A Natural Monument since 1995, it is probably the most photographed beach in Sardinia. The Aguglia — a limestone pinnacle 148 metres tall — rises from the turquoise sea like a natural sculpture. Accessible only on foot via a 3.5 km trail (470 m elevation drop) or by sea. Direct landing has been prohibited since 2007 to protect the site.
The name derives from "mariolo" — the monk seal that used to "steal" fish from nets. The small white marble pebbles are so smooth and fine they resemble grains of rice. The water is transparent down to 15 metres depth. Ranked the most beautiful beach in Italy by numerous international lists.
A cathedral of white limestone 200 metres wide, framed by a forest of centuries-old holm oaks that reach almost to the water's edge. The "mouth" of the Sisine canyon creates a unique setting: the 500-metre-high rock walls open like a curtain onto the sea.
Reachable by hiking the Codula di Luna, one of the most scenic canyons in Sardinia. The beach is famous for its sea caves lit by golden light at sunset. The overland route requires descending the full canyon (around 2 hours); the alternative is to arrive by sea.
The secret twin of Cala Mariolu, separated by a headland. Less well known and wilder, with a seabed ideal for snorkelling. Herring gulls have nested on the overhanging cliffs for millennia.
A tiny cove reachable only by swimming or kayak from the nearby Cala Sisine. An amphitheatre of rock with an underwater cave. Few people know about it; even fewer make it there.