30 Best Beaches In Sardinia, Picked By A Local

Writing a post on the best beaches in Sardinia is no easy task. From long, sandy beaches to small hidden coves, there’s something for anyone.

Inevitably, any selection of the best Sardinia beaches will reflect personal taste. It certainly is very much the case here. What you are about to read is my very personal selection of the beaches of Sardinia that I love the most, the ones that I go to all the time, and where I know literally each grain of sand.

The good news is that literally all Sardinia beaches are gorgeous. Visit whichever coast on the island and you will find clear waters, beautiful (and sometimes unique) sand, snorkeling opportunities.

Most of the best beaches in Sardinia are free to access. Some are protected and you will have to pay a small fee (and/or make reservations) to access them. Don’t worry, I will explain which ones.

I will start this post by sharing a Sardinia beaches map. Then, continue reading to discover the best beaches in Sardinia. If you need more inspiration on Sardinia beaches (and other places to visit in Sardinia), make sure to visit my Instagram profile.

Best Beaches In Sardinia Map

Wondering “where are the best beaches in Sardinia?” – I have created a best beaches in Sardinia map for you that you can see below.

Let me stress once again that if you wish to see Sardinia beaches, you really need to hire a car for your Sardinia trip. Sardinia is a very big island, and public transportation is somewhat lacking. While you can find buses that connect most cities and towns on the island, very few of them will take you to the beach.

How to use this best beaches in Sardinia map: This best beaches in Sardinia map points out the beaches you should consider visiting. You can use your computer mouse on desktop or laptop, or your fingers on your smartphone, to enlarge it. When you click on the star next to the title in this Sardinia beaches map, it will save into your Google Maps account. You can view the saved map on your smartphone or computer by clicking on “Your saved maps” in your Google Maps. You can also view it in a larger screen by clicking on “View larger map” in the top right corner.

I’d also like to add once again that there are many more beaches in Sardinia that are worth visiting other than those mentioned in this post – this list could go on forever! Just make sure you check the selection on this post before deciding where to go!

The Best Beaches In Sardinia

Oasi di Biderosa – Orosei

The beaches of Oasi of Biderosa are definitely among the best beaches in Sardinia. This park, which has a pond and five amazing coves, is located on the east coast of Sardinia, in the Gulf of Orosei.

The reserve is home to natural granite and centuries-old trees such as junipers, pines, holm oaks grow. A trail winds through the pine forest and runs along the lagoon where you can see migratory birds and then reaches the summit of Mount Urcatu, for breathtaking views of the coast.

More importantly, the beaches of Oasi Biderosa all have beautiful, white and soft sand and crystal clear emerald sea. Each beach at Oasi Bideros is roughly one-kilometer (0.6 miles) long.

The water is shallow, so this is one of the best beaches in Sardinia for families.

Another thing you will love is that it’s never crowded. Indeed, this is a protected reserve where only a limited number of visitors are allowed.

Only one of the coves has a kiosk where you can get food, rent umbrellas and beach chairs – so you will have to bring your own.

You can reserve your spot at Oasi Biderosa directly on the official website.

My post A Short Guide To Oasi Biderosa has more detailed information on the park, activities and how to visit.

Cala Goloritzè – Baunei

Cala Goloritzè has to be mentioned among the best beaches in Sardinia. This small cove on the eastern coast of the island is one of my favorite places in Sardinia, and I never tire to go. This is a small dreamy corner where sea and mountains meet harmoniously creating something unique and spectacular.

Dominated by the grandiose and imposing limestone peak of Mount Caroddi, with its height of 143 meters (469 feet), this beach is so peculiar thanks to the white pebbles, the crystal clear turquoise sea, marble rocks and a natural arch not far from the shore.

The cove was created in 1962 when a landslide detached from the sandstone wall. It has been awarded with the prestigious title of Italian National Monument in 1995.

The sea here is of a surreal transparency. Even when it’s 20 meters (65.6 feet) deep you can still see the bottom.

Cala Goloritzé is ideal for the most daring swimmers. The water here is almost immediately deep and it is actually quite cold compared to other Sardinia beaches, because of the numerous currents of cold water coming from a nearby river.

Climbing the arch (to then jump in the water) is no longer permitted. I have done it twice in the past (when it was still allowed) and it’s frankly scary and quite dangerous (yes, I was a daredevil) so don’t try to do it.

However, the pinnacle can be climbed and it is home to one of the best climbing routes in Sardinia – the he ‘symphony of windmills’, opened by Maurizio Zanolla ‘Manolo’ and Alessandro Gogna.

Cala Goloritzé is a protected beach and can only be accessed via a hike that departs from Su Porteddu parking lot, in the Golgo Plateau above the small town of Baunei. You need to book your visit (and pay a small fee) 72 hours in advance via the Heart of Sardinia website.

The hike is 3.5 km one way (around 2.2 miles), and almost entirely downhill on the way to the beach, and a steep uphill along the same trail on the way back. You will need good hiking shoes.

There is nothing in terms of services at the beach – just a local ranger that makes sure all visitors have a ticket and keeps an eye on safety. You will need to carry whatever you need for your day, and especially a lot of water if you intend to hike in the summer months, when it is very hot.

If you don’t want to hike, you can see (but not really spend time at) Cala Goloritzé on boat tours. However keep in mind that boats can only dock about 300 meters (almost 1,000 feet) from the shore and there are boundary buoys.

There are many boat tours that depart daily from Santa Maria Navarrese, Arbatax or Cala Gonone to visit the beaches of the Gulf of Orosei. The larger boats won’t normally stop at Cala Goloritzé so I recommend a small zodiac tour such as this one departing from Cala Gonone for a chance to see this magnificent beach.

For more detailed information on how to get to this magnificent beach, read my post A Complete Guide To Cala Goloritze.

Cala Mariolu – Baunei (one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia)

Known locally as Is Pulige de Nie – literally “the snow flakes” – Cala Mariolu is a beautifully isolated beach in the Gulf of Orosei. Instead of sand, here you will find tiny white pebbles. Water is incredibly clear, but also almost immediately deep.

Nevertheless, it’s a great place for families with children as the beach is fairly sheltered and the currents are minimal.

The beach is divided in two coves – my favorite one is the northern one, where there’s a large rock formation from where many enjoy jumping in the water.

Located at the beach there is a small kiosk where you can get some very basic food and drinks – but this is all there is in terms of services.

Cala Mariolu is a protected beach, and the number of people that can be there at once is capped: boats have a schedule that lets them know when to get to the beach so that the limit is respected.

Don’t let the photo above fool you. While Cala Mariolu certainly is one of the best beaches in Sardinia, the chances of finding it empty if you visit in the summer season are very slim. That photo was taken at 8:00 am, before the crowds of tourists arrived – and they normally arrive as early as 9:00 am.

The only way of getting to Cala Mariolu is via a really strenuous hike (not suitable for families) that also involves some abseiling. It departs from the already mentioned Golgo Plateau.

Most people choose to visit on boat trips departing from Arbatax, Santa Maria Navarrese or Cala Gonone. Most visitors get to spend about one hour at the beach.

This Zodiac Tour in the Gulf of Orosei is one of the best beach hopping tours in the area and also stops in Cala Mariolu.

My post How To Visit Cala Mariolu shares more information to help you plan your visit.

Cala Luna – Dorgali

Cala Luna, one of the beaches of the Gulf of Orosei, has appeared in many movies filmed in Sardinia, because it is – quite simply – paradisiac. This is one of the most acclaimed Sardinia beaches, and for very good reasons.

Measuring just 700 meters (0.4 miles), Cala Luna is framed by limestone cliffs and surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation and a forest of oleander trees. The beach is located at the mouth of the Rio Illune, which runs along the Codula di Luna canyon.

Here’s you’ll find golden sand mixed with small pebbles, that give the water (which is almost immediately deep) a truly unique color. Located on the beach there also are six large caves where you can go in search of shade – though I shall warn you, they are fairly humid.

You can get to Cala Luna by boat – the best starting point is Cala Gonone, but some tours that depart from Santa Maria Navarrese also make a stop there.

This Zodiac Tour in the Gulf of Orosei that departs from Cala Gonone makes a stop in Cala Luna too.

The only other way to get to Cala Luna is on a hike that departs from Cala Fuili, the last beach you can reach by car from Cala Gonone. It’s a 12 km (7.4 miles) hike (there and back) that can be quite challenging in parts, especially in the heat of the summer.

Cala Luna is the only beach of the Gulf of Orosei that is equipped with a place where you can rent sun beds, kayaks and paddle boats. A small eatery is located in the oleander forest behind the beach.

For more information on how to visit, head over to my post The Ultimate Guide To Cala Luna, where you’ll find more detailed information about the hiking trail.

Cala Coticcio – Caprera

I only visited Cala Coticcio for the first time two summers ago and I immediately fell in love with it. This tiny cove in Caprera island, in the Maddalena Archipelago is one of the most famous Sardinia beaches, and for very good reasons!

Nestled between massive granite rocks and surrounded by thick Mediterranean bush, Cala Coticcio has the clearest waters you can imagine, and its sand is as white as snow. It’s a fantastic spot for snorkeling, too.

Water here is quite shallow and you will have to swim far out for something deeper, but the rock formations on its sides and the fact that fishing is prohibited in the entire archipelago make it a great place to spot marine life – which is obviously protected.

This is probably the most protected beach in Sardinia and there are some strict regulations to follow: you can’t lay a towel (bring a straw mat) and you can’t place an umbrella (but there’s some shade under the juniper trees.

You can only visit on guided group hikes of no more than 20 people. A total of 4 groups can visit the beach daily. The hike takes about one hour each way, and you get to spend around 3 hours at the beach.

Only accredited guides of the Maddalena National Park are allowed to take groups there. You can find a guide on the website of the national park – my personal recommendation is Eleonora Amoroso.

My post How To Hike To Cala Coticcio shares more detailed information about the hike and how to book your guide.

Cala Napoletana – Caprera

In the north of the island of Caprera, in the Maddalena Archipelago, you can find Cala Napoletana, a true paradise of white sand, clear waters and majestic Mediterranean vegetation with some smooth amber-colored rocks, which make the view very suggestive.

Cala Napoletana consists of two tiny coves, and the shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It’s nicely sheltered from winds coming from north-east and south-east, but it’s exposed to the mistral.

The beach never gets too crowded, as you can only get there via a hike that departs from the Arbuticci parking lot (where you can find a nice kiosk that makes delicious sandwiches) in Caprera. The trail is easy to follow, but you will need hiking shoes. Hiking back can be quite challenging after having spent a day in the sun.

There are no services here, so you need to bring food, water and a beach umbrella for shade.

Boat tours of Maddalena Archipelago don’t really stop at this beach – so if you prefer to get there by boat you will need to rent one.

My post A Useful Guide To Cala Napoletana shares more detailed information on visiting this gorgeous cove.

Cala Brandinchi – San Teodoro

Cala Brandinchi is located north of San Teodoro and it is the one of most famous north Sardinia beaches. The shore is framed by a pine forest, and there are small sand dunes, where juniper bushes and wild lilies grow.

Behind the beach there’s a lagoon where you can spot pink flamingos, herons and black-winged stilts – though if you visit in the summer you won’t see any as the pond usually dries up.

The shallow waters and the shore at Cala Brandinchi make it one of the best beaches in Sardinia for families. I also recommend getting your own floating device to just soak in the water, and your snorkeling gear to check what lies beneath the surface.

One thing you will love about Cala Brandinchi is the view of Tavolara Island on the background, a grandiose limestone massif coming out of the sea.

The beach is equipped with kiosks, picnic tables under the pine forest, chemical toilets and two spots where you can rent umbrellas with sunbeds.

Cala Brandinchi is a protected beach, so the number of visitors allowed daily is capped. You will have to book your visit via the San Teodoro App. Even then, it’s a rather small beach and it can feel crowded. Plan to arrive there very early to find a good spot to stay.

For more guidance, my post How To Visit Cala Brandinchi shares tips on getting to this beach, finding a spot and how to make reservations for sunbeds and umbrellas.

Spiaggia del Principe – Arzachena

Spiaggia del Principe is considered the brightest pearl of northern Sardinia, and definitely one of the best beaches in Sardinia (not to mention, this is thought to be one of the 20 most beautiful beaches in the world).

Set in a fairy tale location, it is so magnificent that Karim Aga Khan IV, an Arab prince and Muslim imam, fell in love with it at first sight when he landed by chance in Porto Cervo in the 1960s.

Spiaggia del Principe became his favorite beach – that’s how the beach got its name. Locals also call it Portu Li Coggi.

The beach is surrounded by hills covered in Mediterranean vegetation. Here, the sand is white and light pink, and there’s also a pink granite promontory. Water is of a deep emerald color. The color and transparency of the sea is due to the particular sand and granite seabed.

The beach is divided into two parts by a group of rocks that emerge on the shoreline.

Due to its beauty this beach gets very crowded during the summer months. Out of season it can be a paradise for a few guests. Anyway, if you are planning to come to Sardinia in July or August, my advice is to plan to be there very early in the morning.

Capriccioli – Arzachena

This is my favorite of all Gallura beaches, not far from the lovely Arzachena, the main town of the area. I have fond memories of visiting with my parents when I was a child, and have been many more times since then and I am always in awe of its beauty.

Capriccioli is made of two small coves – one faces east, the other faces west. Both have incredibly fine, white sand and shallow emerald waters that are fun to swim and snorkel. The beach is backed by a forest of pines and surrounded by beautiful rock formations.

The beach is equipped with a kiosk where you can also rent umbrellas and sunbeds. You will find a local café that serves food and drinks close to the roundabout that leads to the parking lot, and by the trail that takes you to the beach.

It can get very crowded in the summer months so plan to arrive early to find a spot.

My post A Useful Guide To Capriccioli shares more tips to make the most of this gorgeous cove.

Spiaggia di Li Cossi – Trinità d’Agultu

Spiaggia Li Cossi is one of best beaches in Sardinia that are located on the North coast, in the area known as Costa Paradiso, a prime holiday destination near Trinità d’Agultu and Vignola.

The beach owes its name to the millenary flow of the Rio Li Cossi which forms a small pond behind it. Located in a bay enclosed between pink granite rocks, this tiny cove is sheltered from the wind and is a perfect place to relax even on windy days.

The golden sand with small pebbles plunges into a multicolored sea, whose tones vary from the emerald green to the blue in contrast to the golden and pink outcropping rocks. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming even for children. Snorkeling is best a little further from the shore.

You will also find a kiosk where you can rent your beach equipment, canoes, SUPs, and pedal boats.

Li Cossi is surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. There’s a 0.5 km (around 0.3 miles) trail to follow to get to the beach from the parking lot, with minimal ascent – just keep this in mind if you decide to carry lots of stuff! On the bright side, the views of the beach as you approach it from the trail are stunning.

If you like hiking, there’s a further trail that connects Li Cossi to Li Tinnari, passing through the beautiful coves of Porto Leccio.

The incredible beauty of Li Cossi means it gets quite crowded during the peak summer months, so plan to get there early. It’s also good to know that Li Cossi is a fantastic sunset spot too!

Spiaggia La Pelosa – Stintino

No post about the best beaches in Sardinia would ever be complete without including La Pelosa, in the lovely small town of Stintino. It’s a memorable beach, indeed! I visit almost every summer, and every time I am in awe of the clear waters and end up spending hours swimming.

In the Gulf of Asinara, in the extreme north-western tip of the island, this is known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s a natural paradise where fine sand and shallow waters surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and junipers, are the perfect setting for a relaxing day.

Thanks to a natural barrier created by Capo Falcone, and the Piana and Asinara Islands, La Pelosa is sheltered from the wind. This, and the very shallow water, make it one of the best beaches in Sardinia for families.

Facing the sea there is an Aragonese tower built in 1578 to defend the coast. That’s the symbol of La Pelosa. You can easily reach it on foot and a short swim, after crossing another delightful little cove, La Pelosetta.

La Pelosa is one of the protected beaches of Sardinia: no more than 1,500 visitors per day can access the beach between June and September. You will have to book your visit well in advance via the Spiaggia La Pelosa website.

Strict regulations apply at this beach: you can only smoke in designated areas; you need to have a straw mat and not lay your towel directly on the sand; you must rinse your feet when leaving the beach. Rangers patrol the beach to make sure visitors respect the rules.

The beach is equipped with a couple of places where you can rent umbrellas and beach chairs. Located on the street overlooking the beach there are various cafés where you can get food and drinks.

Head over to my post A Guide To La Pelosa for more information on how to visit this beach and the rules to follow.

Cala Sabina – Asinara

On the heavenly island of Asinara, in the north-west of Sardinia and facing La Pelosa Beach, you can find Cala Sabina, a treasure among the other amazing beaches in this national park.

Framed by a granite promontory and immersed in the lush Mediterranean vegetation with bushes of tamarisk, this beach is characterized by an impalpable white sand, crystal clear waters of stunning colors, which vary between emerald, turquoise and blue with a sandy seabed.

The water is so clear that if feels like swimming in a dreamy natural pool – needless to say, it is a great spot for snorkeling.

Nobody other than the park rangers live in Asinara, and there are just two places to stay for tourists, with limited availability. This means that Cala Sabina is never crowded, and after 5:00 pm, when day trippers have to leave, you will likely have the beach to yourself.

There are no services on the beach, so bring whatever you may need for the day.

Plan to spend at least one night in Asinara to appreciate everything the island has to offer. My post A Local Guide To Asinara Island shares more information that will help you plan your visit.

Cala dell’Argentiera – Sassari

Cala dell’Argentiera is one of the most unique beaches in Sardinia. It’s located on the north-west coast of Sardinia and immersed in a unique setting of industrial archaeology, formed by a mining village and the mining plants of Argentiera, steep dark cliffs overhanging the crystal clear emerald sea.

The beach takes its name from the mining of silver (“argento” in Italian). Argentiera was a flourishing village and the main mining district in northern Sardinia. Mining lasted exactly one century from 1867.

Today this ghost village is an interesting open-air museum, and only few families of farmers live in the village all year round.

Cala dell’Argentiera consists of two small coves separated by a small cliff in the middle. Both have a sandy shore with grey-ish and light amber, medium grain, sand with small polychrome pebbles.

The bay is protected by a high cliff covered is thick Mediterranean vegetation, but despite that, the beach is very exposed to the mistral wind: you really should not visit on windy days.

Since there is no nearby town or village and not much in terms of services, this beach is never too crowded, even in the peak summer months.

Rena Majore della Nurra – Sassari

I first heard of Rena Majore della Nurra when I asked a local (from northern Sardinia: I am from the capital in the south) if he could recommend a sheltered beach in the area. Needless to say, I fell in love with it at first sight and now, any time I am in the area, I make it a point to go.

Rena Majore della Nurra is a blissfully isolated beach about half way between Alghero and Stintino. It’s a bit difficult to get to – you have to follow a dirt road that leads to a (free) parking lot, and then it’s a short hike to get to the beach.

The beach is made of small white pebbles, and there are lots of rocks on the shore that make it a fabulous place for snorkeling.

However, I’d not include this among the best beaches in Sardinia for families. Unless your children can entertain themselves by swimming, they will get bored here as there is no sand to play with – there was a family next to us when I visited the first time and the kids kept complaining they were bored!

There is nothing in terms of services so you will need to bring water, food, an umbrella for shade and whatever else you may need for the day.

Since the beach is quite isolated, it never gets too crowded.

My post How To Visit Rena Majore della Nurra shares more information on what to expect when visiting this beach, and details on how to get there.

Cala Cumpultittu – Bosa

Cala Cumpultittu, located along the panoramic coastal road from Alghero to Bosa, is a hidden cove of very fine grey-ish sand and rocks, in a partially closed bay, where the water is very clear and framed by a rocky scenery where it is not uncommon to spot the rare griffon vulture.

Perfectly sheltered from the mistral winds, this small cove (just about 60 meters long – not even 200 feet) is protected on both sides by beautiful promontories that descend to the sea, covered by thick Mediterranean vegetation.

The sea is an enchanting turquoise and blue, in which you can immerse yourself in absolute tranquillity and snorkel along the coast exploring the nearby rocky coves.

Next to the sandy coastline, there are large white limestone rocks smoothed by the sea, where you can comfortably lie down with your feet in the water.

Despite the difficult access (it’s a short hike down to the beach: make sure to wear shoes!), Cala Cumpultittu really deserves a visit and can get very crowded in the summer months. There are no facilities at the beach so you need to bring anything you may need for the day.

Spiaggia Mari Ermi – Cabras

Mari Ermi is a rough diamond of the Gulf of Oristano and the marine area of Sinis Peninsula, in the central-western part of Sardinia. One of the best beaches in Sardinia, it is surrounded by soft dunes of a very peculiar sand, dotted with the green of the coastal Mediterranean bush, and protected by a silver pond, where numerous species of birds live.

The sand here is quite different from the other Sardinia beaches: it’s like grains of rice. These white and pink quartz grains have many iridescent shades.

Thanks to the milky white color of the quartz, the sea takes on a spectacular turquoise tone of rare beauty, better than a painter’s palette. The water is fairly shallow, which makes this one of the nicest beaches in Sardinia for families with children.

However, Mari Ermi is very exposed to the mistral wind, so it’s not idea to visit on windy days (unless you are into kite or windsurfing).

The beach is equipped with various places where you can rent umbrellas and sun beds and there are cafés along the beach (by the parking lot) where you can grab a bite and have a drink.

Guided boat tours to the nearby protected Mal di Ventre island depart directly from the shore in Mari Ermi. Not far from this beach, the very similar Maimoni is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Sardinia.

My post A Complete Guide To Mari Ermi Beach gives more guidance on how to make the most of this beautiful beach.

Is Arutas – Cabras

Not far from Mari Ermi, Is Arutas is one of the most unique Sardinia beaches. It’s actually quite similar to Mari Ermi in terms of sand (tiny quartz pebbles), colors of the water and services – there’s a large parking lot, places where you can have lunch, etc.

Here however you will find a large rock formation on the northern side of the beach that the most adventurous ones can climb to then jump in the water.

Contrary to Mari Ermi, the water at Is Arutas is almost immediately deep. I have seen plenty of local families with children here – but Sardinian kids are used to the sea and confident. If your kids can’t swim or they are afraid of the water if they can’t touch the bottom, this is probably not a good place for them.

My post The Complete Guide To Is Arutas shares more information about this beautiful beach and how to make the most of it.

Piscinas – Arbus

Piscinas deserves to be mentioned in a post about the best beaches in Sardinia thanks to its wonderful dunes about 50 meters (164 feet) tall that extend for two kilometers (1.2 miles) inland. The mistral wind constantly changes the shapes of the dunes, which are a UNESCO site.

This dazzling yellow-ochre desert has dunes which are completely golden and others covered with Mediterranean vegetation and small bush such as junipers, esparto grass, brooms and mastic trees. They are the perfect living environment for foxes, rabbits, partridges and deer.

The beach, located on the Costa Verde of south-west of Sardinia, is 5 kilometers (more than 3 miles). The sea here is an iridescent blue color, and it is immediately deep, with a stepped conformation, so it is not ideal for families with small children.

On the beach you’ll find two panoramic kiosks where you can rent sunbeds, deckchairs, swimming equipment, kayaks etc.

About 200 meters (0.1 mile) from the shore, at the bottom of the sea, the wreck of an English ship has been lying for over three centuries. If you like diving, you can easily explore this site.

Much like in other beaches of the Costa Verde, the sea at Piscinas is rarely calm: constant wind raises long and high waves, making it a destination for surfers. Windsurfing, kiting and board surfing are also practiced here in winter.

This is a really large beach, and it’s quite difficult to get there and there are no towns or villages in the immediate surroundings, so there’s never too many people.

If you like industrial architecture, you will be pleased to know that on the way to the beach you can stop by the abandoned mines of Ingurtosu.

My post A Quick Guide To Piscinas explains how to get to this beach and how to make the most of it.

Spiaggia Porto Cauli – Iglesias

Near the small village of Masua, on the south-western coast of Sardinia, there is the enchanting beach of Porto Cauli, definitely one of the best beaches in Sardinia.

Surrounded by Mediterranean greenery, this small cove, about 100 meters (328 feet) long, has two large cliffs at each side, so it is quite sheltered from the wind. The sand here is the color of amber, and the sea has shades that go from turquoise blue to emerald green. The rock formations make it one of the best snorkeling spots in Sardinia.

One of the reasons Porto Cauli is such a popular beach is that it is home to the Pan di Zucchero, a sea stack monument of 133 meters (more than 436 feet, and considerably higher than the famous stacks of Capri) that has detached from the rugged coast in remote times and has been forged by the passage of time and the combined work of wind and sea.

On the sides there are two suggestive rocky arches, both of which can be crossed by small boats.

You can to rent a kayak (as well as umbrellas and sun beds) directly at the beach and and paddle till Pan di Zucchero. Once there you can swim under the arches.

On the way to Pan di Zucchero you can clearly see Porto Flavia, a harbor that was used to board metals mined in the region directly onto the ships via a complex of underground tunnels dug into the rock.

Porto Cauli can get very crowded during the summer months but it deserves a visit.

The kiosk at the beach has a shower and changing rooms you can use for a small fee. Bring a towel and a change of clothes and linger on for one of the most beautiful sunsets in Sardinia. The on-site restaurant offers delicious food.

Read my post A Useful Guide To Masua Pan Di Zucchero for more information on how to visit this beautiful beach.

Cala Domestica – Buggerru

Located in the Sulcis region of south Sardinia, there is no doubt that Cala Domestica is one of the best beaches in Sardinia.

The beach is characterized by golden sand mixed with small pebbles. There are beautiful sand dunes at its back too. From above, you can truly notice that the beach is set in what looks like a fjord.

The sea is shallow, so ideal for families with children who can have fun playing in the sand and snorkeling. However, keep in mind that Cala Domestica is highly exposed to the mistral wind, and when this is blowing it will be practically impossible to get in the water as the currents are too strong.

The entire region where Cala Domestica is located was a mining area, so you will find the remains of an old mine directly at the beach.

A trail to the right of the beach will take you through a tunnel and a tiny cove, whereas on the right you will find another trail that will take you on the hill overlooking the beach, where you will also find the remains of an Aragonese watch tower from the 17th century.

Cala Domestica is easy to access by car – there is a beautiful panoramic road that goes there (it takes about 1.5 hours from Cagliari), and a spacious parking lot. For this reason, it can get very crowded in the summer.

The beach is equipped with a kiosk where you can grab quick bites and drinks, and rent an umbrella for the day.

My post A Short Guide To Cala Domestica will provide more information on how to make the most of this unique beach.

Porto Pino – Sant’Anna Arresi

Porto Pino, in southern Sardinia in the Sulcis region, is one of the best beaches in Sardinia for families, who can find whatever they need for their day – umbrella and sun bed rentals, restaurants on the beach to have a meal or a drink (or gelato) and much more.

The beach is a long stretch of the whitest and most powdery sand you can imagine, and incredibly clear and shallow waters that are perfect for playing or relaxing.

Porto Pino is backed by gorgeous white sand dunes, which however are protected – you can’t walk on them, and there are rangers that walk along the beach during the day to stop (and fine) trespassers.

The beach can get very busy during the peak summer months, and especially in the summer. If you want more space and quiet, simply walk to your left and away from the kiosks where most people hang out. The area rights by the sand dunes is also the most sheltered from the wind.

If you want more detailed information on this beach, head over to my post A Useful Guide To Porto Pino.

Spiaggia di Tuerredda – Teulada

Tuerredda is undisputedly one of the best beaches in Sardinia, thanks to the intense turquoise color of the water, the green of the shrubs and the gold of the fine sand.

Tuerredda stretches for over half a km (0.3 miles) in a bay between Cape Malfatano and Cape Spartivento, on the south-western coast of the island.

Thanks to its conformation the beach is sheltered from the mistral and the crystal clear sea is almost always calm, perfect for long swims and snorkeling.

Not far from the shore, about 100 meters (328 feet), there’s a small island and, at the top of it, a tower that gives its name to the beach.

The beach of Tuerredda is fully equipped. There are two kiosks where you can and where you eat and drink. rent umbrellas, deckchairs, sunbeds, canoes and pedal boats. There are showers and bathrooms too.

Tuerredda is one of the protected beaches of Sardinia, and access is restricted. There is no booking system here: you must plan to be at the beach as early as possible to be able to access the parking lot (there are guards that will turn you away if it is full) and then the beach.

My post A Guide To Tuerredda Beach shares more tips that will help you plan your day at this beach.

Cala Zafferano – Teulada

Cala Zafferano is one of the most spectacular Sardinia beaches. Located on the southern coast, in the territory of Teulada, it’s actually part of a military zone and access is only allowed via sea and strictly in the summer months.

To get there, you will have to rent a small zodiac (there are providers in Porto Tramatzu) and literally drive the boat yourself, as there are no guided tours. It’s a bit tricky, as you can’t dock in many places and since it is a military area, there are patrol boats.

You can walk to the beach from the boat and take photos, but you can’t lay umbrellas or towels there.

Is it worth the hassle, then?

Absolutely. The beach is stunning: pristine, powdery white sand with touches of pink and incredibly clear waters that are also very shallow. And since it’s so much of a hassle to get there, you will likely have the place to yourself.

Make sure to bring whatever you need for the day on the boat with you, and to rent a boat that has a parasol included.

Head over to my post How To Visit Cala Zafferano for more information on how to plan your day at this stunning beach.

Su Giudeu – Domus de Maria

Su Giudeu is only one of the many Chia beaches, but it definitely is a favorite of both locals and tourists. It’s an easy day trip from Cagliari, so don’t be surprised to find it crowded, especially during the weekend!

This long stretch of golden sand is surrounded by magnificent sand dunes – which are protected and fenced: you are not supposed to walk on them. At its back, there’s thick Mediterranean vegetation and a lagoon that dries out in the summer, but is otherwise home to a colony of pink flamingos.

Water at Su Giudeu is shallow – making this one of the best beaches in Sardinia for families – and incredibly clear. There’s a small island in front of the beach that is actually easy to reach on foot, walking in the water – but if you plan to go on it, bring a pair of rock shoes or you will hurt your feet.

Su Giudeu is equipped with anything you may need for a fabulous day, and it is also accessible to disabled travelers. Scattered along the beach you will find kiosks where you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds, and where you can get food and drinks. Showers and toilets are located close to the parking lot (there’s a small fee to pay to use them).

My post What To Know Before Visiting Su Giudeu Beach shares more tips that will help you plan a day at this beach.

Spiaggia di Punta Molentis – Villasimius

I visit Punta Molentis beach at least once every summer. It’s easy to reach from Cagliari, and even easier to get there from Costa Rei, where my parents own a holiday home. To me, this is really one of the best beaches in Sardinia.

A short distance from Villasimius, a popular summer holiday destination, Punta Molentis owes its name to the donkey (‘su molenti’, as we call it in Sardinian) that was used for the transportation of granite of which the area is rich.

On the promontory, overlooking the beach, there is what still remains of a Nuraghe. The view from there is breathtaking.

Punta Molentis is divided into several coves. The first and closest to the parking lot has pebbles of medium size. Even if the color of the sea is amazing, only a few people spend their day there because it’s uncomfortable to walk. I always swim there as it’s a fun place for snorkeling.

The main beach is the most famous: it has an arched shape and is surmounted to the north by a small promontory.

Thanks to this particular conformation, it is quite sheltered from the wind.

Behind the kiosk overlooking the sea there’s a trail that takes you to a pinnacle from where you can enjoy incredible views of the beach. The best time for photos is peak hours – between 12:00 and 3:00 pm.

The kiosk offers light meals, aperitifs, drinks and gelato, and you can also rent umbrellas and beach chairs – though it’s better to book them in advance). There’s another small kiosk on the way to the beach from the parking lot. Bathrooms are found right before the sand trail that leads to the beach.

Punta Molentis is part of the Protected Marine Area of Capo Carbonara, and it’s also one of the protected Sardinia beaches, which means that access is restricted and there’s a small fee to pay.

You will have to book your visit in advance via the website of the Villasimius Municipality. The site is only in Italian, but you can use a translating app to figure out what it says – it’s quite self-explanatory.

For ease, here’s how to do it: once you register, click on Prenotazioni, then Acquista and select Punta Molentis. Point out when you want to visit, the number of visitors and the license plate of your car, and procede to pay.

You should also read my post A Complete Guide To Punta Molentis for more help in planning your visit to this wonderful spot.

Porto Giunco – Villasimius

Porto Giunco is another gorgeous beach in south Sardinia. More specifically, it’s located in Villasimius, on the southeastern tip of Sardinia. It’s a beach I love visiting in any season, because there are nice hiking trails in the area that offer stunning coastal views.

If you travel to south Sardinia in the summer, you should definitely include it in your itinerary, especially if you have kids in tow.

At Porto Giunco you will find very powdery white sand, shallow and clear waters that are perfect to relax and play. Along the beach there are kiosks where you can get a bite to eat or a drink, and places to rent umbrellas, sun beds and other equipment too.

It’s easy to reach Porto Giunco, and there is a large parking lot. Because of that, the beach can get very crowded – however, if you walk away from the wooden footpath that leads to the beach, you are bound to find a bit more room.

The photo above was taken from the Aragonese watch tower located on the promontory that surmounts the beach. The trail to get to the tower departs from the very back end of the main parking lot.

I have a dedicated Guide To Porto Giunco that details everything you need to know about this beach.

Santa Giusta / Scoglio di Peppino – Costa Rei

This isn’t just one of the best Sardinia beaches, but also one of my favorite places in the world. My parents own a holiday home in Costa Rei, where the beach is located. This is around one hour drive east of Cagliari, and one of the most popular summer holiday destinations in Southern Sardinia.

As you can imagine, I have been visiting since I was a baby, and whenever I am in Costa Rei I spend hours swimming from wherever I am all the way to the Scoglio di Peppino.

Santa Giusta beach is separated from the main Costa Rei beach by a rock formation that is easy to cross, and you will see that most people prefer spending their time in the tiny strip of sand immediately in front of the Scoglio di Peppino – literally “Peppino’s Rock”.

But what’s the appeal?

First of all, the rock formation really is beautiful. It’s easy to climb and there’s a nice spot fron where it is also easy to jump in the water. From up there, you can see the entire beach of Costa Rei all the way to Capo Ferrato. It’s a fantastic snorkeling spot, too.

The beach is characterized by golden sand, and the water is nice and shallow – it’s a perfect spot for families with children. While there are no services directly in Santa Giusta, you will find kiosks on the main beach in Costa Rei.

My post A Local’s Guide To Costa Rei has more information on other gorgeous beaches in the area.

Cala di Monte Turno – Castiadas

In the municipality of Castiadas, and very easy to reach from Costa Rei, Cala di Monte Turno is a small cove surmounted by a promontory to the north, and more rock formation to the south.

A favorite of locals, Monte Turno is nicely sheltered from the wind and has fine golden sand and incredibly clear waters, where the rock formations provide a fun environment to snorkel – it’s a nice spot to spend a day if you have children.

Located at the beach you will find the Iki Beach kiosk – which is a rather popular place for locals who enjoy having a cocktail (we call it aperitivo) there around sunset time. It’s a nice place for lunch too.

You will be able to rent umbrellas, sun beds and there are toilets you can use too. Otherwise, you can bring whatever you need for the day as the beach is free to access. There is a large parking lot – but you will have to pay in order to park your car.

I have a dedicated post to Cala di Monte Turno that will give you more detailed information about this beach.

Cala Murtas – Villaputzu

I don’t think any other post on the best beaches in Sardinia mentions Cala Murtas. This is a significantly lesser known beach on the east coast, about 30 minutes drive north of Costa Rei.

Not only Cala Murtas is a beautiful beach, but it’s also a true hidden gem that it’s actually unknown to many locals too.

At Cala Murtas, you will find a beautiful mix of golden sand and small pebbles, which gives its (incredibly transparent) water a unique shade of emerald green. Water is almost immediately deep here, so perhaps it’s not a suitable place for families with small children.

This beach is actually part of the Poligono di Quirra Military Base, and it is only accessible in the summer months. The complete lack of settlements in the area means that there’s nothing in terms of services – no kiosks for food or umbrellas, and no lifeguard on duty either.

The other side of the coin of this isolation is that the beach is never crowded – I have been there on Ferragosto (the very peak of the peak summer season, in August), when the beaches of Costa Rei and Villasimius are almost unbearably crowded, and only had to share Cala Murtas with a few other families. It’s pure bliss!

Just make sure you bring whatever you need for your day, and you are bound to have a great time. And if you are traveling with your pup, you will be glad to know that this is a dog-friendly beach too!

Head over to my post An Expert’s Guide To Cala Murtas for more information on this lesser known Sardinia beach.

Poetto – Cagliari

We love Poetto Beach here in Cagliari. This is the main urban beach in the city, it certainly is one of the best places to visit in Cagliari. More importantly, it’s also one of the best beaches in Sardinia that you should visit if you want a completely local experience.

I’d dare say that close to 95% of the people you will see hanging at Poetto Beach during the peak summer months, and about 99.9% of those you see there in the off season are locals.

Poetto is a very long stretch of sand (9 km – 5.6 miles) that starts in Cagliari and goes all the way to the neighboring Quartu Sant’Elena.

The color and transparency of the water here varies depending on the season and the winds – in the last few years, it’s been nothing short of amazing (see the photo above).

The beach is equipped with anything you may possibly need for your day: there are places to rent umbrellas and sun beds; local restaurants to enjoy lunch or just grab a quick bite; gelaterie; bathrooms and showers – you name it.

Running along the beach there’s a running path and a bike lane: we love going to Poetto Beach to exercise.

Need more reasons to love Poetto? You can easily get there by bus from the center of Cagliari.

I have written a Complete Guide To Poetto Beach which shares insights not only on Cagliari’s favorite beach, but also on other activities and places to visit in the area.

Furthermore, my post The Best Beaches In Cagliari will guide you through the city’s urban beaches.

Guided Tours To The Best Beaches In Sardinia

Some Sardinia beaches are hard to reach, especially if you don’t have a car, others require a boat ride and at times you may just want the comfort of having someone else organize your day, so that all you have to do is relax.

Here are a few good guided tours that will take you to the best local beaches:

La Maddalena Archipelago Catamaran Tour – It would take you weeks to explore the beaches of the Maddalena Archipelago, but this boat tour will give you a nice overview and you’ll see the best ones.

Zodiac Tour in the Gulf of Orosei – Opt for this zodiac tour which moves much faster than the larger boats and carries less people. You will spend more time at the beach, or snorkeling!

Asinara National Park Catamaran Tour – This is the best tour to fully appreciate the marine beauty of Asinara National Park. It’s a small group tour, so you don’t have to worry about the crowds.

Chia and Tuerredda Beach Tour – This tour goes to Su Giudeu and Tuerredda. The latter one is a protected beach that only allows a limited number of visitors per day – so a tour takes away the hassle of planning your trip.

Porto Pino and Piscinni Tour – This is the tour to join for a chance at seeing the most beautiful sand dunes in Sardinia.

Porto Giunco and Cala Sinzias Tour – You get to see the best of Villasimius and Costa Rei with this nice guided tour from Cagliari.

Rules Of Behavior In Sardinia Beaches

Sardinia beaches are pristine, and we’d like them to stay that way. There are certain rules you should follow when you visit beaches in Sardinia – even if others around you don’t. Just be a better person!

Don’t leave any garbage, especially cigarette butts (in fact, smoking at the beach is forbidden and you have to find a designated area for that). Please take trash back home with you. A lot of fish and other animals are endangered and garbage is one of the reasons.

Don’t steal sand, shells or stones. Can you imagine if every guest took some sand from the beach every day, every year? There won’t be sand beaches any more.

Besides, this is also against regional law and if you got caught in the act of bagging sand or transporting it, you’d be subjected to a fine. I wrote a full post on Sardinia Sand Theft that explains why this is an issue.

Don’t touch starfish. I know you want to proudly show them to your children or your friends but when you touch them, they immediately die. Would you show a dead dog to your children? I don’t think so.

Don’t fish out jellyfish. I know, it may sting. But it is illegal to do so. There are sunscreen lotions you can use to protect against them.

Don’t light fires or use open flames appliances. Sardinia is a windy island, it takes a second for a little fire to become something bigger even because the vegetation in summer is very dry and catches fire immediately.

Further Readings

Make sure to read my other posts about Sardinia:

• The Best Beaches Near Olbia
• The Best Sardinian Food You Need To Try
• A Quick Guide To Mari Pintau
• A Quick Guide To Cala Sisine
• A Quick Guide To Cala Pira
• A Quick Guide To Cala Sinzias

This post was written by Strictly Sardinia contributor Elisabetta Tavani.

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