Mesmerizing Cala Mariolu Beach, in the Gulf of Orosei, is one of Sardinia’s most famous beaches. This is a place of hypnotic beauty. Kind of a lost paradise that is the perfect spot to spend a day in the hot summer months.
You this secluded beach that you can reach only by boat or by challenging hiking. Yet, its fame is such that it’s never empty. Namely, you’ll struggle to find a spot to lay your towel during the peak summer months. However, this shouldn’t stop you from visiting. The crowds hardly take away its beauty!
Let’s star with basics and a few tips, shall we?
First of all, locally, it is known as pùligi de nie (the snowflakes) because of the tiny white pebbles mixed with bright white sand. Cala Mariolu was named after the monk that used to live in the region (in the Grotte del Bue Marino, known in English as Sea Oxen Grotto), which local fishermen nicknamed “mariolo” (thief) as he was stealing their catch of the day regularly.
Secondly, this small beach is divided into two small coves and surrounded by 500-meter-high cliffs on both sides. The water is almost immediately deep, but the beach is nicely shielded from the wind. Furthermore, the currents are minimal, making it safe for swimming and snorkeling. You can visit several small nearby caves just a quick swim away.
The northernmost cove is where boats are carrying visitors to the dock. The dock is a large rock called “sa perda ‘e su saltatori.” In other words, it is the rock of the person that jumps. And indeed, this massive rock is the perfect spot to jump directly into the inviting clear waters.
Thirdly, it’s not uncommon to spot dolphins swimming offshore. Moreover, the beach is also a good place for birdwatching. On a lucky day, you may be able to spot golden eagles and Peregrine falcons, Eleonora’s falcons, and even European shags.
There is no easy access to Cala Mariolu. That’s why we are here to give you a few hints.
You can charter your rubber dinghy in Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese. Prices for a full-day rental vary based on season, from €100 to €250 a day, fuel not included. Tip: Ask for a boat with a shade or parasol.
Boat services to Cala Mariolu depart daily at various times from Cala Gonone, Arbatax, Santa Maria Navarrese, or even La Caletta. You can opt to go on a beach hopping trip that stops at the various beaches in the gulf (in which case, join a private tour as it’s much faster and with fewer people), or opt to visit just Cala Mariolu, in which case you will be stopping at other beaches for other people to get off before you reach Cala Mariolu.
The price of boat rides varies between €50 and €60 per person, depending on the season.
We went with Davide & Goliat and boy did we enjoy it. The captain was genuinely entertaining. Namely, he was always singing and telling jokes and exciting stories, almost like a musical on the sea.
These boat tours can be bought online:
Cala Goloritze boat tour – departing from Santa Maria Navarrese, it goes to a selection of beaches in the area, including Cala Mariolu.
Orosei Gulf hops on – hop off boat tour – similar to the one above, but it departs from Cagliari.
Sardinia Natural Park Tours, boat tour to Cala Goloritzè
Davide & Goliat – departs from La Caletta
Hiking the trail to Cala Mariolu is tricky, and you should only do it if you are an experienced hiker. The course starts in Località Piredda, in the Golgo Plateau, about 45 minutes drive from Baunei.
The return journey may be even more demanding, particularly during hot summer. Here are some primary data: The trail is approximately 6 km long in one direction, taking about 3 hours. Note that there is an up and down of about 560 meters.
Go early – If you are chartering your private boat, make it a point to get to Cala Mariolu no later than 8:30 am to admire it when it’s still empty.
Bring what you need for the day – There are no services in Cala Mariolu. You must bring food and water for the day and an umbrella for shade.
Don’t take the sand – There is no actual sand in Cala Mariolu – just tiny white-as-snow pebbles. You can’t take them unless you are ok getting a fine in case you get caught. They will check your bags at the airport or harbor to search for them. Please don’t say we did not warn you!
Be environmentally friendly – There are no trash bins in Cala Mariolu. Bring all your garbage home with you – including cigarette butts.
There are no lifeguards there – And no phone signal. Keep this in mind!
Since this is a secluded beach, there is no accommodation in the approximate vicinity. However, Cala Gonone is the best place to stay to access Cala Mariolu by boat. Alternatively, you can also visit Santa Maria Navarrese.
That was all for now. However, in the future, we plan to expand the article with more valuable tips. So, stay with us.
But before you go, do share your feelings with us. How do you like the beach? Or better, how did you like it?
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Photos were taken from Sardegnaturismo.
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