You’re planning a trip to Badesi, Sardinia, and want the best beaches—white sands, clear waters, and local flavor. I just spent two weeks exploring every cove and bay here, so this guide is packed with real, up-to-date advice for mature travelers who appreciate detail without the fluff. Whether you’re after long walks, water sports, or quiet corners, Badesi’s coastline delivers some of the most beautiful stretches in North Sardinia.
Best Hotels in Badesi🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Costa Rossa View Sunset
- 🏨 4-Star: Da Paolino
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Maison de Vacances à 100 m de la Plage
- 💸 Cheap: Casa Silvia Climatizzata
- 🏢 Apartment: Max House — A Stone’s Throw from the Sea
- 👪 For Families: Villetta Li Junchi
- 🏩 For Couples: Grandpa Apartment with Swimming Pool
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Sandy Stunner — Spiaggia Li Junchi Beach
- 🌊 Adventure Seeker — Poltu Biancu Beach
- 🌿 Tranquil Escape — Le Dune Beach
- 🏄 Surf & Wind — Li Mindi Beach
- 👪 Family Favorite — Baia delle Mimose Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Spot — Isola Rossa Beach
- 🌲 Wild Coast — Costa Paradiso Beach
- 🤿 Snorkeling Gem — San Pietro Beach
- 🌳 Local Hideaway — Li Cossi Beach
1. Spiaggia Li Junchi Beach: Classic North Sardinian Sands
Walking onto Spiaggia Li Junchi, your toes sink into soft, golden sand that stretches for kilometers—this is the postcard-perfect Sardinian beach. I lost track of time watching families build sandcastles while kitesurfers danced across the waves. This long, sandy beach is ideal from May to September, when the sea is calm and warm enough for long swims. The gentle slope makes it safe for all ages, and in peak season, lifeguards keep watch.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Start your day with a stroll along the Spiaggia Li Junchi promenade, then detour to the mouth of the River Coghinas for birdwatching—locals love this spot for its peace and wildlife in the wider Gallura coastline. For a breezy lunch, head to the beach bars near the main parking lot; arrive before 10am to secure a shady spot under the juniper bushes on one of the longest Badesi beaches, a shoreline that runs for more than a kilometer near Badesi and links to other beaches near the village of Badesi. The nearest bus stop is Badesi Centro, a short walk from the sand and a quick drive to Li Feruli and Spiaggia Li Junchi.
- Pro: Endless space means you’ll always find a quiet patch, even in high season.
- Con: Winds can pick up in the afternoon—bring a windbreaker if you’re sensitive to the mistral.
Best For: Couples and families who want space, sand, and easy swimming.
Skip If: You prefer rocky scenery or secluded coves; try Poltu Biancu Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Li Junchi Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Costa Rossa View Sunset — Hilltop holiday home near Spiaggia Li Junchi with sea-view terrace, private hot tub, and on-site parking, a short drive from Isola Rossa.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Marina — Simple, clean stay with breakfast and free parking, well located for quick drives to Li Junchi and Baia delle Mimose.
- Civico 28 — Freshly renovated apartment with Wi‑Fi and garden in central Badesi, a short hop from the coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Elicriso — Veranda With Sea View — Quiet one‑bedroom apartment with a furnished veranda and sea views in Badesi, set within a short drive of Spiaggia Li Junchi Beach.
2. Poltu Biancu Beach: Dramatic Cliffs & Crystal Waters
Poltu Biancu feels wild—the water is so clear you can see fish darting between rocks, and the cliffs frame every view on the island of Sardinia with some of the most photogenic spots in northern Sardinia. I scrambled over boulders to find a private perch, perfect for reading and listening to the waves as I looked back toward the beaches of Badesi and the headland by Castelsardo. This small sandy cove, framed by dramatic rocks, is best from June to September and draws adventurous swimmers and snorkelers, with Li Frati and Badesi beaches nearby.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Hike from the parking area at Strada Statale 127, past the viewpoint above the bay—locals come here at sunset for the best photos in the Badesi area that many tourist guides overlook. The nearest bus stop is Valledoria, but a rental car makes access easier if you plan to continue toward spiaggia li junchi di Badesi. Don’t miss the hidden path behind the main beach area; it leads to a quieter stretch where Sardinian families picnic in the shade of ancient junipers and enjoy day trips along the coast toward spiaggia li junchi di Badesi and other beaches near Badesi.
- Pro: Unmatched scenery with dramatic rock backdrops and excellent snorkeling.
- Con: Limited facilities—pack your own snacks and shade.
Best For: Adventurous travelers and anyone who loves dramatic coastal landscapes.
Skip If: You need lots of amenities or have mobility issues; Baia delle Mimose Beach is a better fit.
Best Hotels near Poltu Biancu Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Maison de vacances dans un village de vacances à100 m. de la plage — Beachfront holiday home in Badesi with sea views and easy boardwalk access to the dunes.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Vacanze L’Onda — Practical holiday home with kitchenette and terrace near Poltu Biancu, handy for easy beach days and evening walks by the dunes.
3. Le Dune Beach: Quiet Retreat Among the Sands
Le Dune is where Badesi’s coastline quiets down—a long beach with white sand forming a long stretch fringed by gentle dunes and fragrant maquis shrubs along this serene stretch of coast. I spent an afternoon here with just the sound of the mistral wind and waves, feeling miles from the crowds in a setting that recalls a traditional fishing village. This beach is quieter even in July and August, and the shallow water stays warm well into autumn, with Blue Flag standards on nearby strands. It’s perfect for long walks and lazy afternoons, and connects easily to beaches at Li further west across about 12 km of shoreline.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park near the Spa Le Dune for easy access, then follow the wooden walkways through the dunes to the shore on this calming stretch of coast. Locals favor the northern end, near the Coghinas River mouth, for its privacy and sunset views along the long beach, and they often mention how the mistral wind cools late afternoons. The nearest bus stop is Badesi Mare, but cycling from the village along Strada delle Dune is a scenic alternative on this 12 km corridor. Bring water and sunscreen—facilities are minimal, though the white sand and quiet paths toward beaches at Li make it a rewarding wander.
- Pro: Peaceful and uncrowded, ideal for reading and reflection.
- Con: Few services—come prepared with supplies.
Best For: Solo travelers and couples seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Skip If: You want lively beach bars or water sports; head to Li Junchi Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Le Dune Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Casa Smeralda — Pool & Sea View — Luxury apartment with private pool, balcony, and panoramic sea views near the red-rock coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Panorama Badesi — Elevated views, airy rooms, and convenient access to the Badesi coastline and village amenities.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Appartamento Panoramico Isola Rossa — Sea‑view apartment near Isola Rossa’s waterfront with balcony and quick access to Le Dune and La Marinedda.
4. Li Mindi Beach: Surf, Wind, and Wide Horizons
Li Mindi is Badesi’s answer to Costa Rica—wide, windy, and dotted with colorful kites along the first beach you’ll find on this stretch of coast. I joined a group of locals trying to catch the perfect wave, laughing as the mistral pushed us forward near pirotto li frati beach where the sets roll in clean. This long, sandy beach is a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding from April to October, when the breezes are strongest and the main Badesi beach further east stays calmer. The water is clean and the vibe is energetic, making it a classic day out between Badesi and Castelsardo for board lovers.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at the lot off Strada Li Mindi and walk past the beach bars to the wide-open sands that are part of a coast that’s home to the beaches most riders frequent. The viewpoint above the beach is a local secret for watching surfers at golden hour before drifting toward the main Badesi beach to compare conditions. The nearest bus stop is Badesi Centro, but most visitors drive so they can shuttle between pirotto li frati beach and the first beach you’ll find on windy days. Stick around for sundowners at the laid-back chiringuitos that pop up in summer and swap session notes about Badesi and Castelsardo.
- Pro: Prime conditions for wind sports and a lively, international crowd.
- Con: Not the best for calm swimming—opt for Spiaggia Li Junchi if you prefer still waters.
Best For: Active travelers and anyone who loves wind sports.
Skip If: You dislike wind or crowds; try Le Dune Beach for tranquility.
Best Hotels near Li Mindi Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- F&F Apartment — Apartment with seasonal outdoor pool, balcony, and handy self-catering setup for longer stays.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Seaview 26 apartment — Light‑filled apartment with terrace and sunset vistas over the coast, a short drive from the red‑rock coves.
5. Baia delle Mimose Beach: Family-Friendly Shores
Baia delle Mimose feels like a community—shallow waters, soft sand, and laughter everywhere along long white sandy beaches overlooking the crystalline shoreline. I watched kids splashing in the waves while parents lounged under umbrellas, a scene repeated all summer long beside the beach of Li Junchi just beyond the dunes. This sandy beach is small but well-organized, with showers, lifeguards, and plenty of shade typical of a family-friendly tourist resort vibe. Visit from June to September for the warmest water and liveliest atmosphere on sandy beaches overlooking the crystalline sea.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the lot off Via delle Mimose, then grab a gelato at the kiosk by the playground—a local favorite for its homemade flavors from producers near some of the best known wineries inland. The beach connects to Spiaggia Li Junchi via a scenic boardwalk, perfect for an evening stroll that links this cove with the main Badesi promenade. The nearest bus stop is Badesi Mare, but cycling is easy on the flat, paved paths that run past the beach of Li Junchi toward Isola Rossa. Arrive early to snag the best spots near the water before families drift over from the beach of Li Junchi for sunset.
- Pro: Safe, shallow waters and plenty of amenities for families.
- Con: Gets busy in peak season—come midweek for more space.
Best For: Families with young kids and anyone who values convenience.
Skip If: You want wild, untouched nature; explore Costa Paradiso Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Baia delle Mimose Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Montiruju — Peaceful retreat by Baia delle Mimose offering an outdoor pool, gardens, and easy access to inland hot springs.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villetta Li Junchi — Garden villa near Baia delle Mimose Beach with outdoor space and easy beach access.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Mermaid’s House — Isola Rossa — Beachfront stay steps from Mimose Beach with balcony and Wi‑Fi, close to Isola Rossa’s promenade.
6. Isola Rossa Beach: Sunset Views & Village Charm
Isola Rossa is where sand meets village life—a picturesque cove with a pastel-hued fishing port at one end in the north of Sardinia. I lingered over dinner at a waterfront trattoria, watching the sky turn pink over the lighthouse by Isola Rossa with the Spiaggia Lunga curving away beneath the cliffs. The beach is a mix of sand and small pebbles, best enjoyed from May to October in a coastal town also famous for good wine from nearby hills. The water is calm and perfect for swimming, with views of the Golfo di Asinara and the postcard stretch that locals call Isola Rossa with the Spiaggia Lunga.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park near Piazza del Porto and explore the tiny streets of Isola Rossa village—locals love the hidden gelateria near the church in a setting that feels every bit the relaxed tourist resort. The beach is steps from the main square, and the nearest bus stop is Isola Rossa Centro, making it easy to wander between the promenade and the cove that anchors Isola Rossa with the Spiaggia Lunga. For the best sunset, walk to the rocky point at the far end of the cove and watch the colors spill across the north of Sardinia. Don’t miss the weekly fish market by the harbor, then pair dinner with a glass from one of the region’s best known wineries.
- Pro: Charming village atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
- Con: The beach can get crowded in July and August.
Best For: Couples and small groups who enjoy a mix of beach and village life.
Skip If: You prefer long, empty strands; Le Dune Beach is quieter.
Best Hotels near Isola Rossa Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Albergo Rurale Casa Fois — Charming rural hideaway in Valledoria with garden, breakfast, and quick drives to San Pietro a Mare and Isola Rossa.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Blu — Free Parking By The Sea — Coastal apartment offering free private parking and quick strolls to the shoreline.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Giardino Degli Ulivi — Peaceful B&B in Santa Maria Coghinas with garden, generous breakfast, and easy drives to Valledoria and Isola Rossa.
7. Costa Paradiso Beach: Wild Beauty & Secluded Coves
Costa Paradiso is raw Sardinia—red cliffs, turquoise water, and hidden coves reachable only by foot or boat, with day trips easily pairing spiaggia Lunga and La Marinedda just down the coast. I hiked the Sentiero Costa Paradiso trail, discovering tiny beaches where the only sound was the wind in the juniper bushes, a reminder that since Badesi is also famous for long dune-backed strands this rugged corner offers a striking contrast. The main beach is sandy with rocky outcrops, ideal for snorkeling and photography, and the beach is an extension of a dramatic granite shoreline that glows at sunset.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the Costa Paradiso resort lot and follow the marked path to the sea—locals know the small cove just north of the main beach for its privacy and clear water, and many will say the beach is an extension of the cliff-lined inlets that define this coast. The nearest bus stop is Trinità d’Agultu, but a car is essential if combining these coves with spiaggia Lunga and La Marinedda on the same day. Bring sturdy shoes for the rocky paths and plenty of water—there are no facilities, and since Badesi is also famous for wide sandy options, planning a split day helps balance wild scenery with easier swimming.
- Pro: Breathtaking scenery and a true sense of escape.
- Con: Access is challenging for those with limited mobility.
Best For: Nature lovers and adventurers willing to explore off the beaten path.
Skip If: You need amenities or easy access; Baia delle Mimose Beach is more convenient.
Best Hotels near Costa Paradiso Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Ariadimari Hotel — Friendly Valledoria base with pool and veranda breakfast, close to Costa Paradiso Beach and the Coghinas River.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Mamia 419 — Cozy apartment with terrace and kitchenette in Badesi, set for easy drives to Costa Paradiso and local dunes.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casetta Al Mare — Isola Rossa — Central seafront B&B a few steps from the sand on Costa Paradiso, ideal for car‑free beach days.
8. San Pietro Beach: Snorkeling & Marine Life
San Pietro is a secret—a small, sandy bay fringed by rocks teeming with sea life, and the beach is located in front of shallow reefs that shelter calm water. I spent a morning snorkeling here, spotting colorful fish and even an octopus in the clear shallows as locals chatted about many local festivals organized along this coast. The beach is quiet even in August, with a relaxed, local vibe that pairs well with tastings from known wineries in the area after a swim. The water stays warm into October, making it a great choice for late-season visits when the beach is located in front of sunlit rock shelves.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at the small lot off Strada San Pietro and walk the last few minutes to the sand—locals favor the rocky western end for the best snorkeling where the beach is located in front of a natural pool. The nearest bus stop is Valledoria, but cycling along the coast is a scenic alternative that passes venues for many local festivals organized in late summer. Pack a picnic and enjoy the shade of the Mediterranean pines that line the shore, then round off the day with a glass from known wineries in the area.
- Pro: Excellent snorkeling and a peaceful, uncrowded feel.
- Con: No facilities—bring everything you need.
Best For: Snorkelers and anyone seeking a quiet, local experience.
Skip If: You want lots of space or amenities; Spiaggia Li Junchi Beach has more room.
Best Hotels near San Pietro Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- BiloSottili — Affitti Brevi Italia — Practical one‑bedroom stay with air‑conditioning and private parking, convenient for beach days along the Badesi coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Gli Oleandri di Calarossa — Family‑friendly apartment with kitchen and patio in Badesi, convenient for exploring the Gulf of Asinara.
9. Li Cossi Beach: Local Hideaway & Natural Pool
Li Cossi is where locals escape the crowds—a small, sandy cove surrounded by sculpted granite rocks with water so clear it mirrors the crystalline sea of the golfo. I joined a group of Sardinians jumping from the boulders into the clear, deep water, laughing as the fish scattered below near the beach’s sheltered corner. The beach is best in June and September, when the sea is calm and the sun not too intense, and it’s easy to pair a swim with a mellow drive through inland towns and villages afterward. It’s a natural pool for confident swimmers tucked near the beach where cliffs glow at sunset.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the end of Strada Li Cossi and walk the short trail to the beach—locals love the hidden viewpoint above the cove for a quiet picnic near the beach before late-afternoon swims. The nearest bus stop is Trinità d’Agultu, but most visitors drive, which makes it simple to explore inland towns and villages for dinner after the golden hour. Arrive early to secure a spot on the small patch of sand—this is a true local gem that fills up quickly in summer thanks to the crystalline sea of the golfo.
- Pro: Stunning rock formations and a relaxed, local crowd.
- Con: Limited space and no facilities—come prepared.
Best For: Confident swimmers and anyone who loves dramatic coastal scenery.
Skip If: You need amenities or have young children; Baia delle Mimose Beach is safer and more convenient.
Best Hotels near Li Cossi Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Relax A 2 Passi Dal Mare — Isola Rossa — Simple seaside apartment near Spiaggia Lunga and the Li Cossi promenade, ideal for sunset strolls
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Affaccio Sul Golfo Dell’Asinara — Sea‑view apartment overlooking the Gulf of Asinara, featuring a balcony and quick access to the Li Cossi Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Nira — Sardegna — Comfy two‑guest apartment with a private terrace and sea‑facing outlook, set close to Badesi’s main beaches.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Badesi?
Expect to spend €40–€80 per day per person on meals, local transport, and beach activities, with higher prices in July and August.
Which beaches in Badesi are best for families with young children?
Spiaggia Li Junchi Beach and Baia delle Mimose Beach offer shallow, calm waters, lifeguards, and family-friendly facilities.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Badesi?
Li Mindi Beach is the top spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while Poltu Biancu Beach and San Pietro Beach are great for snorkeling.
What is the best time of year to visit Badesi’s beaches?
June to September delivers warm water and sunny days, but May and October are quieter with mild weather—perfect for mature travelers.
How can you easily get around Badesi’s beaches?
A rental car is most convenient, but local buses connect Badesi Centro to key beaches in season; walking and cycling are pleasant along the flat coastline.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Badesi?
Le Dune Beach, San Pietro Beach, and Li Cossi Beach are quieter options loved by locals for their natural beauty and tranquility.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Badesi’s beaches?
Arrive early for parking, bring your own shade and water to less-developed beaches, and respect local wildlife and dunes—stick to marked paths.
