Cala Mariolu tour with Swim Stops

A Full-Day Tour of Sardinia’s Most Beautiful Beaches – With Swimming and Scenic Stops

If you’re dreaming of spending a day exploring Sardinia’s rugged coast, this Cala Mariolu tour with swim stops from Santa Maria Navarrese offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most treasured beaches in a single day. With a well-organized itinerary that includes six stops, a knowledgeable skipper, and plenty of opportunities to swim in pristine waters, it’s a trip that appeals to anyone eager for natural beauty and a touch of adventure. Priced at just over $100, this experience offers good value for a full day on the water, especially considering the exclusive access to spots often unreachable by land.

Two things I really like about this tour: first, the expert guidance and engaging storytelling of the guides, particularly Cristian, who seems to turn simple sightseeing into a memorable local experience. Second, the variety of stops, from hidden caves to renowned beaches like Cala Mariolu, ensures you’re always discovering something new.

One aspect to keep in mind is the seasonal nature of some stops—the order of beaches and attractions varies depending on sunlight and tourist flow, meaning you might find certain places more crowded or less accessible depending on when you go. Still, the flexibility of the schedule and the focus on authentic, scenic spots makes this a worthwhile adventure.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning beaches like Cala Mariolu and Cala Goloritzé offer some of Sardinia’s clearest waters.
• Expert guides like Cristian elevate the experience with local knowledge and warm hospitality.
• Swim opportunities in protected, crystalline waters provide refreshing relief and memorable moments.
• A mix of scenic photo stops and land excursions like the Grotta del Fico add variety to the day.
• The tour’s duration (7–9 hours) makes it a full, but manageable, day of exploring without feeling rushed.
• Limited group size (max 10 travelers) helps maintain an intimate, personalized experience.

Discovering Sardinia’s Coastline: A detailed exploration of the tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Kicking off at Bar del Porto in Baunei at 8:30 am, this tour is accessible for most travelers with near public transportation options. The overall price of $114.52 per person includes fuel surcharges and the services of an experienced skipper, ensuring a smooth and safe adventure. While the cost doesn’t include meals or snorkeling gear, the value lies in the stops and guided visits, plus the chance to swim in some of Sardinia’s most famous beaches.

The First Stop: Cala Biriala – An Immediate Surprise

As the boat makes its way along the coast, the first sighting is Cala Biriala, a tiny cove that suddenly appears between towering cliffs. It’s famous among locals for being the site of historical deforestation by Tuscan charcoal workers, giving it a hint of Sardinia’s rugged past. Its rock arch and mixed sandy and rocky bottoms make it perfect for snorkelers eager to explore underwater life. The guide will tell you about its history and natural features, making this more than just a beach stop.

The Highlight: Cala Mariolu – Italy’s Most Beautiful Beach (2016)

Next is Cala Mariolu, dubbed the “Thief’s Beach” due to the monk seals that once stole fish from fishermen’s nets. It’s often considered the crown jewel of Sardinian beaches, thanks to its multi-hued waters that transition from deep blue to emerald green. It was named Italy’s most beautiful beach in 2016—a title well-deserved when you see its stunning scenery. Spend about 1.5 hours here soaking up the sun and swimming in waters that will leave you breathless.

Cala Sisine – White Sand and Film Fame

The third stop is Cala Sisine, a wide, white-sand beach fed by a freshwater pond and surrounded by six grand caves. It’s a favorite for both visitors and filmmakers, having appeared in various movies. The white crescent-shaped beach and surrounding oleander forest offer a peaceful backdrop, ideal for relaxing or exploring. Here, you’ll find a refreshment service, making it easy to recharge before the next swim.

Cala Goloritzé – Iconic and Only Accessible by Foot or Boat

The Cala Goloritzé is arguably the most iconic stop, characterized by its famous rock arch and spire—a symbol of Baunei. This secluded spot is reachable only by foot or boat, which adds to its exclusivity. The buoy field allows for a safe swim in some of Sardinia’s clearest waters. Here, you’ll experience a short 15-minute stop, but the memory of the view and the water’s clarity will stay with you. Climbing enthusiasts also flock here for the Punta Caroddi spire.

Inside the Grotta del Fico – A Limestone Wonder

A highlight of the tour is the guided visit to the Grotta del Fico, lasting about 50 minutes. The guides, trained by Italy’s Tourist Caves Association, will take you through galleries and rooms filled with fascinating concretions and colored formations. The path is easy, mostly on steel walkways, making it accessible even for those with limited mobility. Inside, you might even glimpse the sea from within the cave—a unique perspective that adds to the sense of discovery.

Swimming and Relaxation at Goloritzé

The day wraps up with a refreshing swim at Cala Goloritzé, giving you the chance to cool off in waters renowned for their transparency and vibrant blue hues. Many travelers comment on how this final dip provides a perfect ending to a day full of scenic beauty and light adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy both sightseeing and swimming. If you’re keen on small-group experiences and value the expertise of guides like Cristian, the personal touch adds a lot. The beaches visited are some of Sardinia’s most photographed and acclaimed, so if you want a truly scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate authentic local stories and natural landscapes rather than just sitting on the beach all day. The inclusion of the Grotta del Fico and the scenic stops make it particularly appealing to nature lovers and curious explorers.

Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value, keep in mind that the itinerary may shift depending on the season, sunlight, and tourist flow, potentially affecting which beaches you visit first or last. The limited group size (up to 10 people) enhances intimacy but means booking well in advance is wise, especially during peak season, which averages 127 days in advance.

The Sum Up

For anyone seeking a full day of exploring Sardinia’s stunning coast, this Cala Mariolu tour with swim stops provides an engaging mix of natural beauty, local culture, and a touch of adventure. The expert guides, especially Cristian, turn a boat trip into a memorable education about the island’s geology and history. The variety of beaches—from the world-famous Cala Mariolu to the iconic Goloritzé—means you’ll leave with a collection of beautiful memories and photos.

This tour is best suited for active travelers, small groups, and those who love authentic landscapes. It offers great value for the price, considering the included stops, guided visits, and the chance to swim in Sardinia’s crystal waters. If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and enjoyable way to experience Sardinia’s coast, this trip will not disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Bar del Porto in Baunei, near Lungomare Monte Santo, at 8:30 am.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, making it a full-day experience but not overly long or tiring.

Is food included in the price?
No, the tour does not include lunch or snacks; however, a few stops have refreshment services.

Are snorkeling equipment and swimming gear provided?
No, these are not included, so you might want to bring your own if you plan to snorkel.

Can I visit the Grotta del Fico?
Yes, a guided tour inside the grotto lasts about 50 minutes and is included in the experience.

What makes Cala Mariolu special?
It was crowned Italy’s most beautiful beach in 2016, known for its colorful waters and stunning scenery.

How do the stops vary during the season?
The order of beaches and attractions depends on sunlight and tourist flow, so the sequence may change.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s perfect for adventurous, small-group travelers who love scenic beauty, swimming, and local stories.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Generally yes, especially since the path to the cave is easy, but children should be comfortable on a boat for several hours.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimming gear, a waterproof camera, and some snacks or water for the day.

This Sardinian boat tour offers a genuine way to see some of the best beaches and natural landmarks along the coast, all while enjoying the companionship of a small group and expert guides. It’s a day that promises plenty of stunning views, refreshing swims, and a deeper appreciation for this captivating island’s natural beauty.