Sardinia, Italy

Bari Sardo Beaches

Overview

Located on Sardinia’s tranquil eastern coast, Bari Sardo offers a peaceful beach holiday for those looking to escape the crowds. This destination is prized for its authentic, natural character and a coastline that has been protected from heavy development. Visitors will discover a surprising variety of beaches, from long sandy stretches to quiet hidden coves, making it an ideal choice for relaxation and connecting with nature rather than the bustling energy of larger tourist hubs.

The coastline presents a diverse selection of stunning beaches. The main beach, Spiaggia della Torre di Barì, is known for its convenience and the historic tower that divides its shoreline. For a unique landscape, Spiaggia di Cea is famous for its iconic red rocks rising from the sea and its famously shallow water, making it a family favorite. Nearby, Spiaggia del Lido di Orri is considered one of the region's most beautiful spots, offering picture-perfect coves of fine white sand. To truly get away from it all, Spiaggia di Planargia provides a wilder, more rugged atmosphere perfect for a quiet escape.

The charm of Bari Sardo lies in this variety, catering to every preference. You can find beaches with fine, white sand and others with coarse, golden grains. The sea itself ranges from being very shallow and calm to getting deep quickly just a few steps from the shore. Beyond these highlights, the area is dotted with many more beautiful spots. For more ideas, be sure to explore our complete list of the best beaches in Bari Sardo.

FAQ

Is Bari Sardo good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Bari Sardo is considered a great destination for a family beach holiday. It is known for being a quieter, relaxing area focused on nature, away from more crowded tourist spots. Several beaches are particularly suitable for children. For instance, Cea beach has fine white sand and a very shallow seabed, allowing you to walk nearly 100 meters into the sea, and it has been awarded the 'Green Flag' by Italian pediatricians. The main Torre di Barì beach is also popular with families and offers services like lifeguards and rentals. Marina di Bari Sardo beach also features soft sand and clear, shallow water.

What is the sand like on the beaches in Bari Sardo?

The beaches around Bari Sardo offer a surprising variety of sand and textures. The famous Torre di Barì beach is actually split into two parts by a promontory: the northern side ('Mari de is ominis') has coarse, golden-ochre sand, while the southern side ('Mari de is femminas') has finer sand mixed with small grey pebbles. Nearby, Cea beach is known for its kilometer of fine white sand. Planargia beach has pale, medium-grained sand that becomes enriched with very white pebbles near the shoreline.

Can you swim in Bari Sardo and how deep is the water?

Yes, the water in Bari Sardo is excellent for swimming, known for its clarity and cleanliness, often earning the area a Blue Flag distinction. However, the water depth varies significantly between beaches. At Torre di Barì beach and Planargia beach, the seabed gets deep very quickly, just a few meters from the shore. In contrast, Cea beach is famously shallow, making it ideal for families and wading. The beaches south of Bari Sardo towards Cardedu also feature shallow waters where you can touch the bottom for many meters from the coast.

When is the best time to visit Bari Sardo for a beach holiday?

The ideal time for a beach holiday in Bari Sardo is from June to September when the weather is hot and sunny, and the sea temperature is warm and perfect for swimming. The swimming season can last from June to November, with water temperatures not usually dropping below 20°C in this period. August is the hottest month with average sea temperatures around 25°C. For those who prefer fewer crowds and milder weather, spring (May) and autumn (October) are also good times to visit, and the sea is often still warm enough for a swim in October.

Can I find beachfront accommodation in Bari Sardo?

Yes, there are several accommodation options right near the sea. The area of Torre di Barì, which is the main seaside hub, has hotels like Hotel La Torre and Domus De Janas Sul Mare located just steps from the beach. There are also campsites, such as Camping L'Ultima Spiaggia, and various holiday homes and apartments available for rent with direct beach access or sea views. However, it's important to note that the town of Bari Sardo itself is about 4km inland from the coast.

Is it better to stay in Bari Sardo or Tortolì for beaches?

Choosing between Bari Sardo and Tortolì depends on your preference. Bari Sardo is known for being a quieter, more tranquil destination with long, uncrowded beaches perfect for relaxation and escaping tourist crowds. Its coastline is protected from heavy development, giving it an authentic feel. Tortolì, including its Lido di Orrì, offers beautiful, fine white sand beaches that are also very popular and can be busier. While both share the stunning Cea beach, Bari Sardo is generally preferred by those seeking peace and unspoiled nature, whereas Tortolì might offer more services and a slightly livelier atmosphere.

Do I need a car to get to the beaches in Bari Sardo?

While the town of Bari Sardo is located about 4-5 kilometers from its main beach, Torre di Barì, having a car is highly recommended to explore the diverse coastline fully. A car allows you to easily visit different beaches like Cea, Planargia, and the coves to the south. However, during the summer, there is a local public transport shuttle (TPL) that connects Bari Sardo town with the beaches. Parking is available at the main beaches, though it can be limited.

Are the beaches in Bari Sardo windy?

Bari Sardo, like much of Sardinia, can be windy, which makes it a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The most common winds are the 'Grecale' (from the north-east) and the 'Scirocco' (from the south-east). The windiest time of year is generally from October to April. During the summer, mornings are often calmer, with winds sometimes picking up in the afternoon. If you prefer to avoid waves, it's a good tip to go to the beach in the morning.

People Also Ask

What is the story behind the 'men's' and 'women's' beach at Torre di Barì?

The main beach, Torre di Barì, is famously divided by a Spanish watchtower on a rocky promontory. The northern part is called 'Mari de is ominis' (Sea of Men) and the southern part is 'Mari de is feminas' (Sea of Women). This naming tradition dates back to the post-war period when, to uphold the 'common sense of modesty', the two sections of the beach were frequented separately by men and women.

Are there quiet, hidden beaches near Bari Sardo?

Yes, while Torre di Barì and Cea are more popular, the Bari Sardo coastline has quieter spots for those seeking solitude. The long beach of Planargia is often less crowded, even in August. To the south of Torre di Barì, you can find a series of small, rocky coves like S'Abba e S'Ulimu and Punta Su Mastixi, which are perfect for snorkeling and escaping the crowds. These are often best reached by a short walk from the main roads.

Are there beach clubs or facilities on Bari Sardo's beaches?

Yes, the main beaches in Bari Sardo are equipped with facilities. At Torre di Barì, you'll find several beach bars and restaurants, some located in the pine forest behind the beach, as well as services for renting umbrellas and sunbeds. Cea beach also has facilities for rentals and dining. While the area is prized for its natural and undeveloped coastline, you can still find the necessary amenities for a comfortable day at the beach, especially at the more popular spots.

What are the red rocks at Cea Beach?

The distinctive red rocks at Cea Beach are a famous local landmark called 'Is Scoglius Arrubius'. These are two stacks of red porphyry rock that rise from the sea a short distance from the shoreline. They are a popular destination for strong swimmers and divers and add to the unique, picturesque charm of the beach.

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