If you are spending your stay in Alghero, you absolutely must visit Lazzaretto Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Alghero. Not far from the nearby Bombarde Beach, it’s a must-stop for your vacation on the Coral Riviera. This guide tells you everything you need to know: why to visit, how to get there, what you’ll find at the beach, where to park, what activities to do nearby, and other interesting facts.

Why Visit Lazzaretto Beach in Alghero

Lazzaretto Beach is a gem of the northwest coast of Sardinia, just 10 km from Alghero. Here’s why you absolutely need to add it to your list:

• Crystal-clear sea: transparent waters with shades of blue and turquoise, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• White sand: fine, soft sand under your feet, ideal for relaxing in the sun.
• Hidden coves: Around the main beach, you’ll find small, wild inlets, perfect for those seeking privacy and untouched nature.
• Nature and history: Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and overlooked by the Lazzaretto Tower, it offers a mix of natural beauty and historical charm.
• Easy access: Close to Alghero, it’s convenient to reach yet retains an authentic atmosphere.

How to Get to Lazzaretto Beach

Getting to Lazzaretto Beach is easy, whether you’re traveling by car, public transport, or bike.

🚙 By car: From Alghero, take the SS 127 bis towards Fertilia and Porto Conte. After about 8 km, you’ll see a sign on the left indicating “Lazzaretto Beach.” Turn onto the narrow road – it’s quite tight, so be cautious when passing oncoming cars (⚠️ during peak season, the direction of traffic may be reversed, so you might need to access it from the Bombarde entrance), follow the road to the parking lot. Travel time: 15 minutes. 💡 Rent a car from Alghero airport: prices start at €20/day, check on DiscoverCars

🚌 By public transport: ARST urban buses connect Alghero to the beach. Depart from the city center (main stop at Via Catalogna) and get off at the “Lazzaretto” stop. The trip takes about 20 minutes. Check schedules on the ARST website, especially in low season. There’s also the BeachBus shuttle service that departs from Alghero and reaches this beach and others in the area.

🚴‍♀️ By bicycle: A bike path starts in Alghero and goes almost all the way to the beach (9 km). The last stretch is on a regular road, which can be busy in peak season. To avoid the big climb on the return, break it up by taking the side road via Le Bombarde.

What You’ll Find at the Beach

• Main beach: About 300 meters of white sand, wider in the center and narrower at the sides. Perfect for laying out a towel or renting sunbeds and umbrellas.
• Clear waters: The water is cold (freezing!) even in summer, but the transparency is spectacular. Ideal for swimming and observing the sandy seabed with some rocks.
• Services: There are two kiosk-bars with food, drinks, and ice cream. Toilets and showers are also available.
• Accessibility: A ramp facilitates access for people with disabilities from the right-side bar area.
• Coves: To the east and west of the main beach, small paths through the Mediterranean scrub lead to intimate coves, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.

Parking at Lazzaretto Beach

Parking is straightforward but requires some planning, especially in peak season. Here are your options:

✔️ Paid parking: Near the beach, there are guarded lots (cost: €1-2/hour, varies by season). Spaces for cars and campers are available, but they fill up quickly, especially in July and August.

✔️ Free parking: Alternatively, you can opt for the internal dirt road on the right, but it fills up very easily and often becomes chaotic. Also, be careful not to park along the roadside curbs, as parking is prohibited and fines are common.

✔️ Motorcycles: Parking for two-wheelers is free in the guarded area.

💡 Tip: Plan to arrive by 9:00 AM in summer to avoid stress (weekends are generally best avoided, or opt for a bike or motorcycle).

Activities in the Area

• Snorkeling: The shallow, varied seabed, especially on the rocky sides of the beach, is stunning and perfect for exploring fish and starfish with a mask and snorkel.
• Hiking: Trails through the Mediterranean scrub lead to coves and offer spectacular views of the Lazzaretto Tower. → What excursions to do in Alghero
• Visit Nuraghe Palmavera: Less than 2 km away, this Nuragic village is a dive into history. A must-see for archaeology enthusiasts.
• Boat trips: Day tours and excursions departing from Alghero also stop by Lazzaretto Beach.
• Kayaking and SUP: Rent a kayak or paddleboard at the kiosks to explore the coast actively. Or book a guided tour for added convenience.

Activities to do in the area

Where to Stay

On the map, you’ll find accommodations in the area with real-time updated rates. Book in advance for the summer: Alghero is extremely popular!

Practical Tips

To fully enjoy Lazzaretto Beach, follow these tips:

• Arrive early: In peak season (July-August, especially Sundays), the beach and parking fill up by 10:00 AM. Aim for the morning or after 5:00 PM.
• Bring essentials: Water, food, and sunscreen are a must. There are kiosks, but having your own supplies is convenient.
• Comfortable shoes: To explore the coves, you’ll need water shoes or sturdy sandals: the paths can be rocky.
• Respect the environment: Use the recycling bins at the entrance and don’t leave any trash behind.
• Check the wind: If the mistral wind is blowing, the sea can get choppy. Check the weather forecast.

Lazzaretto beach – Pro&Cons

• Pros: Stunning sea, fine sand, useful services, proximity to Alghero, coves for those seeking peace.
• Cons: Crowded in summer, limited parking, cold water for those who prefer warmer temperatures.