Scoglio di Peppino feels like a beautiful painting. The large granite rock is the focal point against the bright blue sea, perfectly framed by a pure white sand beach, creating a breathtaking view.
This guide will help you discover everything you need to know about Scoglio di Peppino, including the best time to visit, insider tips, nearby attractions, and how to make the most of your trip to this stunning coastal landmark.
What does “Scoglio di Peppino” mean?
Scoglio di Peppino is famous for its striking granite rock formation, known as Scoglio di Peppino, which literally means “Peppino’s Rock.” This main feature is a beautifully smoothed granite rock that resembles a turquoise shell to some, or a whale to others.
When I was younger, a narrow strip of sand connected the large rock island to the main beach. Since then, the water level has risen, covering the sand strip, but a shallow water path still leads to the island, creating a beautiful and unique scene.
The rock is surrounded by the clearest, most inviting sea, and the surrounding cliffs offer excellent views that make for a great diving spot.
Peppino’s Rock
The Legend of Peppino’s Rock
As Maria Cinus explains, the legend goes that Peppino’s Rock was a favourite hangout spot of a local fisherman named Peppino. He had a notorious habit of illegally fishing by throwing dynamite into the water, making the fish float to the surface for his poor daughter to collect.
One day, while fishing on the rock with his daughter, a stick of dynamite exploded in Peppino’s hands. A man came to help them, and in a twist of fate, he shared the same name as the fisherman “Peppino”.
A single, sad glance between the daughter and the young Peppino was enough to ignite a spark of love between them. They fell deeply in love.
The fisherman lost a hand and an eye in the explosion, and his mental health quickly deteriorated. Disobeying the father, the girl continued to meet the young Peppino in secret.
Eventually, they ran away together, never to be seen again. Their last known meeting took place on what is now known as “The Whale’s Rock.” According to legend, on a full moon, it’s possible to still hear the lovers’ songs carried by the wind.
Today, Scoglio di Peppino is a perfect destination for lovers, steeped in romance and mystery.
The Ancient Harbour Under the Sea
An ancient paved path made of sandstone was recently discovered near the beach in 2023. On days when the sea is rough, this path sometimes re-emerges, and it is believed to be part of an ancient harbour. This discovery was made on June 6th, 2023.
How To Get To There
There are two ways to reach Scoglio di Peppino, by car or by bus.
The closest airport is the airport of Elmas in Cagliari, 60km away.
The road to Scoglio di Peppino will take you on the SS125, which is about a 1-hour journey.
If you are driving, the main path will take you to a car park, which is about a 10-minute walk from the beach.
Parking Near Scoglio di Peppino
Parking prices vary depending on the season.
For cars:
- June 1st to June 20th – €5 for half a day and €8 for a full day.
- July 1st to September 10th – €6 for half a day and €10 for a full day.
For motorbikes:
- June 1st to June 30th – €2.50 for half a day and €5 for a full day.
- July 1st to September 10th – €4 for half a day and €7 for a full day.
Public Transport Options From Cagliari
If you are traveling from Cagliari and relying on public transportation, be prepared for a longer route that is not for the faint-hearted. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Two buses will take you there: the 101 or the 135 from Cagliari’s main city centre. The closest bus stop near the Scoglio is at Castiadas Villaggio Santa Giusta.
From the bus stop, it’s another 15-minute walk to the beach.
You can view the website here for the most up-to-date bus times.
If you are staying in the North or North West of Sardinia we do not recommended to visit Scoglio di Peppino as a day-trip, but a visit could form part of a several day excursion to the South.
From Alghero airport in the North West, it is around 300km away and roughly a 4 hour drive. Similarly, Olbia airport is 250km away and a 3.5 hour drive.
What to Bring
Essential items for a comfortable stay at the beach:
- Beach Umbrella: If you’re not planning on renting one there, bringing your own is a good idea.
- SPF 30 Sun Cream (Minimum): The sun can be intense, so protect your skin.
- Towel: For drying off after a swim or relaxing on the sand.
- Snorkeling Gear: The clear waters are perfect for exploring underwater life.
- Foldable Chair: If you prefer not to sit directly on the sand. You can also rent a sunbed there too if you wish.
- Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on hot days.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the bright sun.
- Waterproof Bag: If you plan on kayaking or paddleboarding, keep your belongings dry.
- Beach Mat: For the most responsible beachgoers, as beach mats take away less sand from the beach. Not compulsory.
- Beach Shoes or Flip-Flops: For walking comfortably on hot sand and rocky areas.
- Snacks or a Picnic Lunch: There are some facilities nearby, but it’s always good to have your own.
- A Good Book or Portable Music: Perfect for relaxing while you soak up the sun.
Facilities at Scoglio di Peppino
Bar Chiosco Santa Giusta directly on the beach is the only place where you can get a coffee/snack, or rent pedal boats, sun loungers and beach umbrellas.
Sporting Yatch Club Costa Rei is a boat storage with overnight security (if you are coming by boat) that is not too far from the parking lot.
Activities At Scoglio di Peppino
Windsurfing: a popular activity during windy days.
Kayaking and Pedal Boating: Are both available to hire here.
Snorkelling: It’s safe to snorkel in the sea around Scoglio di Peppino. The main types of fish you might see include barracudas, groupers, snappers and gilthead breams.
For those with disabilities, access to the beach is possible via a wooden path, though it is not recommended due to the gravel road leading from the parking lot. It may be better to stop at one of the beaches closer to the parking lot.
Beach Hiking
Getting to the beach itself involves a small 2km hike from the parking lot. On the way, you will find the typical Mediterranean flora with twisted juniper trees and short shrubs on soft sandy dunes.
Enjoy the stunning views from the nearby statue of Jesus Christ, which looks out to sea. Such statues are a common sight along Italy’s coastlines, offering blessings to sailors for a safe voyage.
For a more challenging hike, try this route to the beautiful cove of Monte Turno, which is 10.7 km loop.
If you enjoy walking on the sand, from the scoglio (rock) you can walk for miles along the white endless beach of Costa Rei. It is one of the longest beaches in Sardinia. When you feel hot, enjoy a quick dip in the sea to cool off.
Nearby Hotels To Scoglio di Peppino
Santa Giusta IGV: A high-end resort offering luxurious amenities and direct access to the beach.
Hotel Villas Resort: A mid-range option with comfortable accommodations and family-friendly facilities.
Villaggio Camping Capoferrato: A budget-friendly camping village with a laid-back atmosphere and basic amenities.
Nearby Restaurants
Chaplin Spaghetteria: A cheap and cheerful option with excellent local food, especially seafood – try the clams pasta.
Sa Cardiga e Su Pisci: A little more high-end, also famous for seafood.
Ristorante Pizzeria Da Guido: This restaurant offers traditional Sardinian food and is the closest option to the beach.
Be sure to take a read of our top ten must try dishes in Sardinia for inspiration on what to order.
Nearby Beaches
Santa Giusta Ginestre: A quiet, family-friendly beach with shallow waters, perfect for kids.
Porto Pirastu: A small, secluded beach with a rocky shoreline, ideal for snorkeling.
Cala Sinzias: A beautiful stretch of white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, popular but less crowded than Scoglio di Peppino.
Cala Monte Turno: A picturesque cove with turquoise waters and a peaceful atmosphere, great for a relaxing day out.
Useful Tips
It’s worth noting that the Hotel Santa Giusta near the Peppino’s rock takes up most of the beach with private sunbeds.
Therefore, it can be worth parking slightly further away, near the Villaggio Camping Capoferrato as that stretch of beach is generally less crowded.
From the camping, you can walk to the rock at your own pace, approximately 600m away.
If you’d like to check ahead, the weather and beach conditions in Costa Rei can be viewed live with this handy webcam.
Best Time To Visit Scoglio di Peppino
The best time to visit and avoid the crowds is early in the season—June—or in September and October. If you enjoy hiking, from October all-the-way to Spring is the ideal time to enjoy walking with more mild temperatures.
For more info on the best time to visit Sardinia in general, take a read of our article here.
Photo Opportunities
If you like to take home a special picture or just admire the views on your own peacefully, head there at sunrise, as the sun makes its appearance on the sea tainting everything with golden hues. It’s a stunning sight.
Scoglio di Peppino Summary
Scoglio di Peppino truly is a special beach – so much so that it made our list of top ten beaches in Sardinia. Yes, it can get crowded in the peak of summer, as the nearby Hotel Santa Giusta takes up most of the beach with its sunbeds and umbrellas. However, the crystal-clear waters and the beautiful rock make it a lovely spot to relax and enjoy.
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