- Cala Mariolu in Sardinia was named to The World’s 50 Best Beaches’ Best of the Best list for its aquamarine waters and dramatic limestone cliffs.
- The remote Mediterranean cove is accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, adding to its sense of adventure and exclusivity.
- Daily visitor numbers are limited, and travelers should plan ahead and bring supplies due to the beach’s secluded location.
We might be in the depths of winter right now, but summer, and its significantly warmer temperatures, aren’t that far away. And if you’re ready for all things beach—lots of lounging, turquoise water, and endless sunshine—now’s the time to plan your next coastal getaway. Need some destination inspiration? Look no further than The World’s 50 Best Beaches’ Best of the Best list.
Billed as the “Hall of Fame of beaches,” the list is a curation of all the beaches that have been named No. 1 on the travel website’s annual “The World’s 50 Best Beaches” rankings (plus a few others the judges believe deserve recognition). Eight beaches have climbed their way into the Best of the Best list—and only one is in Italy. Called one of the “pearls of the Gulf of Orosei,” Cala Mariolu sits on the central-eastern coast of Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island.
“While Sardinia has many spectacular beaches, Cala Mariolu stands out for its striking beauty everywhere you turn and the sense of privacy and adventure it offers,” the editors of The World’s 50 Best Beaches wrote, calling out the beach’s calm waters (perfect for snorkeling and swimming) and its “rugged cliffs and lush greenery.” The aquamarine ocean also plays a lovely contrast to the white pebble beach and limestone rocks; it’s a scene right out of a Mediterranean postcard.
Notably, Cala Mariolu, which translates to “thief’s cove,” is far from a secret. Its legendary beauty has attracted many visitors, and, as a result, the number of people allowed to visit each day is limited.
But how do you even reach this corner of paradise? You have two options: hike or take a boat—although the hike can be difficult, so a nautical arrival is recommended. If you’re coming in by your own boat (or a rental), you’ll need to make a reservation. No reservation is needed for those arriving by ferry. From May to September, boats departing for Cala Mariolu leave from the ports of Arbatax, Cala Gonone, Santa Maria Navarrese, La Caletta, and Orosei. For context, Cala Mariolu is about 11 miles from Cala Gonone, or about 30 minutes away, if your boat is going at 20 knots.
Because of the remote nature of the beach, you’ll want to bring all your own supplies for the day, including sunscreen, towels, water, and snacks. From mid-June to mid-September, however, there is a kiosk with fresh drinks, sandwiches, and ice cream.