Sa Barza

Baunei · Gulf of Orosei

Cala Mariolu

White and pinkish pebbles under an unbroken cliff: the cove that makes clear why this coast is best seen from the water.

Cala Mariolu, in the territory of Baunei

Cala Mariolu, in the territory of Baunei — Photo: Roberto Mura · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cala Mariolu is known for the fine pebbles along the waterline and for water clarity that comes from the pale bottom more than from depth. Seen from the sea, the beach seems to disappear into the wall.

As with the other Baunei coves, access management has changed in recent years and continues to be updated. Check the current season's rules before booking.

The essential answers

What is it?
A cove of pale pebbles with water that deepens quickly, set into the limestone cliff of the Gulf of Orosei.
Where is it?
Municipality of Baunei, between Cala Goloritzé and Cala Sisine.
Why visit?
Because the cliff comes almost to the waterline and the beach is an accident in the wall: the structure of the gulf becomes obvious at a glance.
How do you get there?
Mostly by boat from Santa Maria Navarrese, Arbatax or Cala Gonone. A long and demanding walking access exists from inland.
When to go?
June and September: boat excursions run and the sea is generally calmer than in spring.
How long does it take?
Half or full day depending on the excursion; time ashore is usually limited.
What is nearby?
Cala Goloritzé, Cala Biriala, Cala Sisine, Cala Luna.
What can you combine it with?
With a boat excursion taking in several coves the same day, and a stop at Santa Maria Navarrese on the way back.
Where to stay?
Departures are early: sleeping just inland, as at I Mandorli in Triei, avoids long dawn transfers.
Cala Mariolu, in the territory of Baunei

Where to stay

A base for exploring east Sardinia

Departures are early: sleeping just inland, as at I Mandorli in Triei, avoids long dawn transfers.

I Mandorli, a base for Cala MarioluWhere to stay