Overview of Porto Giunco Beach
As a treasured local spot, Porto Giunco or Spiaggia di Porto Giunco in Italian, is close to our hearts and one of our favourite beaches in South Sardinia.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll find all the essential answers to your questions: Why visit Porto Giunco? Is it family-friendly? When is the best time to go and what should you do while you’re there?
For a perfect stay near this beautiful beach, check out our guide to the best hotels in Villasimius to suit all travelers.
Porto Giunco Location
Located in the village of Villasimius, on the southeast coast of the island of Sardinia, it is part of the Sud Sardegna province. Porto Giunco stretches for about 3 km in length and is located approximately 52 km from Cagliari, making it an excellent option for a day trip.
Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area
The beach is within the marine protected area of Capo Carbonara and is known for its naturalistic beauty (flora and fauna), white, fine sand, and crystal-clear turquoise water. Beautifully nestled between the sea and the Stagno di Notteri, a basin regularly visited by pink flamingos for many months of the year, as well as other migratory birds and overlooked by the 16th-century Spanish Giunco Tower.
Porto Giunco is a large beach, so even during peak season, you will likely find a spot to position your umbrella and towel. The beach is very accessible, with a wooden path leading from the parking area to the beach, making it suitable for those with limited mobility.
The shallow turquoise water, which turns into deep blue in the distance, makes it a perfect destination for families, as well as for snorkelling and diving. However, if you’re looking for a secluded beach, this might not be the spot for you as it can get quite busy.
Activities and Attractions
Snorkeling and Diving: Explore vibrant marine life in shallow, clear waters.
Surfing: Porto Giunco is not well-known for surfing but is ideal for wind sports like kite surfing and windsurfing due to favourable wind conditions.
Beachfront Amenities: There are bars which offer light snacks and drinks, and equipment rental such as peddle boats and kayaks.
Shallow Waters: The gradual slope of the sea makes it safe for families with children to swim here.
Looking for more activities in the area? Take a look at our top 10 things to do in Villasimius.
Historical and Natural Highlights
Tower of Porto Giunco
This 16th-century Spanish viewing tower, recently restored in the summer of 2024 to its original appearance, stands 50 meters above sea level and is about 9 meters high. It offers stunning views over the pond and the beach, making it a perfect destination for capturing great photos.
The structure is made of local granite stone and is part of a network of towers in the area. Each tower was strategically placed to communicate with the next one visible, facilitating easy communication in the past.
Natural Highlights
The beach being in the Marine protected area is home to a diverse Marine life which is protected. Therefore, fishing and boat traffic is regulated here.
The sea is home to Posidonia algae, vital in fighting erosion and capturing CO2. While swimming, you might spot barracudas, groupers, snappers, gilthead breams, and occasionally dolphins, sperm whales, and spinner dolphins.
Inland beautifully twisted juniper trees dot the sand-dunes and the Notteri Pond is home to pink flamingos and other migratory birds.
Local Hiking Trails
Walking trails to the nearby Giunco Tower take about 10 minutes. The tower is approximately 1.8 kilometres from the beach, though this distance can vary depending on your exact position on the beach.
For hiking enthusiasts, we highly recommend the All Trails or Komoot app which has some fantastic loops, such as this 8.5-kilometer loop from the harbour to the tower and Capo Carbonara, the tip of the peninsula.
For those seeking a challenge, a 14.5-kilometer loop from Villasimius is also available.
How to Get to Porto Giunco
Travelling By Car
Cagliari Elmas is the nearest airport.
As a general rule, you will need a car in Sardinia to travel freely, as public transportation is not the most efficient. The main road to the beach is called the SS125. The drive from the airport of Elmas takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
By Public Transport
From Cagliari take bus 101, which will take you to Villasimius centre. The bus stop to get off is called Via Roma La Lanterna.
You will still need to walk for about 3-4 km to the beach from the town centre or you can take a shuttle bus from Villasimius. The shuttle bus is €2 one way or €5 for a day pass. They run hourly.
Shuttle Bus Stops Villasimius
The bus ride from Cagliari takes about 1.5 hours and costs €4.30, one way. The main bus station in Cagliari is in Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, known as Bus Station ARST on Google.
Bus Schedule: Buses depart from Cagliari’s main Station several times a day.
Weekdays: | 05.02 | 8.15 | 11.15 | 14.05 | 18.30 | 20.25 |
Weekends and Holidays: | 8.15 | 14.05 |
For the most accurate, up to date bus times check here.
While buses also stop at other locations in Cagliari, the main station is the most convenient for most travelers, so we mention that one for simplicity. You can find more information here.
On A Guided Tour
Several guided tours will pick you up in Cagliari and take you to Porto Giunco and back on a day trip. Below are a couple of our favourites.
Beachtour Porto Giunco & Cala Sinzias from Cagliari | GetYourGuide
From Cagliari: 4×4 Tour to Villasimius and Beaches | GetYourGuide
Parking at Porto Giunco
During High Season come here early, as the beach can get crowded. Parking is just a five to ten-minute walk from the beach.
Fees vary depending on the month and length of your visit.
During summer as of 2024 parking costs €5 per day, and the parking area can accommodate up to 800 cars.
Services at Porto Giunco
Stabilimento Balneare Porto Giunco: Here, you will find sunbeds for hire and a bar selling alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Chiosco di Notteri: This spot offers sandwiches, pizza, croissants, beers, sunbeds, and spritz.
Pullman Timi Ama: On the far Northern part of the beach, has a private beach area with sunbeds and a bar only for guests.
Paid Toilet: You can find this at the end of the path from the parking area. The cost is approximately 50 cents per use.
Activities at Porto Giunco
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, Porto Giunco offers a range of activities. You can rent paddle boats, kayaks, and all sorts of water equipment from kiosks on the beach. Popular activities also include diving, snorkeling, beach tennis, hiking, and bird watching.
There are also snorkelling tours to nearby Capo Carbonara such as the one below.
Villasimius: Capo Carbonara Boat and Snorkeling Tour | GetYourGuide
Nearby Attractions
The closest town is Villasimius which goes from being a small quiet town off season into a busy tourist hub in summer. This is where you will find all the restaurants, accomodation and the shopping you need.
Food & Restaurants In Villasimius – Our Top Picks
Sa Tankitta: The seafood selection of starters is our favourite here but also pasta dishes and grilled seafood are good.
Agriturismo Sa Bingia di Ghiani Rossano: Get ready for a proper Sardinian feast. The local speciality is the roasted piglet which is served as a ‘secondi’, following starters and a first course. Make sure you leave some space for it!
Ristorante Le Anfore: Excellent locally sourced ingredients. Fish and pasta dishes are recommended.
Il Gelato di Beppe: Artisanal Gelato made with natural ingredients. Flavours vary so ask what’s in season.
Timi Ama Resort and Spa
Hotels to Stay in Near Porto Giunco
Explore our recommended hotels and places to stay nearby, with options for every budget.
Luxury Hotels Near Porto Giunco €€€
Hotel Cala Caterina: Boutique hotel that offers an intimate luxury stay.
Timi Ama Resort and Spa: Well regarded 5-star hotel as close to the beach as you can get.
Falkensteiner Resort Capo Boi: Family-friendly luxury resort situated on a private bay.
Midrange Hotels Near Porto Giunco €€
Hotel Mariposas: Beautiful gardens, friendly and close to the beach and centre.
Domu Simius: Boutique hotel, comfortable and stylish.
Hotel Fiore di Maggio: A great balance between location, price and comfort.
Budget Hotels Near Porto Giunco €
Hotel Stella D’Oro: Ideal for travellers who prioritise affordability, comfort and convenience.
Villaggio Camping Spiaggia del Riso: A budget-friendly option for those looking to camp at nearby Spiaggia del Riso, not far from Porto Giunco.
If you’re planning to stay in the area and want to make the most of your trip, read our more detailed guide to the best hotels in Villasimius to find the perfect accommodation that suits your needs and style.
Nearby Beaches and Highlights
Porto Sa Ruxi. A lovely succession of three small coves protected by white soft dunes with fragrant juniper trees.
Punta Molentis: A beautiful bay with a narrow stretch of sand and crystal-clear clear waters.
Isola Serpentara: Guided boat tours explore the natural marine park around the island. This is a paradise for snorkelling and nature lovers and is home to a diverse ecosystem.
Cala Pira: Beautiful cove with shallow reassuring waters with a Spanish Tower. Perfect shelter for windy days.
If you’re looking for a list of the best spots to relax and soak up the sun, top beaches in Villasimius for your perfect getaway
The Best Time to Visit Porto Giunco
Summer is the best season to visit if you enjoy swimming and lounging under the sun, with August being the busiest month.
Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and enjoying the soothing background sound of the waves.
Winters in Sardinia are mild, and especially with global warming, temperatures can now reach peaks of 20°C even in the coldest months. This makes it a great time to explore the area on foot. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before embarking on a long hike.
Local Events Near Porto Giunco
The main local festival in Villasimius is the Madonna del Naufrago (the Holy Virgin of Castaways), typically held during the third week of July.
This festival features a boat parade in honour of the Holy Virgin, seeking her protection for those at sea and remembering those who have lost their lives in the ocean. The parade starts from the harbour and boats make their way out to sea to the spot where a statue of the Virgin lies on the seabed.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
If you value your space on the beach, we recommend arriving early (before 10am) or late (after 4pm) to avoid the crowds.
The middle of the beach is the least crowded area since it’s the farthest from the parking area. If you’re willing to walk a few extra minutes, you’ll be rewarded with more space.
What to Bring to Porto Giunco
A list of essentials for a day at the beach:
- Hat
- Umbrella
- SPF 30 sun cream (minimum)
- Snorkeling gear
- Foldable chair (if you prefer not to sit on the sand)
- Water
- Sunglasses
- Waterproof bag (if you plan on kayaking or paddleboarding)
- Beach mat or beach towel
- Beach shoes or flip-flops
- Snacks or a picnic lunch
- A good book or portable music player
Porto Giunco Summary
Porto Giunco is a perfect choice if you enjoy summer activities such as snorkelling, diving, and swimming, or if you’re into bird watching and wildlife photography.
With its scenic hiking trails available in autumn and spring, it’s also a fantastic spot for families and kids and a worthy member of on our list of the best beaches in Villasimius, South Sardinia.
For more information on planning your perfect trip to Sardinia, be sure to join our newsletter below.
