Diving in Sardinia: The 10 Most Beautiful Dive Sites on the Island

Beneath the sparkling surface of the Sardinian sea lies a hidden world of wonder, where crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant marine life, mysterious caves, and historic shipwrecks waiting to be explored.

The Sardinian sea, especially thanks to its many marine protected areas, is full of well-preserved underwater treasures such as caves and shipwrecks, often inhabited by a vibrant variety of marine life. For this reason, we can confidently say that the island is the perfect place to challenge yourself and enjoy diving at all levels – from easy dives in shallow waters to more technical dives requiring specialty certifications.

To experience these adventures safely and smoothly, it’s important to rely on local diving centers that know the area well and can guide you on truly unique explorations.

If you already have specific dives in mind for your trip to the island, contact us to help organize your scuba holiday. If you’re still looking for inspiration, keep reading to discover 10 must-visit dive sites in Sardinia.

Discovering the Loredan Wreck in Cagliari

The Loredan wreck is one of the most beautiful shipwrecks in the Mediterranean. It was a cruiser belonging to the group known as the “Torre delle Stelle convoy,” which traveled from Cagliari to La Maddalena but was sunk by torpedoes from the submarine Safari in 1943, shortly after departure.

Except for the damage caused by the torpedo, the wreck today remains largely intact, offering divers a truly striking overall view of the ship. Thanks to the crystal-clear waters, it is possible to see the vessel in its entirety. The exterior is covered with an incredible concentration of yellow and red gorgonians, around which swim schools of amberjack, dentex, moray eels, and congers.

The Loredan wreck dive is recommended only for experienced divers, as it lies at a depth of approximately 60 meters.

Grotta dei Cervi: Sardinia’s Hidden Underwater Fossil Treasure

The Grotta dei Cervi is located on the Punta Giglio promontory in Alghero and represents an incredible paleontological discovery. Thanks to the finds in this cave, it was discovered that the Sardinian deer is an endemic species of the island, not an imported one as previously thought.

The cave is divided into three levels: an outer section, an inner section, and a submerged section. This layout allows dives of varying difficulty. Entering the cave requires only an Open Water certification, as it is located at just 8 meters depth.

The fossil deposit of Sardinian deer bones is found in a recess within the cave, which is accessible after surfacing. Here, visitors can clearly see skulls, long bones, and mandibles of the animal.

Exploring the Underwater World of La Maddalena

One of the most beautiful and famous dive spots in La Maddalena is the Secca di Washington, located in the channel between Spargi and Budelli. It encompasses all the natural features of the island’s northeast area. Its top lies at about 6 meters depth, from where divers can follow three different routes: the Classic Dive, the Mushroom, and the Arch.

The Classic Dive forms a loop around a main ledge and is rich in passages among rocks and small caves, where walls are covered with red gorgonians and sea daisies. Marine life here is abundant: boulders and canyons often serve as perfect shelters for large groupers, and encounters with barracudas and dentex are not uncommon.

The Arch and the Mushroom are alternative routes of this dive, offering sightings of spectacular rock formations and unique underwater landscapes.

Tavolara: A Spectacular Place Beneath the Sea

Tavolara is a rocky island rising from the Olbia Sea, attracting countless visitors each year who come by boat to dive into its clear waters or climb its imposing limestone cliffs. What many don’t know is that it is also a wonderful place for scuba diving. Among its various dive sites, the most remarkable is the Secca del Papa, a challenging site not suitable for beginners due to its depth and often strong currents.

The seamount consists of a series of limestone pinnacles rising from a 40–42 meter seabed, covered with red and yellow gorgonians. Along some walls, divers may spot moray eels, blennies, and crustaceans such as mantis shrimps and spider crabs. It’s not uncommon to encounter large groupers, barracudas, and dentex, though they tend to keep their distance.

Golfo di Orosei: Adventure Beneath and Above the Water

Cala Gonone is a playground for outdoor lovers – trekking, climbing, kayaking, or mountain biking – but it also hides underwater treasures. One highlight is the KT-12 wreck, a German cargo ship sunk in 1943. Diving to around 30 meters, you’ll see the torpedo scar and explore a site now teeming with groupers, moray eels, scorpionfish, lobsters, and triggerfish – a living snapshot of history.

For a gentler experience, the Grotta del Bel Torrente offers a magical introduction. Dive the first few meters, then surface to explore its air-filled chambers, where walls are lined with fossilized oysters and towering stalactites. Don’t miss the halocline, a striking natural phenomenon where saltwater meets freshwater, creating a mesmerizing layer effect.

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or serene exploration, Sardinia’s underwater world promises unforgettable moments, colorful marine life, and unique adventures for every diver.

foto da www.oroseidivingcenter.com

Salpi and Serpentara: Unforgettable Dives in Southern Sardinia

Southern Sardinia hides some of the island’s most thrilling underwater adventures. Off the beaches of Costa Rei, the Salpi wreck awaits experienced divers. Descend through the endless blue, and suddenly the ship emerges, split in two but remarkably intact. Around it lie fascinating remnants – from wine bottles to parts of a truck – inviting you to explore every corner on multiple dives.

Nearby, Serpentara offers a more vibrant, nature-filled dive within the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area. Swim among giant groupers, swirling barracudas, and majestic rays, all surrounded by lush, colorful underwater vegetation – a true paradise for marine enthusiasts.

Swimming with Tuna in Carloforte

From May to late June, the Tonnara of Carloforte offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Dive up to 10 meters or observe from the surface as enormous tuna glide around you, some weighing several hundred kilos. This adventure can only be experienced with a professional guide, ensuring safety while you connect with the incredible marine life.

Exploring the Western Coast of Sardinia

In central-western Sardinia, Secca di Su Puntillone in Bosa is a diver’s dream. The vertical walls are home to groupers, sea bream, corvine, and bluefish, but the real spectacle is the vivid purple jewel anemones and sargassum, shining among yellow sea daisies and corals. Every dive here is a journey into a magical underwater world where colors, shapes, and life combine to create unforgettable memories.