Spiaggia di Calamosca

Spiaggia di Calamosca is a picturesque cove nestled along the coast of Cagliari, Sardinia, tucked between the majestic promontory of Sant'Elia and the famous Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle). This charming beach offers a more intimate and sheltered alternative to the vast, bustling stretches of the nearby Poetto beach. The scenery here is ruggedly Mediterranean, with steep limestone cliffs embracing the bay and acting as a natural shield against the strong Maestrale winds that frequently sweep the island. The shore is composed of fine, golden sand, gently mixed with smooth pebbles near the water's edge and framed by rocky outcrops at both sides, creating a perfect environment for marine life and snorkeling enthusiasts. The water is remarkably crystalline, displaying enchanting shades of emerald green and turquoise that invite you for a refreshing swim. Locals and visitors alike love this spot for its relaxed, authentic atmosphere and the stunning, colorful sunsets that reflect off the water. For the adventurous, a highly popular hiking trail leading up to the peak of the Sella del Diavolo starts right behind the beach. The hike rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views over the entire Gulf of Cagliari. Calamosca is a true urban oasis where the wild beauty of Sardinian nature seamlessly meets the convenience of the city.

Practical info

Beach typeSand mixed with pebbles and rocks

WaterCrystal clear water that remains shallow near the shore. The rocky edges provide excellent conditions for snorkeling.

Getting thereEasily accessible by car or public buses (CTM) from Cagliari. A short, flat walk from the street leads straight to the beach.

ParkingThere is a dirt parking lot nearby, usually free of charge, which fills up quickly during the peak summer season.

EntranceAccess to the beach is free, with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent at the beach clubs.

LifeguardA lifeguard is on duty during the peak summer season (usually June to September).

ShadeThere is no natural shade on the sand, so bringing or renting an umbrella is recommended.

Best timeEarly morning or during June and September to avoid the extreme heat and massive crowds of August.

NearbyThe center of Cagliari and the long Poetto beach are just a few minutes away. The trail to the Devil's Saddle starts right behind the beach.

Family-friendly & For kids

Very family-friendly due to the shallow water and its sheltered position from strong winds and waves.

Kids can play safely in the shallow waters and look for small fish in the tidal pools near the rocks.

Food & drink

Fregola con arselle — Try this traditional Sardinian pasta dish with clams at a nearby coastal restaurant.
Spaghetti ai ricci di mare — Sea urchin spaghetti, a true Cagliari specialty, best enjoyed in the nearby Sant'Elia district.
Seadas — A deep-fried pastry filled with cheese and drizzled with honey, the ultimate Sardinian dessert.

Facilities

Beach bar
Kiosk
Sunbed rental
Umbrella rental
Showers
Toilets

Events nearby

Feast of Sant'Efisio (Festa di Sant'Efisio) annually May 1-4 · annual
Cagliari's most important traditional festival, held every May 1-4 since 1657 to fulfill a vow made during the 1652 plague. A multi-day procession in regional dress carries the statue of Sant'Efisio from Cagliari to Nora and back. Source
Poetto Fest annually late May / early June 2026 (May 29 - June 1) · annual
An open-air music festival on Cagliari's coast featuring dozens of Italian artists across rap, pop, dance and urban genres. The 2026 edition runs four days at the Arena Village near the beach with views toward the Sella del Diavolo headland. Source
World Triathlon Championship Series Cagliari annually (recent editions held in Cagliari at Poetto beach) · annual
An elite international triathlon round held in Cagliari, with the swim leg staged off Poetto beach near the Sella del Diavolo and Sant'Elia promontory close to Calamosca. The Olympic-format race features a 1,500m swim, 40km bike and 10km run. Source

Tips

Bring snorkeling gear to explore the rocky edges of the cove.
Hike up the Sella del Diavolo in the late afternoon to watch the sunset.
Arrive early during the peak summer months to secure a parking spot.
Pack sun protection as there is no natural shade on the beach.

FAQ

Is the beach sandy?

Yes, mainly sand, but mixed with pebbles near the water and rocks on the sides.

Can I get there by public transport?

Yes, local CTM buses from Cagliari stop just a short walk from the cove.

Are there places to eat nearby?

Yes, there is a beach kiosk right on the cove, and restaurants slightly further up the road.

Is the cove sheltered from the wind?

Yes, the surrounding cliffs make it naturally sheltered, especially from the strong Mistral wind.

Places nearby

Beaches nearby

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