Cala Mariolu

Cala Mariolu is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia and is part of the Gulf of Orosei. It's located in the municipality of Baunei in the Ogliastra region which also boasts the amazing Cala Luna and Cala Goloritzè beaches. In Sardinian, the cove is known as "Ispuligi de Nie" ("snow beach") thanks to the pink and white pebbles found there. The first thing that you notice is the clarity of the waters, a phenomenon throughout this part of Sardinia. The palette of blues and emerald greens create an amazing seascape that just beckons you to go diving. The beach is accessible via a private boat or a ferry from the ports of Arbatax and Santa Maria Navarrese.

I visited Cala Mariolu during a boat trip I took through the Gulf of Orosei. You can find boat or raft trips from Santa Maria Navarrese. This beach gets its name from the old fishermen's nickname for monk seals, "mariolu" ("thief") in reference to the seals’ habit of robbing fish from their nets. The water is intensely turquoise and there are many caves like Grotta del Fico you can visit in the area.

Cala Mariolu is one of those places you daydream about. The water is clear-blue, the sand white, and the whole place is surrounded by untouched nature...you can't ask for anything more! You can catch a boat or follow the hiking route to get there (for experienced hikers only). You can see fish in the water from the shore and the water temperature is perfect for a dive off one of the rocks. Make sure to bring plenty of food and drinks for a full day in paradise as there are no snack bars at the beach.