Sardinia packing list for families
Sardinia is all about the water, from shallow sandy beaches to boat days in the La Maddalena islands. Packing for strong sun, wind, and plenty of swimming makes it an easy beach trip with kids.
Photo by Massimo Virgilio on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Sardinia
- A boat day around the La Maddalena islands is the highlight for most families. Book a private boat if you can, so you set the pace for naps and swims.
- Taking sand, shells, or pebbles off Sardinian beaches is illegal and can mean a fine, so remind kids before they fill their pockets. Some popular beaches, like La Pelosa, limit summer visitors and ask for a mat under your towel.
- The mistral wind can blow for a few days at a time, so pick a base where you can switch to a sheltered beach. A pop-up sun tent is worth packing for little ones.
Seeing more of Italy on this trip? Start with the Italy packing list.
What to wear in Sardinia with kids
Sardinia is all about the water, with turquoise coves, boat days, and relaxed seaside dinners. The Costa Smeralda dresses up at night, but days are swimsuits and cover-ups. Wind can pick up, so a light layer helps on boats.
For the grown-ups
- Linen cover-up, beach to lunch
- Linen shirt, for breezy evenings
- Sandals that handle stairs, coves often mean steep paths
For the kids
- UPF swimsuits, long beach days
- Water shoes, rocky coves
- Light hoodie, windy boat rides
Don't forget
- Hyperlite kids' life jacket, for boat days
- Sun hats, strong Mediterranean sun
- Dry bag, keeps phones dry on boats
Want my favorite pieces in one place? Shop my Beach & Pool Week or Europe with Kids edit on ShopMy.
Sardinia
Every item links to what Kristina would buy. Tap Add to bag on what you're missing, then check out on Amazon in one tap.
Carry-on18
Clothing13
Shoes3
Beach & pool15
Little ones13
Little things20
Health & toiletries20
Documents & tech17
Island whites
White, sand, sea glass, coral
For photos
- Everyone in white and one pop of coral
- Shoot at golden hour on the sand
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Sardinia weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 58°F 14°C | Mild and quiet, with windy days | |
| February | 59°F 15°C | Mild and quiet, with windy days | Sa Sartiglia horse festival in Oristano at Carnival |
| March | 62°F 17°C | Warm spring, sea still cool | |
| April | 66°F 19°C | Warm spring, sea still cool | |
| May | 73°F 23°C | Warm spring, sea still cool | Festa di Sant'Efisio procession in Cagliari on May 1 Cavalcata Sarda costume parade in Sassari in May |
| June | 81°F 27°C | Hot, dry, and very sunny | Boat season around La Maddalena |
| July | 87°F 31°C | Hot, dry, and very sunny | Boat season around La Maddalena |
| August | 88°F 31°C | Hot, dry, and very sunny | Boat season around La Maddalena |
| September | 82°F 28°C | Hot, dry, and very sunny | Boat season around La Maddalena Warm water and quieter beaches after the August rush |
| October | 75°F 24°C | Warm sea into October, rain returns in November | Warm water and quieter beaches after the August rush |
| November | 66°F 19°C | Warm sea into October, rain returns in November | |
| December | 60°F 16°C | Mild and quiet, with windy days |
Sardinia with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Sardinia with kids?
The best time is Jun, Sep. Warm sea into October, rain returns in November
What's the weather like in Sardinia?
Typical daytime highs range from about 58°F (14°C) in January to about 88°F (31°C) in August. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Sardinia?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Sardinia?
Type L, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Sardinia with kids?
A boat day around the La Maddalena islands is the highlight for most families. Book a private boat if you can, so you set the pace for naps and swims.
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Kristina's edits for this trip
Hand-picked collections to shop alongside this list, so you're not hunting for each piece.
Beach & Pool Week
Swim, sun, and pool-day pieces for a beach week with kids.
Shop the edit 5 picksLuggage
The bags I'd actually buy for a family trip.
Shop the edit 7 picksThe Luxury Travel Edit
What I'd pack for a five-star stay.
Shop the editShopping through these links may earn Linen & Luggage a small commission at no extra cost to you. How that works.
I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.