Italy's Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) is one of the most beloved and appreciated tourist destinations in Sardinia and all of Italy. The reason is simple: here, you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and the sea is crystal clear. Moreover, in the various towns along the coast, there are plenty of things to do and see, with numerous events and festivals organised every day. But have you ever wondered where the name "Emerald Coast" came from? We'll give you a clue - it has nothing to do with the colour of the sea.
Where does the name "Costa Smeralda" come from?
It would certainly be logical to think that the name Costa Smeralda refers to its crystal-clear waters that have an emerald tinge. However, the origin of the name is quite different. It is said to come from an idea by Giuseppe Mentasti, the owner of Acqua San Pellegrino and the island of Mortorio.
Together with architect Luigi Vietti, Mentasti chose the name Costa Smeralda because his daughter was named Esmeralda. Since the name might have seemed less suitable for an Italian tourist destination, they simply decided to drop the "e." Costa Smeralda, and in addition to being a location, it is also a registered trademark dating back to 1963.
The history of Italy's Costa Smeralda
The history of Italy's Costa Smeralda is intrinsically linked to the entrepreneurial vision and the desire to develop this area of Gallura as a tourist destination. In the 1960s, Prince Karim Aga Khan was enchanted by the natural beauty of this part of Sardinia and decided to transform it into a luxurious holiday retreat.
The contribution of architect Luigi Vietti and other world-renowned professionals was crucial in bringing the prince’s vision to life. Vietti designed numerous structures that reflected elegance and luxury while maintaining a strong connection to local style and materials, seamlessly integrating the buildings into the surrounding natural landscape.
The construction or reopening of existing infrastructure was also promoted, such as the Olbia airport, where planes from the airline Alisarda, founded by the prince himself, landed.
Where does the Costa Smeralda begin and end?
The area known as the Costa Smeralda primarily extends within the boundaries of the municipality of Arzachena and, to a lesser extent, also within the municipality of Olbia. In total, the Costa Smeralda consortium manages about 3,114 hectares, starting from Pitrizza and Capo Ferro, near the Bocche di Bonifacio, and ending at the beach of Rena Bianca. The remaining adjacent coastal area is more accurately referred to as Gallura. Among the included locations is the famous Porto Cervo, an undisputed symbol of the region.
What to do on the Costa Smeralda
The Costa Smeralda, with its extraordinary natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, offers a wide range of activities and sights both by day and by night.
During the day, the Costa Smeralda is the ideal place for sea lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The beaches, among the most beautiful in the world, invite visitors to relax under the sun or dive into the turquoise waters for swimming or snorkelling. For sports enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities to have a go at sailing, windsurfing, or kite-surfing.
When the sun sets, Costa Smeralda transforms into a lively entertainment hub. Porto Cervo, in particular, is renowned for its exclusive clubs and nightspots where you can dance until dawn. High-end restaurants offer exquisite local and international specialities, while beach bars provide the perfect setting to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset.
Living on the Costa Smeralda
Living on Italy's Costa Smeralda means immersing oneself in an environment of unparalleled luxury and natural beauty. One of the main advantages is undoubtedly the quality of life. The mild climate throughout the year, the stunning beaches, clean waters, and unspoilt nature provide an ideal setting for those seeking tranquillity and well-being. Additionally, Costa Smeralda is renowned for its safety and the high quality of services offered, from healthcare to sports and recreational facilities.
The presence of an international and cosmopolitan community is another strong point. Finally, investing in property on the Costa Smeralda can also prove to be a financially advantageous choice, thanks to the prestige of the local real estate market and the ongoing international interest in this luxurious tourist destination.
Cherry blossoms in Italy 2025: the best places to visit
Cherry blossoms, known as "fiori di ciliegio" in Italian, are admired for their beauty and symbolism in Italy. While Italy may not be as famous for its cherry blossoms as countries like Japan, there are still several regions where these delicate flowers bloom, offering stunning displays during the springtime.
The 3 best natural spas in Valle d'Aosta, Italy
Valle d'Aosta in Italy is one of the most captivating destinations for those seeking a rejuvenating spa experience. Surrounded by natural beauty and thermal springs, the region encircled by the Alps offers more than one option for those looking to relax and recharge. Discover some of the best and most famous spas in Valle d'Aosta, where you can soak in a hot bath while touching the snow with your hands.
Ideas for renovating your home in Italy: tips and inspirations for every need
Buying a home in Italy and renovating it to suit your family's needs is a decision that should never be taken lightly. It’s all too easy to go from feeling overwhelmed to achieving complete satisfaction. This is because navigating the right approach to managing the renovation process without losing your sanity can be challenging. In this guide, we’ll offer simple ideas for renovating your home, breaking down each step you can take to turn your house into the home of your dreams.
Venice Carnival 2025: all the traditions and the full programme
The Venice Carnival is one of the most iconic and renowned events in the world. With its traditional masks, lavish costumes, and a unique atmosphere that captivates the entire city, it is one of the most beautiful carnival celebrations in the world. If you want to take part this year, here’s everything you need to know about the Venice Carnival 2025 and how to plan your visit.
Carnival in Italy 2025: the best and most famous places to celebrate
Carnival in Italy is a vibrant and lively celebration held in the weeks leading up to Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and reflection before Easter. As its dates are determined by the lunar calendar, Carnival varies each year but typically falls in February or March. When is Carnival in Italy in 2025? This year Carnival is Italy will take place during the last 2 weeks of February and in some cases in March as well.
Valentine's Day in Italy, Spain and Portugal: history and traditions
The countdown is on for Valentine's day 2025, celebrated all over the world on 14th February, and we're getting in the mood for the most romantic day of the year.
The Italian cities with the worst air quality according to Legambiente
The year 2030 is fast approaching, marking a significant shift in environmental sustainability within EU member states. Yet, according to Legambiente, there is still much to be done in Italy. The Mal'Aria 2025 report lists the worst Italian cities for air quality, identifying 25 cities that exceeded the legal limits for PM10 over the past 12 months. Here’s the list.