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Cala Goloritzé

4.7
·4k reviews·, Italy

A world-renowned Sardinian beach famed for its turquoise waters, iconic pinnacle, and natural arch, accessible via a scenic hike.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Spettacolo...ma che faticaccia

Cala Goloritzé

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-renowned Sardinian beach famed for its turquoise waters, iconic pinnacle, and natural arch, accessible via a scenic hike.

4.7
(4k reviews)

"This beach lives up to the hype, it's amazing!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets 72 Hours Ahead

Use the 'Heart of Sardinia' app to book your slot precisely 72 hours before your desired date. They vanish fast!

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The rocky terrain requires good footwear. Beach shoes are recommended for comfort on the pebbles.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Limestone Pinnacle

The Iconic Limestone Pinnacle

Dominating the backdrop

A majestic rock spire rising dramatically from the coastline, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle.

TikTokInstagram
The Natural Arch

The Natural Arch

Framing the sea

A stunning rock formation creating a natural window to the vibrant turquoise waters.

TikTokInstagram
Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters

Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters

The entire bay

Experience unbelievably clear, vibrant turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Cala Goloritzé Access Early

Access to Cala Goloritzé is strictly limited to 250 people per day. Book your tickets via the 'Heart of Sardinia' app or website exactly 72 hours in advance, as they sell out within minutes. InstagramReddit

Prepare for the Hike and Bring Supplies

The trek to Cala Goloritzé is a challenging 4km downhill (1.5 hours) and a tough uphill return, especially after sun exposure. Bring plenty of water and food, as there are no facilities on the beach. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Il fascino dell’arco di Cala Goloritzé: un angolo di paradiso nascosto tra le acque cristalline della costa di Baunei. 🌊✨ #calagoloritzè #costadibaunei #sardegna #baunei #ogliastra #santamarianavarrese #sardinia #tiraccontolitalia #tiktoksardegna #travel #italy #italia #beautifuldestinations #tiktoktravel
@costadibaunei
53.2K likes • 1.7M views

🎟️ Book Tickets 72 Hours Ahead

Use the 'Heart of Sardinia' app to book your slot precisely 72 hours before your desired date. They vanish fast! InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The rocky terrain requires good footwear. Beach shoes are recommended for comfort on the pebbles. Reddit

Finestre per il paradiso ❤️ #calagoloritzè #baunei #costadibaunei #sardegna #sardinia #cerdena #cerdeña #sardaigne #italia #italy
@mimmomandrone
42.3K likes • 590.4K views
💎 Cala Goloritzé: un angolo di Sardegna ancora intatto, che incanta gli occhi con il suo mare cristallino e le sue falesie maestose. 🏖️ L’ingresso alla spiaggia è a numero chiuso e per garantire il posto è necessario prenotare attraverso l’app o sito web di Heart of Sardinia, a partire da 72 ore fino ad un minuto prima dell’arrivo. 🥾 La spiaggia è raggiungibile solo a piedi e la partenza è da Su...
costadibaunei
7.4K likes • 113K views

💧 Bring Ample Water & Snacks

No services on the beach! Stay hydrated and fueled for the hike and your beach time. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel for Underwater Wonders

The clear waters teem with fish, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. Reddit

Cala Goloritzé in tutto il suo splendore Eletta Spiaggia più bella al Mondo 2025. . . . . . #sardegna #mare #sardinia #nature #baunei #calagoloritzé #paradise #insta #bestbeschesintheworld #videonature #dji #beautifuldestinations #trekking#unionesarda
mcpuddus
110 likes • 6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets 72 Hours Ahead

Use the 'Heart of Sardinia' app to book your slot precisely 72 hours before your desired date. They vanish fast! InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The rocky terrain requires good footwear. Beach shoes are recommended for comfort on the pebbles. Reddit

💧 Bring Ample Water & Snacks

No services on the beach! Stay hydrated and fueled for the hike and your beach time. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel for Underwater Wonders

The clear waters teem with fish, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. Reddit

🚤 Consider a Boat Trip

See the stunning coastline from the water, though beach access from boats is restricted. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cala Goloritzé is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking beauty, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic natural formations like the pinnacle and arch. Visitors find the challenging hike rewarding, though they emphasize the need for preparation with water and food. Some note it can get crowded despite limited access.

"Always wanted to go this beach - this year managed. Honestly it's very crowded and looks better from the boat than from the beach. The water is also "sandy" - there is beaches with more clear water! Even not far from it"

Eric Berberich

"I went on May 6, 2025. Got my reservation for the day online on Heart of Sardinia. Trek was not too long, people from all ages were on the trail. Most of the descent/ ascent is near the beach. Many people there that day but not overcrowded. Definitely have to bring your own water and food. This beach lives up to the hype, it’s amazing! Air temperature was high 70s/ low 80s, topping out at about 87 degrees with a few clouds. Clouds came in the afternoon and it rained for half an hour. I got rained on, on the way back. Water temperature was cool but many people swam in the ocean comfortably. I brought my own snorkel mask and enjoyed the variety of fish in the water."

jchcmax

"Beautiful beach! Make sure to book online in advance. Ticket is €7. Entrance between 7:30 am and 2 pm. Proper shoes needed, trail is not easy (3,5 km ~1,5 h one way). Free parking."

Radek Em

What People Like

Stunning turquoise water
Dramatic rock formations
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Challenging uphill return
No facilities on beach
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Cala Goloritzé by hiking from Baunei (approx. 4km, 1.5 hours downhill) or by boat. Boat access is restricted to about 300 meters from the shore, so many opt for the hike. InstagramReddit

Yes, parking is available at the Su Pordettu camper parking lot in Baunei, which is the starting point for the hike. Reddit

The hike is a challenging 4km downhill with rocky terrain, taking about 1.5 hours. The return uphill is strenuous, especially in the heat. The trail opens from 7:30 AM. Reddit

While technically possible, swimming from a boat to the shore is restricted by buoys placed about 300 meters out to protect the beach. Instagram

No, Cala Goloritzé is not accessible by car. Access is either by a challenging hike or by boat, with limited swimming access from boats. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets must be booked online via the 'Heart of Sardinia' app or website. Reservations open 72 hours in advance and sell out extremely quickly, often within minutes. InstagramReddit

The entrance fee is typically around 7 EUR per person, but it's essential to check the 'Heart of Sardinia' platform for the most current pricing. Reddit

Access to Cala Goloritzé is limited to 250 people per day to preserve its natural beauty. Reddit

Tickets are released exactly 72 hours before the desired date, usually at midnight. Be ready to book immediately. Reddit

No, tickets are exclusively sold online through the 'Heart of Sardinia' platform. On-site purchases are not possible due to the limited capacity. InstagramReddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Cala Goloritzé features white pebbles and sand, with incredibly clear turquoise waters. It's known for its stunning natural arch and a towering limestone pinnacle. Instagram+1

No, there are no facilities such as restrooms, cafes, or rental services directly on Cala Goloritzé. You must bring all your own supplies. Reddit

Yes, the water is exceptionally clear and inviting. While cool, many find it comfortable for swimming. Snorkeling is also highly recommended. Reddit

Wear comfortable hiking attire for the trek and bring water shoes or sturdy sandals for the pebble beach, as it can be uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. Reddit

While access is limited, it can still feel busy, especially during peak season. Going early in the morning or late afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Capture the iconic limestone pinnacle from various angles, frame the sea through the natural arch, and photograph the vibrant turquoise water. Drone shots offer unique perspectives. TikTokInstagram+1

Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, while late afternoon provides beautiful golden hour hues. Midday sun can be harsh. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color. Consider a drone for aerial views if permitted. TikTokInstagram

Experiment with different perspectives from the water (if on a boat or SUP), capture the scale of the pinnacle against the sky, and focus on the intricate details of the pebbles. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary and may be restricted to protect the environment and visitor experience. Always check local rules before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The hike to Cala Goloritzé can be challenging for very young children due to the rocky terrain and length. If you do attempt it, start very early, bring a sturdy carrier for toddlers, and ensure everyone has plenty of water and snacks. Reddit

Alternatively, consider a boat trip that allows you to view the beach from the water. While you can't land directly, seeing the stunning cove and swimming in the clear waters nearby can still be a memorable experience for families. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Cala Goloritzé offers incredible value for its 7 EUR entrance fee, especially considering its world-class status. The main 'cost' is your time and effort for the hike. Reddit

Pack your own food and water to avoid any expenses on the beach. For transportation, consider carpooling if traveling with others to share parking costs. The 'Heart of Sardinia' app is free to download for ticket booking. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Cala Goloritzé is a photographer's dream, with its dramatic pinnacle, natural arch, and intensely colored waters. Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. TikTokInstagram

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the water's vibrancy. If possible and permitted, a drone can offer breathtaking aerial perspectives. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Trek to Paradise: Hiking Cala Goloritzé

The journey to Cala Goloritzé is an integral part of the experience, often described as challenging but rewarding. The hike begins from Baunei, typically from the Su Pordettu parking area, and covers approximately 4 kilometers one way. This trek involves a significant elevation gain, with the descent taking around 1.5 hours and the return ascent being considerably tougher, especially under the Sardinian sun. Reddit

Hikers should be prepared for a rocky and uneven path, with sections offering partial shade. It's crucial to start early, as the trail opens at 7:30 AM, allowing you to complete the descent before the midday heat. The effort is widely considered worth it, with the stunning reveal of the beach serving as the ultimate payoff. Reddit

Essential preparation includes wearing sturdy hiking boots, bringing ample water (at least 2-3 liters per person), and packing high-energy snacks or a packed lunch. There are no services available once you reach the beach, so self-sufficiency is key to enjoying your time there. Reddit

Cala Goloritzé: A World-Renowned Gem

Cala Goloritzé has garnered international acclaim, recently being voted the #1 beach in the world for 2025 by @worlds50beaches. Judges lauded its 'raw beauty,' 'seclusion,' and the striking limestone pinnacle that stands sentinel over the turquoise waters. Instagram+2

This recognition highlights the beach's unique geological features, including the dramatic natural arch and the pristine white pebble shore. Its remote location and protected status contribute to its allure, making it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking unparalleled natural beauty. Instagram+1

The beach's fame also underscores the importance of responsible tourism. The strict daily visitor limit and the booking system are in place to protect this fragile ecosystem and ensure its preservation for future generations. Instagram+1

Experiencing Cala Goloritzé from the Water

While hiking is a popular way to reach Cala Goloritzé, many visitors also experience its beauty from the sea. Boat tours and private rentals offer a different perspective of the dramatic coastline and the iconic beach. Instagram+1

However, it's important to note that direct access to the beach from boats is restricted. Buoys are placed approximately 300 meters offshore, indicating the limit for boat anchoring. Visitors can swim from their boats to the shore, but landing directly on the beach with a vessel is not permitted to preserve its pristine condition. Instagram

Even from a distance, the view of Cala Goloritzé from the water is spectacular. The vibrant colors of the sea, the towering cliffs, and the unique rock formations create a postcard-perfect scene. Some visitors enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking in the bay, offering a more intimate connection with the water. Instagram

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