The 12 most beautiful beaches in Cagliari
Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, is renowned for its heavenly beaches with crystal-clear waters and fine sand. From wild coves to long stretches of sand, the region offers a whole range of seaside wonders. Whether you’re looking for a family beach with all amenities or a secret cove to escape the crowds, the area around Cagliari is sure to please. Here is our selection of the 12 most beautiful beaches to discover during your stay in the Sardinian capital.
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1. Poetto beach: a must-see in Cagliari
It’s impossible to talk about Cagliari’s most beautiful beaches without starting with the famous Poetto beach. Stretching majestically for 8 kilometres along the Gulf of Angels, this urban beach is the real seaside jewel of the Sardinian capital. Its fine white sand, crystal-clear waters and proximity to the city centre make it a favourite destination for locals and tourists alike.
Poetto beach offers every imaginable service: beach bars, restaurants, deckchair and parasol hire, and a wide range of water sports. It is easily accessible by bus from the centre of Cagliari, and has plenty of parking. For a spectacular view, head to the Torre del Poetto at the end of the beach, where the Marina Piccola marina offers an idyllic setting for a lunch with your feet in the water.
2. Calamosca: a jewel box of unspoilt beauty
Opposite Sella del Diavolo, Calamosca beach is a haven of peace. This small cove with its clear waters and fine sand offers a more intimate setting, perfect for escaping the tourist hustle and bustle. Accessible after a short walk along a path lined with Mediterranean vegetation, Calamosca reveals a breathtaking panorama.
Calamosca’s calm, crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for snorkelling. The beach, although urban, retains a wild and authentic character that will appeal to nature lovers. Take advantage of your stay in this area to explore the other wonders of the capital with the Navaway Cagliari itinerary.
3. Cala Fighera: the adventurers’ secret cove
A neighbour of Calamosca, Cala Fighera is a small rocky cove reminiscent of the famous calanques in the south of France. Nestling between steep cliffs covered in Mediterranean scrub, this confidential beach attracts lovers of tranquillity and unspoilt scenery.
Getting to Cala Fighera is a bit of an effort, as you have to take a dirt track from the rest area near Calamosca. But this little adventure is well worth the diversions! Sheltered from the wind and prying eyes, the cove has no infrastructure, making it a real little corner of paradise for travellers in search of authenticity.
4. Sant’Elia: Cagliari’s best-kept secret
Sant’Elia beach is one of the least frequented in Cagliari, making it all the more worth discovering. Situated in the district of the same name, the beach boasts fine white sand and turquoise waters worthy of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia.
Mainly frequented by locals, Sant’Elia offers an authentic and relaxed atmosphere. The beach is easily accessible by car and is close to the Lo Scoglio restaurant. Its confidential nature makes it a perfect stopover for those wishing to discover Cagliari off the beaten track by following the Navaway audioguide itinerary.
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5. Mari Pintau: the “painted sea” in fairytale colours
The name Mari Pintau literally means “painted sea”, and you’ll immediately understand why when you discover this exceptional beach. The waters here display an infinite palette of blues, from the purest turquoise to the deepest emerald green, creating a striking visual spectacle.
Situated halfway between Cagliari and Villasimius, Mari Pintau’s charm lies in its wave-polished granite pebbles and unspoilt natural setting. The surrounding Mediterranean scrub adds a wild touch to this idyllic setting. Please note that this beach does not have a car park; you have to park along the dirt track, which helps to preserve its authentic character.
6. Cala Regina: the royal cove of Quartu Sant’Elena
In the municipality of Quartu Sant’Elena, Cala Regina (Via Torre Regina, 09045 Quartu Sant’Elena CA, rated 4.2/5 on Google for 185 reviews) fully deserves its royal name. This small beach is dominated by a Spanish watchtower that stands majestically amid lush Mediterranean vegetation of pine and eucalyptus trees.
Cala Regina is characterised by pebbles and rock formations that create natural reefs. While it may not be the most suitable for families with children, it is a veritable paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Its unspoilt seabed is home to a rich and varied aquatic fauna.
7. Nora beach: history and natural beauty
Situated near the famous archaeological site of Nora, this beach harmoniously combines cultural heritage and natural beauty. A dozen kilometres west of Cagliari, this small, sheltered beach offers an idyllic setting for a relaxing day out.
Nora beach has a kiosk offering parasols and sun loungers for hire. Its unique feature is a church right on the beach, the venue for many weddings during the summer season. For nature lovers, a small lagoon behind the beach regularly plays host to pink flamingos, providing an unforgettable natural spectacle.
8. Spiaggia di Cala d’Ostia: a meeting place for surfers
Heading towards the coast of Santa Margherita di Pula, the Spiaggia di Cala d’Ostia unveils a stretch of silky white sand in an unspoilt natural setting. Behind the beach, eucalyptus and holm oak trees bear witness to the richness of the local Mediterranean vegetation.
This beach is particularly popular with surfers due to its windy conditions and currents. It is not sheltered from the waves, which makes it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts, but requires extra vigilance when it comes to swimming.
9. Spiaggia di Tuerredda: the pearl of the south-west
Set in a splendid bay between Capo Malfatano and Capo Spartivento, Spiaggia di Tuerredda (Località Tuerredda, 09019 Teulada CA, rated 4.4/5 on Google for 2,369 reviews) is regularly ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. Its fine ivory-coloured sand and crystal-clear, turquoise waters create a picture-postcard landscape.
Accessible from Cagliari via the SS 195 towards Pula and then the bivio to Chia, Tuerredda stretches over half a kilometre in an exceptional natural setting. Note that access is now limited in high season, so it is advisable to arrive early in the morning to avoid the queues.
10. Porto Giunco: the tropical beach of Villasimius
Around 52 kilometres from Cagliari, Porto Giunco (Località Porto Giunco, 09049 Villasimius CA, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 2,672 reviews) near Villasimius is one of the most photographed beaches in Sardinia. This long stretch of fine, pinkish sand stretches for around 3 kilometres in a dreamy setting.
Porto Giunco owes its fame to its crystal-clear Caribbean waters and the presence of a Genoese tower that majestically dominates the landscape. A footpath leads to this Torre di Porto Giunco, offering exceptional views over the bay. The beach boasts a number of stabilimenti balneari and restaurants.
11. Su Giudeu: the giant dunes of Chia
In the Chia region, Su Giudeu (Su Giudeu Beach, 09010 Domus de Maria CA, rated 4.3/5 on Google for 1,328 reviews) impresses with its imposing sand dunes, which can reach a height of twenty metres. These dunes, dotted with centuries-old juniper trees, create a landscape that is unique in the Mediterranean.
The beach is 1.2 kilometres long, with fine beige sand and deep blue waters. Su Giudeu is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the south coast of Sardinia. A lagoon behind the beach regularly plays host to pink flamingos, adding a touch of poetry to this grandiose setting.
12. Punta Molentis: the secret jewel of Villasimius
To round off our selection in style, Punta Molentis (Punta Molentis, 09049 Villasimius CA, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 2,468 reviews) near Villasimius more than deserves its reputation as a beach paradise. This small crescent-shaped cove is around 500 metres long and boasts dazzling white sand and shallow waters with Caribbean colours.
Protected in the Capo Carbonara marine area, Punta Molentis enjoys an unspoilt natural environment. The shallow, crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for families with children. Access is via a path that takes just a few minutes from the car park, preserving the wild character of this little paradise.
In conclusion, Cagliari’s beaches offer exceptional diversity, from large urban expanses to secret coves and unspoilt natural wonders. Each beach has its own unique character and special attractions. Whether you’re a fan of idleness, a water sports enthusiast or in search of natural discoveries, the Cagliari region will meet all your expectations. Don’t hesitate to let yourself be guided by Cagliari’s Navaway itinerary to discover the cultural riches of this magnificent capital before lounging on its dream beaches.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best beach near Cagliari?
It’s hard to name just one “most beautiful beach”, as the region is full of wonders. Tuerredda and Porto Giunco are often cited as the most spectacular for their crystal-clear waters and picture-postcard scenery. For a more urban experience, Poetto is a must.
How do I get to the beaches from Cagliari?
Poetto can be reached by bus from the town centre. For the other beaches, a car is recommended. Allow 1 hour for Tuerredda and 1 hour 15 minutes for Porto Giunco and Punta Molentis. Boat trips are also available from the port of Cagliari.
When is the best time to visit the beaches of Cagliari?
The bathing season runs from May to October. July and August are the hottest months, but also the busiest. To enjoy pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds, opt for May-June and September-October.
Are there any beaches suitable for families with children?
Yes, Poetto is perfect for families with its many services and supervision. Punta Molentis and Su Giudeu offer shallow waters ideal for children. Avoid Cala Fighera and Cala d’Ostia, which are more difficult to access.
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