Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, is home to some of the best beaches in Europe. Picture soft white sand underfoot, transparent turquoise water stretching to the horizon, and cliffs that drop into secluded coves where time seems to pause. From the glam beaches of Costa Smeralda to the wild, untamed shores of Baunei, Sardinia is a playground for sun-chasers, swimmers, and adventurers alike. This guide to the best Sardinia beaches takes you from postcard-famous spots like La Pelosa and Cala Brandinchi to hidden gems you’ll want to keep secret. And because no Sardinian getaway is complete without a little indulgence, we’ve also included top spots for wine tasting and wineries in Sardinia, so you can sip Vermentino or Cannonau with a sea view. Sand, sea, and a glass of local wine, what more could you ask for?
What are the best Sardinia beaches?
1- Wander at Spiaggia del Principe
Spiaggia del Principe is one of the best Sardinia beaches and a must on any Costa Smeralda itinerary. Tucked between rocky granite headlands, this crescent-shaped cove was a favorite of Prince Aga Khan, and it’s easy to see why. The sand here is soft and pale, the water impossibly clear with shades of turquoise and emerald, and the shallow seabed makes it perfect for a long swim or snorkeling session. The short walk to get there keeps it peaceful even in summer, making it a top pick for those chasing postcard views without the chaos.
2- Explore Cala Goloritzé
Cala Goloritzé isn’t just one of the best Sardinia beaches, it’s a bucket-list experience. Set on the wild Baunei coast and part of the Gulf of Orosei, this UNESCO-protected beach is only reachable by boat or via a scenic (and sweaty) 3.5-mile hike through limestone hills and Mediterranean scrub. But the payoff? Totally worth it. Think piercing blue water, a dramatic limestone arch, and the towering Aguglia peak rising straight from the sea, an iconic view you won’t forget.
3- Visit the pink beach of Budelli
Tucked away on the protected island of Budelli in the La Maddalena Archipelago, Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) is one of the most unique spots among the best Sardinia beaches. Its sand gets its rosy hue from crushed coral and microscopic shells, giving it a magical, otherworldly glow. Because of its fragile ecosystem, visitors can’t set foot on the beach anymore, but boat tours around La Maddalena still offer a front-row view.
Visit La Maddalena Italy and enjoy the ultimate Sardinia tour.
4- Relax at Poetto beach
Poetto beach is Cagliari’s city beach, and it’s huge. Stretching over 5 miles along the Gulf of Angels, it’s one of the longest urban beaches in Sardinia, and just a 15-minute ride from both the city center and Elmas Airport. Loved by locals and travelers alike, it’s a lively spot lined with beach bars, seafood kiosks, and cycling paths. The water is clear, the sand is soft, and there’s always something going on, from morning swims to late-night cocktails by the sea.
5- Stroll through Cala Brandinchi
Often nicknamed “Little Tahiti,” Cala Brandinchi near San Teodoro easily ranks among the best Sardinia beaches. With ultra-clear, shallow turquoise water, fine white sand, and a peaceful backdrop of pine forests, it’s a dream setting for families, photographers, and anyone chasing postcard-perfect views. Located about 12 miles south of Olbia, Cala Brandinchi is also one of the most photographed beaches on the island.
Take a city detour and visit Olbia Italy on your way!
6- Walk to Cala Spinosa beach
Tucked away near Capo Testa in Santa Teresa Gallura, Cala Spinosa is for those craving a wild and intimate escape. This tiny cove is framed by dramatic granite cliffs and shaped by centuries of wind and waves. It’s not the easiest spot to reach, expect a short hike down rocky paths, but the reward is clear: turquoise waters, amazing snorkeling, and far fewer crowds. Bring water shoes and your sense of adventure.
7- Bask at Capriccioli beach
South of Porto Cervo, Capriccioli Beach is one of the best Sardinian beaches along the Costa Smeralda. Known for its calm, shallow waters and smooth granite rocks, it’s a favorite for families and snorkelers. The beach is easy to access by car, with nearby parking, and offers a mix of quiet coves and livelier spots with beach clubs and seaside restaurants. The turquoise sea and soft golden sand make it perfect for a full day of swimming, lounging, and enjoying Sardinia’s signature coastal vibe.
For the all vibe don’t forget to visit Costa Smeralda Italy, after your beach day.
8- Delight in Cala Luna
Cala Luna is a beach for adventure and beauty. Accessible by boat from Cala Gonone or via a scenic coastal hike through the Supramonte wilderness, this iconic cove on Sardinia’s eastern coast is famous for its towering limestone cliffs and wide caves carved into the rock. The turquoise water is crystal clear, making it a top spot for swimming or snorkeling. Cala Luna rewards you with a raw, cinematic landscape that feels completely off-grid, perfect for travelers chasing both serenity and stunning views.
9- Dive into La Pelosa beach
La Pelosa beach near Stintino, in northwestern Sardinia, is often ranked among the best Sardinian beaches, and for good reason. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand create a tropical vibe more often found in the Caribbean than the Mediterranean. Facing Asinara Island and protected by a natural barrier of rocks and islets, the water here is almost always calm, making it ideal for families and casual swimmers.
10- Sunbathe in Cala Mariolu
Another showstopper along the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Mariolu is often listed among the best beaches, and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. Reachable by boat or a scenic hike, this cove stuns with a mix of powdery white sand and smooth pink pebbles that shimmer under the sun. The turquoise water is insanely clear, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating in peace.
11- Snorkel at Cala Coticcio
Tucked away on Caprera Island in the La Maddalena Archipelago, Cala Coticcio, nicknamed “Tahiti” for its unreal turquoise hues, is one of the most beautiful and exotic coves in all of Sardinia. Surrounded by pink granite cliffs and accessible only by hike or boat, this hidden gem rewards visitors with crystal-clear water, white sand, and incredible snorkeling. It’s remote, peaceful, and feels like you’ve landed in the South Pacific, right in the heart of the Mediterranean.
12- Capture sunsets at Baja Sardinia
Baja Sardinia is a stylish seaside town just a few miles northwest of Porto Cervo, offering a laid-back alternative to the glitz of Costa Smeralda. Framed by white sand beaches and crystal-clear water, it’s a favorite for travelers who want beautiful coastal views without the heavy crowds. The town is known for its elegant beach clubs, scenic promenade, and excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood and Sardinian wines. Stick around for sunset, Baja Sardinia is famous for some of the most spectacular golden hours on the island, often accompanied by live music or a beachfront aperitivo.
Good to know before visiting the best Sardinia beaches
Which part of Sardinia has the best beaches?
The most celebrated beaches in Sardinia are found along the northeastern coast, especially in areas like Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena Archipelago, and around the Gulf of Orosei. However, other incredible beach spots include the southwestern Costa Verde, the Chia area in the south, and the Sinis Peninsula in the west. Each region has its own unique appeal, from secluded coves to expansive sandy stretches backed by dunes and cliffs.
What are the beaches like in Sardinia?
Sardinian beaches are known for their stunning diversity and natural beauty. You’ll find everything from powdery white and golden sand beaches to rocky coves surrounded by Mediterranean scrub. The waters are incredibly clear and often display hues of turquoise, aquamarine, and deep blue. Many beaches, such as Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu, are accessible only by boat or hike, adding an element of adventure.
Which part of Sardinia has the clearest water?
The eastern coastline, particularly the Gulf of Orosei and the La Maddalena Archipelago, is famed for the clearest waters in Sardinia. These areas offer breathtaking transparency and visibility, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Cala Goloritzé and Cala Corsara are two standout examples with exceptional water clarity.
What is the most beautiful part of Sardinia?
While beauty is subjective, many travelers and locals consider the Gulf of Orosei and Costa Smeralda to be among the most stunning areas. The Gulf of Orosei offers dramatic limestone cliffs, caves, and secluded beaches accessible only by boat or hiking trails, while Costa Smeralda enchants visitors with its emerald waters and luxury settings.
Where is the pink sand beach in Sardinia?
Sardinia’s famous pink sand beach, Spiaggia Rosa, is located on Budelli Island, part of the La Maddalena Archipelago in the northeast. While visitors can’t walk on or swim at Spiaggia Rosa to protect its delicate ecosystem, it can be viewed from a boat or designated observation points during a boat tour of the archipelago.
Which part of Sardinia has white sand beaches?
Many of Sardinia’s beaches are known for their soft white sand. Among the most stunning are La Pelosa Beach in the northwest by Stintino, Cala Brandinchi near San Teodoro, and Piscinas Beach on the southwestern coast. These beaches offer postcard-perfect views with fine, light sand and inviting waters.
What is the most beautiful coastal town in Sardinia?
Castelsardo, located in northern Sardinia, is often considered one of the island’s most beautiful coastal towns. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea and steeped in history, it offers charming cobblestone streets, a medieval castle, and access to nearby beaches. Other picturesque options include Villasimius in the south and Santa Teresa Gallura in the north.
What are the best hotels to stay in Sardinia?
Here are some top-rated hotels near renowned Sardinian beaches:
- Hotel Cala di Volpe – A luxury stay in Costa Smeralda with unforgettable sea views.
- Hotel Su Gologone – A rustic boutique hotel near the Gulf of Orosei, perfect for adventure seekers.
- Falkensteiner Resort Capo Boi – A family-friendly resort near Villasimius with direct beach access.
- La Villa del Re – An adults-only retreat on Costa Rei for a quiet, romantic getaway.
- Hotel Il Gabbiano Azzurro – Located in Golfo Aranci, with direct access to a beautiful white-sand beach.
What are the best restaurants in Sardinia?
Savoring traditional cuisine is a highlight of traveling to Sardinia. Don’t miss these excellent local spots:
- Su Gologone (Oliena) – Offers an immersive Sardinian dining experience featuring local cheeses, meats, and wines.Lu Stazzu (Porto Cervo) – Rustic food with a modern twist, showcasing Gallurese cuisine.Ristorante Da Giovannino (La Maddalena) – Known for fresh seafood and a charming old-town feel.S’Apposentu (Siddi) – Michelin-starred dining that elevates traditional Sardinian recipes with elegant presentation.
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