You landed in southern Sardinia for the best beaches in Calasetta, a charming coastal town on Sant’Antioco Island, calasetta is a small gem in the southwestern Sulcis region, calasetta is located just a short ferry ride from the town of Carloforte and well connected to mainland Sardinia via the causeway to Carbonia and the southeastern hub of Cagliari. Here’s the truth: you won’t find fuss or crowds, just a string of wild coves, pale dunes, and long curves of sand backed by mistral winds and ancient salt pans. Planning your trip to Calasetta beach, with options for an apartment in Calasetta, guarantees zero compromise—every visit here balances raw, local flavor with the kind of instant serenity that keeps mature couples and small groups coming back.
Best Hotels in Calasetta🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Luci Del Faro
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Stella Del Sud
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Cala Di Seta
- 💸 Cheap: Cà du Savio
- 🏢 Apartment: Villa Caterina
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hotel Stella Del Sud
- 🏩 For Couples: I tre schen
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Family Haven — Sottotorre Beach
- 🌊 Windsurfing Stretch — Spiaggia Grande
- 🌾 Wild Dunes — Le Saline Beach
- 🪨 Cliffside Escape — Cala Lunga
- 🐚 Secluded Cove — Cala Tuffi
- 🌴 Hidden Oasis — Cala Sapone
- 🐬 Adventurer’s Choice — Cala Dei Passeri
- 🌄 Sunset Spot — Cussorgia Beach
- 🐦 Nature’s Edge — Dee Passeri Beach
1. Sottotorre Beach: Where the Town Meets the Sea
White sand glints underfoot as shallow, glass-clear water slips over your toes—this is the daily mood at Sottotorre Beach, a beautiful beach known as Spiaggia di Sottotorre right in the heart of this fishing village. One morning, I wandered along the southern waterfront past Calasetta Tower, spotting locals sipping espresso under the pines before claiming their patch of sand. The beach is compact (about 300 meters), with fine sand and shallow waters perfect for families; summer brings warm, calm seas, but arrive before 10 a.m. to snag the best spots under the pines.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Start your stroll at Piazza Matteotti, detour to the Contemporary Art Museum, then follow Via Roma to the beachfront. Don’t miss the hidden viewpoint just west of the tower—locals love it for its morning shade and quiet vibe, making it a local attraction. The nearest parking is on Lungomare Colombo, but if you’re early, grab a table at Bar Porticciolo for a seaside cornetto while soaking up views of nearby San Pietro Island across the marina and fishing harbour, where you can sample fresh seafood after your swim.
- Pro: Effortless access, ideal for kids and anyone craving convenience.
- Con: Can get busy in peak tourist season—arrive early for the best experience.
Best For: Families, anyone wanting a beach day without hassle.
Skip If: You’re after wild, untouched sands—try Le Saline or Cala Lunga instead.
Best Hotels near Sottotorre Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Luci Del Faro — Romantic lighthouse views and pool terrace overlooking the Mediterranean coastline.
- Hotel Stella Del Sud — Beachfront infinity pool and private access to crystal-clear waters.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Cala Di Seta — Cozy town-center location with sea-view rooms and complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Hotel Le Sabbie — Modern comfort with garden setting and easy walking to places to visit in the main town.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Angelo B&B — Just 3 minutes from the sandy beach with friendly local hospitality and clean, comfortable rooms.
2. Spiaggia Grande: The Big, Breezy Canvas
Stand on Spiaggia Grande, one of the best beaches in south Sardinia on the southwestern coast, at noon and you’ll see why windsurfers stake their flags here—the mistral whips across 1.6 kilometers of golden sand, sculpting dunes and tossing waves into brilliant turquoise waters. I once watched a pod of dolphins from the shore, just beyond the breakers, while kitesurfers danced near the marina and ferry routes visible on the horizon. This sandy beach, like its neighbor Le Saline, is wide and wild, best in late spring or early autumn when the winds are strong but the water is still warm.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the lot off Strada Provinciale 78, then walk past the snack kiosk to the dunes. Nearby, the Fonte Vecchia trail leads to a rocky perch beloved by photographers, and the old salt pans shimmer at sunset. For a local secret, head to the eastern end near the juniper bushes—there’s a tiny, unnamed cove where afternoon light turns the water to liquid gold.
- Pro: Unbeatable for wind sports and long, thoughtful walks.
- Con: Windy days can make swimming tricky—not ideal for nervous swimmers.
Best For: Windsurfers, solitude seekers, and anyone craving space.
Skip If: You dislike wind—opt for Sottotorre or Cussorgia when the breezes pick up.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Grande
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Stella Del Sud — Beachfront infinity pool and private beach access just steps from the sand.
- Hotel Luci Del Faro — Scenic lighthouse location with excellent breakfast and peaceful garden setting.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villa Caterina — Garden terrace and free parking in a quiet residential area near the beach.
3. Le Saline Beach: Dunes, Lilies, and Salt Air
Le Saline, known for its beautiful natural beauty on Sant’Antioco Island, greets you with sugar-soft dunes, sea lilies nodding in the breeze, and water so clear you can spot tiny fish darting at your feet. I spent a lazy afternoon here, watching flamingos wade in the salt pans behind the beach—this is Calasetta at its most picturesque. The sand is pale grey, fine as powder, and the water stays shallow far out, making it safe for families and perfect for water activities. Come in June or September, considered the best time to visit Calasetta for fewer crowds and a gentler sun.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park near the campground entrance, then follow the boardwalk through the pines. Behind the dunes, the salt marshes attract seabirds, and at the far end, a rustic kiosk serves granita. Locals swear by the late-afternoon light here, when the beach glows pink and the nearby Torre Sabauda looks like a postcard. The beach offers calm, shallow waters ideal for children to play, and with La Bobba and other hidden coves just along the coast, this area is a natural attraction for those who love wild scenery and rock formations.
- Pro: Stunning natural beauty, ideal for birdwatchers and families.
- Con: Fewer services than Sottotorre—pack a picnic for the day.
Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking peace.
Skip If: You need bars and beach clubs at your doorstep—head to Sottotorre instead.
Best Hotels near Le Saline Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Cal’e Sèda — Air-conditioned comfort with inner courtyard views and easy access to salt marshes.
- Casa Angelo B&B — Perfect positioning between Le Saline and Sottotorre beaches with local insider knowledge.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Cà du Savio — Beachfront property with free Wi-Fi and prime location for beach access.
4. Cala Lunga: The Quiet Fjord
Cala Lunga isn’t just a beach—it’s a series of rocky coves and hidden inlets where the cliffs drop straight into cobalt water. I scrambled down a narrow path one morning to a tiny pebble beach, the only sound the splash of fish and the distant cry of gulls. This is mainly a rocky coastline, with small sandy patches, perfect for snorkeling and diving; spring and fall bring crystal-clear waters ideal for water activities.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
From the parking area on Strada Comunale per Cala Sapone, it’s a 15-minute walk to the coast. Nearby, the ruins of a tuna fishery hint at Calasetta’s local tuna tradition and fascinating local history, and the Sentiero del Faro trail leads to a lighthouse with knockout views. Locals love the cove just past the red rocks—swim there at sunset for an unforgettable dip.
- Pro: Seclusion, dramatic scenery, and great snorkeling.
- Con: Not ideal for small children or anyone needing easy access.
Best For: Adventurers, couples, and anyone craving wild beauty.
Skip If: You need sand under your toes—choose Sottotorre or Le Saline.
Best Hotels near Cala Lunga
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Luci Del Faro — Clifftop location with lighthouse views and easy trail access to secluded coves.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- I Tre Schen — Garden views and shared terrace in a peaceful setting perfect for exploring remote beaches.
5. Cala Tuffi: The Natural Pool
Cala Tuffi is more secret swimming hole than traditional beach—a sheltered, emerald pool tucked between cliffs, fed by the sea. I followed a goat trail from Cala Lunga, rewarded with a plunge into water so clear it stung my eyes. This spot is best in late summer, when the sea is warmest and the crowds have thinned.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at Cala Lunga and walk 20 minutes along the marked path. The cove near the old tuna nets is a local hideout, perfect for a quiet swim. Bring water shoes—the rocks can be slippery.
- Pro: Unique setting, perfect for a cooling dip.
- Con: No sand, limited space, and a hike to reach it.
Best For: Swimmers, explorers, and those craving a secret spot.
Skip If: You need facilities—stick to Sottotorre or Le Saline.
Best Hotels near Cala Tuffi
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Luci Del Faro — Coastal access point with garden relaxation after adventurous cove exploration.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- I Tre Schen — Garden setting with terrace views and free parking for beach-hopping expeditions.
6. Cala Sapone: The Distant Cove
Cala Sapone’s thick sand mixes with tiny pebbles and coral fragments, giving it a texture unlike any other beach here. I waded out to Cala della Signora, a hidden inlet where locals picnic on flat rocks. This beach is a 20-minute drive from town, best for those with a rental car—plan your trip accordingly if you want to visit this hidden section of the southwest coast near the sulcis region. Summer brings the warmest water, but spring offers wildflowers and solitude.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the lot off the main road, then walk five minutes to the shore. The trail to Cala della Signora starts at the eastern end—follow it for a secluded swim. Locals love the rock pools at low tide, perfect for families with children to play.
- Pro: Unique scenery, great for rock-hopping and quiet picnics.
- Con: Remote, and not ideal for those without a car.
Best For: Explorers, families with older kids, and anyone after something different.
Skip If: You want to stay close to town—choose Sottotorre or Le Saline.
Best Hotels near Cala Sapone
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Luci Del Faro — Strategic base for exploring remote southern beaches with car rental convenience.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villetta Immersa nella Natura — Air-conditioned retreat surrounded by nature with easy access to hidden coves.
7. Cala dei Passeri: The Wild Nook
Cala dei Passeri is a tiny, pebble-strewn cove where the waves crash against jagged rocks and the scent of wild rosemary fills the air. I scrambled down the cliff path one afternoon, rewarded with a spot all to myself—this is Calasetta for purists. Best in late spring or early fall, when the sea is lively but not too rough.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park near Faro Mangiabarche and follow the coastal trail west. The viewpoint above the cove is a local favorite for sunset, and the nearby tuna fishery ruins add a touch of local history. Bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure—this isn’t a beach for lounging, but for feeling the raw edge of the coastline, exploring rock formations and enjoying the turquoise waters.
- Pro: Total seclusion and dramatic scenery.
- Con: No sand, tough access, and no facilities.
Best For: Adventurers, photographers, and solitude seekers.
Skip If: You need comfort or calm waters—opt for Sottotorre or Cussorgia.
Best Hotels near Cala dei Passeri
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Luci Del Faro — Lighthouse proximity provides perfect access to wild coastal trails and sunset viewpoints.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- I Tre Schen — Quiet garden base with shared lounge for planning adventurous coastal exploration.
8. Cussorgia Beach: The Sunset Stretch
Cussorgia is where locals gather at dusk, spreading blankets on the fine sand as the sky turns gold and pink. The water here is shallow and calm, perfect for a late swim, and the distant silhouette of San Pietro Island adds to the magic. Summer evenings are lively but never rowdy—this is chilled-out Sardinia at its best.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park at the small lot off Via Cussorgia, then stroll past the fishing huts to the sand. The snack bar at the far end does killer aperitivo, and the path to Torre Sabauda is lit by fireflies in June. Come at sunset for the full effect—this is Calasetta’s golden hour.
- Pro: Gorgeous sunsets, easy access, and a relaxed vibe.
- Con: Can get breezy in the afternoon.
Best For: Couples, sunset lovers, and anyone who wants a taste of local life.
Skip If: You crave wild, empty beaches—try Cala dei Passeri or Cala Sapone.
Best Hotels near Cussorgia Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamento Nerium – Cala di Seta — Private beach area access with garden views just 600 meters from Cussorgia Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Scopelliti — Garden views and central location within walking distance of sunset beach and town center.
9. Dee Passeri Beach: The Birdwatcher’s Hideaway
Dee Passeri is a sliver of sand and pebbles backed by salt marshes and swaying reeds—a paradise for birdwatchers and anyone who loves nature untamed. I spotted herons and even a flamingo here one quiet morning, the only sounds the wind and distant waves. This is a beach for contemplative walks, not sunbathing—best in spring or fall, when the migratory birds are passing through.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at the Le Saline lot and walk east along the boardwalk. The bird hide near the salt pans is a local secret, perfect for quiet observation, and regular ferries connect the area to the rest of the island. Bring binoculars and a windbreaker—this is wild, elemental Calasetta.
- Pro: Unspoiled nature and great birding.
- Con: No facilities, and the beach is narrow and pebbly.
Best For: Nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking silence.
Skip If: You want classic beach comforts—head to Sottotorre or Le Saline.
Best Hotels near Dee Passeri Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Cal’e Sèda — Close to Le Saline with quiet street views and easy boardwalk access to salt marsh areas.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Giovanna e Antonio — Garden accommodation with air conditioning and proximity to birdwatching areas.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Calasetta?
Expect to spend about €50–70 per person per day on meals, local transport, and beach activities, with prices rising slightly in July and August but remaining reasonable compared to busier Sardinian resorts.
Which beaches in Calasetta are best for families with young children?
Sottotorre Beach and Le Saline offer shallow, calm waters, fine sand, and easy access, making them ideal for families with small kids.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Calasetta?
Spiaggia Grande is the top spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while Cala Lunga and Cala Tuffi are perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
What is the best time of year to visit Calasetta’s beaches?
Late May to June and September are ideal—warm sea temperatures, fewer crowds, and comfortable weather for exploring.
How can you easily get around Calasetta’s beaches?
Most beaches are within walking or short driving distance from town; parking is available near Sottotorre, Le Saline, and Spiaggia Grande, and local buses connect the main spots in summer.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Calasetta?
Cala Tuffi, Cala dei Passeri, and Dee Passeri are quieter, more remote options—perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Calasetta’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for rocky coves, arrive early for parking in peak tourist season, respect protected dune areas, and pack a picnic for beaches with fewer services.
