With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sands, and dramatic rocky coastlines, the Mediterranean island of Sardinia is renowned for having some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Italy – if not the world.
Whether you’re seeking an idyllic spot to soak up the sun, a prime snorkeling or diving destination, a family-friendly sandy retreat, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, you’ll find it along Sardinia’s stunning coastlines. With over 1,800 kilometers of shoreline, the island’s beaches run the gamut from lively resort towns to isolated hideaways that can only be reached by boat or hiking trail.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Sardinia’s 10 most beautiful and unmissable beaches. From iconic hotspots like La Pelosa to hidden gems like Cala Mariolu, you’ll discover the diverse natural wonders that make this island a world-class beach destination.
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches in Sardinia 📃
🔥 My main advice is to book your accommodation in advance. The best hotels are booked in advance and there may not be any good places left.
- 👪 For Families: Cala Brandinchi
- 🌟 White Sand: Spiaggia della Pelosa
- 🌄 For Wildlife: Spiaggia di Porto Giunco
- 🏜 Sand Dunes: Spiaggia di Piscinas
- 🚣🏻♀️ For Adventure Lovers: Cala Mariolu
1. Cala Brandinchi (Little Tahiti) – Where to Stay in North Sardinia with Family 👨👩👧👦
🏝️ Paradise found: As I stepped onto the soft, white sand of Cala Brandinchi, I couldn’t help but feel like I had just discovered a little slice of paradise. The clear turquoise waters stretched out before me, inviting me to take a dip in their warm embrace.
☀️ Perfect day: I spent the day lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and taking dips in the shallow waters. The beach was perfect for swimming, with crystal-clear waters that allowed me to see straight down to the sandy bottom. I even spotted a few fish swimming around my feet!
📝 Helpful tips: Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Arrive early to claim your spot on the beach.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear.
- Pack a picnic lunch. There are a few restaurants and cafes nearby, but they can get quite busy during peak season.
🌴 Local insight: As I lay on the beach, I struck up a conversation with a local who told me that Cala Brandinchi is also known as “Little Tahiti” due to its stunning beauty and clear waters. She recommended that I take a walk along the nearby nature trail to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area. I took her advice and was rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding pine forests.
📋 Info:
- Type: White sand
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, beach rentals (umbrellas, chairs, etc.)
- Location: Capo Coda Cavallo, San Teodoro, Sardinia
- Parking: There is a paid parking lot near the beach, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. It’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
All hotels near Cala Brandinchi →
Where to stay near Cala Brandinchi? 🏨
Best hotels near Cala Brandinchi
- Grande Baia Resort & Spa – Elegant 4-star resort with private beach access, set in a large park. Offers a salt water swimming pool, comfortable rooms, suites, and apartments.
- Residence Hotel Lu Nibareddu – Great value residence 1 km from Porto Taverna beach. Comfy rooms with sea views, on-site pool, and BBQ restaurant.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Monte Petrosu Charming House – Eco-friendly B&B in tranquil Monte Petrosu. Relaxing garden and terrace, friendly staff, and budget-friendly rates.
- Appartamenti Porto Coda Cavallo – Spacious, well-equipped apartments with furnished balconies, just a short walk from Cala Brandinchi beach. Family-run atmosphere.
2. Spiaggia di Tuerredda – Best Beach in South Sardinia for Snorkeling 🤿
🌊 First impression: I still vividly remember the first time I laid eyes on Tuerredda beach. It was a warm, sunny day, and as I crested the hill, the breathtaking view of the beach and its crystal-clear waters took my breath away.
🎨 Stunning colors: As I made my way down to the beach, I was struck by the incredible colors of the water. It was like someone had taken a paintbrush and blended shades of turquoise, emerald, and sapphire together to create a masterpiece. The water was so clear that I could see the sandy bottom and the fish darting around.
📝 Helpful tips: Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world.
- Take a walk along the beach to explore the surrounding area and take in the stunning views.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the nearby coves and inlets.
🗣️ Local insight: Local told me that Tuerredda was considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, and it was easy to see why. He also mentioned that the beach was a popular spot for snorkeling and that the waters were teeming with marine life.
📋 Info:
- Type: Sandy beach
- Amenities: Beach kiosks, snorkeling gear rentals, kayak/paddleboard rentals
- Location: Teulada, Sardinia
- Parking: Paid parking lot near the beach entrance
Where to stay near Spiaggia di Tuerredda? 🏨
Best hotels near Spiaggia di Tuerredda
- Faro Capo Spartivento – Unique 5-star hotel in a working lighthouse, offering stunning sea views, elegant rooms, two outdoor pools, and an excellent restaurant.
- Eco Village Baia Delle Ginestre – Eco-friendly hotel with panoramic sea views, spacious rooms, exotic gardens, private beaches, outdoor pool, and spa.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Acquamaris Tuerredda – Charming B&B just a 10-minute drive from Tuerredda Beach, with soundproof rooms and a lovely terrace.
- Casa Liam – Cozy, affordable B&B in a quiet residential area, with clean rooms and friendly staff.
- Amalfatah – Peaceful, budget-friendly hotel focused on relaxation, with comfortable rooms, a serene garden, and wholesome breakfast.
3. La Pelosa Beach (Stintino) – Where to Stay for White Sand 🌟
🏝️ Paradise found: As soon as I stepped onto the soft, powdery sand of La Pelosa Beach, I knew I had found a little slice of paradise. The water was so crystal clear and turquoise that it almost didn’t look real – it was like someone had taken a picture from a postcard and brought it to life.
🌊 Gentle waters: As I waded in, I was struck by how shallow and gentle the water was, making it the perfect spot for families with young children or those who just want to relax and float around.
📃 Helpful tips: Tips to make the most of your experience:
- Arrive early to secure a spot on the beach, as it can get crowded during peak season.
- Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as there are limited food options on the beach itself.
- Visit the nearby town of Stintino for a taste of local cuisine and culture.
🚶♂️ Beach exploration: After a refreshing swim, I decided to explore the beach a bit more. I walked along the shoreline, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and the nearby town of Stintino. The beach was surprisingly uncrowded, which only added to its charm and made it feel like a hidden gem.
📋 Info:
- Type: Sandy beach
- Amenities: Beach kiosks, snorkeling gear rentals
- Location: Stintino, Sardinia
- Parking: Paid parking near the beach entrance
All hotels near Spiaggia della Pelosa →
Where to stay near Spiaggia della Pelosa? 🏨
Best hotels near Spiaggia della Pelosa
- Club Sporting – 4-star hotel a short walk from Pelosa Beach, with spacious rooms, balconies, large outdoor pool, and excellent on-site restaurant.
- Residence La Pelosetta – Comfortable apartments 100 meters from La Pelosa Beach, with well-equipped kitchenettes, lovely garden, and friendly staff.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Rocca Ruja Vip – Charming hotel near La Pelosa Beach, offering stunning sea views, comfortable rooms, beautiful outdoor pool, and delicious breakfast.
- Capo Falcone Charming Apartments – Affordable, clean, and spacious apartments near the beach and town center, with well-equipped kitchens.
- La Finestra su Stintino – Cozy, budget-friendly B&B in central Stintino, with friendly host, clean rooms, and delicious homemade breakfast.
4. Cala Goloritzé – Hidden Gem in East Sardinia 🌄
🌊 Stunning beauty: As our small boat rounded the bend, I caught my first glimpse of Cala Goloritzé, and I was immediately struck by its beauty. The crystal-clear waters sparkled like diamonds in the sunlight, and the dramatic limestone cliffs that surrounded the cove made me feel like I had stepped onto the set of a fantasy movie.
🌄 Iconic landmark: As we approached the beach, I could see the iconic natural limestone arch that Cala Goloritzé is famous for. It was even more impressive in person, towering over the beach like a grand entryway to this hidden paradise.
📝 Useful tips:
- Book a boat tour or water taxi in advance, as this is the only way to access the cove.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trails around the cove.
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and have the beach to yourself.
🐠 Underwater wonders: As I made my way back down to the beach, I struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler who had just finished snorkeling in the cove. He was raving about the incredible marine life he had seen, including schools of colorful fish and even a few sea turtles.
📋 Info:
- Type: Pebble beach
- Amenities: None (no facilities on the beach)
- Location: Baunei, Sardinia
- Parking: No parking available (access by boat or hiking trail only)
Where to stay near Cala Goloritzé? 🏨
Best hotels near Cala Goloritzé
- Hotel Goloritzé – Charming hotel a short drive from Cala Goloritzé, with comfortable rooms, delicious traditional cuisine, and helpful staff.
- Il Rifugio Baunei – Cozy hotel in Baunei near Cala Goloritzé, offering clean rooms, panoramic terrace views, and friendly owners.
- B&B I Cinque Mori – Budget-friendly B&B in central Baunei, with spacious rooms, hearty breakfast, and warm hospitality.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Tarsis Guest House – Affordable guesthouse near Cala Goloritzé, providing well-maintained rooms, beautiful garden, and helpful staff.
- Locanda d'Ogliastra – Great value inn in Baunei center, with comfortable rooms, delicious local cuisine, and easy trail access.
- B&B Su Neulaggi – Affordable B&B in quiet Lotzorai, offering clean well-appointed rooms, lovely garden, and kind hosts.
5. Spiaggia di Porto Giunco – Best Place to Explore Wildlife 🦩
🏖️ Breathtaking beauty: The beach itself was a stunning crescent of soft, white sand, fringed by crystal-clear waters that seemed to beckon me in for a swim. But what really took my breath away was the sight of the lagoon that stretched out behind the beach.
☀️ Peaceful day: I spent the day lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and taking occasional dips in the refreshingly cool waters. The beach was surprisingly uncrowded, which only added to its charm and made it feel like a true hidden gem.
🗣️ Local insight: As I was packing up my things to leave, I struck up a conversation with a local who was selling refreshments from a nearby kiosk. He told me that Spiaggia di Porto Giunco was considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia.
📋 Info:
- Type: Sandy beach
- Amenities: Beach kiosks, snorkeling gear rentals
- Location: Villasimius, Sardinia
- Parking: Paid parking lot near the beach entrance
All hotels near Spiaggia di Porto Giunco →
Where to stay near Spiaggia di Porto Giunco? 🏨
Best hotels near Spiaggia di Porto Giunco
- Falkensteiner Resort Capo Boi – Luxurious 5-star resort near Porto Giunco beach, with elegant sea view rooms, expansive pool, excellent spa, and multiple dining options.
- VOI Tanka Village – Large resort near Porto Giunco beach offering comfortable bungalows, numerous pools, on-site restaurants, and lively entertainment.
- Hotel Cala Caterina – Charming hotel a short drive from Porto Giunco, with well-appointed rooms, outdoor pool, and friendly staff.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Fiore Di Maggio – Cozy, affordable B&B near Porto Giunco, offering clean spacious rooms, homemade breakfast, and warm hospitality.
- Porto Giunco Residence – Self-catering apartments a short walk from Porto Giunco beach, with well-equipped kitchenettes, spacious living areas, and lovely gardens.
6. Cala Luna – One of the Most Beautiful Beach in Sardinia 🔮
🚤 Hidden gem: As our small boat approached the secluded cove of Cala Luna, I feel a sense of excitement. I had heard so much about this hidden gem, and the stunning photos I had seen online did little to prepare me for the breathtaking beauty that awaited us.
🏞️ Stunning scenery: The cove was surrounded by towering white cliffs that seemed to stretch endlessly into the sky .I eagerly hopped off the boat and onto the soft sand, taking in the sights and sounds of this incredible place.
🔮 Useful tips:
- Book a boat tour or water taxi in advance, as this is the only way to access the cove.
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world.
- Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as there are no facilities on the beach.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trails around the cove.
🌟 Local history: As I wandered along the beach, I notice the five small caves that dotted the shoreline, their cool, shady interiors offering a welcome respite from the warm Sardinian sun. I talked to a local fisherman who was casting his line into the clear waters, and he told me that these caves were once used by smugglers and pirates as hideouts.”This place has a rich history,” he said, “but it’s also a place of incredible natural beauty, and we’re lucky to have it right here on our doorstep”.
📋 Info:
- Type: Sandy beach
- Amenities: None (no facilities on the beach)
- Location: Baunei, Sardinia
- Parking: No parking available (access by boat or hiking trail only)
Where to stay near Cala Luna? 🏨
Best hotels near Cala Luna
- Hotel Bue Marino – Charming hotel in Cala Gonone, a short boat ride from Cala Luna, with comfortable sea view rooms, delicious breakfast, and helpful staff.
- B&B Villa Maria Dorgali – Budget-friendly B&B in Dorgali, a short drive from Cala Luna, with spacious clean rooms, lovely garden, and warm hospitality.
- B&B Tiscali – Affordable B&B in central Dorgali, near Cala Luna, offering comfortable rooms, homemade breakfast, and helpful owners.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Hotel Sant'Elene – Cozy hotel in Dorgali, near Cala Luna, offering clean well-appointed rooms, friendly owners, and convenient location.
- Turismo Rurale Villa Maria Caterina – Peaceful, affordable farmhouse near Dorgali and Cala Luna, with rustic rooms, beautiful gardens, and traditional Sardinian cuisine.
- Rifugio Gorropu – Budget-friendly mountain refuge in Supramonte, a base for hiking to Cala Luna, with simple comfortable rooms and knowledgeable staff.
7. Spiaggia di Piscinas – Where to Stay for Sand Dunes 🌵
🏜️ Stunning view: As I crested the final dune, the breathtaking sight of Spiaggia di Piscinas stretched out before me.
👣 Untamed beauty: I couldn’t wait to kick off my shoes and feel the warm sand between my toes, so I quickly made my way down to the beach. As I walked along the shoreline, I was struck by the sheer wildness and unspoiled beauty of this place. There were no crowds, no beach umbrellas or sunbeds – just miles of pristine, untamed coastline.
📝 Helpful tips: Some tips to make the most of your experience:
- Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as there are limited food options on the beach itself.
- Take a walk along the beach to explore the surrounding area and take in the stunning views.
- Visit the nearby town of Costa Verde for a taste of local cuisine and culture.
🌬️ Windsurfer’s paradise: I struck up a conversation with a local who was setting up his windsurfing gear, and he told me that Piscinas was renowned as one of the best spots for wind sports in all of Sardinia. “The conditions here are perfect,” he said, gesturing to the steady breeze and the wide-open expanse of the beach. “It’s a windsurfer’s paradise.”
📋 Info:
- Type of the beach: Sandy beach with dunes
- Amenities: None (no facilities on the beach)
- Location: Arbus, Sardinia
- Parking: Paid parking lot near the beach entrance
All hotels near Spiaggia di Piscinas →
Where to stay near Spiaggia di Piscinas? 🏨
Best hotels near Spiaggia di Piscinas
- Agriturismo Rocce Bianche – Charming agriturismo near Piscinas beach, with comfortable rustic rooms, delicious homemade meals, and knowledgeable owners.
- Agriturismo Sa Perda Marcada – Peaceful agriturismo near Piscinas beach, offering spacious rooms, beautiful gardens, and traditional Sardinian cuisine.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- S'Ena – Cozy, affordable B&B in Fluminimaggiore, near Piscinas beach, with clean rooms, lovely terrace, and friendly owners.
- Agriturismo Gragonti – Budget-friendly agriturismo near Piscinas beach, offering rustic rooms, beautiful surroundings, and traditional Sardinian meals.
- Arroccas de is Istellas – Peaceful, affordable B&B in the Sardinian countryside, near Piscinas beach, with cozy rooms, lovely garden, and warm hospitality.
8. Cala Mariolu – Where to Stay for Adventure Lovers ⛵
🌸 Snowflake Beach: As we approached the beach, I could see that it wasn’t made of soft, golden sand – instead, it was a stunning mix of finely crushed pink shells and tiny white pebbles, giving the beach a mauve hue that was simply breathtaking. The locals call it “Snowflake Beach,” and as I stepped onto the shore, I could see why – it felt like I was walking on millions of tiny snowflakes.
🚶♂️ Shoreline exploration: I couldn’t wait to explore the cove, so I set off along the shoreline, taking in the stunning views of the cliffs and the crystal-clear waters. As I walked, I could feel the soft, pebbled beach beneath my feet, and the scent of the sea filled my nostrils with a refreshing, salty aroma.
📝 Useful tips:
- Arrive early to secure a spot on the beach, as it can get crowded during peak season.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the beach is made up of pebbles and shells.
- Take a hike along the cliffs to explore the surrounding area and take in the stunning views.
🐟 Monk seals: Local told me that Cala Mariolu was named after the monk seals that used to inhabit the area, and that the beach was once a popular spot for them to bask in the sun.”They were known as ‘mariolu,’ which means ‘thief’ in our local dialect,” he said. “They would often steal fish from our nets, but we didn’t mind – they were a part of this place, just like we are.”
📋 Info:
- Type of the beach: Pebble beach
- Amenities: None (no facilities on the beach)
- Location: Baunei, Sardinia
- Parking: No parking available (access by boat or hiking trail only)
All hotels near Cala Mariolu →
9. Spiaggia della Pelosa (La Maddalena) – Best Place for History Lovers ✨
🚢 Arriving excitement: As the ferry pulled into the picturesque harbor of La Maddalena, I couldn’t wait to catch my first glimpse of the famed Spiaggia della Pelosa. I had heard so many stories about this legendary beach, with its soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
🏖️ Powdery sand: The beach itself was a crescent of pure white sand, so fine and soft that it felt like powder between my toes. The water was a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, so clear that I could see the sandy bottom and the schools of fish darting around beneath the surface.
🗣️ Local pride: As I made my way down to the water’s edge, I struck up a conversation with a local family who were setting up their beach gear for the day. They told me that Spiaggia della Pelosa was considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Sardinia, and that it was a beloved spot for both locals and tourists alike.”This beach is our pride and joy,” the father said. “It’s a true paradise, and we’re so lucky to have it right here on our doorstep.”
📋 Info:
- Type of the beach: Sandy beach
- Amenities: Beach kiosks, snorkeling gear rentals
- Location: La Maddalena, Sardinia
- Parking: Paid parking lots near the ferry terminal
All hotels near Spiaggia della Pelosa →
10. Cala Domestica – Beautiful Place in West Sardinia 🍹
🌊 Stunning cove: As I rounded the final bend, the breathtaking sight of the cove came into view, and I knew instantly that the rumors were true. The beach itself was a crescent of golden sand, fringed by crystal-clear turquoise waters that seemed to beckon me in for a swim.
🧗♂️ Rugged cliffs: But what really caught my eye were the rugged cliffs that surrounded the cove, their jagged edges and weathered faces telling a story of centuries of wind and waves. And nestled among these cliffs were the crumbling remains of an old mining operation, a testament to the area’s rich history.
☀️ Peaceful day: I spent the day lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and taking occasional dips in the refreshingly cool waters. The beach was surprisingly uncrowded, which only added to its charm and made it feel like a true hidden gem.
📋 Info:
- Type of the beach: Sandy beach
- Amenities: Beach kiosks
- Location: Buggerru, Sardinia
- Parking: Paid parking lot near the beach entrance
Where to stay near Cala Domestica? 🏨
Best hotels near Cala Domestica
- Buggerru a Mare Residence – Charming B&B in Buggerru, with comfortable rooms, homemade breakfast, and helpful owners.
- Hotel '904 – Cozy, affordable B&B in Buggerru, with clean rooms, sea view terrace, and friendly owners.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- B&B Casa di Chia – Budget-friendly B&B in Buggerru, offering comfortable rooms, homemade breakfast, and helpful hosts.
- Il Timone B&B – Charming, affordable B&B in Buggerru, with cozy rooms, lovely garden, and knowledgeable owners.
- Agriturismo Sa Rocca – Peaceful agriturismo, offering spacious rooms, beautiful gardens, and traditional Sardinian cuisine.
FAQs about Sardinia Beaches ❔
Which side of Sardinia is best for beaches?
Both coasts have excellent beaches, but the east coast has more dramatic scenery with hidden coves and cliffs, while the west coast offers longer stretches of sandy beaches.
Is Cagliari or Olbia better?
Cagliari is recommended as a base for most travelers – more restaurants, museums, historical sights. Olbia is better for nightlife.
Where is the best place to stay in Sardinia for the first time?
Cagliari or nearby coastal towns like Villasimius are ideal bases to explore the island.
Where to avoid in Sardinia?
No areas to completely avoid, but some districts in Cagliari (Sant’Elia, San Michele, Is Mirrionis) and Sassari have higher petty crime rates.
