September is ideal for combining several versions of Sardinia in one trip. The sea remains warm, but temperatures are usually better for driving, walking and visiting inland towns.
Alghero and the Riviera del Corallo combine a historic city with beaches and Porto Conte. Stintino and north-west Sardinia are strong choices for clear water and dramatic coastline. Gallura and the Costa Smeralda offer beaches, granite landscapes and refined resorts.
South and central Sardinia
Cagliari and the south work well for travelers who want city life, Poetto and day trips. Villasimius and the south-east provide multiple beaches and coves. Sinis and the Oristano area combine archaeology, wetlands and a wilder coast. Barbagia is the choice for villages, food and inland traditions as autumn events begin.
How to choose
Wind can affect beach conditions, so having more than one coastal option is useful. If you only have a week, avoid trying to cover all seven areas; choose two or three that fit naturally together.
September’s real advantage is flexibility: the island is still summery enough for the sea, but cool and calm enough to explore well beyond it.
