus runs for $362 in July. Leveling up to 5-star stays, you’ll find La Villa del Re, an SLH Hotel, taking a page out of Cabo’s playbook with summer rates topping $1,100 per night.
For the best bang for your buck, opting for a vacation rental is the way to g,o with prices often under the $150 mark.
For an idyllic escape, consider the postcard towns of Bosa and Alghero tucked away from the action of Cagliari.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.