Carloforte is a little and colorful town on the island of San Pietro. Now, you are probably asking yourself, where is the island of San Pietro. It’s a little island just off the coast of Southern Sardinia, reachable by ferry in just 40 minutes from Calassetta or Portovesme. Carloforte offers a perfect mix of Ligurian charm and Sardinian warmth. This picturesque town was founded by Genoese fishermen in the 18th century and today it boasts colorful streets, stunning beaches, a rich cultural heritage and delicious food. Here you will be able to relax, hike and if you visit in June, taste the most delicious tuna ever.
What to Visit?
The Historic Center
Wander through Carloforte’s narrow streets, lined with pastel-colored houses and quaint shops. Don’t miss the local markets, where you can sample fresh seafood and traditional Ligurian-Sardinian delicacies.
Visit the Beaches and rent a Stand up paddle board!
Though Carloforte is best known for its colorful Ligurian character and tuna fishing traditions, its coastline is absolutely fantastic. The island of San Pietro, where Carloforte is located, is fringed with unspoiled beaches, cliffs, and hidden coves. Usually the beaches are not too crowded and are perfect for a relaxing sun bathing. I advice you to lace up your shoes and hike in the surrounding mountains to reach hidden coves. If you don’t feel like hiking in the hot sun, just bring your snorkeling mask because the underwater scenery is unforgettable. Last but not least, paddle out there with a standing paddle board or a kayak, to admire the impressive cliffs and statues dating back to 15 million years ago. Yes, it’s not a typo. The massive Columns, symbol of the island, are two volcanic stacks dating back to the Middle Miocene, formed after and intense marine erosion. Let’s see together which are the most amazing beaches on the island of San Pietro and how to get there:
Spiaggia di Girin
Just a short drive or bike ride from Carloforte town, Spiaggia di Girin is one of the island’s most popular beaches—and for good reason. With its fine white sand, shallow turquoise waters, and a gently sloping seabed, it’s ideal for families with children and casual swimmers. It’s fantastic for snorkeling. There’s often a small beach bar (depending on the season), and some shade from surrounding tamarisk trees.
Spiaggia di La Caletta
Tucked along the island’s southern coast, La Caletta offers a change of scenery with rocky formations, pebbled shores, and strikingly clear waters that make it perfect for snorkeling and underwater photography. The contrasting dark volcanic rocks and blue sea create a stunning visual palette. Bring water shoes because the rocky entry can be tricky and sea urchin are not uncommon. If you are lucky, with a bit of wind, you might be able to surf here!
Spiaggia La Bobba
Just west of La Caletta lies the beautiful and lesser-known La Bobba, a small but stunning beach known for its tranquil atmosphere and striking rocky backdrop. Here you will enjoy fine sand and crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. The highlight of this beach are Colonne di Carloforte—two tall natural rock columns emerging from the sea. As said at the beginning of this post, the columns dates back to Miocene and are 15 million years old. This two natural stacks of rhyolitic ignimbrite were formed by marine erosion that broke up ancient lava flows. In addition to their geological origin, they are known for several legends: some believe they depict sailors petrified as a punishment from God, others that they are monsters turned to stone by St. Peter to defend the island. Unfortunately, a storm in 2013 caused one of the two columns to collapse, an event that deeply affected local residents. You still can admire the remaining columns, from the sea (kayaking or stand up paddling) or from above. There is a little path starting at the parking lot here and leading up on the cliff.
The beach is 6 km away from Carloforte and you can reach it by car or by bike. There is a parking lot situated on a private land just next to the beach. It’s managed by private people and it’s free although a donation is more than welcome. If you want to enjoy the beach after the sunset, make sure to park outside the private property because the private parking remains closed at night.
Spiaggia di Cala Fico
For those craving a wild and secluded escape, Cala Fico is the dream. This small, rocky cove sits at the far western tip of the island and is surrounded by cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s not super easy to reach—you’ll need to drive along a dirt road and walk the final stretch—but the reward is total serenity. It’s top snorkeling spot, thanks to the marine richness of the nearby LIPU nature reserve, which protects rare seabirds and coastal ecosystems. There are no facilities, so bring water, food and if you come in the morning the shade. In the afternoon, there is a lot of natural shade. The best moment is the sunset. Absolutely stunning. I also advice you to stop by at the nearby Capo Sandalo to enjoy the stunning views and hike down to one of the little and less known coves. The water shoes are a must here due to many rocks and possible sea urchins.
Off the road suggestions:
The beaches on the island are stunning but there is more. The rocky formations, the history, old mines and many off road hiking trails are there for you. Not too far from Cala Fico, you may admire the mineral caves reachable by foot only. Not to be missed place is also Punta delle Oche (absolutely great at sunset). You can also visit the Caves reachable from the sea only, just below the rocky formations of Punta Delle Oche. If you are interested in archeology, check out the Punic Necropolis – you can find more information here.
How to Explore the Beaches and the Island?
The island is small, and most beaches are reachable within 15–20 minutes from Carloforte by car, scooter, or even e-bike. Some like Cala Fico and La Bobba also offer nearby hiking trails, so you can combine a morning trek with an afternoon swim. If you didn’t come with your own car and bike, just rent one of the island.
Discover the Local Culture
Visit the Museo Civico to learn about the town’s history and the Tabarka dialect, still spoken by some residents. If you’re in town during the summer, you might catch the Festa di San Pietro, a lively celebration with music, food, and traditional boat races.
How to Get There?
From Cagliari to Carloforte
To reach Carloforte from Cagliari, drive to the port of Portovesme. The ferry service from Portovesme to Carloforte is operated by Delcomar, with departures approximately every hour. The journey takes about 40 minutes, offering scenic views of the Mediterranean.
From Calasetta to Carloforte
Alternatively, ferries depart from Calasetta, located on the island of Sant’Antioco. This route is slightly shorter, with a crossing time of around 30 minutes. It’s ideal for those staying on Sant’Antioco or arriving from the western parts of Sardinia. Sant’Antioco is connected to the main land Sardinia by a bridge.
Accommodation
Carloforte offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. You can stay in town to enjoy its vibe or choose a silent house near one of the stunning beaches and enjoy the quite solitude, far away from the crowds. There is a range of apartments and hotels on the main booking platforms and I advice to book in advance in order to find the best deal. Check the website of Carloforte Suites and find the right place for you. If you are looking for an intimate experience, Aquamadre Suite provides stylish, well-appointed suites with kitchenettes. If you are searching a relaxation in the middle of nowhere, Villa Punta delle Oche is an incredible accommodation immersed in the green hills and overlooking the sea. It’s perfect for families or those looking to relax away from the town’s hustle and bustle.
Where to Eat?
In downtown, you can find a range of restaurants and small shops serving the traditional food. If you visit at the beginning of June, don’t miss the tuna festival called “girotonno”. You will be able to taste different types of local tuna fish, watch the cooking competitions and enjoy the festive atmosphere around town. The restaurant Al Tonno di Corsa is great if you want to eat fresh fish (tuna included). Also Trattoria Lo Scoglio is a great choice for your lunch or dinner.
Carloforte is a hidden gem that offers a perfect combination of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty. Looking for an off the touristic track destination? Here it comes: pristine beaches, hiking trails, charming streets, delicious food.
A weekend or a week in Carloforte promises to rejuvenate your spirit and create lasting memories.
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