Porto Giunco Beach

Located in the southeastern corner of Sardinia is one of the finest beaches on the island, Porto Giunco. This long stretch of near-white sand has water on both sides; the clear azure of the Mediterranean to one and the Stagno di Notteri, a large lagoon, to the other. With verdant headlands at either end of the beach and a backdrop of mountains the scenery here really is quite stunning.

Despite its natural charms Porto Giunco is in the popular resort area of Villasimius so you will be well catered for. There are a number of kiosks and bars along the length of the beach and nestled among the greenery to the north are hotels, nightclubs and restaurants.

The sea at Porto Giunco is shallow and fairly sheltered, which help keep it warm and safe. This makes it popular with families, but on its day there can be some great surf here too.

Diving is also popular here with a number of nearby wrecks to explore as well as the Capo Carbonara marine area - an 86 square kilometre protected area of pristine sea life. But you don’t have to even get in the water to see some of Porto Giunco’s most iconic wildlife; the lagoon behind the beach is a great place to see pink flamingos and other migratory birds.

On a the headland at the southern end of the beach is the a 17th century Spanish watchtower built to defend the area from pirates. It was obviously built to have great views but the panorama from the top of the nine metre tall tower is quite spectacular. Views aside, it is worth visiting the tower for the walk alone which takes you into the unspoilt wilderness of Capo Carbonara.