The Capo Caccia – Isola Piana Marine Protected Area (MPA) is one of the most fascinating natural gems of northwestern Sardinia. Located within the territory of Alghero, this protected area safeguards a marine and coastal ecosystem of extraordinary beauty and biological importance.
 If you’re planning a boat excursion or any other activity in the area, it is essential to understand the rules and key features of the MPA to enjoy a responsible and sustainable experience.

Where is the Capo Caccia – Isola Piana Marine Protected Area?

The Capo Caccia – Isola Piana MPA is located in northwestern Sardinia, within the municipality of Alghero, a renowned tourist destination known for its Catalan heritage, pristine beaches, and rich natural environment.

The protected area stretches along a spectacular and diverse section of coastline, from Punta delle Gessiere in the north to Capo Galera in the south. It includes some of the most iconic spots along the Alghero coast, such as the white cliffs of Capo Caccia, the Punta Giglio area, Isola Piana, and the famous Neptune’s Caves (Grotte di Nettuno) – one of Sardinia’s most visited natural attractions.

The entire zone features ecologically valuable marine and terrestrial environments, including seabeds rich in biodiversity, extensive Posidonia oceanica meadows, submerged and semi-submerged caves, and a wide variety of protected marine flora and fauna.
 This stretch of coastline offers breathtaking landscapes with towering limestone cliffs overlooking the sea, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters that attract nature lovers, divers, boaters, and landscape photographers year after year.

What You Can Do in the Capo Caccia – Isola Piana MPA

Many activities are allowed within the Marine Protected Area, but it’s important to respect the zoning system (A, B, and C), each with specific regulations:

• 🟥 Zone A – Integral Reserve: access prohibited; no activities are allowed except for authorized scientific or management purposes.
  
  
• 🟦 Zone B – General Reserve: permitted activities include rowing, sailing, or electric motor navigation, swimming, and certain types of authorized guided diving.
  
  
• 🟨 Zone C – Partial Reserve: navigation, swimming, regulated fishing, and supervised scuba diving are permitted according to local rules.
  
  

👉 Always consult the zone map and permit requirements before entering the area.