The closest beach to town is Pittulongu, 5km north on SP82, a crescent of fine white sand with sun beds, water sports rental, and easy bus connections. Porto Istana, 15km north, is a string of four beaches separated by rocky outcrops opposite the Tavolara marine zone — excellent for snorkelling and diving. For something wilder, Le Saline has strong currents and attracts windsurfers and kite-surfers. The beach at Bados, just north of Golfo Aranci, is shallow and family-friendly.
For the best beaches in the area, the Costa Smeralda strip north of town is unmatched but more accessible with a car.