Sardinia is a breathtaking island in Italy that showcases a side of the country that feels untouched, where nature shapes the experience and tradition runs deep. Discover Sardinia and its coastline, wild and varied, with sheer cliffs that meet hidden coves and rolling dunes that stretch for miles. It is an island where travelers can experience an Italian Escape, immersed in authentic culture with its distinct cuisine and centuries-old customs.
For those seeking something beyond the usual destinations, Sardinia is a place where adventure and relaxation coexist. Its beaches are among the most stunning in Europe, yet many remain uncrowded, accessible only by foot, boat, or with a bit of effort—rewarding those who seek off-the-beaten-path experiences.
From secluded coves surrounded by rugged cliffs to expansive, untouched stretches of sand, Sardinia offers a diverse array of coastal landscapes that cater to all types of travelers, whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active exploration of nature.
Here’s a mix of well-known and off-the-beaten-path options for travelers of all kinds:
1 Cala Goloritzé – Golfo di Orosei
Cala Goloritzé is a recognized UNESCO-listed site and one of Sardinia’s most pristine coastal spots. Set along the Golfo di Orosei, this protected cove is known for its striking limestone arch and sharp pinnacle rising from the shoreline, framing waters in shades of turquoise that seem almost unreal.
Reaching the beach is part of the experience. It’s accessible only by boat or a 3.5-kilometer hike from the Supramonte plateau. The trail winds through rugged landscapes scented with wild rosemary and juniper, leading to a panoramic view of the cove before descending to the shore. Because of these access restrictions, Cala Goloritzé remains relatively uncrowded—a rarity in the Mediterranean.
As a protected site, boats must anchor offshore, and visitors can only arrive on foot or by swimming. There are no sunbeds or beach bars, just white pebbles, clear water, and Sardinia’s coastline in its rawest form.
2 Spiaggia di Tuerredda – South Sardinia
Spiaggia di Tuerredda is one of South Sardinia’s most stunning beaches and is often compared to the Caribbean due to its crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine, golden sand. Located between Chia and Teulada, this picturesque bay is sheltered from strong winds, making its calm, transparent waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
While Tuerredda’s beauty has made it a popular destination, timing is key to enjoying it at its best. Visiting in the off-season or early in the morning allows you to experience its natural tranquility before the crowds arrive. The small islet just offshore adds to the charm and is the perfect spot for those willing to swim a bit. It is not far from Faro Capo Spartivento—one of the best spots on the island to get a sense of the culture and history of Sardinia. It is also one of the destinations featured in our small group journey through Sardinia, designed for those who want to explore Sardinia in an authentic and sustainable way.
3 Porto Giunco Beach – Villasimius Porto Giunco
This is one of Sardinia’s most visually striking beaches, known for its powdery white sand and waters that shift from sky blue to deep turquoise. Located near Villasimius on the southeastern coast, this beach has a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and the Notteri lagoon, where flamingos (yes, flamingos) can often be spotted.
The beach itself is long and spacious, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and beach activities. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming, while the steady breeze makes it a popular destination for windsurfing and paddleboarding.
Unlike Sardinia’s more rugged coves, Porto Giunco is easily accessible, with nearby parking and beach facilities, yet it retains a natural beauty that makes it stand out. The panoramic view from the Torre di Porto Giunco, a historic Spanish watchtower perched on the hill above, offers an unforgettable perspective of the coastline.
4 Cala Coticcio – Discover Sardinia’s Hidden Gem on Caprera Island
This beach is often compared to Tahiti because of its crystal-clear waters and pristine surroundings. Cala Coticcio is on Caprera Island and is one of Sardinia’s most breathtaking hidden gems. This remote cove, part of the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, is known for its shallow, transparent sea, smooth granite rocks, and a rare sense of seclusion.
Reaching Cala Coticcio requires effort, but that’s part of what keeps it special. A moderate hike of about 45 minutes through rocky terrain and Mediterranean scrub leads to this secluded bay. Due to its protected status, visitors are required to book a guided excursion with an authorized guide, ensuring that the delicate ecosystem remains preserved.
The reward for the journey is a setting that feels almost otherworldly. The water here is so clear that snorkeling feels like floating in an aquarium, with bountiful ocean life and submerged rock formations. There are no beach facilities—just untouched nature and the quiet sound of waves against the shore, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a truly immersive experience.
5 Spiaggia di Piscinas – Costa Verde
Spiaggia di Piscinas is where Sardinia’s wilder side takes center stage. Located on the rugged Costa Verde, this vast beach is defined by rolling golden dunes—the tallest in Italy—stretching for miles and shaped by the mistral winds. The landscape feels more like a desert meeting the sea than a typical Mediterranean coastline.
Reaching Piscinas requires a drive down unpaved roads, adding to its sense of remoteness. This isolation keeps the crowds away, making it a great spot for travelers seeking solitude. The beach itself is expansive, with crashing waves that attract surfers and endless stretches of sand perfect for long, uninterrupted walks.
Beyond its striking scenery, Piscinas is a place where nature remains untouched. Wild deer and foxes roam the dunes, and remnants of Sardinia’s mining past can still be found nearby. For those looking to experience Sardinia beyond its famous turquoise coves, Piscinas offers something entirely different—an Italian escape that is vast, wild, and unforgettable.
6 Su Giudeu – Chia
Su Giudeu offers a wide expanse of soft, golden sand and calm, shallow waters that make it perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Located near Chia on the southern coast, this beach is a favorite for families, couples, and anyone seeking a peaceful spot to unwind under the sun.
The gentle waves make it ideal for swimming, while the beach’s shallow waters create a safe environment for children to play. Su Giudeu is also well-known for its surrounding natural beauty. Nearby lagoons are home to a variety of wildlife, and it is another great spot to see flamingos as they can often be spotted gracefully wading through the waters.Just beyond Chia, Faro Capo Spartivento offers a completely different experience of Sardinia’s coastline—one that blends remoteness with refined hospitality. It’s a highlight of our curated small group trip through Sardinia, where we explore both its hidden gems and iconic landscapes.
7 Poetto Beach – Your Italian Escape in Cagliari
Poetto beach is Sardinia’s longest and most vibrant urban beach, stretching for nearly eight kilometers along the coast of Cagliari. It’s a favorite among both locals and visitors, and it is a great spot for a variety of activities, like relaxation, water sports, and lively beachfront life. With its soft sand and clear waters, Poetto is an easygoing place to spend the day, whether sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a seaside aperitivo.
Beyond the beach itself, Poetto has a strong social scene. The waterfront promenade is lined with bars, restaurants, and gelaterias frequented by visitors and locals alike, especially in the summer months. The Sella del Diavolo, a dramatic headland at the northern end of the beach, offers a rewarding hike with sweeping views over the Gulf of Cagliari. Overall, Poetto is a great spot to become immersed in the easygoing coastal culture of southern Sardinia.
8 Is Arutas Beach – Sinis Peninsula
Is Arutas stands out as one of Sardinia’s most unique beaches, famous for its distinctive sand made of tiny, smooth quartz pebbles that shimmer in shades of pink, white, and green. Located on the Sinis Peninsula in western Sardinia, this beach feels untouched and remote, with a wild beauty that makes it a must-visit for those exploring the island’s lesser-known spots.
The crystal-clear waters and gently sloping seabed make Is Arutas a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling, while the open sea beyond the shore attracts surfers when the conditions are right. There are no large resorts or commercial developments here—just nature at its finest. Due to its protected status, visitors are encouraged to leave the beach as they found it, ensuring that its rare quartz sand remains undisturbed. It is a beach that would be hard to replicate anywhere else in the world, making it a great one to add to the list when visiting Sardinia.
9 Porto Ferro – Northwest Sardinia
Porto Ferro is another less-touristy, more rugged Sardinian beach. Located on the island’s northwest coast, this beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and stretches of orange-tinted sand, offering a striking contrast to the more typical white-sand beaches of the region. Porto Ferro is known for its wild beauty, making it a favorite among surfers and nature lovers alike.
The beach is often less crowded, providing a peaceful environment for those looking to escape the more popular spots. The waves here are perfect for surfing, drawing enthusiasts looking for consistent breaks. Even if you’re not into surfing, the surrounding scenery is stunning—rocky headlands, clear waters, and wide stretches of sand perfect for relaxation. Porto Ferro is also home to several scenic trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints over the coastline.
10 Cala Domestica – Southwest Sardinia
Cala Domestica is yet another hidden gem on Sardinia’s southwest coast, offering natural beauty and tranquility, alongside some local history. Once a mining cove and is nestled in a cove, sheltered by towering cliffs that create a sense of seclusion. The waters are calm and inviting, perfect for a quiet swim or simply relaxing by the shore. For the more adventurous, Cala Domestica offers a hidden surprise: a second, secluded cove that’s accessible through a natural tunnel carved into the rock. This hidden spot is often completely empty, giving visitors the feeling of discovering a secret paradise.
While the beach itself is peaceful, the surrounding area also tells the story of Sardinia’s industrial past, with remnants of old mining structures scattered nearby. The contrast of nature and history makes Cala Domestica an especially captivating destination for those who want to explore more than just the usual beach experience.
11 Capo Comino – East Sardinia
Capo Comino offers an expansive, untouched slice of Sardinia’s coastline. Stretching for several kilometers along the eastern coast, this wild beach is known for its golden dunes, shallow waters, and tranquil atmosphere—ideal for those seeking an Italian escape with a quiet and serene beach experience.
The shallow waters make it a great spot for a relaxing swim, while the vast stretches of sand are perfect for peaceful walks or simply lounging in the sun. Capo Comino’s natural beauty is complemented by its unique landscape of rolling dunes, which create a striking contrast against the deep blue of the sea. For those who appreciate solitude and scenic views, this beach provides the perfect escape.Capo Comino is also relatively free of commercialization with no large resorts or crowded facilities, allowing the beach to retain its raw beauty. If you’re after a quiet, natural paradise in Sardinia, Capo Comino is a hidden haven worth discovering.
12 La Pelosa – Stintino
La Pelosa Beach, located near the town of Stintino on the northwest coast of Sardinia, is one of the island’s most iconic beaches, renowned for its soft white sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters. While it’s not as hidden or secluded as some other Sardinian beaches, it’s famous for a reason. The beauty of La Pelosa is undeniable, offering visitors a postcard-perfect view of the sea and the nearby islet of Piana.
For those willing to visit early in the morning or during the shoulder seasons, La Pelosa offers a chance to experience its stunning beauty without the usual crowds. The shallow waters make it ideal for a peaceful swim or for families with young children to enjoy a safe and fun day by the sea.
Despite its popularity, La Pelosa maintains a sense of tranquility when visited during quieter times. The surrounding landscape is equally mesmerizing, with views of the shimmering sea and the rocky islet. While it might be well-known, La Pelosa’s charm is timeless and worth experiencing for its undeniable allure.
Find Your Sardinia Experience: Your Ultimate Italian Escape
If you’re ready to experience Sardinia for yourself, our travel designers at Life Beyond the Room can craft a personalized itinerary that aligns perfectly with your interests. From secluded beaches to cultural explorations, we’ll help you uncover the authentic side of Sardinia that’s waiting just for you.
For those who prefer a curated experience, our Secret Sardegna small group tour is an ideal way to explore the island in the company of like-minded travelers. This exclusive trip takes you to hidden gems, local spots, and unforgettable beaches—an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
Let us guide you through Sardinia’s stunning landscapes, where adventure meets tranquility and tradition is woven into every corner of the island.
