Best Beaches in Sardinia | Italy Beach Guide
Sardinia Beaches: Italy's Most Spectacular Island Coastline
Sardinia possesses what many travellers and coastal experts consider the finest beaches in the Mediterranean — a 1,800-kilometre coastline of white quartz sand, pink granite formations, and water ranging from palest turquoise to deep sapphire. The island remains less developed than much of the Mediterranean coast, preserving stretches of wild beauty that are increasingly rare in Europe.
Top Beaches in Sardinia
La Pelosa (Stintino)
Consistently ranked among Europe's most beautiful beaches, La Pelosa on the northwest tip of Sardinia has white sand so fine it squeaks underfoot and water so clear the sea floor is visible at three metres depth. A medieval watchtower rises from a small islet in the bay. Due to its extreme popularity, entry is now regulated in peak season — book your slot in advance.
Cala Goloritzé
A UNESCO-protected beach accessible only by boat or a 90-minute hiking trail — which ensures it remains relatively unspoiled. The beach sits beneath a 143-metre limestone pinnacle (the Aguglia), and the snorkelling in the protected marine area is outstanding. This is Sardinia at its most wild and dramatic.
Spiaggia del Principe (Costa Smeralda)
In the famous Costa Smeralda area, Spiaggia del Principe is the beach that billionaires once kept to themselves. It sits between two rocky headlands with granite boulders giving it a sculptural quality. The water shifts through a dozen shades of blue-green. Less accessible than the main Costa Smeralda beaches, which keeps it quieter.
Is Arutas
Unlike any other beach in the Mediterranean — Is Arutas is composed of quartz pebbles so small and white they resemble grains of rice. The resulting landscape is otherworldly: almost luminously white under the Sardinian sun. Protected from removal by law (don't be tempted to take a handful home), the beach is free to access and situated near Oristano on the west coast.
Best Time to Visit Sardinia Beaches
June and September are the sweet spots: sea temperatures of 23–25°C, hot sunny days, and noticeably fewer tourists than August. July and August are beautiful but crowded and expensive — La Pelosa and Costa Smeralda become very busy. May is excellent for exploring and hiking to secluded beaches before the season begins.
Getting There and Where to Stay
Sardinia has three airports: Cagliari (CAG) in the south, Olbia (OLB) in the northeast, and Alghero (AHO) in the northwest. Olbia is the gateway for Costa Smeralda; Cagliari for the southern beaches. Compare hotels in Sardinia and explore more of Italy's best beaches.
