Just a few kilometers from Stintino, Pink Beach is one of Sardinia's most magical and fascinating places. It is located on the island of Budelli and owes its name to the particular color of the sand, rich in fragments of coral, granite, shells, and calcareous shells of a microorganism called Miniacina Miniacea.
Since 1994, the beach has been inaccessible. Therefore, the only way to admire it is directly from the sea, staying about 70 meters from the shore or from nearby beaches. It is such a unique and pristine place that many tour operators, including those organizing cruises, have included it in their itineraries.
Stintino, the Pearl of Sardinia
The Pink Beach is just one of the many attractions of Stintino, long a favored destination for those wanting to enjoy the splendid sea of Sardinia. Originally, Stintino was a small fishing village. However, thanks to its wonderful beaches and the extraordinary natural beauty of the area, it quickly transformed into a top-tier tourist center.
Located within the Asinara Natural Reserve, this area is characterized by beaches and promontories, paradisiacal coves, and cliffs plunging into the sea. Spending a few days in Stintino means discovering magical and evocative places, such as the island of Asinara, once a penal colony and now accessible on foot or by bicycle.
Another unmissable stop leads to the Tonnare, originally one of the main sources of livelihood for the village. Now, they host the Tonnare Museum, a precious testimony through which you can learn about Stintino's history and admire documents and photos that tell its origins.
However, the real attractions of this area are the beaches, where you can not only dive into crystal-clear waters but also practice water sports such as surfing, SUP, kite surfing, and snorkeling. Additionally, for the more adventurous, it is possible to participate in trekking routes on the Capo Falcone promontory. Here you can admire Falcone Tower, built in 1557 to defend against Saracen raids.
The Pink Beach of Stintino
In the far north of Sardinia, just a few kilometers from Stintino and near the Bocche di Bonifacio, lies one of the island's most famous beaches as well as one of Italy's. Featured in the famous film Red Desert by Michelangelo Antonioni, the Pink Beach is one of the symbols of the Maddalena archipelago.
It is a true natural wonder located on the island of Budelli and has been inaccessible for several years. The only way to admire it is by sea, or from the nearby beaches of Cavaliere and Cala di Roto.
Its vivid colors offer unforgettable emotions and give it a paradisiacal appearance. The distinctive pink color, as mentioned above, comes from a mix of coral, granite, and mollusk shells, but especially from the drift of the microorganism Miniacina Miniacea which lives inside the shells.
Since 1998, Pink Beach has been closed to landing and bathing. This protects it from the stress of continuous visits and the inevitable looting it suffered for years. Only in this way is it possible to preserve the extraordinary uniqueness that has made it one of the area's main attractions.
Budelli, an island where nature grows wild and undisturbed, is owned by the National Park institution and offers about 12 kilometers of coastline and 25 hectares of pristine territory.
From Mount Budello, at 87 meters high, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of granite cliffs, sandy coves, and deep blue sea. Moreover, this protected area is considered a true “whale sanctuary”, as sperm whales, dolphins, and baleen whales live here freely and undisturbed.
Other Beaches of Stintino
In Stintino, Pink Beach is not the only attraction for those choosing to spend a holiday here. This area also offers other beautiful beaches and facilities like the Cala Rosa Club Hotel, from which you can reach them and enjoy a relaxing stay.
La Pelosa
It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. What characterizes it is shallow, clear water blending enchanting colors like sky blue, turquoise, and emerald green. La Pelosa beach is located about a couple of kilometers from Stintino's town center and is accessible only by reservation, purchasing a daily ticket.
On the northern side of the beach stands Pelosa Tower, while right opposite is Pelosa islet which can be reached via a natural ford. Thanks to its shallow and calm waters, La Pelosa is the perfect beach for families with children.
Nearby, there is another beach, Pelosetta, smaller but rich in charm thanks to its fine white sand which, under the sun's rays, creates truly unique color plays.
Le Saline and Pazzona
Not far from La Pelosa, these two very picturesque beaches lie just 500 meters apart. Their main feature is that they are made up of tiny white pebbles which give the sea a clear and crystalline color.
They are two very long stretches of coast, equipped with various services such as bistros, parking, kiosks, and disabled access. Given their characteristics, these two beaches are very popular with camper and camping enthusiasts who can stay here and also visit La Pelosa beach. However, due to the presence of stones, they are less frequented, especially by families.
Le Saline and Pazzona also offer a natural environment of great charm, surrounded by sand dunes and Mediterranean vegetation, making the area ideal for nature lovers and outdoor walks. During the low season, when the beaches are less crowded, you can enjoy tranquility and silence interrupted only by the sound of the waves.
Moreover, the Saline area is known for the presence of a brackish lagoon, a natural habitat for various bird species, including pink flamingos, which can be observed during their migrations. This makes the site particularly interesting for birdwatching enthusiasts. Despite the lower attendance by families, Le Saline and Pazzona beaches represent an excellent option for those seeking a different beach experience, in a natural setting rich in biodiversity and less touristy than other more famous locations.
Ezzi Mannu and Fiume Santo
Along the same stretch of coast as the previous beaches, these two shores are part of the Asinara Gulf coastline, between Stintino and Porto Torres.
Ezzi Mannu beach is characterized by fine, golden, and very soft sand and a sea that becomes quite deep just a few meters from the shore. Thanks to the sun's rays, on clear and bright days it takes on a beautiful turquoise color with different shades depending on the light's angle. Fiume Santo offers
white, soft sandand crystal-clear water, but above all, cliffs from which you can enjoy enchanting views. The area is also equipped with various services such as bars, ice cream shops, and food kiosks. Additionally, water sports enthusiasts can practice activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and canoeing. Both beaches, despite their differences, share an irresistible charm that makes them ideal destinations for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. Ezzi Mannu, with its deep seabeds and changing sea colors, is perfect for those who love swimming and diving into clear, refreshing waters. The soft sand invites long walks along the shore, while the surrounding scenery offers many points of interest for photography enthusiasts. Fiume Santo, on the other hand, stands out not only for the beauty of its waters and white sand but also for the variety of recreational activities. The cliffs, besides offering breathtaking views, are an excellent base for underwater explorations.Those who prefer to stay on the surface can take advantage of well-equipped facilities to enjoy a day of sport and fun. In summary, these two beaches represent a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, satisfying the needs of every type of visitor.
Both beaches, despite their differences, share an irresistible charm that makes them ideal destinations for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. Ezzi Mannu, with its deep seabeds and shimmering sea colors, is perfect for those who love swimming and diving into clear, refreshing waters.
The soft sand invites long walks along the shoreline, while the surrounding scenery offers numerous points of interest for photography enthusiasts. Fiume Santo, on the other hand, stands out not only for the beauty of its waters and white sand but also for the variety of recreational activities it offers. The cliffs, besides providing breathtaking views, are an excellent base for underwater exploration.
Those who prefer to stay on the surface can take advantage of well-equipped facilities to enjoy a day of sports and fun. In summary, these two beaches represent a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, satisfying the needs of every type of visitor.
in the Stintino area and can be reached both by sea and by land. It is characterized by
light-colored pebbles and gravel , while the sea is a splendid shade between green and blue. The seabed is rocky and suitable for activities such as diving or snorkeling One of theadvantages of Coscia di Donna beach is that it is never particularly crowded, even during the summer season. The reason is precisely its rocky formation, which makes it.
less accessible and suitable only for enthusiasts and those who love wild and unspoiled nature. This makes Cala Coscia di Donna a true refuge for those seeking tranquility and relaxation away from the bustle of more touristy beaches. The surrounding vegetation is typically Mediterranean, with myrtle and juniper bushes that scent the air and offer some natural shade. There are no bathing establishments or services nearby, so it is advisable to bring everything needed for the day, including water and food. The wild beauty of the place invites exploration of the surroundings, where you can discover small hidden corners and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coast. Cala Coscia di Donna is ideal for those wanting an authentic experience in close contact with nature, away from modern comforts. Cala Vapore
This makes Cala Coscia di Donna a true refuge for those seeking peace and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of more touristy beaches. The surrounding vegetation is typically Mediterranean, with myrtle and juniper bushes that scent the air and offer some natural shaded areas.
There are no beach resorts or services nearby, so it is advisable to bring everything you need for the day, including water and food. The wild beauty of the place invites exploration of the surroundings, where you can discover small hidden corners and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coast. Cala Coscia di Donna is ideal for those who want to experience an authentic connection with nature, far from modern comforts.
in the Stintino area because it takes its name from the wreck of a
steamboat sunk and now resting just six meters from the shore. Besides exploring the remains, but only with proper equipment, this beach offers peace and tranquility , as it can only be reached by sea. It is a rocky beachwith emerald green waters and a seabed characterized by rocks and slabs, perfect for those who practice
snorkeling . Like the previous one, it is not crowded even in the summer months and lends itself to a relaxing experience immersed in nature.. Like the previous one, it is not crowded even in the summer months and lends itself to a relaxing experience immersed in nature.