If there is one thing that makes Sardinia one of the world’s most loved destinations, it is undoubtedly its sea. Fine, white sand, crystal-clear waters with shades ranging from light blue to turquoise, and unspoilt nature framing postcard-worthy scenery.
But with so many dream beaches and coves, one question naturally arises: what are the best seaside destinations in Sardinia?
The truth is that there are plenty of them, scattered from north to south. And to enjoy them at their best, the ideal solution is having a car at your disposal: only then can you move freely, discover less crowded corners and enjoy a stress-free holiday.
If you land in Olbia, all you need to do is rent a car with Ellepi and set off straight away: Italy’s most beautiful sea is waiting for you.
1. La Pelosa (Stintino)
Let’s start in the north-west with one of the island’s most famous and photographed beaches: La Pelosa in Stintino. The sand is white and fine like talcum powder, the sea shows Caribbean-like shades, and the view of the Aragonese tower makes the scene even more striking.
With your rental car picked up at Olbia Airport, you can reach this paradise in a couple of hours, crossing landscapes that deserve more than one stop. You will also need a car to explore the nearby beaches, including Le Saline and Ezzi Mannu, equally beautiful but less crowded.
2. Arzachena – Olbia-Tempio
It’s impossible not to mention the north-east coast, the symbol of luxury tourism in Sardinia. Porto Cervo, Baja Sardinia and Liscia Ruja are just some of the destinations that will win you over at first sight. Here you’ll find beaches perfect for those who want glamour and fun, as well as quiet coves.
With a car, you can switch from an exclusive beach club to a hidden cove in just a few minutes, enjoying Sardinia in all its variety. And in the evening, you can easily head to the area’s venues to experience the island’s most famous nightlife.
3. Cala Brandinchi (San Teodoro)
Cala Brandinchi is one of the most loved beaches in the north-east, and it’s easy to see why. The shallow, crystal-clear sea makes it perfect for families with children, while the vegetation behind it creates a tropical atmosphere.
San Teodoro and its beaches are easy to reach from Olbia in about half an hour by car and the area is also ideal for those who enjoy nightlife: after a day at the beach, you can stop by the town-centre venues or stroll among the stalls along the main street.
4. Cala Goloritzè (Baunei)
If you love unspoilt places, Cala Goloritzè is a must. Reachable on foot (with a trek of about an hour) or by sea, it is one of Sardinia’s signature beaches. The natural arch and the rock pinnacle towering above it make the scenery truly unique.
To reach the starting point of the trail, however, you will need a car: without one, planning the excursion would be almost impossible.
A tip? Leave early in the morning to enjoy the beach during the quietest hours.
5. Cala Mariolu (Baunei)
Still in the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Mariolu takes your breath away with its white pebbles and clear water. Here, snorkelling becomes an incredible experience: just put on a mask and swim among brightly coloured fish.
In this case too, you can choose to arrive by sea or via the trails that run along the coast. A car will allow you to reach the ports where the boats depart or the trail access points, letting you choose how you want to experience it.
6. Berchida Beach (Siniscola)
If you are looking for a wild place that is still easy to reach, Berchida Beach is perfect for you. Located along the coast of Siniscola, in the province of Nuoro, it is a stretch of very fine white sand, characterised by dunes covered in Mediterranean scrub and lapped by a crystal-clear sea. You won’t find intrusive beach resorts, just nature and tranquillity: a true paradise for those who love the most authentic seaside.
With your rental car, you can reach it comfortably in just over an hour, driving along scenic roads that offer breathtaking views.
It is the ideal destination if you want to switch off and enjoy a day of relaxation surrounded by nature.
7. Porto Giunco Beach (Villasimius)
Near Villasimius you’ll find Porto Giunco, a postcard-perfect beach with white sand and clear waters. Behind it there is also a small pond where pink flamingos stop for several months of the year.
The area is perfect if you like combining relaxation and nightlife: during the day you enjoy the sea, in the evening you head to the venues in Villasimius.
With a car, you can also visit other pearls nearby, including Punta Molentis and Cala Pira.
8. Chia (Domus de Maria)
The Chia coastline is a succession of dunes, coves and breathtaking beaches. Among the very best are Su Giudeu and Cala Cipolla, loved by both surfers and families. Here the sea takes on countless different shades, creating spectacular views.
With your car, you can explore a different beach every day, stopping at the viewpoints that line the road.
9. Is Arutas (Cabras)
If you want something unique, head to Is Arutas, on the Sinis peninsula. This beach, one of the most beautiful in the Oristano area, is not made of sand, but of tiny white and pink quartz grains that look like rice. The sea is incredibly clear and invites a dive like few other places in the world.
Reaching Is Arutas requires a bit of patience, but with a rental car the journey becomes part of the experience: along the way you can stop to visit the Tharros archaeological area or taste local dishes in the small towns nearby.
10. Tuerredda Beach (Teulada)
We’ll end this list with Tuerredda, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Between Capo Spartivento and Capo Malfatano, this sheltered bay offers calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
With a car, you can combine a visit to Tuerredda with other beaches in the south, including Porto Tramatzu or Cala Zafferano, creating an itinerary that is entirely yours.
Conclusions
By now it should be clear: Sardinia is an island best experienced in total freedom. The most beautiful beaches are not always just around the corner, and public transport does not let you travel comfortably.
This is why it makes sense to rent a car as soon as you land in Olbia. With Ellepi you can choose the model that best suits your needs from a large car fleet, relying on a fast, friendly and hassle-free service.
Sardinia has no rivals when it comes to the sea: tropical beaches, hidden coves, golden dunes and crystal-clear waters await you almost everywhere, from north to south. Every day you can choose a different destination, enjoy a new adventure and discover views that will stay with you forever.
To make the most of it, however, it’s worth booking your car, so you can travel without constraints, reach the most remote places and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.
