Mari Pintau, the painted beach of Southern Sardinia
The beach of Mari Pintau is one of the most beautiful beaches in Southern Sardinia, renowned for its crystal-clear sea and colors that seem to come straight out of 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 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 a place 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 coast is a succession of coves and inlets of rare beauty, with the green of the hills and Mediterranean scrub descending 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, smooth and rounded by the waves. The beach of Mari Pintau is not very large, but it offers unforgettable views and an untouched beauty.
What the beach of Mari Pintau is like
The sandy shore of Mari Pintau alternates 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 is like immersing yourself in 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 club provide essential services to visitors. The pine forest behind it is a perfect refuge during the hottest hours.
How to get to Mari Pintau
To reach Mari Pintau, you can take the SP 17 until Cala Regina, passing by the junction of Torre delle Stelle and continuing until the roundabout at Kal’e Moru. The beach is located along the coastal road on the dirt quay, with a well-equipped parking area nearby. This road, also known as the scenic route to Villasimius, is one of the most scenic in Sardinia and allows you to admire a stretch of coast that alternates cliffs, coves, and stretches of fine white sand.
Mari Pintau and Geremeas
A short distance away opens up the wide bay of Geremeas, a long stretch 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. However, both 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 come across 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 coast that combines nature and relaxation. The roundabout at Kal’e Moru is a reference point for those wanting to navigate among the various beaches in the area.
Torre delle Stelle and Solanas
The junction of Torre delle Stelle leads to a location renowned for its seaside villas and secluded coves. From here, continuing along the coastal road, you reach 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 merge the blue of the water with the green of the vegetation.
Nature and seabeds of Mari Pintau
The seabed 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 admire schools of fish and, with a bit of luck, a starfish. The shape of the bay protects the beach from the strongest winds, making the sea almost always calm and perfect for swimming. Walking towards Is Canaleddus, you can discover even wilder and quieter spots.
History and surroundings
Besides the sea, this area offers the chance to visit interesting archaeological sites in the hinterland, such as the nuraghi and the tombs of the giants of the Sette Fratelli mountain range. The territory of Quartu Sant’Elena is rich in history, and each village holds 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 has a small beach club, kiosk-bar, and spaces for renting beach equipment. The well-equipped parking area nearby facilitates access, and the presence of paths that connect to nearby beaches makes it easy to organize a wandering day along the Quartese coastline.
FAQ
1. Where is Mari Pintau beach located?
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 stretches of fine sand and pebbles, with a sandy bottom dotted with rocks.
4. How do you get to Mari Pintau?
You travel on SP 17 until Cala Regina, passing by the junction of Torre delle Stelle and continuing until the roundabout at Kal’e Moru.
5. Are there services on the beach?
Yes, there are kiosk-bar, beach club, and a well-equipped parking area.
6. Is it suitable for families?
Yes, but the presence of pebbles makes it helpful to bring beach shoes for children.
7. What other beaches are nearby?
Geremeas, Cala Regina, Moru, Torre delle Stelle, and Solanas.
8. Is it a equipped beach or free?
Both options are available: there are free zones and a beach club.
9. What to do besides the sea?
You can visit interesting archaeological sites and the Sette Fratelli mountain range in the hinterland.
10. What is the best time to go to Mari Pintau?
From June to September, when the crystal-clear sea shows its colors at their best like a painting.