Beaches in Sardinia, Italy

Is Aruttas

Over on the Sinis Peninsula, Is Aruttas is one of the best beaches in Sardinia for backpackers and travelers who really just need to get away from it all. This part of the island is a little less accessible than the rest, making it less crowded and much calmer. Is Aruttas is one of the top beaches in the area, boasting some of the whitest, softest sands you'll ever see.

The shimmering waters here look like they've been stolen from the Caribbean Sea, and conditions are just right at Is Aruttas for all kinds of fun in the sun, from relaxing on the sand to wading out into the water. Is Aruttas Map

Spiaggia di Tuerredda

Right down on the southern edge of Sardinia, Spiaggia di Tuerredda, also simply known as Tuerredda Beach, is a must-visit location for anyone staying in this part of the island.

It's one of the most untouched, pristine spots on the entire Sardinian coastline, a far cry from some of the more built-up beaches near the main resort towns.

So if you want to get away from the crowds and simply appreciate the captivating beauty of Sardinia like never before, Spiaggia di Tuerredda is the place to be. Not only that, Spiaggia di Tuerredda also offers gorgeous views all around and a glimpse of the Isola Tuarredda which provides a beautiful backdrop for some vacation photos. Map

Cala Brandinchi

This beach has a nickname that tells you all you need to know about it: Little Tahiti. Just like the beautiful island of French Polynesia, Cala Brandinchi boasts astonishingly crystal clear waters and immensely soft sands. It runs for about half a mile in total, ensuring that there's a good amount of space for everyone to enjoy without feeling crowded, but the real advantage of this beach isn't the sand, it's the sea.

The waters here are remarkably transparent and provide a gentle slope out to sea, just right for paddling on the beach with the kids, wading out with friends, or swimming further and diving down to try and spot some marine life. Cala Brandinchi Map

Chia

If you're visiting Sardinia on a family vacation, Chia might be the best beach for you to check out first. It's easy to access and there are actually two different beaches to explore here: Spiaggia Su Portu and Spiaggia Sa Colonia. These beaches are both formed in deep, curved shapes, with rocky barriers and land offering protection from the harsher conditions further out to sea.

This means that the waters of Chia are exceptionally calm, with only the lightest, gentlest waves. The waters are also very shallow, just right for young children to take their first steps out into the sea. Be sure to bring a beachball or some inflatable toys to really make the most of the day if you're coming for some family fun. This beach can also appeal to older travelers and couples due to its romantic, secluded setting.

Where to stay: Chia Laguna Hotel

Spiaggia della Pelosa

On the northern tip of the island, not far from the town of Stintino, Spiaggia della Pelosa is one of those beaches you'll want to come back to again and again. The best thing about this beach is its sands, which are astonishingly white and cool beneath your feet. There's a lot of wide, open space here for everyone to enjoy, and even though this Sardinian beach can get quite popular, there's always enough room.

The waters here are a deep blue and can be good for wading or swimming, but one of the best things to do at Spiaggia della Pelosa is to simply sit and admire the views of nearby Isola and Piana and all the sailboats that pass by regularly. If you want to extend your trip, reserve passage over to the Isola dell'Asinara, home to some friendly albino donkeys and lots of scenic hiking trails. Spiaggia della Pelosa Map