Tavolara is historically documented as one of the world's smallest kingdoms, ruled by the Bertoleoni family since the 19th century.
The seabed features the 'Secca del Papa', a renowned diving site known for its vertical walls covered in yellow gorgonians.
The island of Tavolara is primarily composed of Mesozoic limestone and dolomite.
Posidonia oceanica meadows within the reserve act as vital oxygenators and carbon sinks for the Mediterranean.
The reserve protects over 150 species of fish, including groupers that are often found in the shallower rock crevices.
Part of the reserve includes the island of Molara, which features natural granite pools known as the 'Piscine di Molara'.
The area is a recognized Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI).
Local regulations prohibit the use of personal jet skis within the entirety of the protected zone.
Ancient Roman and Punic shipwrecks have been identified within the marine park's boundaries.
The limestone cliffs of the island serve as a natural fortress that has been inaccessible to human development for decades.
The Area Marina Protetta di Tavolara Punta Coda Cavallo is a protected marine reserve spanning 15,000 hectares along the northeast coast of Sardinia. It encompasses the limestone massif of Tavolara island, which rises 565 meters directly from the sea. The reserve is divided into three zones (A, B, and C) with varying degrees of restricted access to protect biodiversity. Zone A, surrounding the island of Tavolara, is a no-take reserve where swimming, diving, and boat traffic are strictly prohibited to ensure ecosystem recovery. The remaining zones permit regulated diving, snorkeling, and boat excursions to view seagrass meadows of Posidonia oceanica. The seafloor hosts extensive coral formations and is home to the rare Pinna nobilis mollusk. Archaeological remains, including shipwrecks, are scattered across the seabed within the protected boundaries. The area serves as a critical nesting site for Mediterranean shags and Cory's shearwaters.
The view of Tavolara island from the Coda Cavallo peninsula beaches.
Book boat excursions exclusively through authorized operators to ensure compliance with marine park regulations.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize chemical impact on the Posidonia meadows and marine life.
Check the official marine park zoning map before planning water activities to avoid entering the restricted Zone A.
Attempting to dock or moor in Zone A (the no-take area) which incurs heavy fines.
Access to specific zones is highly seasonal; diving and boat transit regulations tighten significantly during peak summer months.
Do not anchor on Posidonia beds; follow 'look but don't touch' protocols for all marine life; strictly obey maritime boundaries.
