Last updated on March 31, 2026
Sardinia is packed with beaches – from long stretches of white sand to small hidden coves – so wherever you go, you’re never far from the sea. At first, many of them might look similar, but they actually offer very different experiences.
Some are easy to reach and great for families, while others require a hike or a boat ride and feel much more remote. There are also beaches with limited access or reservations in peak season, so it really depends on your travel style and how you like to explore.
In this guide, we’ve picked 12 of the best beaches in Sardinia and organized everything to make planning easier, with extra options by area and practical tips along the way.
To make planning easier, we’ve pinned all the beaches in this guide on a free Google Maps list so you can quickly see where they are and how they fit into your route.
You can open it on your phone or save it to your Google Maps account for easy access during your trip.
Sardinia is full of beautiful beaches - so many that you really can’t go wrong. In fact, we’d always recommend exploring a few on your own, whether near where you’re staying or along a road trip. Some of the best moments often come from places you didn’t plan to visit.
Most of Sardinia’s iconic beaches are concentrated in the north and east, but the south and west offer quieter alternatives and very different coastal landscapes. This list brings together a mix of both, focusing on beaches that stand out for their scenery, uniqueness and overall experience.
La Pelosa is one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia, known for its shallow, crystal-clear water and soft white sand. The sea stays calm and transparent for a long distance, creating a lagoon-like setting with views of the historic Torre della Pelosa just offshore.
Why it stands out: One of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches, with clear water and Torre views
Access: Easy access by car, followed by a short walk from nearby parking
Things to know: Limited entry in summer; booking required. Beach rules are strict, including using a mat under your towel
Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants and sunbeds available near the access points
Best for: Easy beach days, swimming and calm, shallow water
Cala Brandinchi is often called “Little Tahiti” thanks to its shallow, turquoise water and fine white sand. Surrounded by low vegetation and pine trees, it’s one of the most accessible beaches with that classic Sardinia look.
Why it stands out: Shallow turquoise water and soft sand, often compared to tropical beaches
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas and a short walk to the beach
Things to know: Very popular in summer; arrive early or book parking in advance
Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, sunbeds and water sports available
Best for: Families, swimming and relaxed beach days with easy access
Spiaggia del Principe is one of Costa Smeralda’s most beautiful beaches, set in a curved bay with emerald water and fine sand. The contrast between the sea, granite rocks and surrounding greenery makes it especially scenic.
Why it stands out: One of the most scenic beaches in Costa Smeralda, with striking colors
Access: Short walk (5–10 minutes) from the parking area along a marked path
Things to know: Limited parking and high demand in summer; best visited early or late
Facilities: No major facilities; bring water and essentials with you
Best for: Scenic views, swimming and a more natural Costa Smeralda experience
Cala Coticcio, on Caprera Island, is one of the most stunning beaches in the La Maddalena Archipelago. Its clear water, pinkish sand and rocky surroundings give it a wild and untouched feel.
Why it stands out: Crystal-clear water and wild setting, often compared to a natural pool
Access: Requires a hike (with guide in peak season) or access by boat
Things to know: Guided access often required in summer; bring water and good shoes
Facilities: No facilities; this is a completely wild and protected area
Best for: Adventure, snorkeling and remote, unspoiled landscapes
Cala Goloritzé is one of the most iconic beaches in Sardinia, known for its bright turquoise water and dramatic limestone arch rising above the shore. Surrounded by cliffs, it feels remote, wild and completely unique.
Why it stands out: Famous limestone arch and vivid water, one of Sardinia’s most unique beaches
Access: Hike of around 1–1.5 hours each way or view from boat offshore
Things to know: Limited daily access; booking required. Final descent is steep and rocky
Facilities: No facilities; bring water, food and proper footwear
Best for: Hikers, dramatic scenery and one of the most memorable beaches in Sardinia
Cala Luna is a wide bay backed by cliffs and large sea caves, with a mix of sand and pebbles and clear blue water. The caves provide natural shade, making it one of the most distinctive beaches in the area.
Why it stands out: Large sea caves create natural shade and a very unique beach setting
Access: Boat from Cala Gonone or hike (around 2 hours) through scenic trails
Things to know: Can get busy in summer, especially with boat arrivals
Facilities: Small beach bar available during the season
Best for: Unique landscapes, shade and a mix of adventure with easier access
Cala Mariolu is known for its incredibly clear water and small white pebbles that give the shoreline a bright, reflective look. It’s often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia.
Why it stands out: Exceptionally clear water and striking white pebbles along the shore
Access: Mainly by boat; hiking access possible but long and challenging
Things to know: No sand; bring water shoes for comfort on the pebbles
Facilities: Limited or no facilities depending on the season
Best for: Snorkeling, clear water and iconic Sardinia scenery
Cala dei Gabbiani sits between Cala Mariolu and Cala Luna and shares the same crystal-clear water and wild surroundings, but with fewer visitors. It feels more peaceful while still offering that classic Gulf of Orosei beauty.
Why it stands out: Same stunning water as nearby coves but usually with fewer people
Access: Boat access or hike; often visited as part of boat tours
Things to know: No facilities; best combined with nearby beaches on the same day
Facilities: None; bring everything you need with you
Best for: Quieter experience, swimming and combining multiple coves in one trip
Spiaggia di Tuerredda is one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Sardinia, with calm turquoise water and soft sand set between two headlands. The sheltered bay gives it a clear, almost tropical look.
Why it stands out: One of the most scenic beaches in the south, with calm and clear water
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas close to the beach
Things to know: Limited entry in summer; booking may be required and parking fills early
Facilities: Beach clubs, restaurants, sunbeds and basic services available
Best for: Swimming, relaxing and postcard-perfect beach scenery
Spiaggia di Porto Pino is known for its long sandy shoreline and impressive white dunes, offering a different landscape from most Sardinian beaches. The area feels more open and wild, with plenty of space to explore.
Why it stands out: Large white dunes and wide beach, very different from typical coves
Access: Easy access by car, with several parking areas near the beach
Things to know: Wind can be stronger here; dunes are protected and access may be limited
Facilities: Some beach bars and services, especially near the main access points
Best for: Long walks, open landscapes and a quieter beach experience
Spiaggia di Piscinas is one of the wildest beaches in Sardinia, known for its vast golden dunes (Dunes di Piscinas) and open, untouched landscape. The beach feels remote and expansive, with waves that give it a more rugged character.
Why it stands out: Massive sand dunes and raw scenery, unlike anywhere else on the island
Access: Reachable by car via unpaved roads; last stretch can be rough
Things to know: Remote location; services are limited and sea conditions can be rough
Facilities: Very limited; a few options nearby but not directly on the beach
Best for: Wild landscapes, long walks and a quiet, off-the-beaten-path feel
Is Arutas is one of Sardinia’s most unusual beaches, famous for its quartz sand made of tiny white and pink grains that resemble rice. The water is clear and deep, creating a striking contrast with the shoreline.
Why it stands out: Unique quartz “sand” with a distinctive texture and appearance
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas close to the beach
Things to know: Sand is protected and cannot be taken; waves can be stronger here
Facilities: Basic services and small beach bars available in the area
Best for: Unique landscapes, photography and a less typical Sardinia beach
The best area depends on your travel style. The north (Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena) offers iconic beaches with easy access, while the east (Gulf of Orosei) is more scenic but harder to reach. The south is a good balance of beauty and convenience, and the west is wilder and less crowded.
In most cases, yes. Sardinia is a large island and many of the best beaches are spread out or located in remote areas. Having a car gives you flexibility and makes it much easier to explore different regions, especially if you’re not staying in just one place.
Most beaches in Sardinia are free to access, but you’ll often need to pay for parking nearby. Some popular beaches also have limited daily access or require reservations during peak season, especially in protected areas.
Yes, some beaches require advance booking in high season, particularly in the Gulf of Orosei and a few protected areas. These systems are used to limit the number of visitors and preserve the environment, so it’s important to check ahead when planning your trip.
The best time is usually from June to September, when the weather is warm and the sea is ideal for swimming. July and August are the busiest months, while June and September offer similar conditions with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Sardinia has a mix of both, but many of its most famous beaches feature fine white sand and clear turquoise water. In some areas, especially in the east, you’ll also find beaches with small pebbles or a mix of sand and rocks.
No, not all beaches are accessible by car. Some of the most beautiful ones, especially along the east coast, require a boat trip or a hike. This is part of what makes them feel more remote and less crowded compared to easily accessible beaches.
Yes, many beaches in Sardinia are very family-friendly, with calm, shallow water and soft sand. Areas in the north and south tend to be the easiest with facilities and parking, making them ideal if you’re traveling with kids.
Yes, Sardinia is one of the best destinations in Europe for a beach-focused trip. You can easily spend several days exploring different beaches, but it’s also worth combining them with small towns, local food, and scenic drives for a more complete experience.
Last updated on March 31, 2026
Sardinia is packed with beaches – from long stretches of white sand to small hidden coves – so wherever you go, you’re never far from the sea. At first, many of them might look similar, but they actually offer very different experiences.
Some are easy to reach and great for families, while others require a hike or a boat ride and feel much more remote. There are also beaches with limited access or reservations in peak season, so it really depends on your travel style and how you like to explore.
In this guide, we’ve picked 12 of the best beaches in Sardinia and organized everything to make planning easier, with extra options by area and practical tips along the way.
To make planning easier, we’ve pinned all the beaches in this guide on a free Google Maps list so you can quickly see where they are and how they fit into your route.
You can open it on your phone or save it to your Google Maps account for easy access during your trip.
Before you start planning your beach days, there are a few things worth knowing - and honestly, these are the things we wish we knew before visiting Sardinia. Unlike places like Portugal, where most beaches are easy to access, here access, logistics, and rules can vary a lot from one beach to another.
Sardinia is full of beautiful beaches - so many that you really can’t go wrong. In fact, we’d always recommend exploring a few on your own, whether near where you’re staying or along a road trip. Some of the best moments often come from places you didn’t plan to visit.
Most of Sardinia’s iconic beaches are concentrated in the north and east, but the south and west offer quieter alternatives and very different coastal landscapes. This list brings together a mix of both, focusing on beaches that stand out for their scenery, uniqueness and overall experience.
La Pelosa is one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia, known for its shallow, crystal-clear water and soft white sand. The sea stays calm and transparent for a long distance, creating a lagoon-like setting with views of the historic Torre della Pelosa just offshore.
Why it stands out: One of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches, with clear water and Torre views
Access: Easy access by car, followed by a short walk from nearby parking
Things to know: Limited entry in summer; booking required. Beach rules are strict, including using a mat under your towel
Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants and sunbeds available near the access points
Best for: Easy beach days, swimming and calm, shallow water
Cala Brandinchi is often called “Little Tahiti” thanks to its shallow, turquoise water and fine white sand. Surrounded by low vegetation and pine trees, it’s one of the most accessible beaches with that classic Sardinia look.
Why it stands out: Shallow turquoise water and soft sand, often compared to tropical beaches
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas and a short walk to the beach
Things to know: Very popular in summer; arrive early or book parking in advance
Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, sunbeds and water sports available
Best for: Families, swimming and relaxed beach days with easy access
Spiaggia del Principe is one of Costa Smeralda’s most beautiful beaches, set in a curved bay with emerald water and fine sand. The contrast between the sea, granite rocks and surrounding greenery makes it especially scenic.
Why it stands out: One of the most scenic beaches in Costa Smeralda, with striking colors
Access: Short walk (5–10 minutes) from the parking area along a marked path
Things to know: Limited parking and high demand in summer; best visited early or late
Facilities: No major facilities; bring water and essentials with you
Best for: Scenic views, swimming and a more natural Costa Smeralda experience
Cala Coticcio, on Caprera Island, is one of the most stunning beaches in the La Maddalena Archipelago. Its clear water, pinkish sand and rocky surroundings give it a wild and untouched feel.
Why it stands out: Crystal-clear water and wild setting, often compared to a natural pool
Access: Requires a hike (with guide in peak season) or access by boat
Things to know: Guided access often required in summer; bring water and good shoes
Facilities: No facilities; this is a completely wild and protected area
Best for: Adventure, snorkeling and remote, unspoiled landscapes
Cala Goloritzé is one of the most iconic beaches in Sardinia, known for its bright turquoise water and dramatic limestone arch rising above the shore. Surrounded by cliffs, it feels remote, wild and completely unique.
Why it stands out: Famous limestone arch and vivid water, one of Sardinia’s most unique beaches
Access: Hike of around 1–1.5 hours each way or view from boat offshore
Things to know: Limited daily access; booking required. Final descent is steep and rocky
Facilities: No facilities; bring water, food and proper footwear
Best for: Hikers, dramatic scenery and one of the most memorable beaches in Sardinia
Cala Luna is a wide bay backed by cliffs and large sea caves, with a mix of sand and pebbles and clear blue water. The caves provide natural shade, making it one of the most distinctive beaches in the area.
Why it stands out: Large sea caves create natural shade and a very unique beach setting
Access: Boat from Cala Gonone or hike (around 2 hours) through scenic trails
Things to know: Can get busy in summer, especially with boat arrivals
Facilities: Small beach bar available during the season
Best for: Unique landscapes, shade and a mix of adventure with easier access
Cala Mariolu is known for its incredibly clear water and small white pebbles that give the shoreline a bright, reflective look. It’s often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia.
Why it stands out: Exceptionally clear water and striking white pebbles along the shore
Access: Mainly by boat; hiking access possible but long and challenging
Things to know: No sand; bring water shoes for comfort on the pebbles
Facilities: Limited or no facilities depending on the season
Best for: Snorkeling, clear water and iconic Sardinia scenery
Cala dei Gabbiani sits between Cala Mariolu and Cala Luna and shares the same crystal-clear water and wild surroundings, but with fewer visitors. It feels more peaceful while still offering that classic Gulf of Orosei beauty.
Why it stands out: Same stunning water as nearby coves but usually with fewer people
Access: Boat access or hike; often visited as part of boat tours
Things to know: No facilities; best combined with nearby beaches on the same day
Facilities: None; bring everything you need with you
Best for: Quieter experience, swimming and combining multiple coves in one trip
Spiaggia di Tuerredda is one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Sardinia, with calm turquoise water and soft sand set between two headlands. The sheltered bay gives it a clear, almost tropical look.
Why it stands out: One of the most scenic beaches in the south, with calm and clear water
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas close to the beach
Things to know: Limited entry in summer; booking may be required and parking fills early
Facilities: Beach clubs, restaurants, sunbeds and basic services available
Best for: Swimming, relaxing and postcard-perfect beach scenery
Spiaggia di Porto Pino is known for its long sandy shoreline and impressive white dunes, offering a different landscape from most Sardinian beaches. The area feels more open and wild, with plenty of space to explore.
Why it stands out: Large white dunes and wide beach, very different from typical coves
Access: Easy access by car, with several parking areas near the beach
Things to know: Wind can be stronger here; dunes are protected and access may be limited
Facilities: Some beach bars and services, especially near the main access points
Best for: Long walks, open landscapes and a quieter beach experience
Spiaggia di Piscinas is one of the wildest beaches in Sardinia, known for its vast golden dunes (Dunes di Piscinas) and open, untouched landscape. The beach feels remote and expansive, with waves that give it a more rugged character.
Why it stands out: Massive sand dunes and raw scenery, unlike anywhere else on the island
Access: Reachable by car via unpaved roads; last stretch can be rough
Things to know: Remote location; services are limited and sea conditions can be rough
Facilities: Very limited; a few options nearby but not directly on the beach
Best for: Wild landscapes, long walks and a quiet, off-the-beaten-path feel
Is Arutas is one of Sardinia’s most unusual beaches, famous for its quartz sand made of tiny white and pink grains that resemble rice. The water is clear and deep, creating a striking contrast with the shoreline.
Why it stands out: Unique quartz “sand” with a distinctive texture and appearance
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas close to the beach
Things to know: Sand is protected and cannot be taken; waves can be stronger here
Facilities: Basic services and small beach bars available in the area
Best for: Unique landscapes, photography and a less typical Sardinia beach
If you’re planning your itinerary by area, here are more beaches to consider beyond the main list. These are great options to explore nearby or add to your route.
Sardinia is a large island, and where you stay will shape your entire beach experience. While you can find beautiful beaches all around, each region has a different feel, level of accessibility, and type of coastline.
Here’s a simple way to choose based on your travel style:
North (Costa Smeralda & La Maddalena)
This is where you’ll find some of Sardinia’s most famous and accessible beaches, with bright turquoise water and white sand. It’s a great option if you want easy access, variety, and a mix of beautiful beaches and comfortable infrastructure. Expect more crowds in peak season, especially around Costa Smeralda.
East (Gulf of Orosei)
The east coast is home to some of the most scenic and dramatic beaches on the island, often surrounded by cliffs and reachable by boat or hiking trails. It’s perfect if you’re looking for that “wow” factor and don’t mind putting in a bit more effort to get there.
South
The south offers a good balance of beautiful beaches, easier access, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Areas like Chia and Villasimius are great if you want clear water and soft sand without the same level of crowds as the north.
West
The west coast feels more wild and untamed, with fewer crowds and very different landscapes – including sand dunes, cliffs, and rougher seas. It’s less about classic turquoise water and more about raw scenery and quieter beaches.
The best area depends on your travel style. The north (Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena) offers iconic beaches with easy access, while the east (Gulf of Orosei) is more scenic but harder to reach. The south is a good balance of beauty and convenience, and the west is wilder and less crowded.
In most cases, yes. Sardinia is a large island and many of the best beaches are spread out or located in remote areas. Having a car gives you flexibility and makes it much easier to explore different regions, especially if you’re not staying in just one place.
Most beaches in Sardinia are free to access, but you’ll often need to pay for parking nearby. Some popular beaches also have limited daily access or require reservations during peak season, especially in protected areas.
Yes, some beaches require advance booking in high season, particularly in the Gulf of Orosei and a few protected areas. These systems are used to limit the number of visitors and preserve the environment, so it’s important to check ahead when planning your trip.
The best time is usually from June to September, when the weather is warm and the sea is ideal for swimming. July and August are the busiest months, while June and September offer similar conditions with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Sardinia has a mix of both, but many of its most famous beaches feature fine white sand and clear turquoise water. In some areas, especially in the east, you’ll also find beaches with small pebbles or a mix of sand and rocks.
No, not all beaches are accessible by car. Some of the most beautiful ones, especially along the east coast, require a boat trip or a hike. This is part of what makes them feel more remote and less crowded compared to easily accessible beaches.
Yes, many beaches in Sardinia are very family-friendly, with calm, shallow water and soft sand. Areas in the north and south tend to be the easiest with facilities and parking, making them ideal if you’re traveling with kids.
Yes, Sardinia is one of the best destinations in Europe for a beach-focused trip. You can easily spend several days exploring different beaches, but it’s also worth combining them with small towns, local food, and scenic drives for a more complete experience.
Last updated on March 31, 2026
Sardinia is packed with beaches – from long stretches of white sand to small hidden coves – so wherever you go, you’re never far from the sea. At first, many of them might look similar, but they actually offer very different experiences.
Some are easy to reach and great for families, while others require a hike or a boat ride and feel much more remote. There are also beaches with limited access or reservations in peak season, so it really depends on your travel style and how you like to explore.
In this guide, we’ve picked 12 of the best beaches in Sardinia and organized everything to make planning easier, with extra options by area and practical tips along the way.
To make planning easier, we’ve pinned all the beaches in this guide on a free Google Maps list so you can quickly see where they are and how they fit into your route.
You can open it on your phone or save it to your Google Maps account for easy access during your trip.
Before you start planning your beach days, there are a few things worth knowing - and honestly, these are the things we wish we knew before visiting Sardinia. Unlike places like Portugal, where most beaches are easy to access, here access, logistics, and rules can vary a lot from one beach to another.
Sardinia is full of beautiful beaches - so many that you really can’t go wrong. In fact, we’d always recommend exploring a few on your own, whether near where you’re staying or along a road trip. Some of the best moments often come from places you didn’t plan to visit.
Most of Sardinia’s iconic beaches are concentrated in the north and east, but the south and west offer quieter alternatives and very different coastal landscapes. This list brings together a mix of both, focusing on beaches that stand out for their scenery, uniqueness and overall experience.
La Pelosa is one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia, known for its shallow, crystal-clear water and soft white sand. The sea stays calm and transparent for a long distance, creating a lagoon-like setting with views of the historic Torre della Pelosa just offshore.
Why it stands out: One of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches, with clear water and Torre views
Access: Easy access by car, followed by a short walk from nearby parking
Things to know: Limited entry in summer; booking required. Beach rules are strict, including using a mat under your towel
Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants and sunbeds available near the access points
Best for: Easy beach days, swimming and calm, shallow water
Cala Brandinchi is often called “Little Tahiti” thanks to its shallow, turquoise water and fine white sand. Surrounded by low vegetation and pine trees, it’s one of the most accessible beaches with that classic Sardinia look.
Why it stands out: Shallow turquoise water and soft sand, often compared to tropical beaches
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas and a short walk to the beach
Things to know: Very popular in summer; arrive early or book parking in advance
Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, sunbeds and water sports available
Best for: Families, swimming and relaxed beach days with easy access
Spiaggia del Principe is one of Costa Smeralda’s most beautiful beaches, set in a curved bay with emerald water and fine sand. The contrast between the sea, granite rocks and surrounding greenery makes it especially scenic.
Why it stands out: One of the most scenic beaches in Costa Smeralda, with striking colors
Access: Short walk (5–10 minutes) from the parking area along a marked path
Things to know: Limited parking and high demand in summer; best visited early or late
Facilities: No major facilities; bring water and essentials with you
Best for: Scenic views, swimming and a more natural Costa Smeralda experience
Cala Coticcio, on Caprera Island, is one of the most stunning beaches in the La Maddalena Archipelago. Its clear water, pinkish sand and rocky surroundings give it a wild and untouched feel.
Why it stands out: Crystal-clear water and wild setting, often compared to a natural pool
Access: Requires a hike (with guide in peak season) or access by boat
Things to know: Guided access often required in summer; bring water and good shoes
Facilities: No facilities; this is a completely wild and protected area
Best for: Adventure, snorkeling and remote, unspoiled landscapes
Cala Goloritzé is one of the most iconic beaches in Sardinia, known for its bright turquoise water and dramatic limestone arch rising above the shore. Surrounded by cliffs, it feels remote, wild and completely unique.
Why it stands out: Famous limestone arch and vivid water, one of Sardinia’s most unique beaches
Access: Hike of around 1–1.5 hours each way or view from boat offshore
Things to know: Limited daily access; booking required. Final descent is steep and rocky
Facilities: No facilities; bring water, food and proper footwear
Best for: Hikers, dramatic scenery and one of the most memorable beaches in Sardinia
Cala Luna is a wide bay backed by cliffs and large sea caves, with a mix of sand and pebbles and clear blue water. The caves provide natural shade, making it one of the most distinctive beaches in the area.
Why it stands out: Large sea caves create natural shade and a very unique beach setting
Access: Boat from Cala Gonone or hike (around 2 hours) through scenic trails
Things to know: Can get busy in summer, especially with boat arrivals
Facilities: Small beach bar available during the season
Best for: Unique landscapes, shade and a mix of adventure with easier access
Cala Mariolu is known for its incredibly clear water and small white pebbles that give the shoreline a bright, reflective look. It’s often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia.
Why it stands out: Exceptionally clear water and striking white pebbles along the shore
Access: Mainly by boat; hiking access possible but long and challenging
Things to know: No sand; bring water shoes for comfort on the pebbles
Facilities: Limited or no facilities depending on the season
Best for: Snorkeling, clear water and iconic Sardinia scenery
Cala dei Gabbiani sits between Cala Mariolu and Cala Luna and shares the same crystal-clear water and wild surroundings, but with fewer visitors. It feels more peaceful while still offering that classic Gulf of Orosei beauty.
Why it stands out: Same stunning water as nearby coves but usually with fewer people
Access: Boat access or hike; often visited as part of boat tours
Things to know: No facilities; best combined with nearby beaches on the same day
Facilities: None; bring everything you need with you
Best for: Quieter experience, swimming and combining multiple coves in one trip
Spiaggia di Tuerredda is one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Sardinia, with calm turquoise water and soft sand set between two headlands. The sheltered bay gives it a clear, almost tropical look.
Why it stands out: One of the most scenic beaches in the south, with calm and clear water
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas close to the beach
Things to know: Limited entry in summer; booking may be required and parking fills early
Facilities: Beach clubs, restaurants, sunbeds and basic services available
Best for: Swimming, relaxing and postcard-perfect beach scenery
Spiaggia di Porto Pino is known for its long sandy shoreline and impressive white dunes, offering a different landscape from most Sardinian beaches. The area feels more open and wild, with plenty of space to explore.
Why it stands out: Large white dunes and wide beach, very different from typical coves
Access: Easy access by car, with several parking areas near the beach
Things to know: Wind can be stronger here; dunes are protected and access may be limited
Facilities: Some beach bars and services, especially near the main access points
Best for: Long walks, open landscapes and a quieter beach experience
Spiaggia di Piscinas is one of the wildest beaches in Sardinia, known for its vast golden dunes (Dunes di Piscinas) and open, untouched landscape. The beach feels remote and expansive, with waves that give it a more rugged character.
Why it stands out: Massive sand dunes and raw scenery, unlike anywhere else on the island
Access: Reachable by car via unpaved roads; last stretch can be rough
Things to know: Remote location; services are limited and sea conditions can be rough
Facilities: Very limited; a few options nearby but not directly on the beach
Best for: Wild landscapes, long walks and a quiet, off-the-beaten-path feel
Is Arutas is one of Sardinia’s most unusual beaches, famous for its quartz sand made of tiny white and pink grains that resemble rice. The water is clear and deep, creating a striking contrast with the shoreline.
Why it stands out: Unique quartz “sand” with a distinctive texture and appearance
Access: Easy access by car, with parking areas close to the beach
Things to know: Sand is protected and cannot be taken; waves can be stronger here
Facilities: Basic services and small beach bars available in the area
Best for: Unique landscapes, photography and a less typical Sardinia beach
If you’re planning your itinerary by area, here are more beaches to consider beyond the main list. These are great options to explore nearby or add to your route.
Sardinia is a large island, and where you stay will shape your entire beach experience. While you can find beautiful beaches all around, each region has a different feel, level of accessibility, and type of coastline.
Here’s a simple way to choose based on your travel style:
North (Costa Smeralda & La Maddalena)
This is where you’ll find some of Sardinia’s most famous and accessible beaches, with bright turquoise water and white sand. It’s a great option if you want easy access, variety, and a mix of beautiful beaches and comfortable infrastructure. Expect more crowds in peak season, especially around Costa Smeralda.
East (Gulf of Orosei)
The east coast is home to some of the most scenic and dramatic beaches on the island, often surrounded by cliffs and reachable by boat or hiking trails. It’s perfect if you’re looking for that “wow” factor and don’t mind putting in a bit more effort to get there.
South
The south offers a good balance of beautiful beaches, easier access, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Areas like Chia and Villasimius are great if you want clear water and soft sand without the same level of crowds as the north.
West
The west coast feels more wild and untamed, with fewer crowds and very different landscapes – including sand dunes, cliffs, and rougher seas. It’s less about classic turquoise water and more about raw scenery and quieter beaches.
The best area depends on your travel style. The north (Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena) offers iconic beaches with easy access, while the east (Gulf of Orosei) is more scenic but harder to reach. The south is a good balance of beauty and convenience, and the west is wilder and less crowded.
In most cases, yes. Sardinia is a large island and many of the best beaches are spread out or located in remote areas. Having a car gives you flexibility and makes it much easier to explore different regions, especially if you’re not staying in just one place.
Most beaches in Sardinia are free to access, but you’ll often need to pay for parking nearby. Some popular beaches also have limited daily access or require reservations during peak season, especially in protected areas.
Yes, some beaches require advance booking in high season, particularly in the Gulf of Orosei and a few protected areas. These systems are used to limit the number of visitors and preserve the environment, so it’s important to check ahead when planning your trip.
The best time is usually from June to September, when the weather is warm and the sea is ideal for swimming. July and August are the busiest months, while June and September offer similar conditions with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Sardinia has a mix of both, but many of its most famous beaches feature fine white sand and clear turquoise water. In some areas, especially in the east, you’ll also find beaches with small pebbles or a mix of sand and rocks.
No, not all beaches are accessible by car. Some of the most beautiful ones, especially along the east coast, require a boat trip or a hike. This is part of what makes them feel more remote and less crowded compared to easily accessible beaches.
Yes, many beaches in Sardinia are very family-friendly, with calm, shallow water and soft sand. Areas in the north and south tend to be the easiest with facilities and parking, making them ideal if you’re traveling with kids.
Yes, Sardinia is one of the best destinations in Europe for a beach-focused trip. You can easily spend several days exploring different beaches, but it’s also worth combining them with small towns, local food, and scenic drives for a more complete experience.
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