Cala Brandinchi is a true gem of the Sardinian coast, with nothing to envy the postcards depicting Caribbean beaches or other spectacular tropical destinations.
Its brilliant shades range from white to deep blue, passing through the green of the vegetation and the pink of the rocks and flamingos, creating a mix that can amaze any traveller.
The fine, extremely white sand gives way to a sea with shallow waters, ideal for children. A visit to Cala Brandinchi, a jewel set in the beautiful land of Gallura, becomes a sensory experience, thanks to the unmistakable scents of the pinewood, with junipers, thistles and other Mediterranean plants.
Below you can plan your trip and find out how to reach Cala Brandinchi easily, as well as how to rent a car at Olbia Airport even without booking in advance.
A charming destination to explore: the beauty of Cala Brandinchi
With a car at your disposal, you can also explore the most remote corners of a land as wild as it is fascinating, such as Sardinia, which brings together nightlife spots, luxury resorts, ancestral traditions and unspoilt landscapes.
This intriguing blend, capable of leaving even the most seasoned travellers with very high expectations speechless, becomes even more evident in its uniqueness in the area where Cala Brandinchi lies.
Also known as Sardinia’s little Tahiti, this enchanting stretch of bright white sand is located in the north-eastern part of the island, renowned for exclusive holiday destinations such as Porto Cervo, as well as for the fascinating traditions of Gallura.
Along the shoreline of Cala Brandinchi, you can admire the landscape that opens towards the north, where Tavolara Island stands out at a very short distance with its unmistakable silhouette. On the horizon, your gaze stretches east towards the small and charming Isola Ruja, then rests on Punta Capicciolu to the south.
As happens for many other spectacular beaches in Gallura, Cala Brandinchi is sheltered behind by Mediterranean vegetation and a lagoon area. The meeting of land and sea creates a landscape that changes throughout the year, as anyone visiting Cala Brandinchi in summer often discovers a lagoon area that is partially dry.
Flora and fauna help make Cala Brandinchi a striking place, with flamingos that, in quieter periods, can be captured on camera as they enjoy the beach.
Beyond being a natural paradise, Cala Brandinchi is linked to notable and curious moments in Italian history. According to accounts from the time, the harbour here was where Giuseppe Garibaldi set sail for Piombino, continuing towards the liberation of Rome and escaping the blockade of Caprera.
How to reach Cala Brandinchi by car
The wonderful beach of Cala Brandinchi lies near the town of San Teodoro in Gallura and can be reached very easily thanks to the area’s excellent connections. As for the main landmarks, getting your bearings is far from complicated. The stretch of sand is located near Capo Coda Cavallo.
To reach Cala Brandinchi by car, the main connecting road is State Road 125, which links many of the destinations in this part of Sardinia.
The best option for visiting Cala Brandinchi and the other highlights of the area is to rent a car, which offers maximum freedom of movement. If you land at Olbia Airport, you can choose from a wide range of models even without a reservation, although booking ahead is advisable during peak season. In Ellepi Rental’s extensive car fleet, you can find agile, design-focused options such as the Fiat 500, as well as family vehicles perfect for travelling with children. Rental plans are designed to adapt to your needs, and staff are available to answer any questions.
From the airport, follow the signs for San Teodoro, taking State Road 125.
Once near Lutturai, continue by turning towards Capo Coda Cavallo, taking a very scenic dirt track. In just about thirty minutes—longer only during peak season or in case of incidents—you will be transported to an enchanting place.
The route itself is worth it: along the way, travellers are rewarded with typical Sardinian scenic views.
Useful information for a trip to Cala Brandinchi
When you decide to organise a day discovering this beautiful Sardinian beach, keep a few practical details in mind to enjoy a pleasant experience without surprises.
Cala Brandinchi’s parking area has been entrusted to a private company. Organised into different zones for cars and motorbikes, parking is paid, with rates that vary depending on the time of year, starting from €1.50 in low season.
The beach offers services designed to meet the needs of all kinds of visitors, including those who enjoy an active seaside day. You can rent dinghies to visit Tavolara and Punta Coda Cavallo, or pedal boats, canoes and SUPs to enjoy your favourite sports.
Nature lovers will find a sea that is almost always calm, with crystal-clear waters and gently sloping seabeds for dives, dreamlike swims and water activities such as snorkelling.
Food and drink options are available too, with bars and kiosks where you can buy snacks, salads, ice creams and sandwiches, as well as sip aperitifs at sunset. Sun umbrellas can be rented from the beach facilities on the shore.
Visiting Cala Brandinchi: how to manage the mandatory booking
Cala Brandinchi, like the nearby Lu Impostu, requires a mandatory booking from 1 June to 30 September. Access is limited for reasons related to protecting the ecosystem and its particularly delicate balance.
To access Cala Brandinchi, you must book your visit via the dedicated form on the San Teodoro Beach website, by clicking “Book the beach” and completing the form with details such as the number of adults and children (aged 5 to 12).
Each booking can include up to a maximum of 6 people, at a cost of €2 per person. Once the booking is completed, simply show up with the QR Code.
Set off to discover extraordinary beaches like Cala Brandinchi: book your car and choose the model that best fits your needs to explore Sardinia in comfort and safety.
