Baunei Coast: Dinghy Tour to Cala Mariolu, Luna & Biriala

Baunei’s wild coastline by boat, secret coves and sun-warmed stones

You’ll ride a small dinghy along Sardinia’s Baunei coast with a local skipper, stopping for swims at Cala Mariolu and Cala Goloritzè and landing directly on beaches like Cala Luna for lunch or shade in seaside caves. Expect salty air, easy conversation, and plenty of time to float or wander — it’s more about quiet moments than ticking sights off a list.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing services with an experienced local skipper guiding you along the Baunei coast by 8-meter dinghy, all fuel costs covered, plus taxes and fees taken care of so you can focus on swimming at places like Cala Mariolu and relaxing on beaches such as Cala Luna without worrying about logistics.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour along Baunei coast

• Depart from Arbatax port
• Navigate admiring coves and caves
• Stop at Cala Mariolu beach
• Swim break at skipper's discretion
• Navigate to Cala Luna beach
• Lunch at Cala Luna beach
• Land at Cala Biriala beach
• Optional visit to Grotta del Fico cave
• Stop near Cala Goloritzè for swimming
• Return to port after navigation

The Experience

“You want to try the local coffee?” our skipper asked as we waited for the last couple to climb aboard at Arbatax port. I nodded, even though I’d barely slept — nerves or excitement, who knows. The little plastic cup he handed me was strong and sweet, and I could already smell the salt in the air. The dinghy was smaller than I’d pictured (eight meters isn’t huge), but everyone squeezed in easily. There was this quiet hum as we pushed off — engine, wind, a few nervous laughs. Sardinia’s Baunei coast just kind of unfolded around us without warning; cliffs rising up out of nowhere, all pale gold and green patches where the shrubs clung on.

I lost track of time after that first hour — maybe it was the sun or just watching the water change color every few minutes. Our guide (I think his name was Matteo?) pointed out a cave shaped like an elephant’s ear, which honestly did look like one if you squinted. At Cala Mariolu we jumped straight into water so clear you could count pebbles on the bottom. The sand there is weirdly soft but somehow gritty too — it sticks to your skin in a way that feels almost nice. I tried to order a snack from a guy selling fruit from his cooler; he grinned when I butchered “pesca” (peach) with my accent.

Lunch at Cala Luna came with shade inside these big caves right on the beach — cool air against sunburned shoulders is something I still think about. There’s a little bar tucked behind some rocks where people seemed to know each other; locals chatting in Sardinian while we ate sandwiches that got a bit sandy (inevitable). Later, at Cala Biriala, some folks went off to see Grotta del Fico — not included in our day trip but apparently worth it if you like caves. I just floated near the boat for ages instead.

The last swim stop near Cala Goloritzè felt quieter somehow — maybe everyone was tired or just soaking it all in. Water here is so blue it doesn’t look real in photos (but it is). On the way back to Arbatax nobody talked much; sun-drunk silence except for Matteo humming along with some old Italian pop song on his phone. Sometimes tours feel rushed or fake but this one didn’t — just long stretches of sea and little surprises along the Baunei coast. Hard to explain unless you go.

Top questions

How long does the Baunei coast dinghy tour last?

The tour lasts approximately one day, including navigation time between stops and free time at each beach.

Which beaches do you visit on this Baunei tour?

The main stops are Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna, Cala Biriala, plus swim stops near Cala Goloritzè and Piscine di Venere.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

No set lunch is included; you can buy food at the bar/restaurant at Cala Luna or bring your own snacks.

Are entrance fees included for Grotta del Fico?

No, tickets for Grotta del Fico are not included in the tour price.

Where does the tour start?

The dinghy departs from Arbatax port on Sardinia's east coast.

Is hotel pickup provided?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during navigation.

Can pregnant travelers join this dinghy tour?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to boat movement and physical requirements.