Sardinia's Must-Book Beaches 2025: Your Guide to Restricted-Entry Coastal Gems

Tempo di lettura: 8 minuti

Indice

1. Introduction
2. Limited-Access Beaches in Sardinia
   • Mari Pintau (Quartu Sant'Elena)
   • Tuerredda (Teulada)
   • La Pelosa (Stintino)
   • La Rena Bianca (Santa Teresa Gallura)
   • Cala Coticcio/Cala Brigantina (La Maddalena Archipelago National Park)
   • Piscine di Cannigione (Arzachena/Costa Smeralda)
   • Cala Brandinchi & Lu Impostu (San Teodoro)
   • Oasi Biderosa (Orosei)
   • Cala Goloritzè (Baunei)
   • Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriola e Cala dei Gabbiani (Baunei)
   • Punta Molentis & Porto Sa Ruxi (Villasimius)
3. Tips for Planning Your Beach Visits in Sardinia
4. Conclusion

Introduction

Sardinia is one of Italy’s top beach destinations, known for its crystal-clear waters and postcard-worthy coastlines that attract millions of visitors each year.

To preserve its most delicate and breathtaking natural areas, Sardinia has introduced a reservation system for certain beaches. This system, now fully optimized for 2025, aims to combat overtourism and protect fragile ecosystems. Thanks to these efforts, visitors can enjoy a more peaceful, sustainable, and authentic beach experience—while also helping to preserve the island’s coastal beauty.

These regulations limit the number of daily visitors, help keep the sea clean, protect local wildlife, and improve the overall quality of your visit. Whether you're dreaming of white sand, turquoise waters, or wild coves, planning ahead is now part of the Sardinian summer experience. Let's explore together Sardinia's Must-Book Beaches 2025.

Limited-Access Beaches in Sardinia

Mari Pintau (Quartu Sant'Elena)

The name means “painted sea” – and one look is all it takes to see why. Mari Pintau is one of the most enchanting beaches on Sardinia’s southeastern coast, famous for its shimmering sea that shifts from turquoise to deep blue, and for the smooth pebbles that make the water look even more crystal clear.

Starting in 2025, this little gem in the territory of Quartu Sant’Elena is also introducing new rules to limit visitor numbers and protect the environment. After initial announcements last year, it’s now confirmed that measures will be put in place to prevent overcrowding, ensuring a more sustainable and respectful way to enjoy this magical spot.

Details on access and possible restrictions will be published during the summer months, but it’s already clear that Mari Pintau will follow the lead of other Sardinian beaches, with entry controls and possibly a booking system—especially during peak season.

Tuerredda (Teulada)

Often ranked among Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches, Tuerredda stuns visitors with its fine white sand and Caribbean-style turquoise waters. Located between Capo Malfatano and Capo Spartivento, it’s a favorite summer escape.

Season:
June 11 – September 30

Daily limit:
1,100 people per day
– 729 spots on the free beach
– 371 in private beach clubs

Booking system:
Via a dedicated reservation app

Fees:
Not specified in the current regulations

The town of Teulada recently updated the access rules to better protect the ecosystem and manage tourist numbers, helping preserve the peace and natural beauty of this incredible beach.

La Pelosa (Stintino)

La Pelosa is one of Sardinia’s most iconic and beloved beaches, a postcard-perfect symbol of the island’s northwest. Located near the charming village of Stintino, it’s famous for its dazzling white sand, bright turquoise waters, and the scenic view of the ancient Aragonese tower. It’s hugely popular—and environmentally fragile.

To protect this delicate setting, a limited-access system will be active again in 2025, starting from May 15.

Booking opens: 
From May 13 via the official app

Daily limit:
1,500 people
– 750 spots bookable anytime
– 750 spots bookable only within 48 hours of the visit

Cost:
€3.50 per person

Reservations can be made through the official website or app. You’ll be able to choose a date, book for up to 4 people, and pay online using a credit card or other accepted methods.

La Rena Bianca (Santa Teresa Gallura)

La Rena Bianca is one of the most iconic beaches in northern Sardinia, known for its ultra-white sand with soft pink hues and Caribbean-style turquoise waters. Just a short walk from the center of Santa Teresa Gallura, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

For summer 2025, access will once again be regulated to help protect this beautiful beach by limiting the number of daily visitors.

Season:
June 1 – September 30

How to book:
Via a dedicated web app
Tickets can also be bought on site

Daily limit:
A limited number of visitors per day (exact number to be confirmed in the environmental protection plan)

Costs:
€3.50 per person for non-residents
Free entry for residents of Santa Teresa Gallura

Cala Coticcio/Cala Brigantina (La Maddalena Archipelago National Park)

These two stunning coves are natural jewels of the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, where strict environmental protection rules apply.

Access:
– Maximum 60 visitors per day
– Only allowed with authorized park guides (no self-guided visits)

Fees:
– €3 environmental contribution (to be paid to the Park)
– Additional fee for the hiking guide

New for 2025:
– Even local residents must now be accompanied by a guide
– Some local guides offer free tours for residents of La Maddalena

Bookings & info:
Details and reservations will be available directly from the Park and official guides

Piscine di Cannigione (Arzachena/Costa Smeralda)

The “Pools” of Cannigione are one of the hidden gems of the Costa Smeralda—crystal-clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and relaxing in a peaceful, natural setting. Located in the Arzachena area, this spot is loved by those looking for authentic beauty and quiet.

To protect this delicate ecosystem, the local authorities have introduced a regulated access system, also in place for summer 2025.

Season:
July 15 – August 31

How to book:
Online booking required at www.arzachenaspiagge.it

Daily limit:
Access limited to 80 people per day
Some spots reserved for local residents

Costs:
Free entry for residents
Free entry for children under 12

Cala Brandinchi & Lu Impostu (San Teodoro)

Cala Brandinchi, nicknamed “Tahiti” for its stunning beauty, and nearby Lu Impostu are two of the most popular beaches in Sardinia. Famous for their soft sand dunes and shallow, crystal-clear waters, they’re perfect for families with children.

Access period:
June 1 to September 30

Booking required:
Mandatory reservation through the official platform: www.santeodorospiagge.it

When to book:
Reservations open daily at 6:00 PM for the day after next (e.g. on Thursday at 6:00 PM you can book for Saturday).

Availability:
Not specified

Costs:

• Residents: free access

• Waste tax (TARI) payers: €1

• All others: €2

Payment:
Online via credit card, Google Pay, or Apple Pay

Oasi Biderosa (Orosei)

Biderosa is a protected natural oasis with dreamy beaches, lagoons, shaded trails through Mediterranean scrub, and centuries-old pine trees. It’s ideal for those seeking peace, nature, and clear waters far from the summer crowds.

Access period:
Limited entry and paid access from May

Booking:

• Tickets available at the entrance

• Online booking recommended in high season: www.oasibiderosa.it 

Daily access limits:

• 100 car spots

• 30 motorcycle spots

• 100 bicycle spots

Costs (non-residents):

• Car: €15 (€8 for residents)

• Motorcycle: €10 (€5 for residents)

• Children under 3: free

• Additional fee: €1 per person + €2 fixed booking fee

Cala Goloritzè (Baunei)

Tucked away in the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Goloritzè is one of the most spectacular beaches in the world and a true Italian gem. Framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, it feels like a timeless escape. The pale, almost silver sand and the iconic wind-carved arch make this a natural wonder.

Access period:
Regulated year-round. The trail opens from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM; exit by 5:00 PM is mandatory.

Booking:
Reservations open 3 days in advance via the Heart of Sardinia app/website or can be bought directly at the trail entrance.

Visitor limit:
Maximum of 250 people at a time

Costs:

• €7 per person to access the trail

• Free for kids under 6 and local residents

Important:
Hiking shoes are required. Dogs are not allowed. Visitors must respect the environment—no littering on the trail or beach.

Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriola e Cala dei Gabbiani (Baunei)

These are some of the wildest and most breathtaking beaches in Baunei. Strict access controls help protect their pristine environments.

Access period:
From June until the end of the tourist season

Booking:
Updated info and reservations available on the official site: www.turismobaunei.eu

Daily visitor limits:

• Cala Mariolu: up to 700 people

• Controlled access also in place for Cala Biriola and Cala dei Gabbiani

Stay duration:

• Tour boats: about 1 hour 30 minutes per beach

• Private boats or rented dinghies: max 70 minutes

Cost:
€1 per person, as a contribution for beach management and conservation

Tip: The site also provides details on Cala Luna, another beautiful beach shared by the Dorgali and Baunei territories.

Punta Molentis & Porto Sa Ruxi (Villasimius)

Located on Sardinia’s southeast coast, Punta Molentis and Porto Sa Ruxi are well-loved for their clear waters and untouched surroundings.

Punta Molentis

Booking:
Advance booking recommended at: www.villasimiussrl.it

Capacity:
150 spots available online; total capacity is 600 people or 200 car spots

Costs:
€1 per person + parking fee

Porto Sa Ruxi

Booking:
No reservations needed, free access until daily limit is reached

Capacity:
Daily cap of 450 visitors

Costs:
No entry fee, just pay for parking

Both beaches are true southern Sardinian gems. The access system helps preserve their beauty while offering a quieter, more respectful experience for visitors.

Tips for Planning Your Beach Visits in Sardinia

Wondering which Sardinian beaches require reservations and how to plan your trip? Here are some handy tips:

• Book early: The most famous beaches fill up fast, especially on weekends and in August. Aim to book 2–3 weeks in advance if you can.
• Check the weather: Most platforms allow free changes in case of bad weather.
• Bring everything you need: Many of these beaches are protected and have no services. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Respect nature: Always follow local rules to help protect these natural treasures for future generations.

Conclusioni

I never imagined I would fall so deeply in love with the Sardinian sea. After years of exploring the Mediterranean coast, it was Sardinia that stole my heart in a quiet, unexpected way. Whenever I’m away from the island, I miss it deeply. And every time I return, I feel that warm, familiar embrace that only places we truly belong to can offer.

Sardinia’s beaches are incredibly diverse and beautiful. Each cove has its own soul, each stretch of coast tells a different story. From the glassy waters of La Pelosa to the raw cliffs of Cala Goloritzè, from the pink sand of Cala Coticcio to the natural pools of Cannigione—Sardinia keeps surprising me. Every visit feels fresh, unforgettable.

At first, the booking system felt like a limitation. But over time, I’ve come to see it as a smart way to experience these places more authentically and respectfully. Being on a beach with fewer people, where nature still takes center stage, is something truly special. It feels like stepping into a protected paradise where time slows down.

Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches are a natural treasure that deserve our care. The limited-access system is proving to be an effective way to protect these precious environments, while also giving visitors a more meaningful and enjoyable experience.

Today, knowing how to book a beach visit is just part of traveling in Sardinia. It takes a little planning, yes—but that’s what makes every swim, every barefoot walk, even more magical. It’s as if the beauty of these places asks us for just a little respect in return for the emotions they give.

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This article is part of the series “The Beaches of Sardinia,” dedicated to exploring the island’s most fascinating coastal areas. For more destinations, check out the other articles in the section.