Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu National Park
Discover Sardinia's dramatic coastline and rugged mountains, featuring world-renowned beaches accessible by boat or hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu National Park
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sardinia's dramatic coastline and rugged mountains, featuring world-renowned beaches accessible by boat or hike.
"One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited, an absolute paradise with crystal clear blue water."
Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on popular boat tours to access secluded beaches like Cala Mariolu. :admission_tickets:
Pack Hiking Essentials
If hiking to beaches like Cala Goloritzè, bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and sun protection. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cala Goloritzè
Baunei Coast
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this beach is a true paradise with crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations.
Cala Mariolu
Baunei Coast
Often cited as one of Europe's most beautiful beaches, known for its white pebbles and vibrant turquoise sea.
Cala Luna
Dorgali Coast
Famous for its crescent shape, impressive sea caves, and stunning turquoise waters.
Gennargentu National Park Interior
Inland mountains
Explore hiking trails and discover Sardinia's highest peak, Punta La Marmora, for breathtaking panoramic views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Paradise
Hiking vs. Boat: Choose Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on popular boat tours to access secluded beaches like Cala Mariolu. :admission_tickets:
Pack Hiking Essentials
If hiking to beaches like Cala Goloritzè, bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and sun protection. :athletic_shoe:
Consider a Dinghy Rental
Rent a small boat for ultimate freedom to explore hidden coves at your own pace. :boat:
Check Beach Access Fees
Some beaches, like Cala Goloritzè, have an entrance fee and may require advance booking. :euro:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours Early
Secure your spot on popular boat tours to access secluded beaches like Cala Mariolu. :admission_tickets:
Pack Hiking Essentials
If hiking to beaches like Cala Goloritzè, bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and sun protection. :athletic_shoe:
Consider a Dinghy Rental
Rent a small boat for ultimate freedom to explore hidden coves at your own pace. :boat:
Check Beach Access Fees
Some beaches, like Cala Goloritzè, have an entrance fee and may require advance booking. :euro:
Go Early to Avoid Heat
Summer days can be very hot; start your hikes or boat trips early to enjoy cooler temperatures. :sunrise:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu National Park for its unparalleled natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal scenery being major highlights. Many describe it as a paradise and a must-visit destination in Sardinia. However, some note that visiting during peak summer can lead to heat and crowds, and access to certain beaches requires significant effort.
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Parco Nazionale del Golfo di Orosei e del Gennargentu is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. Accessible only by boat, the beach is an absolute paradise with crystal clear blue water and pristine sand. Despite having visitors, it never felt too crowded, allowing for a tranquil and enjoyable experience.
The surrounding mountains and towering rock faces are absolutely stunning, adding to the breathtaking scenery. This park perfectly encapsulates the natural beauty I envisioned when thinking of Sardinia. If you are visiting the island, this is a must-see destination!"
Cayman Seagraves
"Beautiful place to visit. Great nature and great hiking trails. Nature gems reachable by boat and on foot only. I Hope to be back to discover more..."
Maciej Tokar
"Great park. There are many new trails and everything is well maintained. Too hot to visit during summer."
Arno Van Liedekerke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most of the famous beaches, such as Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Luna, are primarily accessible by boat from towns like Cala Gonone, Santa Maria Navarrese, or Arbatax. Alternatively, some can be reached via challenging hiking trails, like the trek to Cala Goloritzè from Su Porteddu. Renting a dinghy offers more flexibility for exploring multiple coves.
Cala Gonone is a very popular starting point for boat tours and dinghy rentals, offering easy access to the coastline. Santa Maria Navarrese and Arbatax are also good options, particularly if you're coming from further south.
While some beaches like Cala Goloritzè and Cala Mariolu have hiking trails, they are often long and strenuous, requiring good fitness and preparation. Cala Luna is also reachable by hike, but boat access is more common. Not all coves are accessible by foot.
The hike to Cala Goloritzè from the Su Porteddu parking area is approximately 1.5 hours each way, with a significant elevation change. It's a rewarding but demanding trek.
No, most of the iconic beaches in the Gulf of Orosei are not accessible by car. You'll need to take a boat or hike to reach them, which adds to their pristine, secluded charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, for popular beaches like Cala Goloritzè, advance booking is often required, especially during peak season. There's typically an entrance fee, around €7 per person. Check the official park website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date booking procedures.
Some of the most sought-after beaches, such as Cala Goloritzè, do have an entrance fee to manage visitor numbers and preserve the environment. It's wise to confirm these fees and booking requirements before your visit.
The park itself is vast and generally accessible, but specific beaches or trails might have access restrictions or recommended visiting times. For example, boat tours operate during daylight hours. It's best to check local advisories for any specific areas.
Yes, to protect the natural environment, some beaches, like Cala Goloritzè, have daily visitor limits. Booking in advance is crucial to guarantee entry.
It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially for Cala Goloritzè, as on-site availability might be limited or unavailable due to daily quotas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular way is by boat, allowing you to hop between stunning coves like Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzè. Hiking offers a more adventurous and immersive experience for those seeking a challenge.
Facilities vary greatly. Some popular beaches might have basic services or nearby cafes, but many secluded coves are pristine and undeveloped. Cala Goloritzè, for instance, has limited facilities. It's wise to pack essentials.
Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, exploring sea caves by boat or kayak, and hiking in the surrounding Gennargentu mountains.
Yes, popular beaches can get crowded, especially in July and August. Visiting early in the morning or opting for less accessible coves can help you find quieter spots.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable walking shoes if you plan to hike. A waterproof bag is useful for boat trips. Snorkeling gear is also recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic cliffs meeting the turquoise sea are incredibly photogenic. Cala Goloritzè with its iconic pinnacle rock, Cala Luna's caves, and Cala Mariolu's vibrant waters are prime locations. Drone shots offer stunning aerial perspectives of the coastline.
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination and fewer crowds. Late afternoon can also provide golden hour magic. Midday sun can be harsh but still highlights the incredible water colors.
Drone regulations can vary and are subject to change. It's essential to check the latest park rules and local ordinances before flying a drone to avoid fines or confiscation. Some areas may have restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable for boat trips and water activities.
Include a person or a boat in your frame to give a sense of scale against the towering cliffs and vast sea. Experiment with different angles, looking up from the beach or down from a higher vantage point if hiking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Iconic Beaches
These beaches are best reached by boat tours departing from Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese, which allow you to visit multiple spots in a day. For the more adventurous, hiking trails offer a rewarding, albeit strenuous, way to reach some of these secluded paradises. Remember that some beaches, like Cala Goloritzè, have an entrance fee and require advance booking to manage visitor numbers and preserve their natural beauty.
Hiking in the Gennargentu Mountains
These trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including ancient forests, rocky gorges, and high-altitude plateaus. You might encounter unique flora and fauna, and experience a sense of wild, untamed nature far from the bustling beaches. It's advisable to check trail conditions, especially outside of summer, as some routes can be demanding. Proper hiking gear, ample water, and navigation tools are essential for exploring the Gennargentu interior.
Sustainable Tourism in the Gulf of Orosei
Supporting local businesses in towns like Cala Gonone and Baunei also contributes to the local economy while promoting responsible travel. By being mindful of our impact, we can help ensure that these spectacular landscapes remain pristine for future generations to enjoy. Travelers often emphasize the importance of respecting the natural environment when discussing their visits.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit