
Costa Rei Beaches
Sardinia's longest beach, offering miles of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. A laid-back paradise for relaxation and water activities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Few crowds, perfect relaxation

Costa Rei Beaches
Best Time
Few crowds, perfect relaxation

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sardinia's longest beach, offering miles of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. A laid-back paradise for relaxation and water activities.
"Miles of fine golden sand, crystal clear waters, and so much space you can find your own quiet corner."

🚗 Parking is Easy
Parking is available on the main road, making beach access convenient.
🌊 Enjoy the Calm Spots
Look for wave-breaking stones for calmer swimming conditions.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Endless Golden Sands
Costa Rei Beach
Miles of fine, golden sand meet crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Perfect for sunbathing and long walks.

Snorkeler's Paradise
Near wave-breaking stones
Rocks attract a vibrant array of fish, offering a fantastic spectacle for snorkelers.

Family-Friendly Waters
Cala Pira
This nearby cove offers shallow, calm waters, ideal for families with young children.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Space
Wind and Waves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Easy
Parking is available on the main road, making beach access convenient.
🌊 Enjoy the Calm Spots
Look for wave-breaking stones for calmer swimming conditions.
🐠 Snorkel for Wonders
The rocks are teeming with colorful fish, a treat for snorkelers.
☀️ Lifeguards in Summer
Lifeguards are on duty during summer for added safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Easy
Parking is available on the main road, making beach access convenient.
🌊 Enjoy the Calm Spots
Look for wave-breaking stones for calmer swimming conditions.
🐠 Snorkel for Wonders
The rocks are teeming with colorful fish, a treat for snorkelers.
☀️ Lifeguards in Summer
Lifeguards are on duty during summer for added safety.
🍽️ Beachfront Dining
Numerous beach bars and restaurants offer refreshments and meals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vastness and beauty of Costa Rei's beaches, with many praising the crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine golden sand. The long stretch of coastline ensures ample space, even in summer, and the presence of wave-breaking stones creates calmer swimming areas. Some note the wind can be a factor, attracting kitesurfers, and advise checking conditions.
"nice beach, probably the longest I have visited on Sardinia, crystal water, windy, a lot of space, you can see kitesurfers there, parking on the main road"
Michal Czako
"It’s a lovely beach. Wave breaking stones make the sea calmer. The rocks also attract tons of fish of many sizes and colours. Which is great spectacle while snorkelling. Nice beach, long enough not to feel overcrowded even in August."
Martin Topinka
"Even better, what a blue crystal clear water and clean white sand. For miles only a handful people in sight … almost impossible to find such a beautiful beach do quiet. Can not imagine what’s happening in summer !"
Travel Lovo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Costa Rei beaches from Cagliari by car, which is the most convenient option. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes along the SP18. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the various Costa Rei beaches and nearby coves like Cala Pira.
Yes, parking is generally available along the main road that runs parallel to the beach. This makes accessing the vast stretch of Costa Rei beach quite straightforward.
The main road to access the area is the SP18. For specific coves like Cala Pira, follow signs along this route, often indicated around kilometer 11.
Yes, Costa Rei is a popular destination for day trips from Cagliari and surrounding areas due to its stunning beauty and relatively easy access by car.
Having a car is essential for exploring the different Costa Rei beaches and nearby attractions like Capo Carbonara and Villasimius. This allows you to hop between spots like Costa Rei Beach, Cala Pira, and Sa Ruxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the main Costa Rei beaches is generally free. There are no entrance fees for the public beaches themselves.
Parking along the main road is typically free, though some designated parking areas might have a small fee during peak season.
Beaches are accessible year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Lifeguards are present during the summer months.
While not always necessary due to the beach's size, some beach clubs and rental services might offer advance bookings, especially during July and August.
Generally, there are no major restrictions. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and follow any posted guidelines.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The sand at Costa Rei is described as fine, golden, and clean, offering a pleasant experience underfoot.
Yes, the water is crystal clear and generally good for swimming. Wave-breaking stones can create calmer areas, and the shallow waters at coves like Cala Pira are ideal for families.
Absolutely! The rocky areas near the shore attract a variety of fish, making it a great spot for snorkeling.
While it can get busy in August, the beach is so long that it rarely feels overcrowded, and you can often find quiet spots.
Basic facilities, including restrooms and showers, are usually available at the main beach access points and through beach clubs during the summer season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are numerous beach bars and restaurants along Costa Rei beach offering refreshments, snacks, and meals.
You can expect a range of options from casual beachside snacks to more substantial meals. Nearby agriturismos offer authentic Sardinian cuisine, including homemade pasta and spit roasts.
Many of the beach restaurants and bars offer stunning sea views, perfect for enjoying an Aperol Spritz or a meal.
While some beachfront restaurants can be pricier, you can find more affordable options by exploring the town of Costa Rei or looking for local trattorias. Packing a picnic is also a great budget-friendly choice.
Sardinian cuisine is rich and flavorful. Look for local seafood, pasta dishes like malloreddus, and roasted meats. Don't miss out on local wines and pastries.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Mid-day can be harsh, but the vibrant turquoise water is always photogenic.
Capture sweeping panoramas of the long sandy beach, close-ups of the crystal-clear water, action shots of kitesurfers, and serene portraits with the Mediterranean backdrop.
The main beach offers expansive views. For elevated perspectives, consider the coastal paths or nearby rocky outcrops. The approach to Cala Pira also offers lovely photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details of kitesurfers or distant coastal features. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check local rules and restrictions before flying a drone to capture aerial views of the stunning Costa Rei coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Coastline
Beyond the main stretch, discover charming coves like Cala Pira. This bay is particularly noted for its shallow, almost pool-like waters, making it an excellent choice for families with very young children. Further exploration might lead you to other beautiful spots like San Pietro or Sa Ruxi, each offering its unique charm and contributing to the overall appeal of the Costa Rei area.
For those interested in marine life, the rocky areas near the shore are a haven for fish of various sizes and colors, providing a fantastic natural aquarium for snorkelers. The laid-back atmosphere of this part of Sardinia, compared to more developed resorts, adds to the relaxed holiday vibe.
Best Times to Visit Costa Rei
During the winter months, Costa Rei transforms into a serene escape. The beaches are completely tranquil, offering stunning, undisturbed views and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect time for long walks and quiet contemplation.
If visiting in summer, aiming for early mornings can be beneficial. The sea tends to be calmer before the afternoon winds pick up, and you can enjoy the beach before it gets busier. While August can see more visitors, the sheer length of the beach means it rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded.
Activities and Experiences
Beyond the beach, consider exploring the local culinary scene. Agriturismos in the vicinity offer authentic Sardinian dining experiences, featuring homemade pasta and traditional spit-roasted meats. Many beach bars and restaurants provide a relaxed setting for enjoying local dishes and aperitifs with a view.
For families, the shallow and calm waters of nearby Cala Pira are a significant draw, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for children to play. The overall vibe of Costa Rei is one of relaxed Mediterranean charm, making it a great destination for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty of Sardinia.
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