Cala Cipolla Beach (Spiaggia di Cala Cipolla in Italian) is one of the best beaches of South Sardinia. It’s an extremely popular cove close to Chia and the popular tourist destination of Pula, a small town that is a favorite of both local and international tourists.
You will find Cala Cipolla is also within easy driving distance from Sardinia’s capital Cagliari. It can be visited on a day trip.
As this is a rather small cove, it can get incredibly crowded during the peak summer months. It gets even more crowded during the weekend. So much so that many avoid it altogether and prefer going only at the very beginning of the season, at the end of May, or in September.
I often visit during the spring or winter months, as this is a good starting point for several coastal hikes.
However, if you are planning on visiting Southern Sardinia during the peak summer months and are staying in the area of Chia or Pula, you should definitely consider going as it’s a really beautiful place! You’ll enjoy fine, white sand; shallow waters perfect for children; and thick Mediterranean vegetation.
I have been to Cala Cipolla many times, including during the weekend when it is most crowded. So I thought I’d share everything you should know before you go and give you a few tips for a perfect day in the sun.
What You Must Know About Cala Cipolla
Cala Cipolla Beach
One of the most scenic beaches of the area of Chia, Cala Cipolla is in the municipality of Domus de Maria.
This 200 meters (about 0.1 mile) beach is surrounded by thick Mediterranean vegetation – with shrub and pine trees that are the perfect living environment for cicadas. Cala Cipolla beach is also surmounted by rock formations that separate it from Su Giudeu beach to the west.
The rock formations actually make it an ideal place for snorkeling – bring your snorkel gear if you want to spot some local marine life! Furthermore, as this is a bay, it is naturally sheltered from the wind and a perfect place to stop when the wind blows. It’s a great alternative to beaches like Su Giudeu on windy days.
As this is a rather small beach, it can get incredibly crowded. But this hardly takes away from its beauty.
Located on the beach you will find a kiosk serving plain sandwiches, drinks, ice-cream and coffee. The kiosk also rents out sun-beds, but there is only a limited number available so make sure to claim yours as soon as you arrive (you will have to carry it to the actual beach yourself). There also is a chemical toilet, close to where the kiosk is located. Small garbage bins are located close to the kiosk, and you’ll find larger ones inside the parking lot.
Unfortunately Cala Cipolla does not have disabled access: the trail to get to the beach departs right outside the parking lot and goes up a hill and through the forest and it is not suitable to people with mobility issues. Another thing to note is that there’s no lifeguard on duty.
East of the beach and easily reached on a short walk you will find Capo Spartivento (Spartivento Cape), surmounted by a lighthouse and from where you can enjoy a gorgeous coastal view. Continue walking east along the trail and you will get to Su Cordolinu island and Cala del Morto beach.
How to get to Cala Cipolla Sardinia
You can get to Cala Cipolla by car, so if you wish to visit I recommend renting a car once you arrive in Cagliari.
Cala Cipolla beach is 56 km (34.8 miles) east and about one hour drive from Cagliari. To get there from Cagliari or Pula you will have to drive along SS 195.
After about 45 minutes you will find a sign pointing you towards Chia beach, to your left. Follow the road until the very end (it looks like it is ending at some point, but it simply turns into a dirt road) until you reach the last parking lot. There is a fee to pay to park your car.
From the parking lot, you will have to walk up a hill and then follow the trail that will take you to the beach.
If you wish to travel by public transportation, you can get bus 129 from the bus station located in Piazza Matteotti in Cagliari. However, keep in mind the bus will only take you to Chia, from where you will still have to walk to Cala Cipolla – so this is not very convenient.
Other useful information
Here is some more information that will help you make the most of your day at Cala Cipolla Beach.
ARRIVE EARLY – The beach can get incredibly crowded. Arriving early will ensure you a good spot, with a better view of the shore.
RESPECT THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT – Do not take sand, shells, pebbles and stones from any beach in Sardinia or you’ll get a fine. Make sure to read my post about sand theft in Sardinia, as it may save you from a hassle.
AVOID BALL GAMES – Lots of people visiti this beach during the summer months. While we all enjoy a ball game at the beach, this is hardly a good idea when there are many people around you – you may end up hitting a child!
BE POLITE – Have a look around and acknowledge your neighbors before placing your umbrella or laying your towel! It’s good manners to leave some room for people to walk around, even when there are a lot of people at the beach.
DON’T LEAVE GARBAGE – You will find small garbage bins close to the kiosk. Larger (recycling ones) are inside the parking lot. Simply, don’t leave garbage on the beach.
DON’T SMOKE – Smoking is now forbidden at all beaches in Sardinia. You will have to look for a designated area.
Other nearby beaches
There are many gorgeous beaches you can consider visiting near Cala Cipolla beach, so if you are staying in the area definitely take advantage of that and go out to explore!
SU GIUDEU – Probably the most famous of all beaches in Chia, this long, golden sand beach has shallow, incredibly clear waters and sand dunes (don’t walk on them!) and a small island right in front of it that you can reach on foot from the shore. You will need rock shoes if you want to explore. There are lots of beach clubs if you are too lazy to bring your own stuff.
TUERREDDA – Further east, this small, beautiful is a protected beach where only around 1,100 people per day can go. The best way of ensuring yourself a spot at the beach is by calling one of the two kiosks and book yourself an umbrella and sun-bed. But beware: you have to do that at least a week in advance!
CALA ANTONIAREDDU – One of the best hidden gems in the area, you can reach this small secluded cove via a short walk from the parking lot of La Pinnetta. There are no kiosks or other services, so make sure you bring whatever you need for the day.
My post The Best Beaches In Chia will guide you to more beaches you can visit in the area.
Where to stay near Cala Cipolla
The best starting point to access Cala Cipolla is Chia, where you will find plenty of excellent accommodation options. This is a good selection of hotels in Chia for any budget.
If you have the budget to splurge, you may want to book yourself a room at Faro di Spartivento, mere minutes from the beach – it’s one of the best boutique hotels in Sardinia.
I have stayed there recently and wrote a full review of Faro di Capo Spartivento so you know what to expect before you book.
Further Readings
Spending your holidays in Sardinia? Make sure to read my other posts:
- The Best Beaches In Sardinia
- The Best Beaches Near Cagliari
- The Best Hikes In Sardinia
- A Short Guide To Is Arenas Biancas
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Claudia Tavani
Claudia Tavani was born and raised in Sardinia, and after moving between the United States and the United Kingdom, she's now back living in her hometown, Cagliari. She's a travel blogger and certified travel designer who loves planning trips and publishing guides, travel tips, and packing lists so that you don't have to. Owner of Strictly Sardinia, cat mom to Minnie. Loves pizza, hiking, archeology, cities, beaches, swimming, and running. Hates peppers.