Family Holidays at La Maddalena
Safe Beaches, Excursions and Practical Advice
Organising a holiday with children requires attention to many details: safe backdrops, services available, activities suitable for all ages. The La Maddalena Archipelago offers all this, and much more. In this guide you will find all the information you need to experience an unforgettable week with your children.
Why La Maddalena is ideal for families
The numbers speak for themselves: here are the figures that make this archipelago one of the most popular destinations for those travelling with children.
300+
Planning activities without worrying about the weather is possible thanks to this extraordinary number of sunny days.
21-23°C
24-27°C
23-25°C
Ideal temperature for children, neither too cold nor too hot. Allows prolonged stays in the water safely.
15+
8+
Numerous coves offer shallow and safe waters. Several are equipped with facilities for families.
7 hours
June / September
The excursions have the perfect duration for a family day out: you leave in the morning and return for dinner, without stress.
Beaches for children: the full selection
Each beach in the archipelago has different characteristics. We have selected the best for each age group, evaluating the sea bed, services and accessibility.
For babies and toddlers (0-3 years)
La Maddalena Car/bus
30-50 cm
Bar, restaurant, lifeguard, hire
Yes, paved
Island Santa Maria Boat only
20-40 cm
Seasonal kiosk
Direct landing on the beach
Tip for the little ones: Cala Spalmatore is the only beach with full baby facilities (bathing, changing, bar). For Santa Maria, organise yourself by bringing a beach umbrella, water and everything you need: the direct landing on the sand makes it perfect for very small children anyway.
Children 4-7 years: play and first discoveries
Wide beach with sand perfect for castles. Shallow and safe water. Lifeguard presence for added peace of mind.
Games in the sand Lifeguard
Extensive beach with granite rocks to explore. Transparent water and gently sloping seabed. Suitable for those seeking space.
Self-supervision Wild nature
Very shallow waters and the possibility of exploring the island (ancient monastery). First approaches to snorkelling in total safety.
Basic snorkelling Exploration
Children 8-12 years: little explorers
Excellent snorkelling with fish visible at shallow depths. Paths around the island for small excursions. Very white sand.
Snorkelling Paths
Seabed rich in marine life. Close to paths leading to military fortifications. Nature and history meet.
History Easy trekking
Nicknamed “Tahiti” for its colours. Access via scenic path or by sea. Dreamlike water, suitable for already experienced youngsters.
Iconic beach Trekking
Boat trips: which one to choose for your family
The best way to explore the archipelago is by sea. Here are the options, assessed for different family needs.
7-8 hours
50-70€
30-40€
100-200 people
Ideal for: families with small children looking for facilities (bar, spacious bathrooms) and a low budget.
7 hours
100-130€
60-80€
12-20 persons
Ideal for: those seeking stability (no seasickness), ample space and comfort. Often with lunch included.
7 hours
140€
Discounts on request
Max. 12 persons
Ideal for: families with children 6+ years seeking an authentic experience, magical atmosphere, small number of guests.
Customisable
from 1680€/boat
Up to 12 people
Ideal for: large families, groups of friends, those seeking total privacy and a tailor-made itinerary. Favourable cost per capita.
Natural Pools by Budelli: safety analysis
One of the most popular stages for children. Here are the specifications for attentive parents.
50 cm - 1.5 m
2-3 m (isolated points)
Perfect for children: most of the area is touchable. Supervision only at specific points.
Absent
Minimal or absent
Sheltered area
Fully protected area, always calm water. Ideal for children's first baths.
Mixed sand/rock
Direct into the water (ladder)
Rock shoes are recommended for the rocky sections. Landing is not necessary: you swim directly from the boat.
10:30 - 12:30
In this stretch the water is already warm, the sun is high but not too strong, and crowding is still moderate. Ideal for families.
What to bring: checklists for every age
Organising luggage is easier with a specific list. Here is what not to forget according to the age of the children.
- Costumes (2-3)
- Lightweight bodysuits and tracksuits (2)
- Cap with lace
- Lightweight sweatshirt / k-way
- Sun cream 50+ eco
- Soothing aftersun
- Milk/homogenised products (stock)
- Water (1 litre)
- Nappies (5-6 per day)
- Wet wipes
- Hooded beach towel
- Arms/float
- UV T-shirt
- Costumes (2)
- Cap
- UV T-shirt
- Lightweight sweatshirt
- Sun cream 50+
- Aftersun
- Bucket and paddle
- Small mask and snorkel
- Inflatable balloon
- Snacks and fruit
- Enough water
- Armrests (if not swimming)
- Costumes, cap, sweatshirt
- Sun cream 50+ (self-contained)
- Own mask and snorkel
- Fins (optional)
- Waterproof camera
- Small binoculars
- Hiking shoes
- Small backpack with water
- Energy snacks
When to come: the ideal calendar
Low crowding Average prices
Water still cool, but pleasant climate for hiking. For children used to cool weather.
Average crowding Medium-high prices
Optimum period - perfect climate, warm water, not too crowded.
High crowding High prices
Intense heat, but perfect water. High crowding, book well in advance.
Overcrowding High prices
Heat and crowds to manage. For those who have no alternative, recommend excursions starting early.
Medium-low crowding Average prices
Optimum period - still warm water, fewer crowds, more affordable prices.
Frequently asked questions from families
It depends on the child. Choose catamaran (stability) or exclusive sailing boat (flexibility). Bring everything for bedtime and plan departure after waking up. On the boat, there is plenty of room for shade and rest.
Yes. Natural pools: very shallow water (touching). Santa Maria: beach landing, gradual entry. Cala Spalmatore: gently sloping seabed. Always carry floats or life jackets.
Shared sailboat: packed lunch (each person brings). We offer water and soft drinks. Exclusively: we can organise simple menus (pasta, cheese, fruit). Motorboat: bar with sandwiches.
Cream 50+ 30 minutes before, reapply every 2 hours and after each bath. Hat with string, UV shirt, avoid exposure in the middle hours (12-15). There are shady areas on the boat.
Yes, the Leonidas is equipped with toilets. Bring wet wipes and nappy bags. The toilet is small but functional, you can accompany the children. Ask the skipper for the best times.
7-10 days allow for alternating: 2-3 days on the boat (not consecutive), 3-4 days relaxing on the beach, 1-2 days for land visits (village, Caprera, Garibaldi).
The vintage sailing ship Leonidas
- Small number of guests (max. 12)
- Family atmosphere and personalised attention
- Silent sailing
- Possibility of helping the skipper
- Stopovers in calm and safe waters
- Flexibility with children
The numbers of the perfect holiday
Ready to set sail with your family?
The vintage sailing ship Leonidas awaits you for an unforgettable adventure in the La Maddalena Archipelago. Stopovers in safe waters, a family atmosphere and tailor-made attention for your children.
Sailing San Paolo - Vintage sailing ship Leonidas - Family excursions to La Maddalena
Departures from the port of Palau | Season 2025: 1 May - October
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