Molara Pools: How to Get There and What to See
The Molara Pools are one of the most spectacular places in the Tavolara Marine Protected Area. Turquoise water, bright seabeds, and snorkeling among the fish make them one of the most loved stops for those visiting the area by boat. In this guide, we will discover how to get there, what to see, and which are the best spots for swimming and relaxing.
Table of Contents
Where Are the Molara Natural Pools?
The Molara Natural Pools are located along the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, within the Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, in the stretch of sea between the islands of Tavolara and Molara.
They are located about 15 km south of Olbia and just over one nautical mile from the coast, facing the shoreline that stretches from Porto Taverna to Porto San Paolo.
The pools cover a fairly wide area on the western side of Molara Island, characterised by clear seabeds, submerged rocks and sandy patches that create the typical turquoise and emerald colours for which this place is so famous.
Starting from Porto San Paolo, Porto Taverna or Capo Coda Cavallo, they can be reached in just a few minutes by boat. With faster boats, the Molara Natural Pools are also easily reachable from San Teodoro, Olbia and Golfo Aranci.
Look at the map
How to Get to the Molara Natural Pools
The Molara Natural Pools can only be reached by sea. As the island is privately owned and located within the Marine Protected Area, there is no land access or walking paths leading to them. However, there are several ways to visit them, depending on the time you have available and the type of experience you are looking for.
Seasonal Ferries
During the summer season, some of the ferries operating transport services to Tavolara Island include a technical stop in the Molara Pools area. This is usually a short stop that allows passengers to take a quick swim from the stern before continuing the journey to the main landing point on Tavolara. It is a suitable option for those who want a brief glimpse of the area while heading to their main destination.
Guided Tours and Excursions
Organised excursions are one of the most common ways to visit the area. These tours, departing from nearby ports such as Porto San Paolo, usually include the Molara Pools among their stops. The advantage of this option lies in having a skipper who takes care of navigation and anchoring, while also providing insights into the natural and historical context of the Marine Protected Area.
RIB Boat Rentals
For those who prefer greater independence in managing their time and itinerary, it is possible to rent small RIB boats (often without a boating license) from authorised rental centres in the area. This option allows you to decide freely how long to stay at anchor. However, it is important to pay close attention to the Marine Protected Area regulations regarding mooring zones and the prohibition of landing on the island, as well as to constantly monitor both visible and submerged rocks, and the wind and sea conditions.
If you would like to explore the different ways to visit the islands in more detail, we recommend reading the article How to Visit Tavolara and Molara.
What to See at the Molara Natural Pools
The Molara Pools are a wide stretch of sea characterised by very light seabeds, intensely blue waters, and a remarkable presence of fish, making it particularly popular for swimming and snorkelling.
The area extends for about 1 km in length and reaches approximately 400 metres at its widest point. There are several stopping spots, all sharing crystal-clear water but with different characteristics, especially in terms of shelter from the wind, which is a very important factor in Sardinia.
Cala la Casetta (Cala Numero Unu)
Cala la Casetta ,which literally translated is the little house cove, is the most classic spot, also known by local fishermen as Cala Numero Unu. There is a small beach and the remains of a tiny pier, but keep in mind that the island is private and access inland is not allowed. The cove is well sheltered from Scirocco and Ostro winds and features a very small bay framed by granite rocks that slope directly into the sea. A real hidden gem.
Fun fact: in this area it is not uncommon to spot wild goats and, occasionally, even a solitary wild boar searching for food.
Spiaggetta centrale (Small central beach)
Just further west lies a small central beach, without a well-known historical name, characterised by an alternation of bright white sand and posidonia, creating a striking mottled effect.
This area is located just beyond the headland where the coastline shifts from north-west to west-southwest, and is generally better sheltered from Levante and Grecale winds.
Fun fact: this is one of the best spots to see the wild cows left on the island after the old farm was abandoned.
Sa Punta de s'Aie e Cala Numero Duos
The third stop is Sa Punta de s’Aie, together with the nearby Cala Numero Duos. The first is a rocky outcrop surrounded by boulders with unusually rounded shapes, making it particularly scenic.
The second is a small inlet that offers decent shelter from the Maestrale (north-west wind), as long as it is not too strong, and is also excellent with Tramontana. It is one of the few spots in the Molara Pools that provides protection from north-west winds.
Fun fact: Sa Punta de s’Aie means “Point of the Bird of Prey.”
The Best Spot for Snorkeling
As mentioned earlier, the entire area of the Molara Pools is particularly well suited for snorkeling thanks to the exceptional water clarity and the rich presence of marine life.
If I had to recommend the best spots, I would choose Cala la Casetta for the remarkable number of fish and for its seabed, which generally ranges between 6 and 8 metres, making it ideal also for those who enjoy diving a bit deeper and having a more immersive experience.
Another excellent area is Sa Punta de s’Aie, especially scenic thanks to the shape of the الصخور and the beautiful contrast between light sand and posidonia meadows, creating a very interesting environment to explore with a mask and snorkel.
If you want to discover which marine species you are most likely to encounter while swimming, you can learn more in our dedicated article on snorkeling in Tavolara and Molara.
Molara Natural Pools with Children
When visiting the Molara Natural Pools with children, it is worth highlighting the advantages of guided tours, which are often the most convenient and safest option in this case.
Many boats used for excursions — unlike rental RIBs, which usually offer less comfort — are equipped with shaded areas, which are especially useful during the hottest hours of the day.
In addition, guided tours often provide flotation aids, particularly helpful for children and for those who do not feel completely comfortable in the water.
The constant presence of a skipper and supervision during stops generally make the experience more relaxing for families.
If you would like to explore which option is best for you, you can also read our dedicated guide on visiting Tavolara and Molara with children.
When to Visit the Molara Natural Pools
The best time to visit the Molara Pools largely depends on the time of year.
Until mid-June, the area is not particularly crowded, so almost any time of day is suitable for enjoying the sea and snorkeling in a relaxed atmosphere.
During July and August, however, it is recommended to visit either early in the morning or at sunset.
In the morning, many boats arrive later, so getting there early allows you to enjoy clearer waters and a more peaceful environment, even during peak season.
At sunset, only a few boats remain in the area, and the warmer tones of the light create a truly stunning atmosphere. If you would like to experience this moment in a more relaxed way, you can find some options here.
To give you an idea of how busy it can get, during the central hours of the day, from mid-July to early September, you may find up to 400–500 boats anchored in the area.
Practical Tips
- mask and snorkel to fully enjoy the seabed
- water, especially on hot days
- beach towel and a change of swimwear
- sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
In Brief
The Molara Natural Pools are one of the most stunning spots within the Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area. With just a few simple tips and by choosing the right time of day, you can enjoy a truly memorable experience, whether you decide to visit on your own or join a guided tour.
If you would like to explore some of our options for visiting them at their best, you can find them here: boat tours to Tavolara.
Enjoy your holiday and have a great time at sea!
Discover our tours
Popular
Half-Day Trip to Tavolara and Molara
Enjoy a relaxing excursion among the islands, swim with the fish at the Molara Natural Pools, and discover the cliffs of Tavolara all in one exiting tour.
4h
Porto San Paolo
Max 10 Guests
ADULTS from €75
2-3 stops
Shared or Private
All inclusive
Full-Day Trip with Lunch to the Islands
Boat trip with a seafood lunch on board, snorkeling, and landing on Tavolara. Stops at Molara, Cala Girgolu, and the most beautiful bays in the area.
6.5h
Porto San Paolo
Max 10 Guests
ADULTS from €130
4-5 stops
Shared or Private
Super
Sunset Aperitif Cruise
Enjoy the sunset as the sea becomes calm, with only a few boats on the horizon, a glass of chilled wine, refreshing swims, and moments of pure relaxation.
3h
Porto San Paolo
Max 10 Guests
ADULTS from €80
1-2 stops
Shared or Private
Private Tours
Relax
Experiences designed just for you
Choose between our half-day, full-day or sunset aperitif options or customize your experience as you wish. Explore Tavolara, swim at Molara swimming pools. Enjoy the sun as we cruise, because the most beautiful sea is all around you.
from 4 to 8h
Porto San Paolo
Max 10 Pax
Boats from €500
Flexible
Customizable
Written by:
Massimiliano Pedrolini
Skipper owner of Sole Sale Sardinia - Slow Boat Tour Experience
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