Is Arutas beach: a quartz paradise in the unspoilt nature of western Sardinia
In the heart of the west coast of Sardinia, overlooking the Gulf of Oristano, lies one of the island's most astonishing wonders: the beach of Is Arutas. Also known as the 'Grain of rice beach', is a corner of Sardinia that seems suspended in time, protected from mass tourism and enveloped in an atmosphere of pure unspoilt nature. In this guide I will accompany you to discover every detail of this magical place, among the coloured quartz grainsthe turquoise sea and the curiosities that only a local really knows.
I will take you on a discovery of Is Arutas and its sister beaches such as Mari Ermi, Maimoni, Putzu Idu and the island of Bellyacheto show you why this stretch of the Sinis Peninsula is one of the most authentic and spectacular of all the Sardinia region. Ready to go?
Where is the Is Arutas beach and how to get there?
Is Arutas is located at Sinis Peninsulain the territory of Cabrasabout 20 km from the city of Oristano. È easily accessible by car following the signs for Cabras and then for San Giovanni di Sinisalong a scenic road through ponds, salt pans and old fishing villages.
The route ends with a dirt road that leads to a pay car park near the beach. From there it is possible to walk to a coastline that, from the very first glance, takes one's breath away with its beauty. naturalistic and the transparency of water. Reaching the beach is simple, but I recommend arriving early in the high season to find a place.
What makes the Is Arutas beach unique?
La Is Arutas beach is distinguished by a very rare peculiarity: the sandy shore is not formed by classic sand, but by small grains of quartz purest, smoothed by the sea to become rounded e similar to grains of rice. Some are snow-whiteothers veer from teal to soft pinkgiving rise to iridescent hues that seem mingle with the water of the sea. This composition makes it so distinctive that it has been renamed the 'rice grain beach'.
I coloured quartz grains are a protected natural phenomenon: taking them away is forbidden to preserve this unique geological heritage. Is Arutas is located within the protected marine area of Sinisand is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in western Sardinia.
Why is the beach made of quartz grains?
I grains of quartz forming the Is Arutas beach are the result of a very rare geological phenomenon. They are quartz of various colourssmoothed over millennia by the action of the sea and wind, until it became rounded such as grains of rice. Some specimens are so perfect that they look like granules of opaline glass.
This composition also has an ecological function: the coloured quartz grains do not absorb heat like dark sand and reflect light in such a way as to mingle with the water of the sea. Unfortunately, over time, the shoreline has suffered a certain erosion due to the abusive harvesting of grains, which is why it is now protected and supervised.
Is the beach suitable for children?
Yes, the Is Arutas beach is perfect for children thanks to the shallow water and the clarity of the water. I small grains of quartz do not stick to the skin like fine sand, making it easier to clean oneself after bathing. However, care should be taken on days of strong winds or high waves.
For families, I recommend that you equip yourself well: there are no equipped bathing establishments, so you have to bring everything, but this helps to keep the pristine beach. Some features of the shoreline are shaded by dunes covered with Mediterranean scrub, excellent for a rest.
Is the Is Arutas beach closed?
Although Is Arutas is one of the most iconic beaches in the west coast of Sardiniaat the moment is not subject to numerical restrictionsunlike other Sardinian localities that have introduced limits to protect the environment. However, it is important to know that in recent years the municipality of Cabras evaluated forms of access regulationespecially in July and August, to contain the impact of the mass tourism and protect the valuable coloured quartz grains.
I advise you to keep an eye on the official channels of the municipality or theSinis marine protected area before your visit, because in the future, reservations or quota entries may be activated, as is already the case for the Pelosa in Stintino. In any case, to experience the beach in its full splendour, arrive early in the morning or at duskspectacular light, few people, zero stress.
What is the water like at Is Arutas? Is it suitable for snorkelling?
Le transparent waters of Is Arutas are among the most fascinating of the west coast of Sardinia. I grains of quartzreflecting light, they give the sea hues ranging from intense turquoise to aqua greenwith ideal sharpness for the snorkelling and for the more curious divers equipped with diving mask.
The seabed is sandy and gently sloping, so it is also perfect for those who want to take a relaxing swim or explore the surroundings without straying too far from the shore. For those who are keen on diving, themarine protected area of Sinis offers diving areas with archaeological finds and intact marine flora.
What to do in the surroundings: from Mari Ermi to Mal di Ventre
If you got as far as Is Arutasyou cannot miss its neighbours: Mari Ermi e Maimoni. These beaches share the same type of beach composed of small quartz grainsalthough to a lesser extent than in Is Arutas. Here too, the sea is clear and calm, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
For the more adventurous, an excursion to theisland of Mal di Ventrewhich is located just off the coast. Accessible by boat from Putzu Idu, this uninhabited island is a paradise for nature lovers, the birdwatching and excursions. On the coast, amidst the Mediterranean bushes, one encounters pink flamingoswild hares and rare seabirds.
1. A walk along the coast between Is Arutas and Mari Ermi
One of the most beautiful hikes is the panoramic walk between Is Arutas and Mari Ermi. It is a coastal path that winds along sand dunes, Mediterranean maquis and small headlands. The trail is easy, suitable for everyone, and offers wonderful views of the colourful sea. intense turquoisewith a view of theisland of Mal di Ventre.
During the walk, you can observe the iridescent hues of sand, made of coloured quartz grainsand listen only to the sound of the sea and wind. Ideal for photographers, birdwatchers and those seeking a moment of total immersion in the unspoilt nature.
2. Boat or dinghy excursion to the island of Mal di Ventre
If you want to experience the sea in a different way, one of the most impressive excursions is by boat to theisland of Mal di Ventrean uninhabited and protected islet located in front of Is Arutas. Excursions usually depart from Putzu Idu o San Giovanni di Sinisand in high season also directly from beaches such as Mari Ermi.
The island is a paradise for those who love the wild nature: there are deserted bays, transparent waters, granitic rockbut above all a feeling of absolute silence. The hike is also ideal for those who practice snorkelling or wants to explore with a diving mask the seabed rich in life.
3. Archaeological visit to Tharros and the Tower of San Giovanni di Sinis
A perfect excursion to combine sea and culture is to the archaeological site of Tharrosone of the most important cities of Phoenician and Roman Sardinia. It is located a few kilometres from Is Arutas, and is easily accessible by car or bicycle.
You can walk between temples, baths, paved roads and Roman cisterns, with a panoramic view of the Gulf of Oristano. Continuing northwards, it is worth climbing to the Tower of St Johnfrom which you can enjoy a 360° view of the Sinis Peninsula.
4. Village tour of San Salvatore di Sinis
An unusual excursion is a visit to the village of San Salvatorefamous for its low houses, religious traditions and for having been the set of several Italian western films. Here every year the famous Running of the Scalzia spectacular barefoot procession linking the village with Cabras.
You can visit it on foot in a short time, but its atmosphere will stay with you: it feels like entering another time, where seasons and customs have not changed for decades. It is also a great place to buy typical products and stop to chat with the locals.
5. Nature excursion around the Cabras pond
For those who love nature, birds and freshwater landscapes, I recommend a hike around the pond of Cabrasone of the largest in Sardinia. There you can take a bike ride or a walk, stop at observation points and admire pink flamingos, herons and knights of Italy.
The ambience is quiet and relaxing, perfect for those who want to get away from the beach and discover a corner of Sardinia less known but of great charm naturalistic. Some excursions are organised by local environmental guides and also include tastings of botargo and Vernaccia wine.
Where to sleep near Is Arutas?
To sleep near Is Arutas, the best choice is the centre of Cabrasa quiet and friendly village, less than 20 minutes from the beach. Here you will find bed & breakfastsmall hotels, farmhouses and holiday homes surrounded by greenery. Sleeping in Cabras allows you to live an authentic experience in the heart of the province of Oristanotasting Sardinian cuisine based on botargo, fish and Vernaccia wine.
A suggestive alternative is to sleep in the area of San Giovanni di Sinisperhaps in one of the stone houses overlooking the sea, or in the village of San Salvatorefamous for its western charm and ancient religious traditions.
Is it possible to camp in Is Arutas?
If you are wondering whether you can camp directly at Is Arutasthe answer is no: free camping is not permitted in the area, precisely to protect the sensitive grains of quartz. La beach is surrounded from sensitive natural environments, such as the dunes, I pond of Cabras and theSinis marine protected areawhich cannot be altered by the presence of unauthorised tents or campers.
However, there are some nearby camper van sites e agricampsites very well integrated into the landscape. One of the closest is near Mari Ermijust 10 minutes away, or you can look for a pitch at the campsites in San Giovanni di Sinis o Funtana Meiga. They are perfect solutions for those who want to experience nature, but in a way environmentally friendly.
When to go to Is Arutas?
The best time to visit Is Arutas goes from May to Septemberwhen the climate is mild and the sea invites you to swim. June and September are ideal for enjoying the silence and the unspoilt naturewithout the crowding of the central months. On mistral days, the sea can be rough, but the landscape becomes spectacular, especially for fans of windsurfing.
In summer, it is good to bring a parasol: the beach does not have many shady areas and the sun beats down hard. Also remember to bring everything you need, including water and food, as beach facilities are limited to preserve the environment.
What to see around Is Arutas?
The Sinis area is rich in excursions. I recommend visiting the archaeological site of Tharrosancient Phoenician-Roman city overlooking the sea, a few kilometres from San Giovanni di Sinis. Here you can walk past columns, temples and ancient Roman streets with the sea as a backdrop.
Another impressive stop is the village of San Salvatorewhere the famous barefoot race takes place every year. This uninhabited village is often used as a film set for Italian westerns and is truly out of time.
What are the local tips to best experience Is Arutas?
I recommend arriving early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest hours and enjoy the perfect light for photos. Bring with you rock shoes if you want to explore the side rocks, and a waste bagThe beach is wild and there are no litter bins.
Remember: do not pick up quartz grainseven if they are irresistible. Every grain is part of a delicate ecosystem that must be respected. It brings a diving mask to do snorkelling and discover the wonders of the seabed among colourful fish and small posidonia meadows.
Summary: what to remember about Is Arutas
Is Arutas is a unique beach, consisting of grains of quartz polished similar to grains of rice
It is located in the Sinis Peninsula, near Cabrasin the province of Oristano
The sandy shore has shades ranging from snow-white at aqua greenwith a sea crystal turquoise
It is perfect for those seeking unspoilt nature, snorkelling and relaxation away from mass tourism
It is part of theSinis marine protected area and it is forbidden to take sand or grains
Nearby are beaches such as Mari Ermi, Maimoni, Putzu Idu and theisland of Mal di Ventre
To sleep, the centre of Cabras e San Giovanni di Sinis are good options
Also not to be missed Tharros, San Salvatore and the fishing village of Funtana Meiga
Bring umbrella, water and food: the beach is pristine and services are minimal
Respect the environment: the beauty of this corner of Sardinia also depends on you
Frequently asked questions about Is Arutas
What is the sea like at Is Arutas?
The sea at Is Arutas is simply spectacular. Its waters are transparent, clear and turquoise-colouredwith gently sloping sandy seabed, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Thanks to the grains of quartz that make up the beach, the water takes on unique reflections that change throughout the day, going from the teal to deep blue. On windless days it is a plank, while with the mistral it can get rougher, also attracting some surfer.
Since when do you pay for parking at Is Arutas?
Parking at Is Arutas è for a fee during the summer seasonusually by early June to late Septemberevery day from early morning until late afternoon. The proceeds also serve to finance the maintenance of theSinis marine protected area. The daily cost varies but is around 5 euro for the whole day. I recommend arriving early, especially at weekends, because places fill up quickly.
What does 'Is Arutas' mean in Sardinian?
“Is Arutas"in the Sardinian language means 'The Rocks' o 'The stones'a name that recalls the particular conformation of the beach, made not of traditional sand, but of quartz grains polished, rounded and colourful, similar to grains of rice. This name perfectly reflects the unique geology of the beach, which is one of the most fascinating aspects of the place.
Where is the beach of Is Arutas?
La Is Arutas beach is located on west coast of Sardiniain the Sinis Peninsula, about 20 km from Oristanoin the territory of the municipality of Cabras. It is part of theSinis marine protected area - Mal di Ventre and is easily reached by car following the signs for Cabras, then for San Giovanni di Sinis and finally to Is Arutas. The coastline is well signposted and accessible even for those unfamiliar with the area, and is one of the most beautiful beaches in western Sardinia.