Mari Pintau, the painted beach of Southern Sardinia
The beach of Mari Pintau is one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Sardinia, known for its crystal-clear sea and colors that seem to come from a painting. The name itself, which in Sardinian means “painted sea”, perfectly describes the shades of turquoise and emerald that blend with the deep blue, creating a postcard-like landscape. This article is dedicated to those who want to discover where it is and how to reach it, what to see in the surroundings, and why this spectacular beach deserves to be on your dream vacation list.
Where Mari Pintau is located
Mari Pintau is located in the territory of Quartu Sant’Elena, along the scenic road to Villasimius, in the province of Cagliari. This part of the coastline features a succession of coves and inlets of rare beauty, with the green hills and Mediterranean scrub descending down to the sea. Traveling along Viale Poetto and continuing along the curves of the scenic route to Villasimius, you arrive at this stretch of coast characterized by granite stones and pebbles, rounded and smoothed by the waves. The beach of Mari Pintau isn't very large, but it offers unforgettable views and untouched beauty.
What the beach of Mari Pintau is like
The sandy shore of Mari Pintau alternates between stretches of fine sand and pebbles, with a sandy bottom dotted with rocks. Thanks to the transparency of the water and the richness of colors, swimming here feels like diving into a painted sea. Behind the beach, the Mediterranean scrub and pine forest create natural and fragrant shaded areas, while a kiosk-bar and a beach establishment offer essential services to visitors. The pine forest behind provides a perfect refuge during the hottest hours.
How to get to Mari Pintau
To reach Mari Pintau, you can take SP 17 to Cala Regina, passing the turnoff for Torre delle Stelle and proceeding to the roundabout at Kal’e Moru. The beach is located along the coastline on the dirt embankment, with an equipped parking area nearby. This road, also known as the scenic route to Villasimius, is one of the most scenic in Sardinia, allowing for stunning views of a coastline that alternates cliffs, coves, and stretches of finest white sand.
Mari Pintau and Geremeas
Not far away lies the wide bay of Geremeas, a long expanse of golden sand perfect for those seeking more space and facilities for families. The contrast between the bay and the small size of Mari Pintau makes for an interesting comparison: the former is more open and breezy, while the latter is more secluded and intimate. Both, however, are part of the Quartese coastline and share the same transparent sea and characteristic landscapes of southern Sardinia.
Cala Regina and Moru
Continuing towards Cagliari, we encounter Cala Regina, a small rocky cove with a mixed bottom perfect for snorkeling, and the beach of Moru, nestled between green hills and clear waters. These places, along with Mari Pintau, are ideal stops for an itinerary along the coastline that combines nature and relaxation. The roundabout at Kal’e Moru is a reference point for those wanting to navigate the different beaches in the area.
Torre delle Stelle and Solanas
The turnoff for Torre delle Stelle leads to a location renowned for its seaside villas and secluded coves. From here, continuing along the coastal road, you arrive at Solanas, with its wide beach of fine sand and calm sea. This stretch of the coastline offers breathtaking views and a sequence of landscapes that blend the blue of the water with the green of the vegetation.
Nature and sea floors of Mari Pintau
The sea bottom of Mari Pintau is among the clearest in the area, thanks to the combination of pebbles and sand that does not cloud the water. Here you can see schools of fish and, with a bit of luck, a starfish. The shape of the bay protects the beach from stronger winds, making the sea almost always calm and perfect for swimming. Walking towards Is Canaleddus, you discover even wilder and quieter corners.
History and surroundings
Besides the sea, this area offers the opportunity to visit interesting archaeological sites inland, such as the nuraghe and the giants' tombs of the Sette Fratelli massif. The territory of Quartu Sant’Elena is rich in history, with each village guarding testimonies of ancient times. A well-planned itinerary can combine sea and culture, alternating relaxing days on the beach with historical visits.
Services and hospitality
Mari Pintau is a destination that combines untouched beauty and convenience. The beach features a small beach establishment, kiosk-bar, and spaces to rent beach equipment. An equipped parking area nearby facilitates access, and the presence of paths connecting to nearby beaches makes it easy to organize a day of wandering along the Quartese coastline.
FAQ
1. Where is the beach of Mari Pintau?
It is located in the territory of the Municipality of Quartu Sant’Elena, in the province of Cagliari, along the scenic road to Villasimius.
2. What does the name Mari Pintau mean?
The name means “painted sea” and derives from the unique colors of the water.
3. What is the shoreline of Mari Pintau like?
The shoreline alternates between stretches of fine sand and pebbles, with a sandy bottom dotted with rocks.
4. How do you reach Mari Pintau?
You travel SP 17 to Cala Regina, passing the turnoff for Torre delle Stelle and continuing to the roundabout at Kal’e Moru.
5. Are there services at the beach?
Yes, there are kiosk-bar, beach establishment, and an equipped parking area.
6. Is it family-friendly?
Yes, but the presence of pebbles makes it useful to bring water shoes for children.
7. What other beaches are nearby?
Geremeas, Cala Regina, Moru, Torre delle Stelle, and Solanas.
8. Is it a equipped or free beach?
Both options are available: there are free areas and a beach establishment.
9. What to do besides the sea?
You can visit interesting archaeological sites and the Sette Fratelli massif in the inland.
10. What is the best time to go to Mari Pintau?
From June to September, when the crystal-clear sea showcases its colors beautifully like a painting.