Sardinia’s Popular Beaches Now Have Strict Access Rules
Sardinia, an Italian island renowned for its stunning coastline and pristine beaches, has become a major summer destination. However, the island is now implementing strict regulations to manage the influx of visitors and protect its natural beauty.
Spiaggia Rosa: A Pink Sand Beach with Heavy Fines
One of the most famous attractions on Sardinia is Spiaggia Rosa, located on the remote Budelli Island. Known for its striking pink sand, this beach attracts thousands of tourists each day during the summer. However, due to the damage caused by visitors taking sand as souvenirs, the beach has been closed to the public since the mid-1990s.
Visitors can only view the beach from a boat, and walking on the sand or stealing it results in hefty fines. Walking on the beach can cost over €500, while stealing sand could lead to a fine of up to €3,500.
Restricted Access at La Maddalena and Other Beaches
In the archipelago of La Maddalena, two beaches—Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantina—have implemented visitor caps. Only 60 people per day are allowed to visit these beaches during the summer months. Travelers must book online and pay €3 per person to gain access. Additionally, visitors must be accompanied by an authorized guide.
Other beaches across the island have also introduced similar restrictions:
- Cala Brandinchi and Lu Impostu will limit daily visitors to 1,447 and 3,352 respectively between 1 June and 30 September.
- Cala Mariolu allows 700 people at a time between 15 June and 15 September, with a €2–€3 environmental fee depending on how visitors arrive and whether they visit other beaches.
- In Villasimius, visitors to Punta Molentis must pay a €10 fee. At Riu Trottu and Portu Sa Ruxi, there is a parking fee of €10–€15 for vehicles, while cyclists and pedestrians pay €3.
Beach Towels Banned at Pelosa Beach
On the west coast, Stintino’s popular Pelosa Beach now limits daily visitors to 1,500 people. Last year, the beach saw as many as 4,000 visitors on some days. To access the beach, visitors must purchase a €3.50 ticket.
A new rule requires beachgoers to use mats under their towels to reduce sand accumulation. This regulation is expected to be strictly enforced this year, with potential fines of €100 for non-compliance.
Time Limits in Ogliastra
In the east coast region of Ogliastra, beachgoers are limited in how long they can stay at certain beaches:
- Cala Birìala allows 300 visitors per day, with a maximum stay of 90 minutes.
- Cala dei Gabbiani also has a cap of 300 visitors, with a stay duration of 70–90 minutes.
These measures aim to ensure that the beaches remain accessible and well-preserved for future generations.
Broader Efforts to Combat Overtourism
Sardinia is not alone in addressing overcrowding. Similar efforts are being made in other Italian destinations:
- Venice now requires a booking system and a fee for entry into the city.
- In Portofino, tourists who linger too long and block streets face fines of €270.
These initiatives reflect a growing global trend to manage tourism sustainably and protect cultural and natural heritage sites.
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