Porto Pollo

Porto Pollo is a slim, wind-funnelled isthmus on the northern coast of Sardinia, near Palau and within sight of the granite islands of the Maddalena Archipelago. A sandy tombolo joins the mainland to the Isola dei Gabbiani, creating two bays with opposite exposures — and one of Italy's most consistent windsurfing and kitesurfing stations.

The mistral rules the water. The northwesterly maestrale accelerates across the strait between Sardinia and Corsica, blowing hard and reliably, strongest from spring through autumn. The isthmus's twin bays are the key attraction: one side faces the wind cross-shore over flat, shallow water sheltered by the headland, ideal for beginners and freestyle, while the other, more exposed bay picks up chop and swell for advanced riders. This split lets riders of every level share the same spot on the same day.

That range makes Porto Pollo a rare all-abilities venue. The protected inner bay is a natural teaching ground with standable shallows and many schools, while experienced wave and freeride sailors work the windward side. Rental centres, rigging areas, and a large campsite cluster on the isthmus.

Access is by road from Olbia, under an hour, with the airport there serving mainland Italy and Europe. Beyond the wind, the surrounding Costa Smeralda and the Maddalena National Park offer sculpted granite coves, clear water, and boat trips among the islands. Porto Pollo combines dependable mistral, a beginner-friendly lagoon, and a spectacular archipelago backdrop in a compact, purpose-suited setting.