The beaches of Ogliastra have a distinctive charm thanks to the unique character of this coastline. Wild nature, cliffs overlooking the sea, and lush vegetation reaching all the way to the shore… if you’re planning a holiday in Ogliastra, get ready to be amazed by breathtaking landscapes.
Today we want to suggest some of the main must-see beaches along Sardinia’s eastern coast.
How to reach Sardinia
The closest arrival points to the eastern coast are the port and Olbia Airport. From here, you can rent a car to explore the island freely and reach even the most hidden coves in no time. Part of what makes this coastline so special is that many of the most stunning spots are not easily reachable. That’s why having your own means of transport is essential: driving these roads will reveal one postcard-perfect view after another.
Which beaches should you visit?
Among the unmissable coves in Ogliastra are: Cala Goloritzè, Spiaggia di Cea, Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna, Lido di Orrì and Santa Maria Navarrese. This is just a small selection of the most beautiful ones, each with its own unique features.
What makes them so special?
Cala Goloritzè
Cala Goloritzè is the jewel of this coastline, famous for its 143-metre high pinnacle, a true landmark for climbing lovers. From the beach you can also admire its natural arch on the right side of the cove, opening directly onto the sea. The shoreline is formed by tiny white pebbles and sand that contrast beautifully with the intense emerald-green water.
You can reach this cove in two ways: by sea, with organised boat tours, or on foot, following a trail from the Golgo plateau down to the beach. If you choose the second option, keep in mind you’ll face a 470-metre elevation drop and a hike of about an hour and a half.
Spiaggia di Cea
For lovers of diving and jumping, Cea Beach is the perfect destination. Just a few metres from the shore you’ll find two red porphyry sea stacks, known as is scoglius arrubius, which act as irresistible natural diving platforms.
The beach alternates between flat rocks and colourful vegetation which, together with the striking red cliffs, creates an unmistakable colour palette.
Cala Mariolu
Turquoise waters and vibrant seabeds make Cala Mariolu the perfect destination for snorkelling and diving. The beach is composed of tiny, smooth white pebbles that stand out against the mountain backdrop surrounding the cove.
Limestone rocks emerge from the water to form small islets, adding even more charm to this extraordinary place. Cala Mariolu is considered a beach of rare beauty, partly because it is almost inaccessible by land. To reach it, you must rely on boat excursions departing from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese. It is also reachable via an 8-kilometre trekking path starting from the Golgo plateau, but it is quite challenging. If you choose this option, we recommend relying on experienced environmental guides. The full hike takes around 3 hours.
Cala Luna
Cala Luna is one of the most iconic and enchanting beaches in Sardinia. Here, white sand meets golden rock walls dotted with small caves, cobalt-blue water, and pink oleander groves. You can reach it either by boat or via a trekking route that takes around 3 hours.
Lido di Orrì
Fine silver-coloured sand and a sea with a thousand shades make Lido di Orrì one of the northernmost stretches of this splendid coast. The beach is surrounded by smooth grey granite rocks, shaped by the wind and the sea.
Reaching this beach is quite easy, but you’ll need a car to get there. No boat trips or trekking routes this time, yet the view will be no less impressive!
Santa Maria Navarrese
Finally, Santa Maria Navarrese, both the starting point for many excursions along the coast and a highly popular destination among travellers. Just steps from the village, the beach is surrounded by lush vegetation that shelters it from the wind. Overlooking the sea stands an ancient Spanish coastal tower, a distinctive architectural element found throughout Sardinia’s coasts.
This beach is also easily reachable by car.
Ready to plan your trip to Sardinia? Rent your car with Ellepi: you’ll find us at Olbia Airport!
The most beautiful beaches in Ogliastra you can reach by car
