Mortorio, an uninhabited island, floats off Sardinia's Costa Smeralda. It's a small paradise of turquoise water, fine white sand, and sculpted granite. Complete stillness. This slice of a strictly protected reserve feels wilder, more exclusive than other Sardinian beaches. No hotels. No bars. No roads. Zero infrastructure.
Guests arrive by private boat or guided tour from Porto Rotondo, Portisco, or Porto Cervo. They find a dreamlike coastline. Shallow aquamarine bays. Transparent snorkeling. Soft sand framed by Mediterranean scrub. Imagine the scent of wild myrtle on the breeze.
Spiaggia di Mortorio is the island's star. A luminous beach. Calm, shallow sea in shades of mint, turquoise, and bright blue. Nearby rocky coves offer exceptional clarity for swimmers and snorkelers. You might spot a school of iridescent damselfish.
For travelers seeking a tiny island that feels remote and almost Caribbean in its vibrant color, Mortorio stands out. It's one of the Costa Smeralda's most extraordinary escapes.
Bright
20–26°C
Nearest hotel
Hotel Pitrizza
Porto Cervo, Costa Smeralda
From $1100/night
Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel
Porto Cervo, Costa Smeralda
From $950/night
Hotel Cala di Volpe
Porto Cervo, Costa Smeralda
From $900/night
Colonna Resort
Porto Cervo, Costa Smeralda
From $280/night
"Look, the beach itself is gorgeous and I'd come back. But — be honest about what to expect. The sunbeds are expensive in season, the nearest decent restaurant is a 10-minute walk and on weekends locals (rightly) take the best spots early. Go on a Tuesday in June and you'll think you've found paradise."
Oliver S.
⚓ Coastal Cities
Mortorio is a protected, uninhabited island. Its draws? Incredibly clear turquoise water, the fine white sands of Spiaggia di Mortorio, and an untamed natural vibe. Zero buildings. Zero tourist infrastructure. Just wild nature.
Getting to Mortorio? You’ll need a private boat or an organized excursion. These typically leave from Porto Rotondo, Portisco, Porto Cervo, or other close spots on the Costa Smeralda.
Mortorio's a protected zone. You can't just drop anchor on the seabed; it's a strict rule to protect the marine ecosystem. Always follow the current local marine-reserve rules. Only use approved mooring practices.
Mortorio's main beach, Spiaggia di Mortorio, features very fine sand and shallow, turquoise water. On a bright day, the color is uncannily Caribbean. It's the island's most popular spot.
Mortorio? Absolutely top-tier for snorkeling. The water's so clear you can see for miles, the seagrasses are thriving, and the rocky areas teem with fish. Plus, there's barely any development along the coast.
Mortorio is wild. You won't find a single bar, restaurant, toilet, sunbed rental, or shop. Pack your own water, food, and sunblock. Leave nothing behind.
June and September are ideal for warm water and vibrant colors, plus you get a much quieter vibe. Expect packed waters in July and August; those calm, sunny days bring out every boat.
Free access
From $420/night
From $200/night
From $110/night
