Budoni Beaches

Overview

Located on Sardinia's northeastern coast, Budoni is a premier destination for a relaxed beach holiday. The area is renowned for its stunning shoreline, which features fine, white-ish sand and exceptionally clear, turquoise waters. Often considered a more tranquil alternative to its bustling neighbor, San Teodoro, Budoni is an excellent choice for families and visitors seeking serene natural beauty. The shallow, gentle waters at many of its beaches make it a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages.

Among the local treasures, Spiaggia di Budoni is the town's main beach, celebrated for its convenience, vast expanse, and family-friendly shallow sea. For a truly memorable day trip, the famous Brandinchi Beach, widely known as 'Little Tahiti', is an essential visit, captivating visitors with its incredible tropical-like water. Other editor's picks offer unique charms, from the distinct, coarse sand at Spiaggia di Porto Ainu to the wonderfully wild and scenic landscape of Spiaggia Li Cucutti.

Beyond these highlights, Budoni's coastline stretches for 18 kilometers, revealing a variety of other beautiful spots, including the lovely Cala Ottiolu near its charming marina. This variety ensures there is a perfect stretch of sand for everyone, from wide-open shores to more intimate coves. To discover all the hidden gems and popular shores this remarkable area has to offer, be sure to explore our complete guide to the beaches of Budoni.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Budoni a good choice for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Budoni is considered an excellent destination for families. The main beach, Cala di Budoni, features a long stretch of fine white sand and crystal-clear, shallow water, making it safe for children to play. Many beaches in the area, such as Sa Capannizza, are equipped with amenities like showers, toilets, and beach bars. Additionally, the town itself is lively in the summer, with street markets and family-friendly events.

Spiaggia di Budoni

Spiaggia Capannizza

What's the difference between Budoni and San Teodoro for a beach holiday?

Budoni and San Teodoro are neighboring resorts, but they offer slightly different atmospheres. San Teodoro is generally considered more lively and tourist-focused, with famous (and often more crowded) beaches like La Cinta and a more vibrant nightlife. Budoni is often described as more relaxed and less crowded, offering a quieter holiday experience while still providing beautiful beaches and essential services. Budoni can also be slightly more budget-friendly.

La Cinta

Can you swim in the sea in Budoni in May or October?

Swimming in Budoni during the shoulder seasons is possible, but the water will be cool. In May, the average sea temperature is around 19°C (66°F), which many find brisk. By October, the water retains some of the summer warmth, averaging around 21°C (70°F). While locals might wait for warmer months, many visitors from cooler climates find the temperatures refreshing for a swim, especially on sunny days.

Are the beaches in Budoni free to access, or do you have to pay?

The vast majority of beaches in and around Budoni are free to access. You can lay your own towel on the sand without any charge. However, you will find 'stabilimenti balneari' or beach clubs on sections of the larger beaches, like Cala di Budoni, where you can pay to rent sunbeds and umbrellas. Parking near the most popular beaches almost always requires a fee during the summer season.

Spiaggia di Budoni

How do I get to the beaches if I'm staying in Budoni town?

The main Budoni beach (Cala di Budoni) is conveniently located and can be reached on foot from the town center. For other nearby beaches like Porto Ainu or those in the direction of Porto Ottiolu, driving is the most practical option. There is a local bus service, and some hotels offer shuttle services to nearby beaches. Renting a car provides the most flexibility to explore the 18km of coastline.

Spiaggia di Budoni

Spiaggia di Porto Ainu

Are Budoni's beaches suitable for activities like snorkeling and windsurfing?

Yes, the coastline around Budoni is well-suited for various water sports. The clear waters at beaches like those near Porto Ottiolu and Baia Sant'Anna, with its rocky seabed, are excellent for snorkeling. Cala di Budoni is also a popular spot for windsurfing, and rental services for equipment for these activities are available at the main beaches.

Spiaggia di Budoni

What are the beaches in Budoni actually like? Is the sand white?

The beaches in the Budoni area are renowned for their beauty. The main Cala di Budoni is a long, 4-kilometer stretch of fine, light-colored, almost white sand. The water is famously crystal-clear with turquoise and blue hues. Some beaches, like Porto Ainu, have slightly coarser-grained sand, which some visitors prefer as it doesn't stick as much.

Spiaggia di Budoni

Spiaggia di Porto Ainu

Are there any quiet, less crowded beaches near Budoni?

Yes, while the main beach can get busy in peak season, there are quieter alternatives. Porto Ainu is often less crowded and has a beautiful pine forest backdrop. For a truly secluded experience, you can seek out hidden coves like Cala dei Francesi, north of Porto Ottiolu, which is little known and requires a bit of effort to reach, rewarding visitors with tranquility.

Spiaggia di Porto Ainu

People Also Ask

Is it better to stay in Budoni town or closer to a specific beach like Porto Ottiolu?

The best place to stay depends on your holiday style. Staying in Budoni town offers convenience with more shops, restaurants, and easy walking access to the main beach. Staying near Porto Ottiolu provides a more resort-like feel, centered around its charming marina, with beautiful beaches within walking distance. Porto Ottiolu is also a great starting point for boat excursions.

Do I need to rent a car for a beach holiday in Budoni?

While you can enjoy a holiday in Budoni without a car by staying centrally and using local buses or shuttles, renting a car is highly recommended. A car gives you the freedom to explore the 18 kilometers of coastline, visit more secluded beaches, and easily travel to nearby towns like San Teodoro and Posada. The Olbia airport is about a 30-40 minute drive from Budoni.

Are there any beaches with facilities like bars and restaurants right on the sand?

Yes, several beaches in Budoni have facilities directly on or just behind the beach. On the main Cala di Budoni, you'll find a number of beach bars and restaurants (like Stella Marina or La Tavernetta) where you can have lunch, drinks, or dinner with a sea view. These establishments often also rent out sunbeds and umbrellas.

Spiaggia di Budoni

Is Budoni just for beach holidays or is there anything else to do?

While Budoni is primarily known for its stunning beaches, it offers more to explore. The area has a rich history with nearby archaeological sites like the Nuraghe San Pietro. The town itself has evening markets and festivals in the summer. Just behind the main beach, you can find lagoons where it's sometimes possible to spot pink flamingos. It also serves as a great base for exploring the wider region, including the medieval town of Posada.