Sardinia, Italy

Cala Gonone Beaches

Overview

Cala Gonone is a premier gateway to some of Europe's most spectacular and wild coastlines. This seaside town on Sardinia's eastern shore is the main departure point for exploring the breathtaking Gulf of Orosei. While the town itself has beaches you can walk to, its true appeal lies in the unparalleled access it provides to secluded coves. Many of these world-famous beaches are best reached by boat, making a trip from the local port a quintessential part of the Cala Gonone experience.

The area's beaches offer a stunning variety, from convenient town shores to dramatic, cliff-backed coves with a mix of sand and smooth pebbles. For ultimate convenience, Spiaggia Centrale di Cala Gonone sits right in the heart of the town. Adventure seekers often head to Spiaggia di Cala Fuili, the last beach accessible by car and the starting point for scenic coastal hikes. From the water, you can visit the iconic Cala Luna, famous for its vast, shady caves, or the brilliant Cala Mariolu, whose dazzling turquoise water has made it a social media star.

Exploring this dramatic coastline by water, whether on a guided tour or by renting a private dinghy, is an unforgettable adventure. It is the ideal way to witness the limestone cliffs and hidden gems that define the region. While our editor's picks highlight the must-see spots, they are just the beginning of what this coastline has to offer. Be sure to explore our full guide for a longer list of incredible beaches waiting to be discovered in and around Cala Gonone.

FAQ

Do you need a car in Cala Gonone?

While it's possible to get around Cala Gonone on foot to reach the central beaches, restaurants, and the port, renting a car is highly recommended to fully explore the surrounding area. Public transportation can be limited and having a car provides the freedom to visit nearby beaches like Cala Cartoe and Osalla, as well as trailheads for hikes to more remote coves. The closest airport is in Olbia, about a 90-minute to two-hour drive away, making a car the most convenient option for transfers as well.

How do you get to the beaches in Cala Gonone?

The beaches in and around Cala Gonone are accessible in a few different ways. The town's central beach (Spiaggia Centrale) and Palmasera are easily reached on foot. Cala Fuili is the last beach accessible by car, from which a path leads to other coves. However, the most famous and secluded beaches like Cala Luna, Cala Sisine, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzè are best reached by boat. Numerous boat tours and private dinghy rentals (gommoni) are available from the port of Cala Gonone.

Are the beaches in Cala Gonone sandy or pebbly?

The beaches in the Cala Gonone area offer a mix of surfaces. The main town beach, Spiaggia Centrale, is composed of light-colored sand mixed with small stones or gravel. Other famous coves in the Gulf of Orosei, like Cala Mariolu, are known for their small, smooth white pebbles, while Cala Luna has a mix of sand and pebbles. Beaches to the north, such as Cala Cartoe and Osalla, are characterized by fine sand.

Is Cala Gonone good for families?

Yes, Cala Gonone is a suitable destination for families. The town offers family-friendly accommodations and resorts. Some beaches, like Cala Cartoe and Osalla to the north, have fine sand and shallow waters, making them ideal for children. The main town beach is also popular with families due to its calm sea conditions and proximity to amenities. Boat trips on larger ferries can be a comfortable way for families with young children to see the famous coves.

Can you swim to Cala Goloritzè?

While you can swim at Cala Goloritzè, you cannot reach the beach itself by a large tourist boat. To preserve the beach, a National Monument, boats must anchor offshore. Visitors can then swim to the shore from the anchored boats. The other way to access the beach is via a challenging 1.5 to 2-hour hike from the Golgo Plateau in Baunei, for which there is an entrance fee.

Which is better, Cala Luna or Cala Mariolu?

Choosing between Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu depends on your preference. Cala Luna is a larger beach known for its wide crescent of sand, shallow turquoise waters, and large caves that provide shade. It's often reached by a scenic hike or boat trip. Cala Mariolu is famous for its tiny, smooth white pebbles that resemble rice grains and its incredibly clear, emerald waters, perfect for snorkeling. It is smaller and can feel more intimate, though it gets very popular. Both are stunning and are frequent stops on boat tours from Cala Gonone.

What is the best way to see the coves: a group tour or renting a private boat (gommone)?

Both options have their advantages. Group ferry tours are comfortable, often have shade and onboard facilities, and are a good value, making them ideal for families or those who prefer a relaxed pace. Renting a private inflatable boat, or 'gommone' (which you can drive yourself without a license for engines up to 40hp), offers complete freedom and flexibility. You can set your own schedule, visit less-crowded spots, and explore hidden corners of the coastline at your leisure. For those new to the area, hiring a gommone with a skipper is also a popular choice.

Is Cala Gonone a good base for a beach holiday?

Absolutely. Cala Gonone is an excellent base for a beach-focused holiday, especially for those wanting to explore the stunning Gulf of Orosei. The town itself has accessible beaches, but its main advantage is its port, which is the primary departure point for boat trips to some of Europe's most beautiful and secluded coves, like Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu. Beyond beaches, it offers a range of accommodation, restaurants, and access to hiking and other outdoor activities.

People Also Ask

When is the best time to visit Cala Gonone for swimming?

The best time for swimming in Cala Gonone is from June to September. During these months, the sea temperature is comfortably warm, typically ranging from 22°C (72°F) in June to a peak in August. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. For pleasant weather, warm water, and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September.

Are there any beaches in Cala Gonone you can walk to?

Yes, there are several beaches you can access on foot directly from the town. The main beach is Spiaggia Centrale, located right by the port and promenade. A short walk along the waterfront leads you to the Palmasera beaches. A bit further south, a paved road ends at Cala Fuili, which is accessible via a staircase from the road. From Cala Fuili, hiking trails begin that lead to other coves, most notably Cala Luna.

Is Cala Gonone or Orosei a better place to stay?

The choice between Cala Gonone and Orosei depends on your priorities. Cala Gonone is a seaside village that serves as the direct departure point for boat excursions into the most famous part of the Gulf of Orosei, making it ideal for those focused on exploring coves like Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu. Orosei is a larger, historic town set slightly inland with more dining and nightlife options. While you can still access beautiful sandy beaches from Orosei, you would need to drive to Cala Gonone (about 30-40 minutes) to get the best boat tours for the southern coves.

Can you hike to Cala Luna from Cala Gonone?

Yes, it is possible to hike to Cala Luna. The most common trail starts at Cala Fuili, the last beach accessible by car south of Cala Gonone. The hike is considered challenging, taking about two hours each way over rocky terrain with significant uphill and downhill sections. It offers stunning cliffside views. Many people choose to hike one way and return by boat, which can be arranged at the port in Cala Gonone.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Cala Gonone: Weather Today

📅 Sunday, July 27, 2025
It's a beautiful day to be at the beach in Cala Gonone! Expect a very warm day with plenty of sunshine. The sea temperature is a pleasant 26.4 °C, with gentle waves. The wind might be a bit strong at times, so consider that for activities. The maximum air temperature will be 31.4 °C. With a UV index of 8, remember to apply sunscreen regularly.
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Air

Low / High23.9°C/31.4°C
Feels Like (High)30.2°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature26.4 °C
Wave Height0.5 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:14/20:41
Sunshine Hours13.0 hrs
UV Index8
Cloud Cover10%
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Wind

Speed40.3 km/h
Gusts86.8 km/h
DirectionW

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