Olbia Airport is the entry point for many luxury family holidays in Sardinia. The airport itself is manageable; the Costa Smeralda is built around upmarket family tourism. Here is what to plan for the transfer leg.
The terminal with children
Olbia Airport is a modern, medium-sized terminal that has been recently expanded. It is not large by European hub standards. Baby changing facilities are available. Luggage trolleys are at baggage claim. The walk from arrivals to the exit is short. In peak season, the terminal can feel busy but it is not overwhelming.
One note: July-August arrivals at OLB can involve significant queues at peak times when multiple charter flights land together. Have entertainment ready for children during baggage wait.
Child seats
Italian taxis do not carry child seats. This applies at Olbia as everywhere in Italy. For families with young children:
- Pre-booked transfer with child seat: Specify the child's age and weight at booking. The correct solution for the airport-to-resort journey.
- Bring a portable seat: If you plan to take taxis during your stay (for beach excursions, dinners), a lightweight booster seat is worth packing.
- Car hire: Many families hire a car in Sardinia. Car hire at the airport includes the option to arrange child seats through the rental company — confirm and pay at booking.
Costa Smeralda resorts with children
The Costa Smeralda is exceptionally well-suited to family holidays. Most large resort hotels (Pullman Timi Ama, Club Med Kamarina, and many independent properties) have children's clubs, pools, and beach facilities specifically designed for families. The region is safe, clean, and has excellent beaches.
Getting to your resort: a pre-booked transfer with pre-installed child seats is the professional, expected option. Drive time to Porto Cervo is 30-35 minutes; to Porto Rotondo about 20 minutes. The roads are good and the journey is not long. For a family with multiple children and luggage after a flight, having a waiting driver, a clean vehicle, and correct child seats makes the holiday start well.
Minivan transfers for large families
For families with 5+ members, or multi-generational groups, a minivan transfer is practical. OLB transfer operators are accustomed to this — the airport's clientele regularly includes large family parties with substantial luggage. A minivan for 6-8 passengers costs EUR 50-80 to Porto Cervo, compared to EUR 30-40 for a sedan. One vehicle keeps everyone together.
La Maddalena with children
La Maddalena archipelago is one of the most beautiful family destinations in the Mediterranean. The ferry from Palau (EUR 5-8 per person) is a short, pleasant crossing that children enjoy. Transfer to Palau from the airport: EUR 40-55, about 45-50 minutes. On the islands, car access is limited — rent a golf cart or bicycle for exploring.
Sardinian beaches with children
Sardinia has some of Europe's finest beaches. Key notes for families:
- Spiaggia del Principe (near Porto Cervo): Frequently listed among Italy's best beaches. White sand, shallow entry, relatively calm water. Accessible by car or shuttle from Porto Cervo.
- La Pelosa (Stintino, further north): Famous fine white sand but extremely crowded in summer. Timed entry system now in operation.
- Cala Brandinchi (near San Teodoro, south of airport): Easier to reach, good for families, clear water.
Practical tips
- Sardinia in July-August is very hot. Arrive with sun cream, hats, and water. Transfer vehicles are air-conditioned.
- Mosquitoes are a significant presence in wooded areas, particularly at dawn and dusk. Pack repellent for children.
- Most Costa Smeralda roads are well-maintained. Some resort access roads are unpaved gravel tracks — normal for the area, not a problem for transfer vehicles.
- If your children have never seen a sun-bleached pink granite coastline with turquoise water, they are about to. First views on the drive from Olbia to Porto Cervo are genuinely impressive.