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With over 1,800 kilometers of coastline, Sardinia is home to more than 200 stunning beaches, each with its own charm.
In this article, we showcase our top picks for the best beaches on the island. Imagine pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and endless sunshine. Ready to dive in?
Just a heads-up: these beaches are amongst the most beautiful but can get pretty packed in the summer. If you don’t like crowds, probably best to avoid visiting in July and August.
1. Cala Goloritzé
Located near the village of Baunei, Cala Goloritzé features a steep rocky coast that plunges into the sea, creating a small cove with crystal-clear water. The marble rocks form a natural arch in the sea, with a sharp, phallic rock standing tall behind it—a popular destination for climbers who scale it daily. This beach is a protected marine park, and the only access is by sea or by hiking. Daily tours run from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese. The vibrant blue water owes its color to a freshwater spring feeding into the sea.
For those who love hiking, an hour-long trek through uneven terrain, strawberry trees, and oak forests will lead you to this paradise. The effort is well worth it, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views of this pristine beach. Boats are not allowed to anchor directly on the beach, so visitors must swim from the boat or use a kayak to reach the shore.
Where to Stay: Su Gologone Experience Hotel. Sardinian luxury with spa, pool and local cuisine in a breathtaking rural setting.
2. Cala Mariolu
Not too far from Cala Goloritzé, Cala Mariolu has been nominated as the second-best beach in the world and the best beach in Europe by many publications. Accessing this beach requires a long trek with challenging climbs, suitable only for very experienced hikers. Alternatively, visitors can reach Cala Mariolu by boat from nearby ports such as Cala Gonone, Santa Maria Navarrese, or Arbatax.
The beauty of Cala Mariolu lies in its small, smooth pebbles shaped by the sea, and its clear, inviting water. It’s a beautiful place to swim, with an abundance of fish in the sea. From the beach, you can swim to a nearby cave, adding to the adventure and allure of this stunning location.
Where to Stay: Nascar Hotel, Arbatax. This upscale hotel by the sea provides easy boat access to Cala Mariolu and offers free breakfast, two beach bars, and al fresco dining.
3. Spiaggia Rosa
Spiaggia Rosa, located on the island of Budelli, is only accessible if escorted by guides from the Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena. This unique beach is renowned for its distinctive pink sand, which gets its hue from microscopic fragments of coral and shells. The beach gained international fame after being featured in Michelangelo Antonioni’s film Deserto Rosso.
To preserve its beauty and delicate ecosystem, access to Spiaggia Rosa is strictly regulated, and visitors are not allowed to walk on the beach. Instead, they can admire its beauty from designated viewing spots. The surrounding area offers stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Resort Ma&Ma is an adults-only luxury escape with a sea-view pool, gourmet dining, and a tranquil spa, serving as a perfect base to catch the boat to Pink Beach.
4. La Pelosa, Stintino
La Pelosa in Stintino is one of the most popular and most photographed beaches in Sardinia. This beach features beautiful pearl-white sand surrounded by Mediterranean flora that contrasts with the clear light blue of the sea. The highlight of La Pelosa is the scenic tower, Torre della Pelosa, which stands majestically in the sea.
The shallow waters of La Pelosa make it an ideal spot for families with children and for those who enjoy wading or snorkeling. The beach also offers stunning views of the nearby Asinara Island. Due to its popularity, it’s recommended to visit early in the day or during the off-season to fully enjoy its beauty without the crowds. Additionally, measures have been implemented to protect the delicate environment, including limiting the number of visitors and requiring beachgoers to use mats to prevent sand erosion.
Where to Stay: Club Esse Sporting is a family-friendly retreat just 15 minutes walk from La Pelosa. A beach shuttle is included as well as swimming pools, and activities for the kids.
5. Cala Domestica
Cala Domestica, located on the west side of Sardinia, is beautifully hugged by hills on both sides, creating a sense of protection and seclusion. This picturesque beach is easily accessible, with a parking lot nearby. Overlooking the beach is a tower, which can be reached with a short climb, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The beach is characterized by its fine, golden sand and clear, inviting waters, making it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling. There is also a small hidden cove adjacent to the main beach, adding to its charm and providing a quieter spot for visitors. Cala Domestica’s historical significance as a former mining port adds an intriguing element to its natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
Where to Stay: Le Dune Piscinas, our top pick, is a luxury eco-retreat with stunning dune views. Enjoy 28 elegant rooms, open-air dining, a serene ‘silent’ cinema under the stars, and a rejuvenating spa and pool.
6. Cala Coticcio
Cala Coticcio, located on the island of Caprera in the La Maddalena archipelago, is often nicknamed “Tahiti” for its striking resemblance to the crystal-clear beaches of Polynesia. This turquoise dream offers a vision of distant, exotic paradise, with its shallow, transparent waters and fine white sand.
Access to Cala Coticcio typically involves a hike through rugged terrain, escorted by guides from the Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena to protect the fragile environment. This guided hike ensures the preservation of the area’s natural beauty while providing visitors with insights into the local flora and fauna. There is parking available nearby, but the hike to the beach can be quite challenging, making it a rewarding adventure for those who undertake it.
The serene and picturesque setting of Cala Coticcio, surrounded by rocky cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, makes it a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. The beach’s enchanting beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit for those seeking an idyllic escape in Sardinia.
Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Resort Ma&Ma is the ideal base to explore the beaches around La Maddelena in style.
7. Porto Giunco, Villasimius
Porto Giunco, located near the village of Villasimius, features a stunning stretch of white sand nestled between a lagoon and the sea. The beach is overlooked by a historic tower, which can be reached by a short climb and offers panoramic views of the entire area. Its expansive size means that even during the high season, you can generally find a spot to relax without feeling crowded.
Porto Giunco is easily accessible from a nearby parking lot and is a short distance from Villasimius, making it convenient for visitors. The sand is fine and white, and the sea is crystal clear, offering perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling. The contrast between the azure sea and the vibrant greenery of the surrounding Mediterranean flora creates a breathtaking landscape, making Porto Giunco a must-visit destination for beach lovers.
Where to Stay: Cruccuris Resort Adults Only is a luxury getaway near Campulongu Beach, featuring a gourmet breakfast, four on-site restaurants, a seasonal outdoor pool, and modern amenities.
8. Scoglio di Peppino, Costa Rei
Scoglio di Peppino, located in Costa Rei, is known for its shallow waters that stretch for several meters, making it very safe and family-friendly. This beach, like most in the Costa Rei area, is ideal for families with children due to its gentle slope and clear waters.
The name “Scoglio di Peppino” translates to “Peppino’s Rock” and refers to a beautiful, large rock resembling a tortoise shell in the sea. Visitors often climb this rock and dive into the surrounding waters, adding an adventurous element to the tranquil setting. The fine white sand and crystal-clear water make this beach a perfect spot for relaxation and swimming.
Where to Stay: La Villa del Re – Adults Only a stunning beachfront hotel.
9. S’Archittu
S’Archittu, meaning “small arch” in Sardinian, is a stunning natural rock arch located near the village of Cuglieri. An easy walk from the village will take you to this picturesque arch, which is a favorite diving destination, arguably the best in all of Sardinia. The arch, made of white limestone, stands about 15 meters tall and is a popular spot for adventurous divers.
S’Archittu has been featured in several films due to its unique and dramatic landscape. Despite its beauty and appeal, the area is generally not very busy, offering a more serene experience compared to other crowded beaches. The combination of the natural arch, clear waters, and surrounding rocky coastline makes S’Archittu a must-visit destination for both divers and nature enthusiasts.
Where to Stay: Hotel La Baja is a casual, upscale hotel with a free breakfast buffet and outdoor pools, located close to the arch for easy exploration.
10. Su Giudeu, Chia
Su Giudeu, located in Chia, is famous for its large dunes of golden sand and the two small islands visible on the horizon. This beach offers a stunning landscape with its soft, fine sand and clear, turquoise waters.
The beach is named after the local “giudeu” fish, which can often be seen in the shallow waters. Su Giudeu is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with its calm and clear waters providing excellent visibility. The nearby dunes and the scenic view of the small islands make it a picturesque location, perfect for both relaxation and exploration. The wide expanse of sand also ensures that even during the peak season, there is plenty of space for visitors to enjoy.
Where to Stay: Forte Village Resort offers a luxury family-friendly escape with a private beach, multiple pools, and 20 on-site restaurants for an unforgettable vacation.
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