If you are planning a trip to Sardinia and love stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters, you definitely need to add the Costa di Baunei to your itinerary! In this post, we’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of this paradise on the island’s east coast. You will find tips about the best beaches to visit, how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and even what to pack. Everything is well organized so you can save time and simply enjoy! 🤩
Where Is the Costa di Baunei
The Costa di Baunei is located in the province of Nuoro and forms part of the famous Gulf of Orosei. This region is ideal for those who love nature and adventure, but also for travelers looking to relax in breathtaking scenery. The Gulf of Orosei is a vast bay that holds some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, many of which are accessible only by boat or hiking trails.
It is situated on the eastern coast of Sardinia, between the municipalities of Baunei and Dorgali, in the province of Nuoro. The main access points are the towns of Cala Gonone (to the north) and Santa Maria Navarrese (to the south). It is part of the renowned Parco Nazionale del Gennargentu and stretches for about 40 km of almost untouched coastline.
History and Charm of the Costa di Baunei
Baunei is a small mountain town overlooking the sea, with ancient roots tied to shepherding and a simple way of life. Over time, it gained fame among curious travelers, precisely for preserving its natural beauty. The region attracts visitors who seek unspoiled landscapes, scenic trails, and isolated beaches that look like natural swimming pools.
It is no surprise that some beaches along the Costa di Baunei are often listed among the most beautiful in Italy, and even in the world. A few have even received awards, which we will share shortly. The combination of turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, caves, and white sand is simply irresistible!
Best Beaches on the Costa di Baunei
Cala Luna
A cinematic setting with a long stretch of golden sand, huge caves that provide natural shade, and crystal-clear blue water. Cala Luna has even been used as a movie set!
How to get there: By boat or hiking trail (about 2 hours).
Facilities: A bar operates during the high season.
Accessibility: More accessible than other beaches, therefore a great choice for those seeking comfort combined with natural beauty.
Cala Sisine
Cala Sisine has calm waters, a wide strip of sand, and mountains framing the landscape.
How to get there: About 1 hour by trail (from Su Ponti road) or by boat.
Facilities: A bar and restaurant are available near the trail entrance, before reaching the beach.
Accessibility: Relatively easy, great for those who want to avoid long hikes.
Cala Biriola
A small and charming cove with vibrant turquoise water and natural shade from the trees. Cala Biriola is especially popular among divers and travelers seeking a quieter retreat.
How to get there: Only accessible by boat. The trail option is extremely difficult and technical.
Facilities: Wild and unspoiled, no kiosks or beach bars, so bring everything you need.
Accessibility: Easy by boat, as many excursions stop here.
Cala dei Gabbiani
One of the lesser-known beaches, yet equally beautiful. Cala dei Gabbiani is a true haven for those who seek peace and natural beauty.
How to get there: Only by boat.
Facilities: None, so make sure to bring snacks, water, and everything else you may need.
Accessibility: Easy by boat as part of coastal excursions.
Cala Mariolu
With its small white pebbles that sparkle under the sun and turquoise water so clear that you can see every detail of the seabed, Cala Mariolu is perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
How to get there: By boat or trail. However, the trail is very demanding and only recommended for experienced hikers.
Facilities: Wild beach, no infrastructure.
Accessibility: Easy by boat from Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese.
Cala Goloritzè
In 2025, it was awarded the title of the best beach in the world in the prestigious The World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking, surpassing world-famous destinations such as the Philippines, Thailand, and French Polynesia. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
Cala Goloritzè claimed first place thanks to its “wild beauty,” crystal-clear waters, and dramatic landscape highlighted by the iconic 143-meter limestone pinnacle, described as a “natural cathedral.” The recognition also values local preservation efforts, such as a daily visitor limit and the ban on boats approaching closer than 200 meters to the coast.
How to get there: Only by hiking (3.5 km – about 1h30) or by boat. However, boats cannot dock directly on the sand, though swimming from offshore is allowed.
Facilities: None, so bring everything you need.
Accessibility: Restricted, as tickets must be reserved through the Heart of Sardinia app, costing €7 per person.
Boat Tours Along the Costa di Baunei
Taking a boat tour along the Costa di Baunei is truly an experience worth having. This way, you can visit several stunning beaches in a single day, without stress, while enjoying incredible views along the route. Since most beaches are only accessible by sea, a boat trip is the most practical way to explore the region.
You can either rent a small boat and create your own itinerary, stopping wherever you like, or choose a group excursion, which is also a great option if you prefer something more organized.
Renting Your Own Boat:
If your goal is freedom, renting a boat in Cala Gonone is an excellent choice. The best part is that no boating license is required! You just need to be over 18, able to swim, and follow safety instructions. Boats have up to 40 HP, are easy to operate, and let you stop at whichever beaches you like, provided you respect the minimum distance from the shore. It is a fun and unique way to escape crowded tours and explore the Gulf of Orosei at your own pace.
👉 Link for boat rentals: Boat rentals in Cala Gonone
Group Boat Tours:
If you prefer to relax and not worry about logistics, group tours are also a great choice. They usually depart from Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese, last 6 to 7 hours, cost €50–€70, and include stops at the main beaches along the coast. Just pick the option that suits you best!
We chose a group excursion because we were two people, and renting a boat would have been more expensive.
👉 Highly rated boat tours:
Living From Arbatax: Full-Day Guided Boat Tour of the Costa di Baunei
From La Caletta or Orosei: Cruise through the Gulf of Orosei
From Cala Gonone: Boat Cruise on the Gulf of Orosei with Swimming Stops
Important Tip: Book in advance, especially during high season. Through GetYourGuide, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.
Best Time to Visit the Costa di Baunei
The best time to visit is between June and September, when the weather is hot and the sea is perfect. July and August are the busiest months, so if you prefer tranquility, opt for June or September. The water is still great, but the beaches are less crowded. We went in June, and it was already quite warm, though still pleasant. July and August are hotter and more crowded.
How to Get to the Costa di Baunei
By Plane
The closest airports are:
Olbia (OLB): about 2 hours by car
Cagliari (CAG): about 2h30
Alghero (AHO): farther away, around 3h30
By Ferry
Ferries depart from several Italian cities, such as Genoa, Livorno, and Civitavecchia (Rome), heading to Olbia or Arbatax (the closest port to the region).
By Bus
There are regional buses connecting some larger cities to Dorgali or Santa Maria Navarrese, but schedules are limited.
By Car
The best way to explore the region is by car. The roads are well signposted, though winding. Renting a car directly at the airport is the most practical choice.
We flew from Milan to Olbia. At the airport, we rented a car through DiscoverCars. If you plan to rent a car, we recommend this platform, as it allows you to compare prices, read reviews, and find the best deals in Italy.
🚗 Link: DiscoverCars
Valuable tips for drivers Driving in Italy: Essential Tips for Car Rental, Tolls, Parking, and ZTL Zones and How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
Where to Stay on the Costa di Baunei
The main bases for exploring the Costa di Baunei are:
Cala Gonone: offers the best infrastructure, hotels, and restaurants. We chose Cala Gonone because it has a lively center with shops, restaurants, and markets. It is also close to the port, where most boat tours depart, which allowed us to walk and save on parking.
Santa Maria Navarrese: quieter, ideal for couples and families. It is also convenient if your boat tour departs from Santa Maria’s port.
Baunei: charming and close to hiking trails, though it does not have a beach.
Tip: Book well in advance, especially during the summer months!
What to eat in Costa di Baunei
Sardinian cuisine is a delight! Here are some typical dishes you must try:
Fregola with seafood: a semolina pasta typical of Sardinia.
Porceddu: roasted suckling pig, very traditional.
Gnocchi alla Sarda: Sardinian-style gnocchi with small sausage meatballs and fennel seeds. We tried it and loved it!
Seadas: a dessert of fried pastry filled with cheese and drizzled with honey. It looks like a sweet empanada and tastes amazing!
Great restaurants can be found in Cala Gonone and Santa Maria Navarrese. Here are the rankings of the best places to eat in each town:
Top restaurants in Cala Gonone
Top restaurants in Santa Maria Navarrese
Useful Tips for Visiting Costa di Baunei
- Bring water, food, sunscreen, hat, and proper footwear for trails or boat trips. Local shops sell coolers, ice, and ready-to-go snacks. Be prepared, as most beaches have no facilities at all.
- If possible, bring water shoes, as some beaches have pebbles instead of sand, which can make walking difficult.
- Some trails require advance booking, such as Cala Goloritzè. Make sure to arrange this ahead of time.
- Do not leave trash on the beaches! Some areas have strict environmental protection rules.
Our Final Thoughts
The Costa di Baunei is the kind of place that deserves to be enjoyed slowly, with planning, and of course, with respect for nature. It is a destination that amazes visitors with its wild beauty and unique experiences. In fact, the most unique beaches we visited in Sardinia were found here!
If you love paradise-like beaches, enjoy a touch of adventure, and want to explore something different in Italy, then make sure to include this corner of Sardinia in your itinerary—it is absolutely worth it! 🌿🤿 🩵 🚤
Also check out these posts to help plan your trip to Sardinia:
La Maddalena Sardinia: Best Beaches & Travel Guide
San Teodoro Sardinia: Top Beaches, Boat Tours and Travel Tips
Costa Smeralda Sardinia: Best Beaches, Travel Tips & Where to Stay
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