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Published on March 2, 2026

Sardinia Beaches Guide: Best Coves, Sandy Shores & Turquoise Waters

Sardinia, an island gem in the heart of the Mediterranean, boasts a coastline that is nothing short of spectacular. From the glamorous stretches of the Costa Smeralda to the wild, untouched coves of the Gulf of Orosei, its beaches offer an unparalleled spectrum of natural beauty.

Why Sardinia's Beaches Are Unforgettable

What sets Sardinia apart is its incredible diversity. You'll find everything from vast, family-friendly sandy shores to secluded, dramatic coves accessible only by boat or a challenging hike. The common thread is the extraordinary clarity and vibrant turquoise hues of the water, often compared to the Caribbean. This is largely due to the island's unique geology, including granite formations and fine, light-colored sand, combined with protected marine areas.

The North: Glamour, Granite & Glimmering Bays

The northern coast of Sardinia is renowned for its upscale resorts, dramatic granite landscapes, and some of the most famous beaches.

Costa Smeralda & Gallura

TheCosta Smeraldais synonymous with luxury and breathtaking beauty. Here, you'll find impeccably maintained beaches with fine sand and incredibly clear waters.

  • Spiaggia del Principe:A stunning crescent of white sand flanked by pinkish rocks, said to be a favourite of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.
  • Cala di Volpe:Famous for its luxurious backdrop, the bay offers sheltered, calm waters perfect for swimming.
  • Liscia Ruja:One of the largest beaches in the area, offering soft, reddish sand and shallow, inviting waters.

Just off the coast lies the Maddalena Archipelago, a national park featuring some of the most pristine beaches in Italy, including the famous Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) on Budelli, though access is now highly restricted to protect its unique sand.

Northwest Coast

Moving west, the scenery changes slightly, offering a mix of popular tourist spots and charming local finds.

  • La Pelosa (Stintino):Often listed among the world's best beaches, La Pelosa boasts incredibly fine, white sand and impossibly clear, shallow turquoise waters, guarded by an ancient Aragonese tower. It's exceptionally popular, so visit early or during the shoulder seasons.
  • Beaches near Alghero:The area around the charming city of Alghero offers several beautiful beaches. Lido di San Giovanni is convenient and expansive, while Le Bombarde is known for its pine forest backdrop and clear waters. From Alghero, consider an excursion to the impressive Grotta di Nettuno.
  • Lu Bagnu (near Castelsardo):A more relaxed option, this beach offers dark sand and clear waters, with great views of the medieval town of Castelsardo perched on its rocky outcrop.
  • Valle della luna(Santa Teresa Gallura):While not a traditional sandy beach, this "Valley of the Moon" near Capo Testa offers a unique landscape of smooth granite rocks and small, secluded coves with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a more adventurous swim.

The East: Dramatic Cliffs & Hidden Gems

The eastern coast, particularly the Gulf of Orosei, is famed for its rugged, inaccessible beauty, with stunning coves nestled at the base of towering limestone cliffs.

Gulf of Orosei

Many of these gems are best reached by boat, offering an unforgettable experience.

  • Cala Mariolu:A jewel of the Gulf, known for its small, smooth white pebbles mixed with pink sand, and incredibly clear blue-green waters perfect for snorkeling.
  • Cala Goloritzé:Declared a UNESCO site, this beach is famous for its towering limestone pinnacle and natural arch. Access requires a challenging hike or a boat trip (landing is forbidden, but you can swim in).
  • Cala Luna:Recognizable by its six large caves that offer shade, Cala Luna is a beautiful sandy beach with shallow, inviting waters.
  • Cala Sisine:Similar to Cala Luna but often less crowded, featuring fine white pebbles and deep blue water.

Tip:Boat excursions from Cala Gonone, Arbatax, or Santa Maria Navarrese are the best way to explore the secluded beaches of the Gulf of Orosei. Many tours allow you to stop and swim at several coves.

Southern East Coast

Further south, around Villasimius, the landscape softens, offering beautiful sandy beaches and protected marine areas.

  • Porto Giunco:Famous for its fine white sand and the adjacent salt pond where flamingos can often be spotted. The water is incredibly shallow and warm.
  • Punta Molentis:A small, picturesque cove with white sand, framed by rocks and Mediterranean vegetation. The water here is stunning.
  • Campulongu:A long, sandy beach popular with families, offering calm, clear waters and plenty of amenities.

The South: Family-Friendly Sands & Wild Beauty

The southern coast combines vibrant city beaches with some of the island's most idyllic, wild stretches.

Cagliari & Surrounds

  • Poetto Beach (Cagliari):The city beach of Cagliari, stretching for several kilometers. It's popular with locals and offers plenty of facilities, making it a convenient option for families.

Southwest Coast

This region boasts some of Sardinia's most postcard-perfect beaches.

  • Chia Beach:The area around Chia is renowned for its stunning beaches backed by dunes. Cala Cipolla, Su Giudeu, and Campana are all exceptional, with golden sands and clear, shallow waters, often with small islets just offshore.
  • Tuerredda:Consistently ranked among Sardinia's best, Tuerredda features fine white sand, lush Mediterranean vegetation, and incredibly calm, turquoise waters.

While not a beach, the ancient Phoenician and Roman ruins of Tharros, located on the Sinis Peninsula, offer a fascinating cultural detour with stunning sea views nearby.

The West: Rugged Shores & Sunset Spectacles

The western coast is less developed, offering a wilder, more rugged beauty, with unique quartz beaches and stunning sunsets.

Oristano & Sinis Peninsula

  • Is Arutas & Mari Ermi:These unique beaches are famous for their grains of sand that resemble tiny rice-like quartz pebbles, ranging in color from white to green and pink. The water is incredibly clear, but the seabed drops off quickly.

Bosa & Beyond

  • Spiaggia di Bosa Marina:The main beach for the colourful town of Bosa, offering a long stretch of dark golden sand and calm waters, suitable for families.

Essential Tips for Your Sardinian Beach Adventure

  • Best Time to Visit:The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) offer ideal weather, fewer crowds, and pleasant sea temperatures. July and August are peak season, bustling and hot.
  • Getting Around:A rental car is highly recommended to explore Sardinia's diverse coastline and access the more secluded beaches. Public transport can be limited outside major towns.
  • Respect Nature:Many beaches are part of protected marine areas. Always take your rubbish with you, avoid disturbing wildlife, and adhere to any specific rules (e.g., no sand removal).
  • What to Bring:Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, plenty of water, and comfortable sandals are essentials. Water shoes can be useful for pebble beaches. Snorkel gear will let you appreciate the vibrant underwater world.
  • Accessibility:While many popular beaches offer facilities and easy access, some of the most stunning coves require a hike or a boat trip. Check accessibility beforehand if you have mobility concerns.

Sardinia's beaches are a dream for any traveler seeking sun, sea, and unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you prefer the buzzing atmosphere of a resort beach or the serene solitude of a hidden cove, the island promises an unforgettable escape into its world of turquoise wonders.