The first time I set foot on Sardinia, I was struck by the island’s raw beauty and its promise of serene, sun-soaked days. Renowned for its stunning coastline, Sardinia boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the Mediterranean. Over the course of my visit, I embarked on a journey to discover the best beaches the island had to offer, and each one left an indelible mark on my soul.
My adventure began in the northeastern part of the island, in the famous Costa Smeralda. Known for its glamorous resorts and crystal-clear waters, it’s a place where the rich and famous come to play, but I was more interested in its natural beauty than its celebrity status.
Spiaggia del Principe
My first stop was Spiaggia del Principe, a beach that is often touted as one of the most beautiful in Sardinia. The journey to this secluded paradise involved a short hike through the Mediterranean scrub, but as soon as I laid eyes on the beach, I knew it was worth every step. The sand was soft and golden, the water a gradient of turquoise and deep blue. I spent hours floating in the gentle waves, the sun warming my face, feeling utterly at peace.
Cala Brandinchi
Next on my list was Cala Brandinchi, also known as “Little Tahiti” because of its resemblance to the famous Polynesian island. The beach was expansive, with shallow waters extending far into the sea, making it perfect for a leisurely swim. I rented a paddleboard and glided across the tranquil waters, marveling at the clarity below. Fish darted around the seagrass, and the distant mountains provided a stunning backdrop.
La Pelosa Beach
After exploring the northeastern gems, I made my way to the northwestern tip of the island to visit La Pelosa Beach. Famous for its impossibly clear waters and fine white sand, La Pelosa felt like stepping into a postcard. The shallow waters stretched out far into the bay, creating a vast, natural swimming pool. I spent the day lounging under an umbrella, reading a book, and occasionally taking a dip to cool off. The ancient watchtower, Torre della Pelosa, added a touch of history to the idyllic scene.
Cala Luna
Eager to see more, I traveled down the eastern coast to the Gulf of Orosei, home to some of Sardinia’s most dramatic and secluded beaches. Cala Luna was a particular highlight. Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, it felt like a hidden paradise. I opted for a boat ride from the town of Cala Gonone, enjoying the stunning coastal views along the way. As we approached Cala Luna, I was struck by the beach’s sheer cliffs and caves. The contrast between the rugged landscape and the pristine beach was mesmerizing. I spent the afternoon exploring the caves and snorkeling in the clear, blue waters.
Cala Mariolu
Continuing my exploration of the Gulf of Orosei, I couldn’t miss Cala Mariolu. Known for its white pebbles and strikingly clear waters, it’s often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The journey there was an adventure in itself, involving a boat ride and a bit of rock scrambling. The effort was well rewarded by the sight of the beach, which was framed by towering cliffs and dotted with large boulders. I spent the day diving off the rocks, snorkeling, and simply soaking in the natural beauty around me.
Chia Beach
After my adventures in the east, I headed to the southern part of Sardinia to visit Chia Beach. Known for its golden dunes and flamingo-filled lagoons, Chia offered a different kind of beauty. The beach was wide and sandy, with warm, shallow waters perfect for swimming. I took a long walk along the shoreline, the sand between my toes and the sound of waves crashing in my ears. The sight of pink flamingos wading in the nearby lagoon added a touch of magic to the experience.
Tuerredda Beach
Not far from Chia, Tuerredda Beach was my next destination. Often compared to Caribbean beaches, Tuerredda is famous for its azure waters and picturesque setting. The beach is nestled between two headlands, creating a sheltered bay with calm, warm waters. I spent the day lounging on the soft sand, swimming, and kayaking around the small island just offshore. The tranquility of Tuerredda was a perfect way to unwind and reflect on my journey so far.
Porto Giunco
My final stop was in the southeastern part of the island, at Porto Giunco. This beach is famous for its strikingly blue waters and the scenic backdrop of the Notteri lagoon, where more flamingos can be seen. The fine, white sand and shallow waters made it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. I climbed the nearby hill to the old Spanish tower for a panoramic view of the beach and lagoon, a sight that truly took my breath away.
As my journey across Sardinia came to an end, I felt a deep sense of contentment. Each beach I visited had its unique charm, from the glamorous shores of Costa Smeralda to the rugged beauty of the Gulf of Orosei and the serene sands of the south. Sardinia’s beaches are more than just beautiful landscapes; they are places where nature’s artistry is on full display, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking beauty. My time on this enchanting island was a reminder of the simple pleasures of life: the warmth of the sun, the sound of the waves, and the joy of discovering new horizons.
