Cala Goloritzé
World-renowned for its raw beauty, Cala Goloritzé boasts a dramatic limestone pinnacle and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Cala Goloritzé
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
World-renowned for its raw beauty, Cala Goloritzé boasts a dramatic limestone pinnacle and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
"Cala Goloritzé: the Sardinian stunner just crowned the world's best beach for 2025."
🎟️ Book Your Entry Online
Essential! Reserve your spot via Heart of Sardinia app/website days in advance.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trek is challenging. Good footwear is crucial for the 4km path with elevation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Pinnacle
Above the beach
A dramatic limestone spire rising majestically from the sea, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters
The sea
Impossibly clear, vibrant turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling in a pristine environment.
Pristine White Pebble Beach
The shore
A stunning beach of smooth white pebbles, offering a unique and beautiful place to relax.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Spot in Advance
Choose Your Access Method Wisely
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Your Entry Online
Essential! Reserve your spot via Heart of Sardinia app/website days in advance.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trek is challenging. Good footwear is crucial for the 4km path with elevation.
🚤 Boat Access is Restricted
Boats must stay 300m offshore; you'll swim to the beach.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no services at the beach. Stay hydrated, especially during the hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Your Entry Online
Essential! Reserve your spot via Heart of Sardinia app/website days in advance.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trek is challenging. Good footwear is crucial for the 4km path with elevation.
🚤 Boat Access is Restricted
Boats must stay 300m offshore; you'll swim to the beach.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no services at the beach. Stay hydrated, especially during the hike.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for this exposed coastline.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about Cala Goloritzé's breathtaking natural beauty, often calling it one of the most stunning beaches in the world. The crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone pinnacle, and pristine pebble beach are major highlights. However, the strict booking system and the challenging hike or boat access can be deterrents for some.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have two main options: hike from Su Porteddu on the Golgo Plateau (about 4km each way with a 513m elevation gain),
Yes, there is parking available at Su Porteddu, which is the starting point for the hike. Be prepared for it to fill up, especially during peak season.
Taxis can take you to the general area of Baunei or Su Porteddu, but not directly to the beach itself due to access restrictions. From there, you'll need to hike or arrange a boat.
The closest major airport is Cagliari (CAG). From Cagliari, you can rent a car (recommended for flexibility) or take a bus to Baunei. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Yes, many boat tours operate along the Baunei coast and often include stops near Cala Goloritzé. These tours typically depart from Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Entry to Cala Goloritzé is strictly limited and requires advance booking through the 'Heart of Sardinia' app or website. Bookings open 72 hours prior and are essential.
The entrance fee is typically around €6-€8 per person, but it's best to check the official 'Heart of Sardinia' platform for the most current pricing and booking details.
Cala Goloritzé is accessible during daylight hours. However, the number of visitors is capped daily, so booking your time slot is more critical than specific opening hours.
It is highly unlikely you can buy tickets on arrival. The system is designed for pre-booking to manage visitor numbers, so securing your reservation online is crucial.
If you do not have a confirmed reservation, you will likely be denied entry to the beach. It's a strict policy to preserve the natural beauty.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities are swimming in the incredibly clear waters, sunbathing on the unique white pebble beach, and admiring the stunning natural scenery, including the famous limestone pinnacle.
Yes, swimming is a primary activity. The water is exceptionally clear and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip.
The clear waters make it excellent for snorkeling, allowing you to see the marine life and the underwater rock formations.
No, Cala Goloritzé is a protected natural area and has no facilities like restrooms, cafes, or shops. You must bring everything you need with you.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and snorkeling gear. Wear comfortable shoes for the hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hues. Midday sun can be harsh.
The iconic limestone pinnacle, the vibrant turquoise water against the white pebbles, and panoramic views from the hiking trail are all incredibly photogenic.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected natural areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water. Waterproof protection for your gear is also wise.
Capture the pinnacle from different angles, the contrast of the white pebbles with the blue sea, and the dramatic cliffs surrounding the bay.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The boat access requires swimming, which might also be a consideration for families with very young children. However, for families with older, active children, the hike can be an exciting adventure. Once there, the clear, shallow waters near the shore are great for supervised splashing. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventurers
It's a chance to experience the rugged Sardinian interior and enjoy panoramic views. Proper hiking gear, plenty of water, and a good level of fitness are recommended. The descent is steep, and the ascent can be strenuous, but the payoff is immense. 📸 Photographers
+1 Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the landscape. Be prepared for the hike or boat journey to get to the best vantage points. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Cala Goloritzé
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the descent and 2 to 3 hours for the ascent, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the views. Remember to carry ample water, as there are no services along the trail. Many visitors describe the hike as rewarding, with the anticipation building as you get closer to the coast. The final descent opens up to reveal the breathtaking beauty of Cala Goloritzé. It's a true immersion into the wild heart of Sardinia, far from the usual tourist crowds. The effort is well worth the unparalleled scenery that awaits you at the end.
Accessing Cala Goloritzé by Boat
From the anchor point, you'll need to swim the remaining distance to reach the pristine white pebble beach. This method is ideal for those who prefer to avoid the strenuous hike or want to combine a visit to Cala Goloritzé with other stunning coves along the Baunei coast, such as Cala Mariolu or Cala Luna. Numerous boat tours depart daily from nearby ports like Cala Gonone and Santa Maria Navarrese. These tours often provide a fantastic way to explore the entire coastline, with Cala Goloritzé being a highlight. Some tours may offer snorkeling equipment, allowing you to explore the underwater world. When booking a boat tour, ensure it explicitly includes a stop or a view of Cala Goloritzé.
Remember that even with boat access, the daily visitor limit still applies, so booking your 'entry' might still be necessary depending on the tour operator's arrangements.Why Cala Goloritzé is World-Renowned
+2 This prestigious title is a testament to its raw, untouched beauty, its secluded atmosphere, and its iconic natural landmarks. The judges specifically praised its 'raw beauty' and 'seclusion,' highlighting the unique limestone pinnacle that stands as a natural monument above the azure waters. The beach's fame stems from its pristine condition, a result of strict conservation efforts that limit visitor numbers and access. This ensures that the natural charm and ecological balance of the area are preserved for future generations. The combination of the dramatic cliffs, the vibrant turquoise sea, and the unique geological formations creates a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and unforgettable, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit