06 Feb 2026 Attraction
Look, Sardinia's beaches aren't just good – they're absolutely mental. We're talking crystal-clear waters that look Photoshopped, sand so white it hurts your eyes, and coves so secluded you'll feel like you've discovered them yourself.
But here's the thing: everyone else wants a piece of this paradise too. Visit in peak July-August and you'll be fighting for towel space with half of Europe. That's why we're going to show you the 10 most stunning beaches on the island, plus the insider timing tricks to experience them properly.
Before we dive into the beaches, let's sort out the timing. June and September are your golden windows. The weather's still gorgeous (25-28°C), the sea's warm enough for proper swimming, and the crowds have either not arrived yet or already gone home.
Early June and late September? Even better. You'll get deals on villas and apartments near these beaches, the locals are more relaxed, and you can actually take that Instagram shot without 47 people photobombing your frame.
Up in the northwest near Stintino, La Pelosa is what happens when someone designs a beach specifically for postcards. Shallow turquoise water, powdery white sand, and a 16th-century watchtower keeping watch in the background.
The locals call this one the "Tahiti of Sardinia," and honestly, they're not overselling it. The water stays ridiculously shallow for ages, making it brilliant for families. It's near San Teodoro on the northeast coast, and because it's so family-friendly, it gets rammed in August.
Legend has it this was Prince Aga Khan's favourite beach on the Costa Smeralda. It's tucked into a small bay with granite rocks framing pink-tinged sand and emerald water. This one's stunning in September when the summer chaos has died down.
Accessible only by boat or a serious hike, Cala Mariolu rewards the effort with some of the clearest water you'll ever see. The beach is pebbly, but the snorkeling is phenomenal. June is ideal before the daily boat tours get too packed.
Down in the southeast near Villasimius, Porto Giunco sits next to a lagoon where flamingos actually hang out. The beach itself is a long stretch of soft white sand with that trademark Sardinian turquoise water.
Part beach, part adventure. Cala Luna in the Gulf of Orosei comes with natural caves carved into the cliffs – perfect for shade when the midday sun gets intense. The beach is a mix of sand and smooth pebbles.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that requires a hike through the mountains to reach it. Massive limestone boulders, a natural arch rising from the sea, and water so blue-green it looks artificial.
Four small crescents of beach in the heart of billionaire territory, but open to us normal humans too. It's quieter than nearby beaches because it requires a bit of local knowledge to find.
Blue Flag beach near Santa Teresa Gallura. Wide, sandy, with facilities actually sorted. The town behind it is proper lovely too – great for evening walks and ice cream runs.
On La Maddalena Island (short ferry from Palau), Spalmatore delivers ridiculously clear turquoise water and way fewer people than mainland beaches. September here is magic.
Here's the smart move: don't hotel-hop. Pick a villa with a pool in a central location and day-trip to different beaches. We've got the best price guarantee on accommodations near all these spots, plus proper villas where you can rinse off sandy kids and have actual space to breathe.
Ready to sort your Sardinian beach odyssey? Check out our properties across the island and let's get you sorted with a base that makes beach-hopping easy.
