When I first arrived in Sardinia, I had no idea just how beautiful it would be. The views were absolutely breathtaking — clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and hills that seemed to glow in the sun. I was also surprised by how good the food was, with fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and simple, delicious flavors that made every meal a highlight. It didn’t take long for me to understand why so many people fall in love with this island. If you’re planning your Sardinia vacation, prepare to be amazed by the stunning Sardinia beaches and the unique charm of Sardinia, Italy.
What I really appreciated was how Sardinia feels right for all kinds of travelers. It’s great for families, with calm beaches and plenty of space to relax. It’s romantic enough for honeymooners, with quiet spots and stunning sunsets. And if you’re traveling solo, like I was at the time, it’s both peaceful and welcoming. One of the places that stood out most to me was Villasimius — a small town on the southeast coast with some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen. Villasimius is about 50 minutes from Cagliari by car, making it easy to reach if you’re flying to Sardinia.
I’ve been to Sardinia multiple times now, and each trip has only made me love it more. Over time, I’ve found the perfect spot to explore the island’s most beautiful beaches — Villasimius. Let me take you through this travel guide to show you exactly why it’s so special.
Where to Stay in Villasimus, Sardinia
During our family trip to Villasimius, we stayed at Villa Mannus from Habulus Villas — and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The villa is set on a hill, so every morning we woke up to a stunning sea view. It’s spacious enough for up to nine people, with four bedrooms and five bathrooms, which gave everyone plenty of space. There’s also a washing machine, which came in handy during our stay, especially with kids.
We loved spending time on the big terrace and by the infinity pool, both overlooking the sea and lake with flamingoes. Inside, the villa was modern, clean, and had everything we needed. The beach was just a short 2-minute walk down a private path through the trees. Even better, sunbeds and umbrellas were included in our stay, so we didn’t have to worry about finding a good spot. Villasimius town was only a 5-minute drive away, with plenty of restaurants, cafés, and shops to explore. If you’re visiting Sardinia with family or friends, I can’t recommend Villa Mannus enough — it made our trip really special.
What to do in Villasimus
Boat Tour
One of the best ways to experience the turquoise, transparent waters of Sardinia is by getting right into them — and this 3.5-hour boat tour from Villasimius was a highlight of our trip. We cruised through the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, stopping at hidden beaches and swimming spots you can only reach by boat. The water was unbelievably clear, perfect for snorkeling and soaking in the beauty of Sardinia’s coastline.
With refreshing drinks on board and plenty of time to swim, relax, and explore, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and chill. If you’re planning your Sardinia vacation, this tour is a must. Book online on time especially if you travel during high season.
Visit the most beautiful beaches
Villasimius is one of the best places in Sardinia and even in Europe that offers breathtaking beaches. Each beach has a unique charm. And moreover the whole area is Part of the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, which ensures the protection of biodiversity in the area.
- Porto Giunco – it is one of the most popular beaches in Villasimius, renowned for its stunning white sand and clear turquoise waters. Our Villa Mannus was just 2 steps away from it.
- Timi Ama – perfect for families and this is the one where we could put our sunbeds and umbrellas.
- Spiaggia di Notteri – This beach is famous for its lagoon, where pink flamingos nest. Spiaggia di Notteri is perfect for nature and photography lovers.
- Is Traias Beach – ideal place for a day of relaxation away from the crowd.
- Campus Beach – this one is loved for it’s golden sand and calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children.
- Spiaggia del Riso – famous for it’s sand, which resembles grains of rice.
- Cala Caterina – Located in the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara, Cala Caterina is a small bay surrounded by dense vegetation. Perfect for those who love snorkeling.
- Porto Sa Ruxi– is another excellent beach for snorkeling enthusiasts.
- Punta Molentis – I’ve heard locals love that one.
- Campulongu – ideal for sunset lovers.
Hike up to the Tower of Porto Giunco
If you’re into breathtaking lookouts like me, then you definitely shouldn’t miss the Tower of Porto Giunco. It’s about a 15-minute hike to the top, and while the path can be a bit rocky and uneven, the view is more than worth it. There are a few ways to get there, but we found a quiet, almost secret trail that starts at the far end of Porto Giunco beach. Once you reach the top, you’re treated to incredible views of the turquoise sea on one side and a lagoon filled with pink flamingos on the other. It’s one of the most scenic spots in Sardinia, and a perfect break from the beach.
Scuba Dive in Capo Carbonara
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, a scuba diving trip in Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area is an unforgettable experience. The underwater world here is full of life — colorful fish, rock formations, and even the occasional octopus. Whether you’re certified or a first-time diver, local dive centers offer guided dives with all the gear and support you need. Exploring the clear waters of Sardinia from below the surface gives you a whole new appreciation for the island’s natural beauty. It’s a must for anyone looking to add a little thrill to their Sardinia vacation.
Visit Villasimus Town
Villasimius town has a nice evening vibe, and after a day at the beach, we enjoyed heading there for a stroll, some shopping, and gelato. There are plenty of places to eat—mostly casual spots with seafood and pizza—but honestly, there are better restaurants nearby if you’re looking for something special. Still, the lively streets, music, and friendly atmosphere make Villasimius a great place to spend the evening and soak up the local vibe.
Fun fact: the town still has some old Spanish watchtowers nearby, built centuries ago to protect against pirates. Also, just outside town, you can find ancient Nuragic ruins—remnants of a mysterious civilization unique to Sardinia. So while Villasimius is perfect for an evening walk and a relaxed night out, it’s also a place with a rich history worth knowing about.
Wine Tour and Vineyard Lunch or Dinner
For a more relaxed (and delicious) experience, treat yourself to a wine tour and meal at a local vineyard just outside Villasimius. We spent an afternoon tasting Sardinian wines and learning about the island’s winemaking traditions — all surrounded by peaceful countryside and vineyard views. The highlight was a long, laid-back lunch made with fresh local ingredients, perfectly paired with the wines. Whether you go for lunch or dinner, it’s a beautiful, slow-paced way to enjoy the flavors of Sardinia and a great contrast to the beach and sea adventures.
Where to eat in Villasimus
- Bar Ristorante Il Miraggio – If you’re seeking a romantic beachfront dining experience in Villasimius, Bar Ristorante Il Miraggio is the place to be. Situated directly on Campus Beach, it offers a picturesque setting where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Sardinian dishes while watching the sunset. The menu features specialties like spaghetti with lobster, fregola with sea urchins, and a variety of grilled fish, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients .tripadvisor.it
Due to its popularity, especially during peak seasons, reservations are highly recommended to secure a table with a view.
- Su Giganti Ristorante – We stumbled upon Su Giganti Ristorante by chance when we forgot to make a reservation at another spot, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise! Located just a short walk from Campus Beach, this family-run restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with fresh local seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and classic Sardinian dishes. The outdoor terrace is especially charming for evening meals. Given its popularity, it’s advisable to make a reservation, as the place tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak dining hours.
- Primo Molo – If you’re looking for a relaxed spot to enjoy an aperitivo with a view, Primo Molo in Villasimius is a great choice.Located in the tourist marina near Spiaggia della Fortezza, it offers a charming terrace where you can sip cocktails like Aperol spritz or gin and tonic while watching the sunset. The menu features generous platters of local cured meats and cheeses served on traditional pane carasau, making it a perfect spot for a light bite or pre-dinner drinks.
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