Opened in 2014, Hotel Nautilus has a quiet atmosphere and a great beachfront location in Poetto, making it ideal for travelers (mostly couples) who want to get away from the hubbub of Cagliari. The hotel is a small, white and cream building with nautical-themed modern interiors. The grounds aren’t expansive but still charming with green yards, a few trees, and vines creeping along the walls. Lovely white couches and chairs are sprinkled among the lawn areas, inviting guests to enjoy breakfast in the mornings. Inside, the lobby is bright but small with a white color scheme and small nautical hints in sea-themed paintings and bowls filled with red coral and seashells.

Hotel Nautilus is in Poetto, across the street from a lovely beach. The property is surrounded by residential homes, though there are a good number of restaurants within a five-minute walk. There’s not much within walking distance beyond a few attractions like Torre del Poetto, historic ruins, about a 17-minute walk from the hotel. It’s best to have a car or be willing to take the bus (the closest stop is a three-minute walk away). Torre di Calamosca is a nine-minute drive away, while Castle of San Michele takes 20 minutes to reach by car.  It takes 15 minutes by car to reach Cagliari’s city center. The Cagliari Elmas Airport is a 20-minute drive away.

All 17 rooms here are outfitted with a fresh nautical decor that pays tribute to the oceanfront location. The navy and white color scheme contrasts beautifully with the wooden floors. Sea-themed paintings add an extra bit of charm to the spaces, as do circular windows (in some rooms) that bear resemblance to portholes on ships. One of the best aspects of the rooms are the balconies with either garden views or beach views. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and flat-screen Sky TVs. All rooms lack coffee- and tea-making facilities. The white bathrooms are simple and a little tight on space. They’re equipped with showers, toiletries, hairdryers, and bidets.

A beachfront location is certainly the highlight at Hotel Nautilus. The hotel provides guests with free umbrellas and loungers to use at the beach. However, beach towels cost a small fee to use during a stay. There's a free breakfast buffet of pastries, cereals, fruit, cold cuts, cheese, and eggs. The meal is served in a small indoor area, though most guests have their breakfast on the charming garden patio or in the garden. Other free perks include Wi-Fi, nearby public parking, and bikes to borrow.