Stintino Beaches

Overview

Stintino, nestled in Sardinia, is a dream destination for beach lovers. Its coastline is renowned for some of the most beautiful waters imaginable, often compared to a tropical paradise. Visitors will discover exceptionally clear, calm, and turquoise seas with invitingly shallow areas, making it perfect for swimming and an excellent choice for families with children.

The undisputed star is Spiaggia La Pelosa, an iconic beach celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and shallow turquoise waters; its immense popularity means access to its famed sands often requires advance planning. For a different coastal charm, Spiaggia Le Saline offers a long expanse of unique white pebbles. Those seeking convenience will appreciate Tamerici, located close to town, while Coscia di Donna provides a secluded, wild cove for ultimate tranquility. Many also explore Ezzi Mannu, known for its distinctive white quartz sand.

Beyond these well-known spots, Stintino presents a diverse range of coastal experiences. While ideal for a relaxing holiday basking in the sun, the area also offers activities like snorkeling and boat excursions to the nearby Asinara National Park. Whether you're looking for vibrant shores or peaceful hideaways, our comprehensive guide features a longer list of beaches to help you find your perfect seaside escape in this Sardinian gem.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Do I need to book La Pelosa beach in Stintino and how much does it cost?

Yes, to visit La Pelosa beach between June 1st and October 31st, you need to book your spot online in advance. The entrance fee is €3.50 per person. Children under 12 do not require a reservation. Access is limited to 1,500 visitors per day, and it's recommended to book early, especially during peak season (July and August).

Spiaggia La Pelosa

What are the rules for visiting La Pelosa beach?

To preserve La Pelosa's natural beauty, there are several rules: you must use a mat under your beach towel to prevent sand removal. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas. It's forbidden to take sand, shells, or stones. Dogs are not allowed during main hours (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM). You must also rinse your feet at the provided fountains before leaving. Littering is strictly prohibited, and use of soaps or shampoos is forbidden.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Is Stintino good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Stintino is considered a good destination for families. La Pelosa beach, in particular, is known for its very shallow, calm, and clear waters, making it safe and enjoyable for children. Many accommodations in the area also cater to families with specific amenities and kids' clubs.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

What's the best way to get to Stintino's beaches from Alghero Airport?

The easiest and most flexible way to reach Stintino's beaches from Alghero Airport (about 50 km away) is by renting a car. The drive takes approximately 50 minutes. Alternatively, during the summer (June-September), a direct bus service (Sardabus) operates from Alghero Airport to Stintino, including stops near La Pelosa. Outside of summer, bus travel requires a change in Porto Torres.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Are there any hotels or accommodations right on or very close to La Pelosa beach?

Yes, there are several hotels, resorts, and holiday homes located very close to La Pelosa beach, some within walking distance. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially for these prime locations, due to high demand.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Are there alternatives to La Pelosa beach in Stintino if it's too crowded or fully booked?

Yes, Stintino offers several other beautiful beaches. Le Saline is known for its white pebbles and is often less crowded. Ezzi Mannu features unique white quartz sand and is quite long, offering more space. Other options include Pazzona, Cala Lupo, Punta Negra, and Coscia di Donna, each with its own charm. Some of these are free to access without reservation.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Spiaggia Le Saline

Spiaggia di Ezzi Mannu

La Pazzona

What is the parking situation like at La Pelosa beach?

There is paid parking available near La Pelosa beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially during high season. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot closer to the beach. The cost is typically around €2.00 - €2.50 per hour. Some parking areas allow payment via apps like EasyPark.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

When is the best time to visit Stintino for a beach holiday, considering crowds and weather?

For the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting Stintino in May, June, September, or early October. July and August are the busiest months with the highest temperatures, and La Pelosa beach will be very crowded. Spring and early autumn offer pleasant temperatures for swimming and sunbathing with more tranquility.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

People Also Ask

Can you swim to the island with the tower at La Pelosa beach?

Yes, the small island with the Aragonese tower (Torre della Pelosa) is relatively close to the shore of La Pelosa beach, and many visitors swim or walk through the shallow water to reach it. The water is very shallow for a good distance.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Torre della Pelosa

What is the water like at Stintino's beaches? Is it clear and good for swimming?

The waters at Stintino's beaches, especially La Pelosa, are renowned for being exceptionally clear, calm, and turquoise, often compared to Caribbean waters. The seabed is shallow for many meters, making it ideal for swimming and safe for families. The clarity also makes it great for snorkeling.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Is Stintino more for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous one?

Stintino primarily offers a relaxing beach holiday experience, famous for its stunning, calm waters and beautiful sandy shores like La Pelosa. However, there are also opportunities for more active pursuits such as snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, kayaking, and boat trips to the nearby Asinara National Park, which offers hiking and wildlife spotting.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

What is the sand like at La Pelosa beach?

La Pelosa beach is famous for its very fine, soft, white sand, often described as talcum-like or impalpable. This contributes to the beach's stunning appearance and the water's vibrant turquoise color.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

How does Stintino compare to other Sardinian beach destinations like San Teodoro or Alghero?

Stintino is renowned for the exceptional beauty of La Pelosa, often considered one of Italy's best beaches, with incredibly clear, shallow turquoise waters, ideal for families. It's a smaller village focused on its stunning coastline. Alghero is a larger historic town with its own nice beaches and more city-life, restaurants, and cultural attractions. San Teodoro, on the east coast, is popular for its long white sandy beaches like La Cinta and a more vibrant nightlife. Stintino is perhaps more about tranquil natural beauty, though La Pelosa itself can be very busy.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Are there facilities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and toilets at Stintino's beaches?

Yes, particularly at popular beaches like La Pelosa, you can find lidos (beach clubs) that rent sunbeds and umbrellas. Public toilets and showers are usually available, often included with the La Pelosa entrance ticket. Other beaches like Le Saline may have fewer facilities but often have nearby cafes or bars. It's a good idea to bring cash for rentals.

Spiaggia La Pelosa

Spiaggia Le Saline

Can I visit Asinara National Park from Stintino?

Yes, Stintino is a primary departure point for excursions to Asinara National Park, an island located just off the coast. Various organized tours are available, including boat trips, jeep tours, and bike rentals, allowing you to explore the island's unique nature, wildlife (like the albino donkeys), and historical sites such as former prisons.