Golfo Aranci: The Complete Guide to the Most Beautiful Beaches between Olbia and the Capo Figari Promontory
Welcome to the paradise of the northern Costa Smeralda. This article will take you on a discovery of the Golfo Aranci beaches, a corner of Sardinia where nature still reigns supreme. From hidden coves to long sandy shores of white sand, we will explore every cove to help you choose your beach ideal. Whether you are a lover of shallow water ideal for families or seekers of small beaches accessible only by sea, this guide will provide you with all the tools for an unforgettable experience. Get ready to discover why Aranci Gulf is much more than just a town centreIt is a destination that enchants with its authenticity.
1. Why Choose Golfo Aranci for Your Sea Holidays?
Aranci Gulf is not just the name of a country, but an entire coastal ecosystem stretching from the headland of Capo Figari to the gates of Olbia. Unlike more emblazoned locations in the Costa Smeralda, here the atmosphere remains authentic, familiar and less chaotic. The town centre overlooks a natural harbour, but the real magic begins as soon as you pass the first houses, where the maquis scents of helichrysum and myrtle.
The peculiarity of this area is its variety: you will find sandy beaches golden and white, coves of pebbles polished by the sea, and granite cliffs diving into turquoise waters. Many of these beautiful beaches are easily accessible either by car or by sea, but some require a short walk, rewarded by absolute peace. In addition, the distance from Olbia is minimal (less than 20 km), which makes Aranci Gulf a perfect base for exploring the entire north-eastern of Sardinia, including Figarolo e Tavolara on the horizon. The beauty of its beaches is now legendary among the Sardinians themselves, who consider this area a jewel still half-unknown to mass tourism.
2. What Makes Sos Aranzos Beach Unique?
If there is a beach which embodies the wild soul of this territory, is Sos Aranzos. Located just a few minutes from the centre of Golfo Aranci, this long expanse of fine white sand is protected by two tongues of rock that create an intimate atmosphere despite their size. The term Sos Aranzos in Sardinian means “the oranges”, probably because of the warm colours that the sunset brings to the sand. Here the backdrop è bass and sloping, perfect for children and those who do not like rough dives.
What makes the Sos Aranzos beach is the contrast between the blue of the sea and the deep green of the maquis almost touching the water. Unlike other Golfo Aranci beaches, this one is equipped with bars and restaurants, but retains plenty of free space for those seeking the shade of a parasol brought from home. The headland of Capo Figari provides a backdrop to the south, while to the north there is a view of the’islet of Figarolo, a popular destination for snorkelers. La beach is also with parking (for a fee in high season) and services for differently abled, making it accessible to all. In the evening, when the bathers leave, Sos Aranzos becomes the ideal place for a sunset stroll, with the sea of colours ranging from pink to purple.
3. White Beach or Cala Moresca Beach: Which Do You Prefer?
Two names to dream about: White Beach e Cala Moresca. But what is the difference? Let us start with White Beach: is located in north of Sos Aranzos, and is one of the beautiful beaches of Golfo Aranci most photographed. The name does not lie: the white sand is very fine and the contrast with the sea is dazzling. It is a bay semi-circular, well sheltered from the mistral wind thanks to the surrounding heights. The backdrop è bass for tens of metres, then suddenly becomes deeper, ideal for doing some diving light among the posidonia banks. È easily accessible both by land and by sea, and nearby you will find a refreshment point.
Cala Moresca, however, is a different story. It is a beautiful beach of Cala Moresca nestled between granite cliffs shaped by the wind. It is smaller, more intimate, almost secret. To get there, you have to follow a path off the scenic road just before the town, or hire a dinghy. La Cala Moresca beach is devoid of amenities, which makes it popular with those seeking nature in its purest state. The water is crystal clear and the backdrop mixture of sand and rocks provides shelter for small, colourful fish. If you have to choose: White Beach for a comfortable and familiar day; Cala Moresca for a more adventurous and romantic experience. Both are Golfo Aranci beaches absolutely worth visiting, perhaps on different days.
4. Cala Sassari and Cala Sabina: Two Dream Beaches?
Let us discover two minor jewels: Sassari Cove e Sabina Cove. La beach of Cala Sassari is perhaps the least known of the most beautiful beaches of the area, which is why it retains a special charm. It is located just beyond the headland, in front of the islet of Figarolo, and can only be reached by land via a stretch of coastline rocky. It is a small beach of pebbles and coarse sand, no more than 50 metres long. The backdrop is immediately deep, so not suitable for small children, but perfect for those who love swimming among the fish. There are no bars and restaurantsBring everything you need. The atmosphere is so intimate that you will often be alone, accompanied only by the sound of the waves on the cliffs.
Sabina Cove, on the other hand, is a beautiful beach of Cala Sabina located further north, almost at the height of the famous Fifth Beach. It is one of the two beaches separated by a cliff central, and takes its name from an ancient landing place used by fishermen. The sand è white and the water takes on hues emerald incredible. Access here is not so easy either: you park on the main road and walk down a steep path for about 10 minutes. The reward is a cove perfect for snorkelling, with backdrop rich in starfish and urchins. If you have time and a spirit of adventure, visiting both in one day will make you feel like an explorer. Remember that these small beaches do not have toilets, so plan accordingly.
5. Baia Caddinas: The Most Popular Beach in the Gulf?
We now turn to Baia Caddinas, one of the Golfo Aranci beaches more comfortable and equipped. If you like to have all comforts at your fingertips, this is your choice. Baia Caddinas is located immediately after the marina, and is a bay spacious and well exposed to the south-east, thus sheltered from prevailing winds. The beach is a mix of light-coloured sand and small pebbles, with a shallow water that slopes very gently, perfect for children. È attended by tourists and locals alike, and the atmosphere is lively but not chaotic.
Along the beach you will find bathing establishments, refreshment point, umbrellas and sun loungers for hire, and even a children's play area. But there is also a free area if you prefer to spread your towel on the sand. Baia Caddinas is also an excellent spot to practice windsurfing on windy days, thanks to the conformation of the bay that creates constant gusts. In the evening, the waterfront comes alive with clubs and ice cream parlours. The parking is large and nearby there are restaurants and bars where you can taste the famous “pane carasau” and Sardinian sweets. The only “flaw”? In August it is very crowded, but if you come early in the morning or in September, Baia Caddinas will give you one of the best experiences bathing of the area. Don't forget that a path leading to the promontory also starts here, for a breathtaking view.
6. Punta Pedrosa and the Hidden Coves: How to Reach Them?
Let us venture towards Punta Pedrosa, a true paradise for those who love secret coves. Punta Pedrosa is not a beach single, but a rocky promontory bordering the sea, creating small inlets by sand and cobblestones. To get here, you must leave your car at the junction for Sos Aranzos and take a dirt path that leads into the maquis. After about 15 minutes of walking, you will begin to glimpse the turquoise water through the trees. There is no real centre of Golfo Aranci that publicises these coves: they are a treasure for the few.
Once there, you choose your favourite coveSome are only a few metres wide, just enough room for a towel. The best known is Cala Greca, a small fjord with white sand and smooth rocks. Another is Cala Banana, curiously named for its curved shape. Sleep Cove is the most sheltered, ideal for those who like calm water. All these Small beaches of Sos Aranzos e Punta Pedrosa share the same characteristic: total absence of services, but fabulous water. Bring water and food, and above all respect for the environment (take away the rubbish!). The backdrop is varied, with sandy areas alternating with granite cliffs rich in life. Walking may be strenuous for young children, but teenagers and active adults will love it. Remember that Punta Pedrosa is also an exceptional vantage point for viewing the Figarolo and, on a clear day, the islands of Tavolara.
7. What are the Best Sand Beaches around Olbia?
We move our gaze southwards, to the area between Olbia and Golfo Aranci. Olbia is only a few kilometres away, and along the coast connecting the two locations are some of the most beautiful beaches of Gallura. The first is Marinella Beach, a long stretch of white sand and end, with shallow water for hundreds of metres: it is an ideal destination for families with small children. It is well served by bars and restaurants and easily accessible. Immediately afterwards we find Pittulongu, another beach popular, famous for its lido equipped and the proximity to the airport of Olbia.
The closer you get to Aranci Gulf, plus the beaches become savage. Pelican Beach is a little gem. But the undisputed queen is White Beach (already described), which ideally marks the border between the municipality of Olbia and that of Aranci Gulf. All these sandy beaches share a crystal-clear sea and a low, regular coastline, with sloping seabed. La distance from Olbia is contained (5 to 15 minutes by car), so you can easily tour the most beautiful beaches in the day. If you are based in Olbia, don't miss the opportunity to also explore the north coast, where Aranci Gulf offers that extra touch of authenticity. Remember that the Costa Smeralda official starts further north, but these beaches share the beauty without the exorbitant prices.
8. Cala Banana Beach and Cala del Sonno: Do They Really Exist?
With such evocative names, one wonders whether Cala Banana e Sleep Cove are real or just bar legends. Let us reassure you: they do exist! They are part of that system of small beaches and coves hidden between Punta Pedrosa e Cape Figari. Cala Banana owes its name to its curved, elongated shape, reminiscent of a fruit. It is one of the Golfo Aranci beaches more difficult to locate: there are no signs, you have to know the path. Once you find it, you will be rewarded with a’sand cove gilded about 30 metres long, framed by granite cliffs reddish. The water is so transparent that it feels like floating on air. The backdrop alternating sand and rocks, perfect for snorkelling.
Sleep Cove, on the other hand, is wider and better sheltered. The name is said to derive from the fact that, thanks to its shell-like shape, the waves barely caress the shore, almost lulling those who fall asleep in the sun. Here, too, no services: only maquis, silence and cicadas. To reach them, the advice is to ask the locals for information or use trekking apps, because the signage is deliberately poor. They are not suitable for those with walking problems, but if you are fit and love adventure, these two coves represent the best of the beautiful beaches of Golfo Aranci off the tourist track. Bring a snorkelling mask: the diving In these spots you will see bream, saddled bream and, if you are lucky, some octopus. Beware of urchins: wear rock shoes.
9. From the Fifth Beach to the Centre of Golfo Aranci
Back to the village to talk about the Fifth Beach and the centre of Golfo Aranci. Perhaps not everyone knows that the Golfo Aranci beaches are traditionally numbered: from first up to the fifth beach. La Fifth Beach is the last one proceeding northwards, and is also the closest to the town centre. It is a beach urban, within easy walking distance of the village, with shallow water e terrata of light-coloured sand. It is equipped with children's games, public showers and a refreshment point. It does not have the spectacular nature of the wild coves, but it is very convenient for those staying in the village or wanting to take a quick swim before dinner.
The centre of Golfo Aranci is worth a visit if only for its harbour and waterfront promenade. Here you will find restaurants serving the catch of the day, craft shops and ice cream parlours. After a day in beach, you can treat yourself to an aperitif while watching the sun set behind the headland of Capo Figari. The town centre is small but lively, with an old seafaring village atmosphere. In the evening, many tourists move to the harbour to enjoy the sea breeze. Unlike other places in the Costa Smeralda, here the prices are more affordable and the welcome more spontaneous. In addition, boat excursions depart from the port to visit the beaches unreachable by land, such as Cala Moresca e Sassari Cove. So, even if you prefer wild coves, the centre of Golfo Aranci is your logistical and gastronomic hub.
10. How to Move Between the Most Beautiful Beaches of Golfo Aranci and the Costa Smeralda?
We conclude with a practical chapter: mobility. Aranci Gulf is approximately 18 km from Olbia, and the road that connects them is a scenic one that offers breathtaking views. The car is the most flexible means of exploring the Golfo Aranci beaches, but in high season the (often paid) car parks soon fill up. Arrive before 9:30 a.m. to find a spot. Alternatively, there is a summer shuttle bus service connecting the centre of Golfo Aranci to the main beaches: Sos Aranzos, White Beach e Baia Caddinas. It is a good solution if you do not feel like driving.
For lovers of the sea, the best is to hire a dinghy at the port of Aranci Gulf. By boat, you can reach otherwise inaccessible coves in just a few minutes, such as Sassari Cove, Sabina Cove, and even the’islet of Figarolo. You can also go as far as Cala Luna or to the beaches by Tavolara (a little to the south). Remember that many Golfo Aranci beaches are accessible only by sea, and the experience of anchoring in front of a cove deserted is priceless. Finally, those who love walking can follow the paths of the headland of Capo Figari: some lead to small beaches such as Cala Moresca e Punta Pedrosa. Bring walking shoes, water and sun cream. Whatever means you choose, respect the environment: no disposable plastic, no picking up sand or shells. La beauty of its beaches depends on us.
Summary: What to Remember About Golfo Aranci Beaches
Aranci Gulf offers an extraordinary variety of beaches, from the best equipped (Baia Caddinas, Sos Aranzos) to the wildest (Cala Moresca, Punta Pedrosa).
Le Golfo Aranci beaches are easily accessible from Olbia (less than 20 km) and represent an authentic alternative to the Costa Smeralda.
Sos Aranzos e White Beach are ideal for families thanks to the shallow water and services.
For an intimate experience, choose Sassari Cove, Sabina Cove, Cala Banana o Sleep Covebring water and food, there is no catering outlets.
Punta Pedrosa and the headland of Capo Figari guard small beaches reachable only on foot or by sea: adventure guaranteed.
The centre of Golfo Aranci offers restaurants, bars and the harbour for nautical excursions to coves unreachable from land.
Hiring an inflatable boat is the best way to explore the’islet of Figarolo and the beaches more hidden.
Always respect the environment: the maquis and the crystal clear sea are a fragile heritage.
Get ready to discover a corner of Sardinia where every beach has its own soul, and every bay tells a different story. Aranci Gulf is waiting for you.