Spiaggia del Poetto – The Beach with the Muse

Sardinia is known worldwide for its crystal-clear waters, pristine white sandy beaches, picturesque lagoons, and unique history. This Italian island is like a precious gem, home to preserved, untouched wilderness and rich cultural heritage. The capital of the island is the city of Cagliari, whose main beach is known as "Poetto".

Map of Grotta del Poetto

Spiaggia del Poetto is one of the longest beaches in Sardinia, stretching 8 km from the Devil's Saddle (Sella del Diavolo) to the coastline of Quartu Sant’Elena. Its accessibility and beauty make it a favorite place of both locals and tourists. Surrounded by sand dunes and pine forests, it presents a stunning landscape to escape the daily grind.

The main distinguishing feature of Spiaggia del Poetto is its unique blend of wild nature and urban convenience. Despite its proximity to Cagliari, the beach has maintained its natural beauty. Visitors can find lively areas with beach clubs and restaurants, as well as secluded spots for a peaceful retreat.

Distance from the Nearest Major City	The nearest major city is Cagliari, just 11 km away (about 15-20 minutes by car).
Natural Features	A long sandy strip with diverse landscapes - coves, cliffs and dunes
Access/Parking/Fees	There is paid parking near the beach, but using the beach itself is free
Crowds	Between June and August the crowds are at their peak, so it's best to arrive before 10 a.m. if you want to secure a good spot.

Tourists love diving into the water in this area. — It's nice to swim in warm water surrounded by rocks. Enrico Ferrara

Best For - Active holiday enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families with children.

"White sand, gentle entrance. Clean on the shore and in the water. There are cafés. A wide, long shoreline. The crowd mainly consists of Italians and Europeans with children or older adults."

History of Spiaggia del Poetto

Spiaggia del Poetto is more than just a beach; it's a true symbol of Cagliari and the whole Sardinia. Its history is closely linked with the city and the island itself. While the exact date of the beach's emergence as a leisure spot is unknown, many believe that this area has been used by locals for relaxation and fishing since ancient times.

At first glance, there doesn't seem to be much space, but that's just an illusion. — The problem with finding sunbeds on a sunny day can be more serious than it appears. Marco Fucci

The name "Spiaggia del Poetto" (Cave of the Poet) comes from various stories about poets and writers who sought inspiration in the nearby cliffs. This romantic name has enhanced the beach's appeal and made it a popular tourist destination.

Why do tourists from around the world come to Spiaggia del Poetto? The long sandy beach, cliffs, dunes, and cozy coves offer various ways to spend time. Due to sea currents, the water here is always clean. Numerous events and festivals are regularly held in the area, particularly attracting young people and those who prefer active recreation.

With the growth of tourism in the 20th century, Spiaggia del Poetto became one of Sardinia's main holiday centers. The construction of roads, hotels, restaurants, and other infrastructure made it more accessible and comfortable for visitors. Active promotion of the beach in travel guides and the media also contributed to its popularity. Locals have always loved this beach and recommended it to visitors, making word-of-mouth another key factor in its recognition.

Tourists on the rocks. — Jumping off the cliff can be unsafe. johnbeo

Amenities

Spiaggia del Poetto offers numerous amenities that make any stay there comfortable. Despite the beach’s length, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent almost everywhere. However, rental costs may vary depending on the season and location. There are many cafés and restaurants both on and near the beach where you can enjoy local and international cuisine. For example, you can savor fresh seafood, pizza, pasta, and other Italian delicacies right by the sea.

Beach clubs are a distinctive feature of Spiaggia del Poetto, offering a higher level of service. The most popular clubs include:

Emerson Beach Club
Chilli Beach
Il Lido

There are also plenty of sports activities available on the coast to keep adventure-seeking tourists and young people engaged. Windsurfing, sailing, kitesurfing, and diving are just a few of the activities offered. Some beach clubs also provide equipment rental and lessons. For a more relaxed experience, you can go fishing, play volleyball, take a bike ride, or go horseback riding. With its well-developed infrastructure and wide range of services, Spiaggia del Poetto offers quality leisure for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or interests.

The splash from jumping into the water. — Tourists love jumping into the water, but it's important to be careful. Emiliano Abedini

Tips for travellers

To ensure your stay is as comfortable and memorable as possible, keep these tips in mind:

The best time for a beach holiday is from June to August. However, the beach is crowded during these months. If you prefer solitude, visit in May or September.
There are paid parking lots near the beach. Arrive early to secure a spot, as traffic is heavy during the peak travel season.
Be sure to try the fresh seafood at local restaurants. Also, sample Sardinian classics like seadas (fried pastry with cheese) and malloreddus (pasta with meat sauce).

The average cost of renting two sunbeds and an umbrella on the beach is about 15-25 euros per day. Staying at most beach clubs is paid. Although entrance fees vary (depending on the club and season), renting loungers, umbrellas, and towels usually incurs a charge. Prices can be 2-3 times higher than on the main beach. Surfboard rentals for an hour cost around 20 euros. A meal at a local café without alcohol is about 20 euros per person.

View of the beach from the opposite side. — It can be crowded here during the peak season. stabilimento balneare Sa Sesta

Similar Beaches

If you want to see something similar to Spiaggia del Poetto nearby, visit Cala Mosca. Located at the north of Cagliari, it’s a small, cozy beach with clear water and rocky shores, ideal for those seeking a more secluded, quiet place to relax.