If you choose to make yourvisit by day, you might notice that the cliffs form a natural bridge. The working lighthouse is a unique location in Chia, as it serves as a hotel with six rooms. It offers wonderful views of Capo Figari and the islands named Figarolo Tavolara. This cove is popular among scuba-divers and snorkelling enthusiasts. Cala Mariolu is another top contender on our list of Best Beaches of East Sardinia. Portisco beach and its surrounding beaches are the most beautiful beaches of the Sardinian Costa Smeralda, located 15 kilometers away from Olbia. Those who do not like this practice will still find enough space to plant an umbrella and to relax away from everyone. Just keep in mind that the Costa Smeralda is famous for its jet-set celebrity crowd. The closest you can come by boat is hovering offshore for photos. The cove can be accessed on foot from Piredda in the Plateau of Golgo (Altopiano del Golgo), but the trek to the beach is not easy and should be done well prepared. It is a dirt road, almost a mule track, with several downhill bends, which in some places is a little dangerous. In the summer, it is more like a mainland beach, with rows of lounge chairs and umbrellas, but they are only in its center and there's plenty of space at either end. Puntaldia beach, one of the smallest beaches in the area of San Teodoro, faces north-east offering marvelous views of Capo Coda Cavallo and Isola Tavolara. Several species of seabirds nest on the cliffs, including cormorants, which attract birdwatchers. This beach faces due west overlooking the azure waters of Golfi di Palma. The Locals Guide to Authentic Sardinia Tucked away in a natural amphitheater of granite rocks, Spiaggia di Li Cossi is a must-see cove located in Costa Paradiso. It is a vast expanse of about 28 km, covered with majestic hills of sand which approach the sparkling blue sea. The Best 7 Beaches in Southern Italy. The presence in the surroundings of high cliffs, granite rocks, flat fields, imposing dunes, islands and islets. The wildness of the spot, which recalls oceanic settings, suggests the utmost caution. Lush species belonging to Mediterranean scrub grow on the dunes, creating beautiful contrasts between the gold of the sand, the blue of the sea and the green of the vegetation. Its the perfect overview for those whod like to discover Sardinias smallest beaches and secluded coves. The colors of the sea are incredible, and the water transparency enhances the superb beauty of the seabed while snorkelling. Situated in what used to be a mining area, Cala Domestica is located on the south-western coast of Sardinia. Pink rocks seem to float in a pale blue sea, and along with a soaring cliff at its back, the beach is framed by a sea arch and the sharp-pointed Aguglia, a 148-meter rock pinnacle. Easy to assume that it is very secluded! These uncrowded white-sand beaches are backed by hills planted with olive and almond groves. This beautiful cove is located in the Gulf of Orsei and is a true Mediterranean jewel. Given the vastness of the beach, the beach is always uncrowded, even during high season and, given the scarcity of homes, hotels or other structures, your privacy is guaranteed. The Coghinas flows at these latitudes, one of the major waterways in northern Sardinia. But it is also an idyllic place for those who want to relax among the sweet golden and fine sand, typical pf the while Chia coast. Some beaches of Sardinia are known and loved by tourists from all over the world, who visit them regularly; such as Cala Brandinchi in San Teodoro, or the iconic La Pelosain Stintino, or Porto Giunco in Villasimius, not to forget the Ogliastra coves and the beaches of the Maddalena Archipelago. Spiaggia del Principe is one of the finest beaches Costa Smeralda has to offer. Boat trips are available from the villages of Cala Gonone and Santa Maria Navarrese. It is located 900 meters south-west of Baia Caddinas. The southernmost beach is Cala Domestica, a stage-set cove with deep blue water and sand that sparkles in the sun. Until the 1940s, cargo ships with minerals extracted from the area's mines sailed from these shores. Cala Domestica beach is located about two kilometers south of Buggerru. The only alternative is a steep, rough trail from the top of the plateau. Cala Granu beach (Spiaggia Cala Granu) is a small beach - 100 meters long - located 1 kilometer north of Porto Cervo, in the heart of the Costa Smeralda. Today, there are essential services in the surrounding area, such as refreshment points and car parks. The three kilometers of Scivu Beach is an exception, with a kiosk renting umbrellas. The consistency of the shoreline, which can be composed of impalpable sand like powdered sugar or smooth pebbles like grains of rice, or even bare rock. It has to be done only under the close supervision of an adult, with well inflated and firm armrests around upper arms, and only when the sea is completely calm. Even for those who don't care for sunning on a beach, the Maddalena Islands are one of the top places to visit in Sardinia, for their scenery, history, and setting in the region's fabled emerald-green waters. Once again, we are on the west coast, which not surprisingly is the least visited coast of Sardinia. From the etymological point of view, the name probably derives from the term tignosu, which means "poor" in the local dialect. Unlike the other cove beaches along this steep shoreline, where the Gennargentu mountains drop into the sea, Cala Goloritz is a protected Natural Monument where you can't land a boat. With over 2,000km of coastline, the island certainly has a beach to suit every taste. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. As for accommodation, Chia offers many options. Quiet and beautiful. The islands are known for their pink sand, especially on the southeastern shore of Budelli, where Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) is colored by microscopic grains of coral and shells. Due to its location, the beach of Cala Mariolu rests in the shade of the limestone rocks at the end of the afternoon. The downside of such international fame is that the most beautiful and easily accessible beaches are quite crowded, especially during high season. La Pipara beach is located in Capo Coda Cavallo, San Teodoro. Between Sa Colonia and the beach of Su Cardolinu is the beautiful small crescent of Porticciolo Beach. Speaking of which, take your own, along with refreshments and sunscreen, as you're likely to find few of the usual beach vendors on these almost deserted sands. It is located approximately 300 meters away from Palmasera beach. Copyright 2022 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. On any list of the best beaches in Sardinia, you'll find La Pelosa, at the northwestern tip of the island near Stintino. With warm and shallow waters, this small and cozy beach is suitable for families with children. The cliffs, which in some points reach 25-30 meters in height, are very romantic at sunset due to the intense colors they take on. Divided by the reach of a rock formation, the waters here range from aquamarine to cobalt blue and are perfect for snorkelling. It consists of fine sand and some small stones, and is surrounded by several cliffs. The beach is tucked away in a narrow bay and only spans 150 meters, with sands white and fine, backed by dense Mediterranean Maquis. Cala Pira is conveniently and gorgeously situated right in between two hills sheltering itself from the wind. At these and other beaches in the Maddalena Islands, you will need to bring your own towels, umbrella, and refreshments, as most are entirely undeveloped. The area is quite famous for all the places of historical and archaeological interest enclosed in the territory of Cabras, such as Mont'e Prama and Tharros, as well as for the beautiful beach Is Arutasmade of quartz grains. In front of it stands the triangular shape of the limestone island of Figarolo. On Capo Coda Cavallo, south of the Costa Smeralda and near the resort center of San Teodoro, Cala Brandinchi is often called Sardinia's Tahiti for its brilliant white sand and shallow turquoise water. We have included Cala Cipolla amoung our favourite secret beaches because it is hidden among the hills and beyond the beach is bursting vegetation, a forest of pines and junipers, which makes this cove even more suggestive. Not only that, Cala Mariolu is a natural beach that, in addition to the varied marine fauna, is completed by two splendid caves: Grotta del Fico and Grotta del Bue Marino. But it is also a rather suggestive route, as it crosses a wonderful mountain area, with the presence of old disused mines, the ruins of which are still visible. The sea and wind tend to be stronger along this western coast, so the beaches are not good places for children to swim. Make a day of it and take the car and go on an adventure down south until youre in Capo Pecora, where the Costa Verde ends. West of Villasimius, Punta Molentis juts into the sea, protecting its fine beach of pink and white sands from the winds. South of Porto Cervo, Grande Pevero is a half-moon of fine white sand surrounded by juniper. But we strongly advise against taking this route except with an off-road vehicle, a 4x4, or a large enduro motorcycle. Cala Moresca is an enchanting natural inlet, with two beaches of fine golden sand, behind which stands the verdant promontory of Capo Figari, near Golfo Aranci. It is set in a remote and uncontaminated natural context. Bordering all sides of this Mediterranean island and often washed by almost fluorescent turquoise waters, Sardinia's beaches are so plentiful that travelers are never far from one. Cala Cipolla (Spiaggia di Cala Cipolla) is one of the pearls that the Chia Bay is famous for, and is another favorite spot among off-season surfers. From the beach, you have a clear view over to the island of Corsica where you can spot the 16th Century architecture of Torre di Longonsardo. Below youll find an overview of Sardinian beaches with a length of less than 200 meters. The beach is as wide as two kilometers in places, the widest on the island. At the end of the road, at the bottom right, there are two sheltered beaches, surrounded by a dense pine forest that offers shade during the hottest hours. In a steampunk setting, the remains of disused mines, deposits, tunnels and impressive infrastructures are still recognizable, which tell of a bygone era in which minerals were extracted from the great belly of the south-west of the island. It lies in the embrace of a pine forest, and the green of the vegetation along with the striking blue of the sea is especially spectacular between October and May. It is located 800 meters north of Cala Ferraglione, and is 160 meters long. Where to Go in Sardinia: Whatever beach you choose, you are never far from one of the many tourist attractions in Sardinia, and you can find the best places to stay with our top hotels and resorts in Sardinia page. The wildest and least developed of Sardinia's beaches are where the shore swings northward at the southeast corner, known as the Costa Verde, Green Coast. Spiaggia S'abba e sa Pedra is one of the smallest and most secluded coves you will find in the area of Golfo Aranci. Together with La Pitrizza and Cala Granu, it encloses the peninsula of Capo Ferro. Use this list of the best beaches in Sardinia to help you plan your vacation. Further on, on the high cliff, there is a fortified tower from the Spanish era, which can be reached through a path that starts from the coast, and from which you can enjoy an incredible view. But some larger and still beautiful beaches are open to the public. The most adventurous route starts from Montevecchio: you have to drive on the SP4.18 / SP66. For the most spectacular sea views and deluxe accommodations, stay at the five-star Faro Capo Spartivento hotel, set inside a former lighthouse atop a promontory. Paddleboards and windsurfing equipment is available, as well as lessons for beginners. Crystal-clear water and long shallow drop-off make this a good choice for families with young children. Cala Luna is a favorite for its sea cave beside the beach. Sos Aranzos beach (Spiaggia di Sos Aranzos) is a small but rather wide beach of just 120 meters long. Chia is at the center of this coast, with a busy beach of its own, where you can rent kayaks, surfboards, even snorkel gear and sailboats. Choosing between several beaches in one stretch of Sardinia's coastline is like choosing chocolates out of a box whichever one you're tasting at the moment is the best. The contrast of the crystalline sea with the golden beach offers an idyllic landscape. In addition, the presence of winds could increase the wave motion: it is no coincidence that the beach is very popular and frequented all year round by surfers. For value accommodations a short walk from the Rena Bianca beach, consider Hotel L'Ancora in the heart of Santa Teresa Gallura. Written by Barbara Radcliffe RogersUpdated Apr 25, 2022, We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). The hidden jewel of Costa Smeralda. Liscia di Vacca beach is one of the smallest of the Costa Smeralda. The beach stretches along the coast for several kilometers and is bordered by dunes of very fine sand, on which gnarled and aromatic junipers grow, as spectacular and choreographic as few tree species can be. The shape of the bay, horseshoe, crescent, thin strip between two seas, oblong, diamond-shaped or converging arches. Located between the Maddalena Islands and the fabled Costa Smeralda, Capo Testa and the shore of Santa Teresa Gallura has an attraction neither of the others has: its beaches are public and easily accessed by land. Rock formations at either side form pools that are a habitat for fish, and popular for snorkeling. If youre out for a day of family-friendly adventure, you might want to have a closer look at Spiaggia Rena Bianca. No coincidence that the location was chosen by internationally renowned artists and movie directors as a set of films and videoclips. Finally, you will have to pass through the ghost village of Ingurtosu, part of the Historical and Environmental Geomining Park of the Sardinia Region, where you will feel like inside an old wild west movie. Olivers Vampire Weekender Only the Undead Should Apply! You'll find the beautiful cove of Cala Fuili three kilometers south of the center of the seaside village named Cala Gonone, in the province of Nuoro, the provincial capital of the central area of East Sardinia. Photography enthusiasts can take advantage of the presence of the rails along the sea, which offer suggestive shots. https://www.sardatur-holidays.co.uk/italy-hotels/sardinia/cala-gonone, https://www.sardatur-holidays.co.uk/italy-hotels/sardinia/arbatax. But in addition to being truly beautiful, it is also a rather remote beach. The largest and best known of these is Rena Bianca, a beautiful stretch of white sand sloping gently into the green water. But this gorgeous beach,located on the Sinis Peninsula, is definitely worth the effort. If you'd like to take the 3.5-kilometer walk from Cala Fuili to Cala Luna, the hiking route is well signposted. Cala Balcaccia is located 7 kilometers east of Santa Teresa Gallura, in northern Sardinia. With 1750 metres of white sand and crystal sea, Cala Sinzias is perfect for activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing. Spanning over three kilometres on the north-eastern shoreline and several hundred shallow meters out into the Sardinian sea, the sands of Spiaggia la Cinta have been likened to sugar, and the location is perfect for spending all day on the beach. To see some of the most beautiful of Capo Testa's wind-carved rock formations, follow the trail from the eastern end of the beach. Close to the town is Lu Impostu, with white sand and clear, gentle waters, which you can explore by rental kayak. Besides, it is the ideal place to spot some rare Flora. The placid waters and beach are protected from the open sea and wind by Capo Falcone, topped by a ruined 16th-century watch tower. Be it family-friendly, secluded beaches and coves, great for watersports, or youd just like to daydream some time away, weve conveniently gathered ten of the loveliest beaches in Sardinia for your perusing. Few territories in the world can boast such a high number of dream beaches as this magical island in the middle of the Mediterranean. Apart from its beauty, much of the beach's mystique surrounds the difficulties in getting here. Tucked away in the embrace of low cliffs, Spiaggia del Principe is famous for being the favourite beach of Prince Karim Aga Khan who actually gave it its name. It hosts various species of birds along its course, creating a delicate ecosystem of great interest for biology and birdwatching enthusiasts. Youll feel right at home with the birdwatchers looking out for local flamingos and kingfishers. Make sure to bring some snorkeling gear! Your email address will not be published. The perfect secret beach! The archipelago lies off the northeast shore, reached by ferry from Palau, and once here, you can walk or drive to beaches on the main island of Maddelena and the island of Caprera, which is connected by a causeway. This fine little beach is located just a few kilometers south-west of Porto Pino, and 6 kilometers west of the community of Sant'Anna Arresi. It can also be reached by hiking on the rocks. Rena Bianca beach in Santa Teresa Gallura, Sardinia. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, as well as canoes. Cala Granu beach is smaller, only 100 meters long, facing onto a lovely green bay just north of Porto Cervo. The presence or absence of vegetation and Mediterranean scrub. Being the widest beach in all of Sardinia, it covers an expanse of two kilometres inland giving a dessert-like impression. They are constantly moved and shaped by vigorous sea winds. Porto Palmas beach is a small cove just north of Argentiera in north-west Sardinia, and belongs to the group of westernmost coves you'll find on the island. Its celebrated white gravely sands were once trekked all over the island and used everywhere from aquariums to private beaches. Top 5 secret beaches you must visit ! Guarantee Perfect Wedding Day Weather With Olivers Travels! Swimmers will enjoy Tuerredda Beach, near Chia, where they can swim about 100 meters to a small island topped by a stone tower. Piscinas is listed by National Geographic among the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beach also descends on an old mule trail from theAltopiano del Golgo, which is a must if youre interested in some interesting sights. Contrary to Cala Mariolu, Cala Cipolla is easily reached on foot, along a path from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of a boundless and crystalline sea. But once you have reached this tiny white sandy beach, you'll be rewarded with captivating views of Isola Tavolara and Isola di Figarolo. White sand Spiaggia Isuledda is another nearby choice. For a resort town that's less pricey than Porto Cervo, try laid-back Cannigione, on the Gulf of Arzachena. We will list a series of coves and natural beaches chosen specifically for their secrecy and uncontaminated nature. There are also other noteworthy tree species, such as ancient olive trees and holm oaks. In Badesi Mare you will certainly find a secluded beach, where to lay at safe distance from other bathers. Image credits: Is Aruttas via IteNovas,Spiaggia di Piscinas & Spiaggia Rena Bianca via GettyImages, Spiaggia del Principe, Spiaggia la Cinta, Cala Pira, SArchittu, Santa Giusta & Cala Brandinchi via sardinianbeaches. The appeal of so many other beaches in Sardinia is their wild, untamed beauty and lack of tourist incursions; Poetto is an eight-kilometer stretch of activity and sociability. Two other beaches, Spiaggia Sa Colonia and horseshoe-shaped Spiaggia Su Portu, lie at either side of a headland topped by a Spanish watch tower. Behind the beach, the large Notteri pond is home to pink flamingoes. But that is not all! Another gently sloping beach good for children, Spiaggia Sa Colonia has tranquil places to spread a beach towel even in August, when all beaches are the busiest. You'll find hotels in the resort of Putzu Idu, and a beach almost two kilometers long with clear water and a shallow sandy seabed that extends dozens of meters out into the bay. This is because the conformation of the seabed and the presence of currents make swimming unsafe. Cala Spinosa, Capo Testa. An error has occurred, please contact the Service Administrator. Before sunrise or after sunset, its ideal for a long walk along the stretch of sand. Copyright 2022 Island of Sardinia Srl. The main cove is enclosed in a large inlet, protected by imposing white limestone cliffs. All the beaches of Sardinia differ from each other for some features, given by the combination of recurring elements. The beach is easy to reach from Cagliari's harbor by tram, which stops at four points along the beachfront. These days visitors are urged to leave this gem where it belongs. Surrounding it youll also find some sun-warmed pools. Just a few hundred meters east of the marina of Porto Rotondo, in the direction of Punta Volpe, you'll find Spiaggia dei Sassi. On Sardinia's east coast, north of Cala Goloritz and the other Gulf of Orosei beaches, the large Capo Comino Beach is ideal for families, with a long stretch of sand that slopes gently into shallow blue water. Even at the height of Italy's August vacation, you'll be able to find stretches of golden sand without an umbrella in sight. The white cliffs are about two kilometers long, and wind between Mari Ermi beach, in the territory of Cabras and the rocks south of the maritime hamlet of sArena Scoada, in the territory of San Vero Milis. The Mile Low Club: Olivers Travels Announces Its Most Exclusive Property Yet! Among the most suggestive beaches of Chia, in the south of Sardinia, lies this enchanting beach surrounded by two pink granite promontories which stretch towards the sea, forming a natural pool. It is set in a beautiful cove bordered by rocky slopes that gently descend into the sea. Although the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the drawback for budget-minded tourists is that most of those idyllic sandy coves can be reached only by private boat or by guests of the luxury resorts that surround them. It faces west, featuring views over the Golfo Cugnana and Marina di Portisco to the north-east. So plentiful in most places are these small intimate coves and long sandy strands, that we have described them in groups. There is even a fully equipped RV area nearby. The beach itself is lovely, with soft white sand and shallow water; pink flamingos lend color to the two ponds that separate it from the city. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Which are the quietest beaches in Sardinia. Cala Suaraccia beach is located on the Capo Coda Cavallo peninsula, 9 kilometers north-east of San Teodoro. Here is Cala Cipolla. ExpertService | Price Match Guarantee | 100% Peace of Mind | Financial Security with ATOL protected holidays. It spans 200 meters, offering views of Corsica in the distance. We are sure that all the effort and the long journey to the unspoiled gems will be worth it. It features splendid views of Isola Tavolara. The small and family-friendly beach of Baia Caddinas can be found directly in front of Baia Caddinas village, 500 meters north-east of SAbba e sa Pedra Beach. We recommend that you bring only what is strictly necessary with you. Every now and then you can find pretty sandy coves where you can land to enjoy the sea in complete tranquility, away from everything and everyone. The waters overlooking the cove are rich in kaleidoscopic marine fauna and are excellent snorkeling spots. Cala Fuili is one of the best beaches of East Sardinia, therefore it can get rather busy during high season, so it's best to go there early if you can, preferably before 9 AM. As we said, it is not a hidden beach and therefore you can find a series of facilities such as sunbeds and parasols with bars and restaurants nearby. Highly recommended! These might include Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, Cala dei Gabbiani, Cala Luna, and Cala Biriola. The cove is located just north of the famous Cala Goloritze, and is decorated with little pebbles made round and smooth by the eternal movement of the waters. If you are looking for something different, not crowded or adventurous, then this post is for you. Nearby, a string of beautiful beaches have long rolling waves and clear waters that make them favorites for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. This beach is nicely settled between the small villages of Porto Quadro to the west, and Villaggio La Marmoratina to the east. Recommended by locals. It is located in the south-east of Sardinia between Costa Rei and Villasimius. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. Spiaggia di Su Portu de su Trigu, also known as Cala Sa Barracca is one of the smallest beaches of south Sardinia. A tunnel connects the main beach to a smaller, secluded and romantic cove, of wild and unspoiled beauty, called La Caletta. It features a bar and a restaurant. Rudargia beach (Spiaggia Rudargia) is a small beach near Porto Rotondo and Ira beach - at the southern border of the famous Costa Smeralda area in Sardinia. Which happens to home another recommended beach in Sardinia! Behind the beach lie the Dune di Scivu, some of Europe's tallest sand dunes. It's easy to find as you enter Golfo Aranci village. While it is not a beach you would choose for seclusion, this beach, almost in the heart of Cagliari, is a good choice for the old-fashioned pleasures of a day at the beach. Drive east from Santa Teresa Gallura for about 10 or 15 minutes, and you'll discover Porto Quadro beach. It is only 70 meters long, and faces south-east. Beach activities include snorkeling around the rocks, swimming in the crystal-clear warm water, and climbing. Rather than planning on a specific stretch of sand, choose an area, settle in, and sample several until you find your own slice of paradise. With some of Sardinia's shallowest water, it is very popular with swimmers and families. That, of course, doesn't subtract from their beauty or from the famously emerald-colored sea that washes them. Chia is an easy day trip from Cagliari but has plenty of hotels and tourist services for longer stays. The beach faces west, with nice views over the waters of the Baia La Colba, and the rugged coastline of the Capo Testa promontory. It is one of the little Sardinian treasures that requires some effort to find. Cala Brandinchi has been nicknamed Little Tahiti so you can imagine how beautiful it is. It is a wide, clear beach, made up of a mix of fine sand and coarser grains. Horseshoe-shaped Spiaggia Su Portu is one of the longest, and Capo Mannu is one of the best for surfing. But the beaches themselves which are almost all free are in pristine settings backed by hills, dunes, rock formations, or cliffs. It has a length of just 100 meters and offers nice views of Isola Molara and Isola Tavolara. A true pearl of Sardinia, located in the central-western coast, lies this paradise of contrasting colours. Cala Coticcio is on the island of Caprera, and also backed by tropical foliage. There's a parking space for about fifty cars. Read on to discover the best bays where you can enjoy the sea and the sun in complete tranquility, and where you can relax all year round. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. The Costa Verde is a protected area and therefore there are no nearby accommodation but we can still recommend you stay in Oristano at the Is Benas Country Lodge, a 4* property surrounded by nature. For all its natural wonders, Phoenician ruins, and mysterious prehistoric stone towers, its spectacular beaches remain Sardinia's most alluring tourist attractions. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. Look also for Mai Moni and Sa Mesa Longa and the little cove beaches of Sa Figu and Dei Tedeschi, the latter a good place for scuba diving. Cala Granara, on Isola di Spargi, is a white-sand beach, an idyllic scene backed by palms and tropical plants. Porto La Cruzitta beach is located within a secluded and picturesque cove that is situated between Li Cossi beach and Cala Sarraina, in Trinit DAgultu. Aerial view of the Prince's Beach (Spiaggia del Principe), Costa Smeralda.