Villasimius is one of the best holiday destinations and one of the most charming beach towns in Sardinia.
I know this small town very well. I grew up spending my holidays, not only summer but Easter, Christmas, and weekends all year round in Costa Rei. This is less than a twenty-minute drive from Villasimius. Until about 20 years ago, the only way to get to Costa Rei was through Villasimius. In other words, I am a local.
Located on the south-east coast of Sardinia, Villasimius is an incredibly pleasant place to visit. Not only are there gorgeous beaches (basically you can go to a different beach every day for more than two weeks), but there are plenty of other things to do – nature walks, shopping, dining, to name a few.
Since I know Villasimius so well, I thought I’d put together a guide to help you plan your visit. Continue reading for everything you need to know about Villasimius.
Villasimius At A Glance
Short on time? Here’s a quick overview of Villasimius to help you plan your trip. Continue reading for more detailed tips:
- Location: Coastal town in southeast Sardinia, about 60 km (37.2 miles) from Cagliari, at the tip of the Capo Carbonara peninsula.
- Best for: Beach holidays, snorkeling, diving, and boat trips along one of the most scenic coastlines in southern Sardinia.
- Days needed: You could see the main beaches in 2–4 days, but Villasimius is better suited to longer stays, and many travelers spend a week or more enjoying the beaches and marine area.
- Car needed: Strongly recommended. Beaches are spread along the coast, and public transport options are limited.
- Best months to visit: May–June for fewer crowds, September for warm weather and fewer crowds. July and August are the busiest months.
Best beaches in Villasimius
- Simius
- Punta Molentis
- Porto Giunco
- Cala Caterina
- Porto Sa Ruxi
Top activities
- Diving and snorkeling in the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area
- Boat tour to the nearby Isola dei Cavoli
- Attend the Virgin of the Sea Festival
- Visit the Domus de Jana archaeological site near the Spiaggia del Riso
Recommended guided tours
- RIB boat tour in the Protected Marine Area of Capo Carbonara
- Diving Expedition in the Capo Carbonara Marine Area
Essential Villasimius tips
- Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if traveling on a budget.
- Rent a car in Cagliari Airport to make the most of the area. For that, I recommend Discover Cars.
- Beware that some beaches in Villasimius are protected and must be booked in advance.
- If visiting in peak season (July and August) make dinner reservations in advance.
Where Is Villasimius In Sardinia?
Villasimius is a seaside town on the southeast coast of Sardinia, about 60 km (37.2 miles) east of Cagliari, the island’s capital. The town is located at the edge of the Capo Carbonara peninsula, an area famous for its clear water, sandy beaches, and protected marine environment.
The coastline around Villasimius includes several popular beaches such as Simius, Porto Giunco, and Punta Molentis, as well as smaller coves and viewpoints. Much of this coastline falls within the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, which helps preserve the marine ecosystem and makes it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
Because of its proximity to Cagliari and the concentration of beaches nearby, Villasimius is one of the most popular beach destinations in South Sardinia for both local, Italian, and international visitors.
Is Villasimius Worth Visiting?
I am a massive fan of Villasimius, and likely biased since I have been spending my summers in the area since I was a child. I truly think Villasimius is worth visiting. This is one of the best beach destinations in South Sardinia, especially if you are looking for clear water, varied beaches, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
However, keep in mind that Villasimius is primarily a summer beach destination, so it suits some types of travelers better than others.
Best for
- Beach lovers: Villasimius has several excellent beaches, from the long sands of Simius to the sheltered coves of Cala Caterina.
- Snorkeling and diving: The protected waters of the Capo Carbonara Marine Area are among the best in Sardinia for marine life and underwater visibility.
- Boat trips: Excursions around the peninsula and to nearby islands such as Isola dei Cavoli are a highlight of visiting the area.
- Relaxed summer holidays: Villasimius is a great destination if you want to spend several days exploring beaches and enjoying slow evenings in town.
Less ideal for
- Nightlife: The town has restaurants and bars, but it is not a major nightlife destination.
- City experiences: For museums, historic districts, and a wider range of cultural attractions, Cagliari is a better choice.
- Winter travel: Outside the summer season, many hotels, all beach services, and boat tours close, and the town becomes much quieter.
Villasimius vs Other South Sardinia Destinations
If you are planning a beach holiday in southern Sardinia, you may find yourself choosing between Villasimius, Costa Rei, Chia, or even Cagliari.
Each destination offers something slightly different. I have lots of experience with all of these places (I am a local of Cagliari, I have spent my summers between Costa Rei and Villasimius since I was a child, and visit Chia all the time).
| Destination | Best For |
|---|---|
| Villasimius | beach variety + marine area |
| Costa Rei | long sandy beaches |
| Chia | dramatic dunes |
| Cagliari | city + beaches |
Villasimius
- Best for: variety of beaches and easy access to boat trips
- Atmosphere: lively summer beach town with restaurants and bars
- Highlights: Porto Giunco, Punta Molentis, Capo Carbonara Marine Area
- Good choice if you want many beaches within a short drive
Costa Rei
- Best for: long sandy beaches and relaxed seaside holidays
- Atmosphere: quieter and more residential
- Highlights: one of the longest continuous beaches in Sardinia
- Better suited for travelers staying in holiday homes or beach resorts
Good to know: Costa Rei is just a 15-minute drive from Villasimius. If you stay there, you can still enjoy the beaches, restaurants, and activities Villasimius has to offer.
Chia
- Best for: dramatic scenery and iconic beaches
- Atmosphere: quieter and more spread out
- Highlights: dunes and beaches such as Tuerredda, Su Giudeu, and Cala Cipolla
- Ideal if you prefer wild landscapes and fewer towns
Cagliari
- Best for: a mix of city life and beaches
- Atmosphere: lively year-round capital city
- Highlights: historic Castello district, restaurants, Poetto Beach
- Best choice if you want culture, nightlife, and day trips
How Many Days In Villasimius?
How long you spend in Villasimius depends on how much of the coastline you want to explore. Villasiumius has many beaches, so if you want to visit them properly, you need to spend some time there.
- 1 day: Villasimius can be visited on a day trip from Cagliari (about 1 hour by car, without traffic). In that case, it’s best to focus on one beach, such as Porto Giunco or Punta Molentis, and spend a few hours in town for an evening stroll and dinner. However, one day is not enough to experience the variety of beaches Villasimius is known for.
- 2–3 days: This is the minimum time that allows you to explore several beaches, such as Punta Molentis, Porto Giunco, and Cala Caterina, and spend some time in the town itself.
- 4 days or more: A longer stay gives you time to enjoy the area at a slower pace, take a boat trip along the Capo Carbonara coast, and possibly explore nearby beaches toward Costa Rei.
Expert tip: My recommendation is to stay a week or longer, especially in the summer, and use Villasimius as a base for beach hopping and boat excursions along the southeast coast of Sardinia.
Best Time To Visit Villasimius
Villasimius is primarily a summer beach destination, and your experience there can change quite a bit depending on when you visit.
Spring (Easter to May)
In the springtime, around Easter, many hotels and restaurants begin reopening after the winter break. The area becomes livelier again, but it is still early in the season. Boat tours usually have not started yet, and the sea is generally too cold for swimming or sunbathing comfortably.
Even in May, water temperatures remain fairly cool, although the weather is often pleasant for coastal walks and exploring the area.
Early summer (June)
One of the best months to visit Sardinia in general, and Villasimius too. Most businesses and tours are operating, the weather is warm, and the beaches are not yet as crowded as in the peak summer.
Good to know: 2nd June is a national holiday in Italy, and that’s when Italians take their first summer break. Villasimius can be very crowded on that day.
Peak summer (July and August)
July, and even more so August is the busiest time of year in Sardinia. Villasimius becomes very lively, beaches fill up quickly, and reservations are often needed for restaurants and the protected beaches. The sea is warm and ideal for swimming and boat trips, but expect crowds.
Late summer (September)
Often considered the sweet spot in terms of weather, prices, and crowds. The sea remains warm from the summer months, crowds start to decrease, and the weather is still excellent for beach days. Days are shorter, though.
Fall and winter (October to March)
While early October is still a great time to visit Sardinia, Villasimius becomes very quiet in the winter, with many hotels, restaurants, and all tourist services closed. It can still be pleasant for walks and coastal scenery, but it is no longer a typical beach holiday destination during this period.
Do You Need A Car In Villasimius?
I usually recommend having a car when visiting Villasimius. The coastline around the town stretches along the Capo Carbonara peninsula, and most beaches are spread out along several kilometers of road.
- Beaches are spread out: Simius Beach is within walking distance of the town center, but many of the most famous beaches — such as Punta Molentis, Porto Giunco, Campulongu, and Cala Caterina — are not within walking distance from the town.
- Public transport exists but is limited: There are public buses connecting Villasimius with Cagliari, and in the summer, some local buses serve nearby beaches. However, schedules are limited and not always convenient if you want to explore freely.
- Taxis are rare: Villasimius is a small town, and taxis are not widely available (honestly, I don’t think I have ever seen one there). Relying on taxis for beach hopping is generally not practical.
Expert tip: If you decide to rent a car, the most convenient option is to pick it up at Cagliari Airport. I recommend using Discover Cars, a comparison site that allows you to easily check prices and availability from multiple rental companies.
Good to know: Most beaches have designated parking areas, usually for a daily fee from June to September included. I recommend arriving early in the peak season, or at lunch time when some people leave, as parking lots can fill quickly.
You can manage without a car if your goal is a relaxed beach holiday and you stay in a hotel or resort close to Simius Beach or another nearby beach. In that case, you can spend most of your time on the beach and walk into town for restaurants and evening strolls.
Where To Stay In Villasimius
You will find a good range of accommodation options in Villasimius, from camping sites to luxury resorts, and small holiday homes and apartment rentals.
| Area | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Villasimius town | restaurants, nightlife | easiest base |
| Porto Giunco area | beach access | quieter |
| Costa Rei | long beaches | more spread out |
In terms of hotels, here are my recommendations:
- Falkensteiner Resort Capo Boi – fabulous luxury beachfront resort, it’s family-friendly.
- Timi Ama Resort and Spa – one of the most popular beachfront hotels in Villasimius, perfect for families.
- Cruccuris Resort Adults Only – great value for money
- Cormoran Hotel – another famous beachfront hotel.
- Villaggio Camping Spiaggia del Riso – on Spiaggia del Riso, has pitches for tents and caravans or private bungalows.
- Hotel Cala Caterina – a prime location in Cala Caterina Beach, they have a massive spa and a nice pool.
- Hotel Sa Suergia – a more budget-friendly option in the center of Villasimius, it has a beautiful garden and is decorated in a rustic style.
My posts, The Best Hotels In Villasimius and The Best Airbnbs In Villasimius, share more tips on where to stay in the area.
What To See And Do In Villasimius
Enjoy the gorgeous beaches
One of the main reasons to visit Villasimius is the variety of beaches. The coastline includes long sandy bays, smaller coves, and scenic viewpoints, all within a relatively short distance of the town.
Many of the beaches around Villasimius fall within the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, which helps preserve the coastline and contributes to the clear water the area is known for. Some beaches are close to the town, whereas others require a short drive. If you stay for a few days, you can visit them all.
Below are some of the most notable beaches in Villasimius.
My post, The Best Beaches In Villasimius, highlights even more beaches in the area.
Simius
This is the main beach that gives (half) its name to Villasimius. It is part of the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara. You will find it immediately south-east of town, so it can get quite crowded in the peak season.
About one kilometer (0.6 miles) long, the bay has fine soft white sand, enclosed at both ends by small cliffs. On the right side, there is the pond of Notteri, where you can admire pink flamingos. There’s Mediterranean maquis at its back.
The bay is nicely sheltered and has crystal clear shallow waters, with shades ranging from emerald green to cobalt blue, ideal for families with children.
On the beach, there are several kiosks and beach clubs where you can rent umbrellas, deckchairs, and sun-beds, boats, pedal boats, canoes, and even jet skis. You can take private wind and kite surfing lessons. There are also diving centers and a nine-hole golf course.
To get to Simius beach, walk straight out of the village on Via del Mare, until you find the beach car park. It will take you about 30 minutes, but I don’t recommend walking in the peak summer hours. Alternatively, you can bike there.
Porto Giunco
This easily accessible beach is a favorite of families with children. You will find anything you need for your day, including umbrella rentals, SUP and windsurfing classes and expeditions to the nearby beaches and islands, including the Protected Marine Area of Capo Carbonara.
The center of the beach for a less crowded spot – it’s a longer walk from the parking lot, so less people go there.
For the best panoramic views of the beach (as in the picture above), follow the trail that starts at the very end of the parking lots. You will be at the Aragonese watchtower in less than 30 minutes, but you will need to wear shoes.
To get to Porto Giunco, follow the signs to the tourist harbor and then to Porto Giunco. Once there, there is plenty of parking space (paid).
Head over to my post A Useful Guide To Porto Giunco, Sardinia for more information on this gorgeous spot.
My post Where To Go Surfing In Sardinia highlights other surfing spots in Sardinia.
Timi Ama
Between Porto Giunco and Simius, Timi Ama means “Shy Love” (Timido Amore, in Italian) comes from an ancient legend according to which the profile of a rock recalls the tail of a mermaid who enchanted fishermen with her singing.
Timi Ama is surrounded by rocks and has very fine white sand, crystal clear, shallow water. Behind the Mediterranean scrub, there are luxury villas and a hotel; on the left side, there is the Notteri pond.
The beach has all the comforts you need for a perfect day. Timi Ama is also wheelchair accessible, so a perfect spot for travelers with disabilities.
To get to Timi Ama from Villasimius, drive along Via del Mare towards the Marina. Just before the junction to Cagliari on the right, turn left on a dirt road. You can also reach Timi Ama from the beaches of Simius or Porto Giunco through a beautiful promenade.
Punta Molentis
This beautiful beach is named after the donkey (‘su molenti’ in the Sardinian language), once used to carry the granite of which the area is rich. It is part of the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara too.
The beach is surrounded by granite rocks up to 15 meters (49.2 feet) high and consists of two main coves. The first, nearest to the parking lot, has pebbles of medium size. Even if the color of the sea is amazing, few people stop there because it’s uncomfortable to walk or lie down.
The main beach, shaped like an arch, is the most famous. It is nicely sheltered from the wind.
Punta Molentis is one of the limited-access beaches of Sardinia. No more than 150 people per day can visit by land, plus 100 that can arrive by boat, and there’s a small fee each visitor has to pay. You also need to pay for the parking lot.
Regulations for Punta Molentis changed in 2026, and you can no longer reserve your spot at the beach, which works on a first-come first-serve basis. This means that you will have to go very early to grab your spot.
Furthermore, umbrellas are no longer allowed unless there’s a child younger than 10 or an elderly above 65 years old in the group.
The best hack to save your spot at the beach is to reserve umbrellas and loungers at Chiosco I Due Mari. Call or send a WhatsApp message +39 3934077632 for reservations. I Due Mari also offers light meals, gelato, and drinks.
To get to Punta Molentis, follow the panoramic road to Costa Rei: take the municipal road Accus is Prezzus. A little further on, at the junction Mare/Villasimius go straight ahead. Once you reach a narrow hairpin bend, turn left on a dirt road, then continue turning right and passing under the road bridge until you reach the parking lot.
My post A Useful Guide To Punta Molentis Beach, Villasimius shares more information to help you plan your visit.
Porto Sa Ruxi
Another of Sardinia’s protected beaches, this small beach has cream-colored coarse sand mixed with rocks and sand dunes.
The sea is transparent, perfect for snorkeling, and nicely sheltered from the mistral wind. The view of Capo Carbonara and Isola dei Cavoli from here is amazing.
No more than 450 persons per day can access the beach. All visitors have to pay a small fee to access the beach, and it’s best to book your parking in advance. The procedure to follow is the same for Punta Molentis – just pick Porto Sa Ruxi instead.
To get to Porto Sa Ruxi from Villasimius take the provincial road SP17 towards Cagliari. After approximately 5-6 km (around 3.5 miles), you will reach a tiny resort village: turn left and continue until you reach via Abruzzo, a dirt road where you can leave your car. A trail through the juniper vegetation and the sand dunes takes you to the beach.
Another incredible beach, a two-minute drive from Porto Sa Ruxi, is Is Piscadeddus beach. There is no direct access from the main street, so it never gets too crowded.
Cala Caterina
Nestled on the southern side of the promontory of Capo Carbonara, this bay consists of two coves that are very similar.
The biggest is a bit more exposed to the winds. The sandy bottom becomes rocky after a few meters: it’s a great place for snorkeling.
The smallest cove is well sheltered from the mistral, surrounded by granite rocks on one side and on the other by a cliff. The sand is fine and white and the water a beautiful shade of emerald green.
Cala Caterina is a great sunset spot. There’s a beach club on the beach where you can rent umbrellas, deckchairs, and sun-beds and get a drink and a bite.
To get to Cala Caterina, drive along the road to Spiaggia del Riso, passing the Marina and the Fortezza Vecchia (Old Fortress). You will eventually find a crossroads marked by a tourist sign indicating the Hotel Cala Caterina. Follow the sign to the hotel and once you park the car, you will reach the beach in five minutes. There’s a small flight of stairs to get to the beach.
Spiaggia del Riso
This beach takes its name from its sand: tiny white pebbles of granite quartz that look like rice. The sea is crystal clear and quite shallow, so a great place for children. Unfortunately, a mix of coastal storms, strong winds, and theft of sand has considerably reduced its size, so it can be crowded.
On the beach, you can rent sun-beds, umbrellas, pedal boats, and there are several kiosks.
To get there, drive towards the Marina, along Via degli Oleandri and turn right following the sign for Camping Spiaggia del Riso. Drive all the way until you reach the parking area.
Campulongu
This beach is a natural continuation of the Spiaggia del Riso. Its white sand is so light and fine it looks like flour. The shallow water makes it a great place for children, and the rock formations make it perfect for snorkeling.
Campulongu is sheltered from the wind so the sea is generally calm, except when the Mistral blows. When Libeccio blows, on the other hand, it is a great place for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
The beach gets very crowded in summer. Try to get there early in the morning or at lunch time when families usually go home for lunch. It’s a great sunset spot.
You will find public toilets on the beach that you can access for a small fee. There are several hotels in the area, including Hotel Stella Maris right by the waterfront, and a camping site.
Behind the beach, there is a pine forest where you can rest in the shade during the hottest hours of the day.
To get to Campulongu from Villasimius take via degli Oleandri and turn right to Via delle Aquile. Then turn left following the sign to Campulongu until you reach the car park.
Campus
This long stretch of white, golden, and grey sand and transparent water is ideal for families with children. Two small promontories protect the beach and separate it from Cuccureddus beach, which is a bit harder to reach but a real paradise, and significantly more secluded.
Occasionally, Caretta Caretta turtles lay their eggs on this beach – this was the case in 2016.
This is a well-equipped beach perfect for kayaking and windsurfing on windy days. It is usually crowded during the peak summer months, so plan to get there early to claim your spot.
To get to Campus beach, take the Cagliari-Villasimius coastal road (SP 17), turn left at the junction following the signs for Campus. After 300 meters (less than 0.2 miles) there is a (paid) car park, with disabled access too.
Guided tours to Villasimius beaches
The best way to enjoy the many beaches of Villasimius is to spend a few days in the area, rent a car, and check out a different one every day. However, Villasimius is close enough to Cagliari that you can visit it on a day trip. If you don’t have a car, you can join a guided tour that takes you to the best beaches in the area.
I recommend this guided tour from Cagliari that stops at the best beaches in Villasimius and Costa Rei. You will travel by private van and have a live guide.
This other day trip from Cagliari stops at the gorgeous Porto Giunco beach in Villasimius and Cala Sinzias in Costa Rei.
This exclusive catamaran tour departs from Villasimius and visits the best beaches in the area. There’s also this highly rated rib tour that stops at both Punta Molentis and Porto Giunco beach.
Practice water sports
Villasimius is a great place for water sports. Stand-up Paddleboarding has become very popular, and you can rent a SUP board in almost any kiosk at the beach. If you are a beginner, you can easily find a school by the beach.
Depending on the wind, you can try windsurfing, kitesurfing, and Hobie catamaran. During the winter months, Porto Giunco is one of the most popular surfing locations in Sardinia.
Other water activities are fun tubing and kayaking.
Fishing is not allowed in the Marine Protected Area.
Diving
Diving and snorkeling in the Marine Protected Area is fabulous. At Isola dei Cavoli you can admire the holy Madonna, a statue by the famous Sardinian artist Pinuccio Sciola of San Sperate. The statue in pink trachyte is over 3 meters (9.8 feet) tall and located at a depth of 11 meters (36 feet).
Fish you can spot when diving include: capons, ravens, snappers, shrimps, octopuses, amberjacks, bream, mullets, and morays.
In the Variglioni of Serpentara, you’ll easily come across shoals of barracudas, while in Cala Caterina you’ll spot huge groupers and sea breams. Dolphins and marine turtles live in the area, too.
This diving expedition in Villasimius is one of the best you can book online. Villasimius is also a great place to get certified. You can even book your diving course online.
Make sure to read my post, A Complete Guide To Diving In Sardinia, for more diving spots on the island.
Visit the nearby islands
Isola dei Cavoli
Opposite Capo Carbonara, less than one kilometer (0.6 miles) away, Isola dei Cavoli is a small granite island immersed in a wild and protected natural environment. It is a paradise for sea and nature lovers.
The name refers to its conformation, which is similar to a crab, ‘cavuru’ in Sardinia (which sounds similar to cavoli in Italian); while others believe that it comes from the abundant endemic presence of wild cabbage plants.
The island has an area of just 43 hectares with some incredible flora and fauna. You can spot ferula and the endemic Dracunculus muscivurus, better known as flycatcher, because for pollination, it attracts the necrophagous insects that send out a terrible odor.
The waters around the island have a thriving marine life, but this is also a paradise for peregrine falcons, crested cormorants, and seagulls.
Perched on top of the island, there is a scenic 19th-century lighthouse. It incorporated an old Spanish watchtower dating from 1591. Its workers once lived on the island, but after the automation of its operation, the island is uninhabited.
You can reach Isola dei Cavoli by boat from Villasimius or Costa Rei. There are regular boat tours to the Isola dei Cavoli and Capo Carbonara area departing from either place. The price varies depending on the duration.
Serpentara
From Punta Molentis and the panoramic road from Villasimius to Costa Rei you can spot the beautiful island of Serpentara, whose shape will remind you of a snake. It’s one of the most intriguing islands of Sardinia.
This small island of granite rocks is less than a kilometer long (0.6 miles) and is part of the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara. Only wild rabbits and herons live there, but you can also spot Corsican seagulls, cormorants, and tufted gulls, which nest here. Dolphins can be seen nearby, too.
In the northern part, there are three large granite rocks, known as Variglioni, which form amazing natural pools. You will be able to see the remains of a Roman galley; an Aragonese sailing ship dating to the 15th century; the Egle steamship, which drowned in 1943; and the Elba Ferry.
San Luigi tower, built during the Spanish domination to sight Saracen ships, is located on the highest spot on the island.
You can reach Serpentara by private boat or organized tours from Villasimius, but navigation, fishing, and diving are regulated by the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara. You can’t dock and disembark either.
Walking and hiking
The best hike in Villasimius starts from Porto Giunco, and it’s actually one of my favorite easy hikes in Sardinia.
A trail takes you to the top of the promontory where an Aragonese watchtower stands. The view is priceless: the sea on one side, the pond of Notteri and the beach on the other, and divided only by a strip of sand.
If you are visiting in the fall or spring, you can also go for a hike in the Sette Fratelli mountain range. You can access the many trails in the nature park from the nearby Castiadas.
Horse riding
Horse riding is a great way to admire the countryside and the beaches at sunrise or sunset. The riding school based in Tanka Village resort can organize excursions year-round.
Enjoy archaeology and art
Here are some archaeological sites to visit in Villasimius.
Fortezza vecchia
The old fortress, located right by the sea, dates from the 16th century and was initially used to shelter boats. Later on, it was used for guarding and defending the area.
It was restored several times until 1847, when the last captain was dismissed, and the old fortress was abandoned until it was restored again only in 1968.
Nuraghe
There are several Nuraghe in Villasimius that have a strong historical interest.
If you are interested in history and archaeology, you can visit what remains of many nuraghe in the area: Giardone nuraghe in the area of Campus; but also the ones in Cuccureddus, Campulongu, Is Traias, Porto Giunco, and the Manunzas and Baccu’e’Gattus nuraghe.
Domus De Janas near Spiaggia Del Riso
Domus de Janas means “fairy house,” and it actually is a tomb carved into the rock.
You will find a Domus de Janas near Spiaggia del Riso, which dates back to 3500 to 2700 BC. Once there was a real necropolis in the area, but only one tomb, which you can still visit today, has remained intact.
There is a quadrangular opening carved into a massive granite on the outside and with a first internal room that leads directly to a tiny burial chamber. On the outside, two boulders act as a corridor leading to the tomb.
Attend the festivals
Depending on when you are visiting, you will be able to attend one of the festivals in Villasimius – some of them are among my favorite festivals in Sardinia.
Virgin of the Sea
In July 1979, Pinuccio Sciola’s statue of the Virgin of the Sea was placed underwater at Isola dei Cavoli.
Since then, every third Sunday of July, after mass, there is an evocative procession on a boat in memory of the unfortunate sailors who died in the area.
The boats are covered with flowers, and the priest of Villasimius, with a team of divers, dives at the feet of the Virgin, says the ritual prayer, heard through loudspeakers by the devotees on the boats.
As a sign of greeting, the boats sound the sirens and throw colorful flowers in the water.
Santa Maria
Another important celebration is in honor of Santa Maria. The festival takes place each year on the 7th and 8th of September, but you’ll be able to breathe the festive atmosphere throughout the week, after the conclusion of the religious rituals.
The statue of the Madonna is carried on a decorated cart pulled by oxen (we call it ‘traccas’ here in Sardinia), while people pray for the rain to come in order to get abundant crops and harvest.
At the end of the second day, once the Madonna is returned to the church, fireworks start. For the whole week, tourists will have the opportunity to attend folklore shows, craft exhibitions, and culinary competitions.
Where To Eat In Villasimius
You will find plenty of places in Villasimius where you can try traditional Sardinian food. There are even some good wineries in the area. These are my favorite restaurants in Villasimius:
Baccusardus – Perfect for happy hour, their spritz is delicious and they have a good list of wines and beers. Their ‘taglieri’ with local cheeses, olives, sausages, cold cuts and much more are delicious.
Il Miraggio – This restaurant is set in a spectacular location: tables on the sand, a few meters from the sea. It’s not cheap.
Majori – A bit outside the village, go there for delicious pizza (they are also in Cagliari, and it’s one of the best pizzerie in the city), excellent cocktails and a lovely atmosphere in a nice garden.
La Chiccheria – Right on the main square, this is one of the best gelaterias in Sardinia. Try the pistacchio and nocciola flavors but also their typical Sardinian flavors such as ‘torta sarda’!
Primo Molo – A fabulous place by the tourist harbor, perfect for sunset drinks.
How To Get To Villasimius
You can reach Villasimius from Cagliari by bus or car.
Public buses in this part of Sardinia work ok. They leave from the central bus station at regular intervals. The ride lasts about 2 hours along a panoramic road. Get some motion sickness pills, as the road is very windy.
Some hotels provide a shuttle service for their guests. Alternatively, you can book your transfer on Welcome Pickups, the most reliable company for airport transfers (that’s what I use wherever I travel).
If you are renting a car in Cagliari, you have to take SS554 and follow the signs to Muravera, then take SS125. Finally, take the first exit to Costa Rei, and turn right at the only traffic light you will encounter. It will take you about one hour to get there, depending on traffic.
Make sure to also check out my post How To Get To Sardinia: Routes From Italy And Europe.
FAQs on Villasimius
Much like the rest of Sardinia, Villasimius can be expensive in July and August, when accommodation prices rise, and beach parking and services add to daily costs. If you want to visit on a smaller budget, I recommend staying in guesthouses, eating at local trattorie, and visiting free beaches.
This is really hard to say. Much of this depends on how far in advance you book, and on when you go (if you visit Sardinia in August, it’s much more expensive than visiting Sardinia in October).
You can find some fairly budget-friendly accommodation options in Villasimius: usually, renting a small holiday apartment is a good investment if you don’t mind cooking your own meals. Finally, renting a car in Sardinia adds to the cost, but in Villasimius, you can also count on public transport or move around by bike.
About 60 km (37.2 miles).
Many consider Punta Molentis to be the best beach in Villasimius thanks to its clear water, fine sand, and scenic setting between two small bays. I also love Porto Giunco. Simius is popular for its easy access from town.
In one word, stunning. All the photos you can see in this post show you the incredible sea and beautiful beaches of Villasimius. Throughout this small town, the sea is always transparent and of unique shades of blue. All Villasimius beaches have shallow waters and a sandy bottom.
Villasimius is located in the province of South Sardinia.
You can, but it’s limiting. Buses connect Villasimius with Cagliari, and you can easily reach Simius Beach on foot from the town center. However, most beaches are spread along the coast, and there are virtually no buses going there, so having a car makes it much easier to explore.
Yes. Villasimius is very family-friendly thanks to its sandy beaches, shallow water, and relaxed atmosphere. Beaches such as Porto Giunco and Campulongu are especially good for children. The town also has restaurants, gelato shops, and evening strolls that make it an easy destination for families.
Villasimius is lively in the summer. There are restaurants, bars, street artists and musicians, and the town center is always crowded with people enjoying a “passeggiata” (stroll). However, it is not a major nightlife destination.
It’s hard to name the most beautiful beach in Sardinia. Some would mention Cala Goloritzé or Cala Mariolu, in the Baunei Coast. Others say that La Pelosa, in the northwest of Sardinia and facing Asinara Island, is the prettiest. I have a soft spot for Cala Coticcio, a protected beach in Caprera Island, in the Maddalena Archipelago.
Final Considerations
Villasimius is home to some of the best beaches in South Sardinia, and whenever I am asked for a consultancy for an itinerary in South Sardinia, I suggest adding at least a few days there.
The beaches in Villasimius are out of this world, and thanks to its location, you can also easily reach Costa Rei as well as other incredible spots in the south of the island, such as Mari Pintau. It’s a perfect spot whether you wish to have a relaxing holiday, or something more intense with water activities and some nightlife too.
Easily one of my favorite places to visit in Sardinia!
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We are on a road trip around southern, eastern , then western Sardinia
any comments welcome
starting at Cags 2 nights
then onto Pula 2 nights
then onto Cala Gonone 3 nights
finishing at Alghero 2 nights
guides and recommendations welcome
thank you
Katharine
I would not recommend living in Villasimius unless you speak Italian fluently. It doesn’t get too cold in the winter, but it can be windy. Definitely consider a bigger city – I suggest Cagliari as the best choice.
Will love to move to Sardinia we are seniors, we read something like for 10 years no taxes if you moved to Sardinia? We visited Villasimius several times in the summer for vacation, how is the winter and how cold does it get, yet will like to see more about Cagliari, however is a bigger city, could you give an opinion. Thanks.