The closest airport is Cagliari-Elmas (CAG). From Cagliari, you can rent a car (highly recommended for exploring) or take a bus. The drive to Costa Rei takes about an hour. Booking a rental car in advance is advisable, especially during peak season.

While there's a local bus service, it's limited, especially outside of summer. For the best experience and to explore nearby beaches and towns, a car is almost essential. Many visitors opt for car rentals from Cagliari airport.

If flying into Olbia (OLB), the drive to Costa Rei is longer, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Renting a car is the most convenient option. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Olbia to Cagliari and then another bus to Costa Rei, but this is a much longer journey.

Taxis are available but can be expensive, especially for longer distances. It's more cost-effective to arrange transport in advance or rely on a rental car for flexibility. Some hotels might offer shuttle services.

Ride-sharing apps like Uber are not widely available or reliable in Costa Rei and the surrounding rural areas of Sardinia. It's best to rely on traditional taxis or your rental car.

No, access to Costa Rei beach and most public beaches in Sardinia is free. You only pay for parking if you drive to designated areas, and sometimes for sunbed/umbrella rentals.

Costa Rei is a resort town, so it doesn't have traditional 'opening hours.' Shops and restaurants have their own operating times, which vary seasonally. Many businesses close in the late afternoon and reopen in the evening during summer.

Monte Nai is a natural viewpoint and does not have an entrance fee. You can access it freely to enjoy the panoramic views of Costa Rei.

There are no specific booking requirements to visit Costa Rei itself. However, if you plan to stay in hotels or Airbnb Costa Rei Sardinia, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months.

The 'best' beach depends on your preference! Costa Rei beach is the main, expansive stretch. For a more tranquil experience, Santa Giusta beach is excellent. Many visitors also love exploring smaller coves accessible by car or boat.

The primary activity is enjoying the stunning beaches like Costa Rei beach and Santa Giusta beach. You can also explore the town, hike to Monte Nai for views, or take boat trips to nearby coves. Water sports are popular in summer.

Yes, while not extensive, there are coastal paths and the hike up Monte Nai offers beautiful vistas. For more serious hiking, you might need to drive to nearby natural parks or mountainous regions of Sardinia.

During the summer season, you can find opportunities for snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. Rental shops and lessons are usually available at the main Costa Rei beach.

Absolutely! Many beaches, like Santa Giusta beach, have shallow, calm waters perfect for kids. The town also offers amenities like playgrounds and ice cream shops.

In summer, it's a lively resort town with shops, restaurants, and bars. Outside of peak season, it becomes much quieter, as noted by visitors.

Sardinian cuisine is a highlight, featuring fresh seafood, pasta dishes, local cheeses, and excellent wines. Expect traditional Italian and Sardinian flavors.

During the summer, there's a good selection of restaurants, pizzerias, and cafes. However, outside of peak season, many establishments close, leaving limited options.

Recommendations vary, but look for places serving fresh local seafood and traditional Sardinian specialties. It's wise to check recent reviews as openings and closings can occur seasonally.

While traditional Sardinian food is meat and seafood-heavy, most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, and increasingly, vegan options are becoming available, especially in more tourist-oriented establishments.

Yes, Costa Rei has several supermarkets where you can buy groceries if you're staying in an Airbnb Costa Rei Sardinia or self-catering accommodation. This is a good option for saving money and for off-season visits.

The beaches, especially during sunrise and sunset, offer stunning coastal shots. Monte Nai provides a fantastic panoramic viewpoint. Don't miss the charming streets of Costa Rei town and the vibrant colors of the sea.

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for beach photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating warm tones. Midday can be harsh.

Look for the distinctive rock formations along the coast, the colorful fishing boats (if any), and the wildflowers in the surrounding hills during spring. The contrast between the golden sand and turquoise water is always a winner.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive beach scenes and landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sea and sky. A sturdy tripod is useful for sunset shots.

Drone regulations can vary. Always check local rules and restrictions before flying a drone in Sardinia. Respect private property and avoid flying over crowded areas.