La Cinta Beach
A stunning 5km stretch of fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, often called the 'European Caribbean'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunrise magic & fewer people
La Cinta Beach
Best Time
Sunrise magic & fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 5km stretch of fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, often called the 'European Caribbean'.
"The sand is FINE : white and thin… the water is beautifully turquoise, and the seabed has nothing but soft sand for kilometres."
Walk for Tranquility
Don't be deterred by initial crowds; walk 10-15 mins down the beach for quieter spots . :athletic_shoe:
Sunrise Spectacle
Catching the sunrise here is a magical experience, offering stunning views with minimal crowds . :sunrise:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive White Sands
The entire beach
Miles of fine, white sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a Caribbean-like paradise.
Shallow, Calm Waters
Near the shore
Perfect for families and swimmers, the gentle, shallow depths extend far out, making it ideal for all ages.
Water Sports Hub
Designated areas
Popular for kitesurfing and paddleboating, offering active fun against a beautiful backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on La Cinta
Parking and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Walk for Tranquility
Don't be deterred by initial crowds; walk 10-15 mins down the beach for quieter spots. :athletic_shoe:
Sunrise Spectacle
Catching the sunrise here is a magical experience, offering stunning views with minimal crowds. :sunrise:
Parking Strategy
Parking can be expensive. Factor in hourly rates and consider walking from further away if needed. :parking:
Windy Day Fun
On windy days, the beach is great for kitesurfing and offers a lively atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
Walk for Tranquility
Don't be deterred by initial crowds; walk 10-15 mins down the beach for quieter spots. :athletic_shoe:
Sunrise Spectacle
Catching the sunrise here is a magical experience, offering stunning views with minimal crowds. :sunrise:
Parking Strategy
Parking can be expensive. Factor in hourly rates and consider walking from further away if needed. :parking:
Windy Day Fun
On windy days, the beach is great for kitesurfing and offers a lively atmosphere.
Family-Friendly Waters
The shallow, calm waters are perfect for children to play safely. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Cinta Beach is celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, with fine white sand and stunning turquoise waters often compared to the Caribbean. Visitors rave about the perfect swimming conditions due to shallow, calm depths, making it ideal for families. However, be prepared for significant crowds, especially in summer, and factor in potentially high parking fees.
"Beautiful beach , perfect water to swim, unfortunately very busy in summer months, you need to walk over 1 km the beach along to find little bit place for your own. But is a must visit place"
Sylvia China
"Alloraaa, we have been to both Cala Brandinchi and Lu impostu.
I won’t dive deep into the details and will tell you that La Cinta is the by far best one among those three.
No reservation and a huge parking lot make it even more pleasant especially if you are visiting during high season. Please don’t complain about the parking price, it is well worth it you are swimming in a paradise sea!
Do Not get overwhelmed by the initial crowd by the restaurant and keep walking as much as you can till the middle/end of the beach. It is very long so you may walk for 10 to 15 mins.
But you will definitely find a calmer and peaceful spot for yourself :)
The rest is pure joy.
The sand is FINE : white and thin… the water is beautifully turquoise, and the seabed has nothing but soft sand for kilometres.
It’s just mind blowing. I got overwhelmed by the beauty of it.
Then the depth is perfect, after 10-20 meters the water comes to your chest/neck level which is way better than having it on your knee no matter how much you move.
I feel so lucky to be able to have this amazing experience with my loved ones, and even thinking back about that beach and the sea makes me happy every time ❤️
“Not overrated whatsoever!”"
Ege
"The beach is beautiful, white sand, turquoise clear water, but really crowded. You must pay for parking 1.50€ per hour, for shower also. Probably one of the most popular beaches in Sardinia."
Jovana Savić Miković
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Cinta Beach is located in San Teodoro, about a 30-minute drive south of Olbia Costa Smaralda Airport (OLB). You can rent a car or take a bus. Taxis are also available, though they will be more expensive. Many visitors find it convenient to drive, especially if exploring other parts of Sardinia.
Yes, there are local bus services that connect San Teodoro town center to La Cinta Beach. During peak season, these services are frequent. Check local bus schedules upon arrival for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from San Teodoro town center to La Cinta Beach, approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers. It's a good option if you prefer not to drive or pay for parking.
From Olbia, take the SS125 towards Siniscola. Exit for San Teodoro and follow signs for La Cinta Beach. The beach is well-signposted.
While the beach itself is natural, there are usually accessible pathways and sometimes designated areas near the main access points. It's advisable to check with local tourist information for the most current accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, La Cinta Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance ticket. You can access it freely.
La Cinta Beach is open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, amenities like restaurants and parking facilities have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening during the tourist season.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot near La Cinta Beach. Rates can vary, with some reviews mentioning around €1.50-€2 per hour. It's advisable to check the current rates upon arrival.
No, reservations are not typically required or available for general access to La Cinta Beach. Due to its popularity, arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot, especially during peak season.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting La Cinta Beach, other than standard rules about respecting the environment and not littering. During peak season, it can get very crowded.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
La Cinta Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It's also popular for water sports like kitesurfing and paddleboating.
Yes, La Cinta Beach is known to be very crowded, especially during the summer months. Visitors often suggest walking further down the beach to find more space.
Facilities typically include restaurants, bars, and paid showers. Toilets are usually located near the main restaurant areas. Some reviews note that shower facilities may incur an additional fee.
While the water is crystal clear, La Cinta Beach is not primarily known for snorkeling. The sandy seabed and shallow depths are more suited for swimming and wading. For snorkeling, consider exploring rocky coves or areas with more underwater structures.
Yes, you can usually rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment like paddleboards and kitesurfing gear from vendors located directly on or near the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and bars located directly on or very close to La Cinta Beach, offering a range of dining options from casual snacks to full meals.
You can expect typical beachside fare, including seafood, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks. Some venues might offer live music or DJ sets in the evenings.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to La Cinta Beach. It's a great way to save money, especially if you plan to spend the whole day there.
There are no designated picnic areas, but you can certainly set up a picnic on the sand. Remember to clean up after yourself and dispose of all trash properly.
San Teodoro town offers a wide variety of restaurants, pizzerias, and cafes, catering to different tastes and budgets. You can find everything from traditional Sardinian cuisine to international dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for photography. Early mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The beach's fine white sand, incredibly clear turquoise waters, and the backdrop of rolling hills create stunning photographic opportunities.
The long stretch of the beach itself offers numerous viewpoints. Walking towards the ends of the beach can provide more dramatic perspectives. The elevated areas near the parking lots can also offer panoramic views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected natural areas before flying. Some videos showcase impressive drone footage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sea. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance the vibrant colors of the water. A waterproof camera or phone case is also useful for capturing shots near the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏄♀️ Adventure Seekers
The consistent winds and open sea make it a popular spot for enthusiasts. You can find rental shops and schools on the beach offering lessons and equipment. Even if you're not participating, the sight of kitesurfers against the stunning backdrop is a thrill in itself. Paddleboating is also a great way to explore the coastline.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of La Cinta's Waters
This pristine aquatic environment is a major draw for visitors seeking a quintessential Mediterranean beach experience.However, the shallow nature of the water, while beneficial for many, means that it can warm up quickly. During peak summer, the water temperature is very pleasant. The gentle waves and lack of strong currents make it ideal for paddleboarding and other non-motorized water activities. Some videos highlight the beauty of the water even after windy conditions, showcasing its resilience and clarity.
Navigating Crowds and Finding Your Space
Fortunately, the beach is quite long, stretching for approximately 5 kilometers.
+1 Many seasoned visitors and reviews strongly advise walking further down the beach, away from the main entrances. After about a 10 to 15-minute walk, the crowds tend to thin out considerably, allowing you to find a more secluded and tranquil spot.Water Sports and Activities
The wide-open expanse of the sea and the relatively shallow waters provide an excellent playground for these activities.Paddleboating is another popular option, allowing visitors to explore the coastline at their own pace. The calm conditions near the shore are perfect for beginners. Some videos showcase the vibrant scene of kitesurfers dotting the horizon, adding to the dynamic atmosphere of the beach.
Even if you're not participating, watching the skilled athletes can be quite entertaining.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit