With the Little Mermaid live-action remake hitting cinema screens on May 26, the Sardinian shoreline is set to make mermaid dreams come true this summer.
With its picturesque beaches and scenic landscapes, the Italian island, where much of the movie is filmed, provides the perfect backdrop for fans to explore iconic locations. If you have a thirst for adventure like Ariel, the idyllic waters offer visitors the chance to scuba dive and meet everyone’s favourite talking crab, Sebastian, and all his friends under the sea.
Holiday specialist, Eliza was here, has rounded up some of the best hotels, villas and apartments the island has to offer.
Stars from the film, including Halle Bailey and Jonah Hauer-King, have already been spotted soaking up the Italian sun on some of Sardinia's iconic shores.
Top beaches featured in The Little Mermaid
1. Santa Teresa di Gallura
With crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, Santa Teresa di Gallura Beach is a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts, stretching over two kilometres. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery, Santa Teresa di Gallura offers a blend of natural beauty and peaceful serenity, making it a perfect destination for living out your mermaid dreams.
2. Castelsardo
Castelsardo Beach is a quaint seaside spot located on the north-western coast of Sardinia. The beach is situated in the medieval town of Castelsardo, characterised by narrow streets and colourful houses, and the beach has a rocky shore and dark sand – contrasting beautifully with the waters of the Mediterranean. The beach provides breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and the town’s vibrant architecture, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts.
3. Golfo degli Aranci
Golfo degli Aranci Beach is a secluded spot, off the tourist trail, with shallow and clear waters making it the ideal place for kayaking and snorkelling. The sea is full of unique marine life, and the town is home to the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute. Legend has it that the Siren of Golfo degli Aranci would sing from the waters to lure sailors – and in the summer, she pops her head out from the ocean twice a day to sing a traditional Sardinian song to visitors.
Eliza was here’stop tips for Sardinia
Hidden in the trees and blending in with the surrounding scenery, Punta Falcone contains nine buildings, each with five to six stylish apartments, providing plenty of space for guests to relax and recharge. The highlight of the resort is its gorgeous swimming pool, located in the centre of the resort and surrounded by lounge chairs for guests to soak up the sun. Guests can also enjoy the private beach, accessible via a sandy path through the garden, and head to the pool bar to enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea.
Price: From £661 per person for 7 nights (price based on two adults sharing one room)
Nestled among centuries-old olive trees and Mediterranean vegetation, Parco Degli Ulivi exudes an air of calm. The patio, where guests can enjoy a lavish breakfast, offers breathtaking views of the surroundings, and for those who prefer a more active experience, bicycles are available to rent to make the journey to the nearby beach. The hotel also features a gorgeous swimming pool, and the delicious aroma wafting from the hotel’s kitchen is sure to tantalise the taste buds.
Price: From £785 per person for 7 nights (price based on two adults sharing one room)
3. Sa Prata
Sa Prata is a small-scale hotel in Sardinia – and a perfect one for snorkelling enthusiasts. The clear and turquoise water is perfect for exploring the colourful fishes, plants, and coral rocks under the sea. After a day of snorkelling, relax at the hotel's gorgeous swimming pool or take a short walk to the nearby beach. The hotel offers fresh breakfast options and guests can enjoy an authentic cappuccino in the cosy town of San Teodoro.
Price: From £590 per person for 7 nights (price based on two adults sharing one room)
A tranquil hotel located in the town of San Pantaleo, Hotel Arathena is in the heart of the stunning Sardinian grasslands, where guests can ride on horses and admire the island’s rock formations, hills, and historic ruins. The hotel staff ensure that the guests are well taken care of as they enjoy a fresh breakfast and relaxing massages.
Price: From £800 per person for 7 nights (price based on two adults sharing one room)
Petra Segreta Resort & Spa is constructed in complete harmony with nature, located in the enchanting environment of Porto Cervo. With warm colours and an elegant aesthetic, the hotel is a popular choice amongst those looking for luxury – evident from the helipad frequently used by members. The hotel offers a relaxing spa experience with a sauna, Turkish bath, and massage services, and guests can indulge in dishes made from home-grown products and enjoy the feeling of being treated like royalty.
Price: From £1017 per person for 7 nights (price based on two adults sharing one room)
6. La Coluccia
Hotel La Coluccia is a modern boutique hotel located in the middle of a nature reserve on the north coast of Sardinia. The hotel boasts an exceptional view of the azure blue sea and Spargi Island in the distance, as well as its own sandy beach. The rooms are stylishly furnished, and the hotel features an excellent wellness centre and a spacious swimming pool. Guests can take a boat to explore the Maddalena Archipelago or enjoy a delicious dinner in the hotel's on-site restaurant, while watching the sun set over the sea.
Price: From £957 per person for 7 nights (price based on two adults sharing one room)
