Beaches · Wind sports
Porto Pollo and the Isola dei Gabbiani
Seven kilometres west of Palau, two bays either side of a sandbar: one of the best-known windsurf and kite spots in the Mediterranean.
What it’s like
Porto Pollo (Porto Puddu in Gallurese) sits where a narrow sandbar ties the Isola dei Gabbiani to the coast. The wind funnels between Sardinia and Corsica, and because the bay faces two ways, there is almost always one side with ideal conditions for surfing and the other with flat water. That reliability is why the schools are here.
What to do
- Windsurf and kitesurf lessons and rentals from the schools along the beach, for complete beginners up.
- Umbrella and boat rental, and bars on the sand.
- Swimming on whichever side is sheltered that day.
Getting there and parking
Take the coast road west from Palau towards Santa Teresa and follow signs to Porto Pollo: about 7 km, 12 minutes. The car park has 420 spaces at €1 an hour (campervans €1.50, motorbikes €0.50), 08:00–20:00 from 1 April to 31 October.
Questions people ask
Is Porto Pollo good for beginners?
Yes. With the wind blowing, one side of the bay is usually flat while the other has waves, so schools can teach beginners in flat water. Book a lesson with one of the windsurf or kite schools on the beach.
How much is parking at Porto Pollo?
The car park has 420 spaces and costs €1 an hour (€1.50 for campervans, €0.50 for motorbikes), 08:00–20:00 from 1 April to 31 October. Pay by cash, card or app.
Can I swim at Porto Pollo when it is windy?
Yes, on the sheltered side, but watch for boards and kites. On calm days both sides are good for swimming.