You want beaches that combine Sardinian charm with comfort, and Isola Rossa delivers — white sand, turquoise water, red rocks, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. This guide covers the best beaches in Isola Rossa, Sardinia, for mature travelers who value atmosphere, ease, and local flavor.
Best Hotels in Isola Rossa🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Relax Family House al Mare
- 🏨 4-Star: Mermaid’s House
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Gli Oleandri di Calarossa
- 💸 Cheap: Borgo Spiaggia Isola Rossa
- 🏢 Apartment: Villa Tinnari
- 👪 For Families: Le Rose Marine
- 🏩 For Couples: La Tua Vacanza Mare e Relax (2 o 4 Pax)
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🌊 Surf & Sun — La Marinedda
- 🏖️ Family-Friendly Sands — Spiaggia Longa
- 🌿 Secluded Escape — Li Feruli Beach
- 👶 Kids’ Paradise — Li Femini Beach
- 🤿 Snorkeling Haven — Cala Canneddi Beach
- 🌄 Scenic Canyon — Li Cossi Beach
- 💑 Romantic Hideaway — Cala Tinnari Beach
- ⚓ Harbor Gem — Spiaggetta del Porto
1. La Marinedda: Surf, Swim, Repeat
La Marinedda delivers a postcard view: white sand, red granite cliffs, and waves lapping the shore, making la marinedda beach a beautiful beach on this red island coastline. I watched surfers carve the afternoon swell while families built sandcastles nearby and occasional freedivers prepare to dive along the rocky headland. This 600-meter sandy beach (about 0.6 km) is best from May to September, when water sports thrive—surfing, windsurfing, snorkeling. Nearby, Spiaggia Longa and Cala Canneddi are just a short stroll.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Start at Piazzetta Belvedere for sunset views, then follow Via del Porto to the beachfront promenade on the red island’s most accessible stretch. Don’t miss the hidden viewpoint above Punta Li Canneddi—locals love it for quiet contemplation and a calm cove to dive when seas are flat. Arrive before 10am for parking near the surf school, as spaces fill within 1 km of the main access. Walk from the village center in 15 minutes, or catch a taxi from Piazza Municipio.
- Pro: Ideal for both relaxation and water sports, with plenty of space even in peak season.
- Con: Wind can pick up in the afternoon, so bring a windbreaker if you plan to stay late.
Best For: Families, water sports enthusiasts, anyone craving a lively yet scenic beach day.
Skip If: You seek total seclusion — try Li Feruli or Cala Tinnari instead.
Best Hotels near La Marinedda
💎 Luxury hotels
- Relax Family House al Mare — Cozy beachfront apartment close to La Marinedda, ideal for easy swims and evening walks on the promenade.
- Casa Smeralda — Pool & Sea View — Private pool, terrace, and sea-view balcony near La Marinedda, a short drive from the main beach area.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Mermaid’s House — Compact seaside apartment near La Marinedda and Porto Beach with balcony views, a solid pick for walkers and sunset lovers.
- Villa Tinnari — Quiet villa setting close to La Marinedda trails, great for nature escapes and coastal day trips.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Gli Oleandri di Calarossa — Simple, budget-friendly apartment with a kitchenette, a practical base for beach days around Isola Rossa.
2. Spiaggia Longa: The Heart of the Village
Spiaggia Longa’s cream-colored fine sand stretches over a kilometer, sheltered from the wind by the village’s curve beside a turquoise sea. The gentle slope and calm water over a sandy seabed make it perfect for swimming. I spent a morning here, floating in crystal-clear water, then exploring the small shops along Via Lungomare before a quick glance toward Castelsardo on the horizon.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Enter from Via delle Sirene, near the tourist office, and walk past the port to reach the beach that continues to enchant even in the quieter hours. The Sentiero Li Bicchi Russi coastal path leads to quieter coves—locals favor the stretch near the old Spanish Tower for its solitude and sheltered seabed. There’s a bus stop on Via Nazionale, but walking from the town center takes just 5 minutes. Visit early to snag a spot under the maritime pines with turquoise sea views toward Castelsardo.
- Pro: Easy access, shallow waters, and all amenities within steps.
- Con: Can get busy in July and August — go early or late for more space.
Best For: Families, swimmers, anyone who wants convenience without sacrificing beauty.
Skip If: You prefer wild, untouched shores — head to Li Feruli or Cala Tinnari.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Longa
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Panorama — Badesi — Budget-friendly base with terrace access, handy for exploring Spiaggia Longa and the northern coastline.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Le Rose Marine — Practical apartments with terraces in a calm area, handy for reaching Spiaggia Longa and the marina on foot.
- Borgo Spiaggia Isola Rossa — Simple, well-located units with sea-facing balconies, ideal for budget stays near the promenade.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Vacanze L’Onda — Compact holiday home close to the waterfront promenade, convenient for evening strolls and quick swims.
3. Li Feruli Beach: Wild and Free
Li Feruli is a wide, golden-sand beach backed by Mediterranean maquis on the northern coast of Sardinia in north Sardinia. The wind here is perfect for windsurfing, and the views stretch to the Gulf of Asinara, with several beaches near Isola Rossa visible on clear days. I walked the path from the center of Isola Rossa, passing juniper trees and the scent of wild herbs along stretches of fine white sand just kilometers from Isola Rossa.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the signed lot off Strada Provinciale 90, then follow the trail through the dunes toward one of the beautiful beaches in Isola Rossa that locals prize for its wild feel. Cala Tinnari and Costa Paradiso are nearby for more adventure on the northern coast of Sardinia. Locals love the hidden dune area near the northern end for privacy, and late afternoon light from north Sardinia is stunning on windy days. Come midday for the best wind, or late afternoon for fewer people, and note there’s no public transport, so a car or bike is best.
- Pro: Uncrowded, natural, and perfect for wind sports.
- Con: Few facilities — bring water and snacks.
Best For: Seclusion seekers, windsurfers, nature lovers.
Skip If: You need amenities or have mobility challenges — try Spiaggia Longa or La Marinedda.
Best Hotels near Li Feruli Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Sunset Home — Costa Paradiso — Beachfront stay with terrace and panoramic sea views, convenient for Li Feruli hikes.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Seaview 26 apartment — Upper-floor apartment with panoramic terrace and easy access to coastal viewpoints.
- Costa Rossa View Sunset — Sea-view apartment with balcony in a peaceful lane, perfect for slow mornings and scenic evenings.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villa Surrounded by Greenery & Sea View — Quiet villa with terrace and sunset views, ideal for relaxed stays near coastal paths.
4. Li Femini Beach: Gentle Shores
Li Femini is a small, sandy beach with a gentle slope into shallow water—ideal for families with children in this traditional fishing village of Trinità d’Agultu e Vignola. The name means women’s beach, a nod to its history and natural beauty beside Longa Beach. I watched local families gather here, kids splashing in the calm shallows with views stretching toward La Maddalena on the clearest days.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Access is easy from Via del Porto, near the marina in Trinità d’Agultu e Vignola. The old fishing harbor nearby is a local favorite for evening strolls and a quiet edge of Longa Beach. Parking is limited, so arrive before 9am or after 5pm when families with children thin out. There’s a bus stop on Via Nazionale—walk down to the beach in 5 minutes past a small square that still feels like a fishing village.
- Pro: Safe, shallow water and a quiet, local vibe.
- Con: Small size — can feel crowded on weekends.
Best For: Families with young children, those seeking a peaceful spot.
Skip If: You want space to spread out — Spiaggia Longa offers more room.
Best Hotels near Li Femini Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Sardegna Appartamenti — Functional apartments near shops and cafes, a smart-value base for beach hopping.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Residenze Paradiso — No‑frills apartments with parking, a handy jump-off for Li Femini and Costa Paradiso.
5. Cala Canneddi Beach: Hidden Cove
Cala Canneddi is a pebble cove framed by cliffs, with water so clear you can see fish dart below, one of those beautiful places that water sports lovers quietly cherish. Snorkeling here is a treat for anyone who prefers sand and turquoise sea nearby but doesn’t mind pebbles underfoot. I found a quiet corner and spent hours watching the underwater world while hearing a few Gallurese phrases traded between locals on the rocks.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Reach the cove via a footpath from Via Punta Li Canneddi if you want to get there on foot without crowds. The walk is steep but rewards with solitude, perfect for those seeking calm water at dawn. La Marinedda and Cala Sarraina are nearby for variety, and locals praise the hidden viewpoint above the cove for sunrise that frames sand and turquoise sea. No facilities, so bring supplies and plan ahead; best visited April to October when water sports lovers time swims with light winds.
- Pro: Secluded, great for snorkeling, stunning scenery.
- Con: Pebbles underfoot — water shoes recommended.
Best For: Snorkelers, nature lovers, those seeking peace.
Skip If: You need amenities or have mobility issues — La Marinedda is more accessible.
Best Hotels near Cala Canneddi Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Residenze Paradiso — Homey stay with a balcony and kitchenette, good for longer trips and self-catering.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel da Paolino — Steps from the shore with a small balcony, great for couples who want easy beach access.
6. Li Cossi Beach: Canyon by the Sea
Li Cossi feels like a secret—a white and pink sand beach tucked in a canyon, reached by a scenic path that is easily reached on foot. The water is shallow, perfect for families, and the beach is equipped in high season with a few shaded areas and discreet loungers away from the shoreline. I followed the trail through Mediterranean scrub, emerging to a quiet paradise that feels like a sheltered baia beneath a distant torre aragonese.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park at Costa Paradiso and walk the 500-meter path marked by wooden railings to a corner prized for peace and quiet. Cala Tinnari and La Marinedda are close for more exploration, while the beach bar at Costa Paradiso is a local hangout for post-swim granitas before returning to loungers. Visit May to September for the calmest water and arrive early, as there’s no public transport—drive or walk the last stretch on a track that’s easily reached on foot.
- Pro: Unique setting, quiet even in summer.
- Con: Access involves a walk—not ideal for everyone.
Best For: Families, snorkelers, adventure seekers.
Skip If: You prefer drive-up convenience — Spiaggia Longa is easier to reach.
Best Hotels near Li Cossi Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Aloe — Costa Paradiso — Two-bedroom villa with garden and free Wi‑Fi, a calm option near the dramatic Li Cossi coves.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamento Vista Mare FT7 — Sea-view one-bedroom with private terrace, a comfortable option close to the waterfront.
- Villetta Roccia — Costa Paradiso — Garden villa with seasonal pool access and terrace, set near Li Cossi and rocky snorkeling spots.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Costa Paradiso In Villa — Self-catered villa with garden space, a calm base close to rocky coves and snorkeling spots.
7. Cala Tinnari Beach: Remote Romance
Cala Tinnari is a pebble beach with red stones and tranquil water, best reached by boat or a scenic hike past unspoilt stretches of Mediterranean vegetation. It’s a favorite for couples and solitude seekers in a quiet corner of a renowned tourist destination. I arrived by kayak and had the cove almost to myself, landing on a ribbon of golden sand located just a short paddle from rocky shelves of cream-colored sand fragments.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Access is via a footpath near Costa Paradiso or by boat from Isola Rossa marina where boat trips depart for hidden coves and the ridge toward Scalitta. The cove is quiet even in August, and locals love the early morning light here when the cliffs glow above coastal vegetation. Bring everything you need—there are no facilities and only simple paths reached on foot; best from June to September when sea conditions are calm.
- Pro: Peaceful, picturesque, uncrowded.
- Con: Remote—plan ahead for supplies and transport.
Best For: Romantic getaways, solitude lovers, adventure types.
Skip If: You want amenities or easy access — La Marinedda or Spiaggia Longa are better choices.
Best Hotels near Cala Tinnari Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Aloe 2 — Costa Paradiso — Air‑conditioned villa with balcony and free parking, a practical choice for scenic drives along the coastline.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Mirto Canneddi — Apartment near Cala Tinnari paths with outdoor space, great for snorkel days.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Maison de vacances dans — Family-friendly unit within a holiday complex near the sand, with easy access to facilities.
8. Spiaggetta del Porto: Harbor Charm
Spiaggetta del Porto is a small, soft-sand beach right by the village harbor, one of the most beautiful little corners within the municipality for an easy dip. It’s perfect for a quick dip or snorkeling with kids just 2 km from wider sands, and on clear days the ferries toward Bonifacio feel close enough to imagine. I enjoyed watching boats come and go while sipping a coffee from a nearby bar, a scene that’s worth a visit in a place that locals still call one of the most iconic village spots.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Enter from Via del Porto, near the main pier in the municipality center. The seaside promenade is lined with cafes—locals favor Bar del Porto for its sea views reminiscent of Stintino’s calm mornings. Parking is easiest early or late in the day when crowds thin 2 km along the waterfront. The bus from Trinità d’Agultu stops at Piazza Municipio—a 5-minute walk to a spot that’s worth a visit for golden-hour photos.
- Pro: Central, easy, and full of local character.
- Con: Small and can get busy when boats arrive.
Best For: Families, snorkelers, anyone wanting a taste of village life.
Skip If: You want a long stretch of sand — Spiaggia Longa is just down the coast.
Best Hotels near Spiaggetta del Porto
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Tua Vacanza Mare e Relax (2 o 4 Pax) — Clean, quiet unit with balcony seating, convenient for families and longer stays near the coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Silvia Climatizzata — Budget apartment with a terrace and kitchenette, a straightforward choice near local cafes and shops.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Isola Rossa?
Expect to spend around €40–€60 per person daily for meals, local transport, and beach activities, with higher costs in July and August.
Which beaches in Isola Rossa are best for families with young children?
Spiaggia Longa, Li Femini, and Spiaggetta del Porto have gentle slopes, shallow water, and easy access—perfect for families.
Which beaches are ideal for aquatic activities in Isola Rossa?
La Marinedda is tops for surfing and windsurfing, while Li Feruli is great for wind sports; snorkelers should head to Cala Canneddi or Li Cossi.
What is the best time of year to visit Isola Rossa’s beaches?
May to September offers warm seas and sunny days, with July and August busiest; April and October are quieter with cooler water.
How can you easily get around Isola Rossa’s beaches?
Walking is best in the village center; for Li Feruli, Li Cossi, and Cala Tinnari, a car or bike is ideal—local buses run to Trinità d’Agultu.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Isola Rossa?
Cala Tinnari, Cala Canneddi, and Li Feruli are quieter, while Li Cossi feels secluded despite its beauty.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Isola Rossa’s beaches?
Arrive early for parking and space, bring water shoes for pebble coves, check wind forecasts for water sports, and respect local nature—leave no trace.
