15 of the best beaches in Sardinia

1. Santa Giusta, Costa Rei

Some of the best beaches in Europe are in south Sardinia, including the sun-drenched paradise of Costa Rei. This breathtaking coastal area is famous for pristine inlets set against the gorgeous backdrop of the Sette Fratelli (Seven Brothers) mountain range.

One of its best beaches is Santa Giusta, a popular snorkelling spot thanks to its Caribbean-clear waters. Those who prefer to stay dry can worship the sun from the scattering of sun-loungers and a laidback beach bar. We suggest taking a leisurely paddle out to Peppino's Rock – a semi-submerged granite boulder resembling the back of a turtle.

2. La Pelosa, Stintino

Watched over by an ancient tower and facing the island of Asinara, La Pelosa is arguably one of the most iconic north Sardinia beaches. Its water is outrageously turquoise, so shallow and clear that it almost looks unreal. Powdery white sand adds to the drama, and there’s a Caribbean vibe that’s rarely matched in Europe.

In fact, Le Pelosa is considered to be so good that strict limits on visitors are implemented over the summer months to protect its sands. You'll even need to pre-purchase a ticket. If that’s not your vibe, Spiaggia Ezzi Mannu is nearly as lovely and it’s just a 20-minute drive away.

3. Is Arutas, Oristano

So unique is the sand of Is Arutas that travellers have pocketed it for years. The reason? It’s made from tiny fragments of shimmering quartz – described as little grains of rice – and forms a kaleidoscopic canvas of pinks, greens and whites. Taking some home carries a hefty fine but that just means there's still plenty left to enjoy.

When you’ve had your fill of sunbathing, sign up for a boat trip to nearby Isola di Mal di Ventre (don’t be put off by its name, though, which translates as stomachache island) or explore the nearby archaeological site of Tharros.

4. Cala Brandinchi, San Teodoro

Not many European beaches could earn the nickname Little Tahiti. But Cala Brandinchi, with its crystalline waters and swathes of dazzling white sand, deserves it entirely. Pine forests fringe this stretch of coastline and a cooling dip is the perfect reward after a stroll among the trees.

Nearby, you’ll find Isola Tavolara, a tiny island just off the coast of Sardinia. Hop on one of the ferries that depart from Porto San Paolo to get there.

5. Cala Mariolu, Baunei

There’s a reason Cala Mariolu consistently tops lists of the best beaches in Sardinia. Tucked into the dramatic cliffs of the Gulf of Orosei, it’s only accessible by boat or a steep hike – but the journey is well worth it.

There’s no sand, but soft, pale pebbles, and the water is a dazzling palette of blues and greens. The snorkelling here is superb too, with fish darting around your feet in the crystalline shallows. It’s best visited early in the day when the beach is at its quietest and most magical.

6. Poetto beach, Cagliari

Don’t be put off by Poetto’s proximity to Sardinia’s capital. With its soft sand separated by flamingo-filled wetlands, it’s not just one of the best beaches in Cagliari but in all of Sardinia.

At 8km long (5 miles), Poetto is one of the island's lengthiest beaches, and the most exposed sections are regarded as Sardinia's top surf spots. There are plenty of facilities, including snack bars and a wide range of watersports operators.

When you need some time out, wander over to the marina to nose at the super yachts or head to the adjacent Sella del Diavolo (the Devil’s Saddle) to take in views of the beach and the city.

7. Cala Luna, Cala Gonone

Cala Gonone is among Sardinia’s top beach resorts, although it manages to retain the feel of an authentic Italian town. You want to head to its outskirts, though, for the lovely Cala Luna beach.

Steep cliffs pockmarked with little caves frame this off-the-beaten-track beach that’s located deep within a nature reserve. While it’s accessible by foot, the quickest way to get here is by ferry from nearby Cala Gonone marina. For more drama, thrill-seekers can head to the Gola di Gorropu gorge, one of the deepest in Europe.

8. Spiaggia di Piscinas, Magazzini

Spiaggia di Piscinas, on Sardinia’s rugged Costa Verde, is the stuff of desert-island daydreams. The golden dunes of this remote spot stretch for more than 1km (0.6and rise as high as 60m (197ft), sculpted by the wind into otherworldly formations.

Backed by juniper trees and home to rare wildlife like deer and sea turtles, it’s a top pick in south Sardinia for nature lovers. There are few facilities, but that’s part of the charm – this is wild Sardinia, best enjoyed with a towel, some water and a good book.

9. Le Bombarde, Alghero

Another brilliant city beach, Le Bombarde is a great place to start for those staying in Alghero – its glistening white stretch of sand is a fantastic place to mingle with locals, and you’ll be within easy reach of the city’s buzziest restaurants and bars.

The nearby forests are a popular spot for hikers, and kids will love scrambling over the beach’s huge volcanic boulders. Consider combining it with a visit to nearby Lazzaretto beach, 1km (0.6 miles) to the west.

10. Cala Biriola, Baunei

This might be one of the prettiest snorkelling spots in Italy thanks to the wonderfully clear water and the wide range of fish. Our advice? Enjoy some time out on this gorgeous beach before going for a hike through the mountainous terrain, which fans out inland.

Trails once used by local shepherds and coal merchants wind through the rugged landscape, the narrow paths dotted with log footbridges to make navigating the hilly area easier than it looks.

11. Spiaggia di Tuerredda, Teulada

Spiaggia di Tuerredda would look just as much at home in Jamaica or Barbados as it does on Sardinia’s splendid southern tip. The fact you can forgo the 11-hour flight makes it even more tempting.

With safe, shallow waters, it’s one of Sardinia’s best beaches for families – and extra curbs on visitor numbers (via an app set to be launched this summer) will keep the beach protected and calm.

Stronger swimmers can make a break out to the tiny islet that sits 100 metres offshore.

12. Sa Colonia and Su Portu beaches, Chia

Chia also has two excellent family-friendly beaches: the neighbouring Sa Colonia and Su Portu. Their shallow seas make them perfect for toe-dippers and nervous swimmers, although Su Portu gets the gold star for its wide arc of soft sand and suitability for every type of beachgoer.

As well as being a popular sunbathing spot, it’s well-known for its prime wind- and kite-surfing conditions.

13. Cala Goloritzé, Baunei

What this beach lacks in warm water (it’s fed partly by some rather chilly underground streams), it makes up for in appearance. A crowd-free curve of sand sheltered by golden cliffs, its fantastically clear water and UNESCO World Heritage status puts it up there with the best.

It’s one of the top snorkelling destinations in Sardinia, thanks to its shoals of colourful fish. The beach feels properly wild, framed by strawberry trees and accessed via a narrow winding path that weaves through an oak forest.

14. Spiaggia Capriccioli, Arzachena

Located in the heart of the glamorous Costa Smeralda, Capriccioli is one of the best beaches in Sardinia for families thanks to its calm waters and gently shelving sand.

Four tiny coves make up this beach, separated by granite rocks and surrounded by olive and pine trees. Each has its own charm, but all share that same dreamy turquoise sea.

It’s a great snorkelling spot too, with plenty of fish among the rocks. Bring water shoes if you're planning to explore beyond the shore.

15. Spiaggia Rosa, Isola Budelli

Accessible only by boat and now off-limits to protect its fragile beauty, Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) is still one of the most breathtaking sights in Sardinia.

The pink tint of its sand – the result of crushed coral, shells, and microscopic marine life – is unique in the Mediterranean. Though you can’t walk on it anymore, boat tours from nearby islands often stop for a look. Bring your camera.