A curious name, a clear rocky boundary
Lo Squalo lies on Olbia’s northern shoreline, next to Pittulongu. A small rocky tongue separates the two beaches, making it the clearest landmark for working out which one you have reached. Lo Squalo’s sand is very fine and pale grey. If this is the beach you are looking for, aim for its own access point rather than a general pin for Pittulongu.
Pittulongu is broader and shaped like a long crescent; Lo Squalo is a separate stretch with beach concessions listed by the municipality. That comparison helps with choosing where to stop, but cannot predict crowd levels on a particular day. On arrival, look for the access and rocky tongue before choosing a place to meet or spread out your towels.
Listed services and activities to confirm
The municipal tourism page lists beach concessions, bars and restaurants, toilets, lifeguard service, waste collection, umbrella and sunbed hire, canoes, SUP boards and pedal boats, plus windsurfing and sailing. That is a broad set of facilities for a beach, but it does not mean every activity operates every day or along the whole shore. Contact the provider if you want to hire equipment or join a lesson.
The listing also mentions facilitated access and free parking. These notes help you prepare, but do not describe every surface, the distance to your preferred spot or how many spaces will be free when you arrive. If you need a particular route or assistance, ask the municipality or operator for current details. Bring water and sun protection even if you plan to use the nearby bar.
The journey from Olbia
The municipal page describes the approach from the SP82 and lists a public-transport stop called Spiaggia Lo Squalo. Do not rely on a bus number or time copied from an older tourism page: check with the operator which departures serve the stop on your date and how to get back. A nearby stop can reduce the walk you need to plan, but does not remove the need to check the timetable.
By car, follow signs to the beach and check where parking is permitted. “Free parking” describes the type listed, not a promise that a space will be available on arrival. Allow extra time at busy periods and do not leave a car on the rocky tongue, private access or anywhere that blocks traffic.
Choosing between the beach and nearby shore
Lo Squalo may suit visitors looking for fine sand, listed facilities and a distinct beach beside Pittulongu. The municipality lists snorkelling and water activities, but the rocky tongue does not guarantee a seabed suitable for every swimmer. Check waves, visibility and boat traffic; follow marked lanes and choose an entry point that fits conditions.
Before leaving, confirm which concessions and activities are operating, then decide whether Lo Squalo is enough or whether you want to explore the coast. Neighbouring Pittulongu is broader; Mare e Rocce has pale sand and rocks showing through the water. They are not identical substitutes: compare size, rocks and access. Keep an alternative in mind if the sea or services do not fit your plan.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lo Squalo part of Pittulongu?
It is a distinct beach next to Pittulongu, separated from it by a small rocky tongue on Olbia’s northern coast.
What activities are available?
The municipal listing includes windsurfing, snorkelling, canoes, SUP and pedal boats. Check availability with providers and assess current sea conditions.