Maria Pia Beach
Maria Pia Beach: A stunning stretch of fine white sand and clear turquoise waters, backed by a fragrant pine forest near Alghero, Sardinia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Maria Pia Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Maria Pia Beach: A stunning stretch of fine white sand and clear turquoise waters, backed by a fragrant pine forest near Alghero, Sardinia.
"The most beautiful beach in Alghero, with clean water, soft sand, and pleasant shade."
🚗 Parking Perks
Free parking is available near Fertilia beach, a calmer section of Maria Pia. :car:
🌳 Natural Shade is Key
The pine forest offers excellent shade, perfect for a picnic or a break from the sun. :evergreen_tree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sand
Maria Pia Beach
Miles of soft, white sand meet crystal-clear, shallow waters, perfect for wading and relaxing.
Shady Pine Forest
Adjacent to Maria Pia Beach
A refreshing pine forest offers natural shade, a welcome respite from the Sardinian sun.
Dazzling Mediterranean Waters
Maria Pia Beach
The sea here is renowned for its clarity and beautiful turquoise hues, inviting a refreshing dip.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Embrace the Natural Shade
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚗 Parking Perks
Free parking is available near Fertilia beach, a calmer section of Maria Pia. :car:
🌳 Natural Shade is Key
The pine forest offers excellent shade, perfect for a picnic or a break from the sun. :evergreen_tree:
🚶♀️ Walk to Quieter Spots
If it's crowded, walk towards the end of the beach for more space and fewer people. :walking:
☀️ Sun Lounger Deals
Sun loungers with cushions can be rented for around €15 for the day. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Perks
Free parking is available near Fertilia beach, a calmer section of Maria Pia. :car:
🌳 Natural Shade is Key
The pine forest offers excellent shade, perfect for a picnic or a break from the sun. :evergreen_tree:
🚶♀️ Walk to Quieter Spots
If it's crowded, walk towards the end of the beach for more space and fewer people. :walking:
☀️ Sun Lounger Deals
Sun loungers with cushions can be rented for around €15 for the day. :moneybag:
🌊 Algae Check
While generally clean, some free beach areas might have algae, especially closer to Fertilia. :sea_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Maria Pia Beach for its beautiful white sand, clear turquoise waters, and the lovely pine forest offering natural shade. It's considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Alghero, offering a serene escape. Some find it can get crowded during peak hours, and occasional algae can be present in certain free beach areas.
"I'm not sure where Maria Pia ends and Fertilia beach starts, but the closer you get to Fertilia, the beach becomes calmer and the parking - free (the part with the palm trees by the road, not with the pines). Unfortunately the free beach areas are not clean from algae, as everywhere in Sardinia."
annice in wonderland
"Beautiful beach. It is wide and long enough for plenty of people to use. There are also trees in the beginning which provide sufficient shade."
Luky Jenco
"Excellent beach, clean water, can be very crowded between 10 and 4 this time of uear but still lovely! If you walk until the very end, less people and more space."
Patricia M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maria Pia Beach is conveniently located just a few kilometers from Alghero's historic center. You can reach it by car, with parking available, or by local bus services. Many visitors also enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the coast to reach the beach.
Yes, parking is available. While some areas might be paid, free parking can be found closer to the Fertilia end of the beach, particularly in the areas with palm trees by the road.
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular way to reach Maria Pia Beach from Alghero. The coastal path offers beautiful views, and there are often bike rental options in town.
Alghero has an airport (Alghero-Fertilia Airport, AHO) with connections to various European cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Alghero town, and then proceed to Maria Pia Beach.
Yes, local buses often connect Alghero town to Maria Pia Beach, making it accessible for those without a car. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Maria Pia Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You can access it freely.
As a public beach, Maria Pia Beach is accessible at all hours. However, facilities like sun lounger rentals may have specific operating times.
While the beach itself is free, renting sun loungers and umbrellas typically incurs a fee. Prices can vary, but some visitors reported paying around €15 for two loungers with cushions.
Advance booking for sun loungers is generally not required, but it's advisable to arrive earlier during peak season to secure your spot, especially if you want a specific location.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting Maria Pia Beach, other than standard rules for public spaces like not littering. Enjoy the natural beauty responsibly.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography. The soft, warm glow enhances the colors of the sand and sea. +1
The combination of fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, natural dunes, and the adjacent pine forest creates a picturesque scene. The shallow waters also make for beautiful reflections. 
The entire stretch of the beach offers beautiful photo opportunities. Walking along the shore or finding a spot near the dunes can provide unique perspectives.
Drone regulations can vary by location and season. It's best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and sea. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance the water's colors. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your gear! :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be extensive dining facilities directly on the sand, there are often beach bars or kiosks offering refreshments and snacks. Some visitors mention places with food and cocktails overlooking the water.
The nearby town of Alghero offers a wide array of restaurants, trattorias, and pizzerias serving delicious Sardinian cuisine. You can also find options closer to the Fertilia area.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great idea! Many visitors enjoy packing their own food and drinks to savor while relaxing on the beach, especially under the shade of the pine trees.
Don't miss out on local specialties like 'Fregola con Arselle' (a type of pasta with clams), 'Malloreddus alla Campidanese' (gnocchi with sausage sauce), and fresh seafood.
Yes, some beach bars or establishments overlooking the sea offer a perfect setting for sunset drinks. Enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunset is a popular experience. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The adjacent pine forest offers much-needed shade for little ones to escape the midday sun, making it ideal for picnics and extended stays. Consider bringing beach toys and plenty of water. While there are some amenities, packing your own snacks and drinks ensures a hassle-free day. The calmer sections of the beach, particularly towards Fertilia, can offer a more relaxed environment for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic light and colors. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Maria Pia Beach
+1The beach is uniquely framed by a fragrant pine forest that extends right up to the sand. This provides a welcome natural canopy, offering ample shade and a refreshing contrast to the open beach. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as serene and relaxing, especially when away from the most populated areas.
+1This combination of pristine sand, clear waters, and the soothing presence of the pine forest makes Maria Pia Beach a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Alghero region of Sardinia. It’s a place where natural beauty meets tranquility.
+1Experiencing Alghero's Coastal Vibe
Beyond Maria Pia Beach, Alghero is a gateway to other natural wonders. Neptune's Grotto (Grotte di Nettuno) is a spectacular sea cave accessible by boat or a challenging hike down the Escala del Cabirol, offering breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Evenings in Alghero are magical, with stunning sunsets painting the sky in vibrant colors, best enjoyed from the city walls or a seaside cafe. The town also offers excellent dining, shopping, and a relaxed pace of life, making it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding coastal beauty.
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