Gulf of Orosei Beaches by Boat

The Gulf of Orosei holds the most spectacular stretch of coastline in Sardinia, a wall of limestone cliffs broken by hidden coves that are reachable almost only from the water. The launching point is the small harbour of Cala Gonone, about a 30-minute drive from Nuoro over the Supramonte pass, where car parking is free and a fleet of tour boats and faster gommoni (inflatables) sets out each morning. A full-day boat trip is one of the island's great days out, costing roughly €20–30 per person for the standard circuit. Boats work their way down the gulf calling at a string of celebrated beaches: Cala Luna, with its arc of white sand and row of cliff caves; Cala Sisine at the mouth of a wild canyon; Cala Biriola and Cala Mariolu, where pale pink-white pebbles shelve into impossibly clear water; and Cala Goloritzé, a UNESCO Natural Monument crowned by a natural rock arch and limestone pinnacle. Most tours anchor for swimming and snorkelling at several stops, with longer time at one or two headline beaches. A good rhythm is to board a morning departure around 9 or 10am, take in the cliff scenery and the more distant southern coves first, then linger for a swim and a packed lunch before the afternoon return. There are seasonal beach kiosks at Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu selling drinks and panini, but they are pricey and can run out, so carrying water and food is sensible. Back in Cala Gonone, the harbour-front restaurants are a pleasant end to the day for grilled fish or local Cannonau wine. The season runs from roughly May to October, with June to September offering the warmest, calmest seas; rough conditions can curtail the route, so morning departures are more reliable. Booking the day before is wise in July and August, when boats fill quickly. Strong sun reflects off the water all day, making a hat, high-factor sunscreen, and snorkelling gear the essentials for this trip.