Cala Goloritzè beach, Baunei, Sardinia

Cala Goloritzé is a small coastal beach located on the eastern coast of Sardinia in the municipality of Baunei, within the Ogliastra region of Italy. Situated along the Gulf of Orosei, the beach lies at the base of steep limestone cliffs and forms part of a protected natural area recognized for its geological and environmental significance. Cala Goloritzé is widely regarded as one of the most distinctive natural beaches of Sardinia due to its white pebble shore, clear turquoise waters, and dramatic rock formations.

Location and Access

Cala Goloritzé lies about 9 km from the village of Baunei and around 35 km from Tortolì, and it cannot be reached by road. The usual way in is the marked trail from the Su Porteddu plateau: it is 3.6 km long and drops about 500 m, so allow roughly 1.5 hours down and 2 hours back up over rocky ground.

Boat excursions from nearby coastal towns such as Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese may approach the bay, although boats are required to anchor at a distance from the shore due to environmental protection regulations.

Beach Characteristics

The beach is relatively small and consists primarily of white limestone pebbles and coarse gravel rather than sand. The seabed is similarly composed of small stones, and the water is known for its exceptional clarity and intense turquoise coloration.

Cala Goloritzé is surrounded by vertical limestone cliffs that form a narrow amphitheater around the beach. A notable geological feature is the natural limestone arch rising above the shoreline. Another landmark is the Aguglia di Goloritzé, a limestone pinnacle rising more than 140 meters above the sea, which is a well-known destination for rock climbers.

Entrance Fees and Facilities

Access is regulated to protect the cove. Hikers must book a €7 ticket on the Heart of Sardinia website or app (free for children up to 5 and for Baunei residents); booking opens three days ahead and tickets are non-refundable. No more than 250 people may be on the beach at the same time, and the checkpoint at Su Porteddu is staffed from 7:30 to 17:00, so it is best to start before 10:00.

The beach itself has minimal infrastructure. There are no large restaurants or organized beach establishments directly on the shoreline. Visitors are generally advised to bring water, food, and sun protection. Basic facilities may be available near the trailhead but not at the beach itself.

Water Temperature

The swimming season in eastern Sardinia generally extends from June through October. Average sea temperatures in the Gulf of Orosei are approximately:

• 21–24 °C in June
• 24–28 °C in July and 27–29 °C in August
• 24–27 °C in September and 22–25 °C in October