Chia and Su Giudeu beaches: dunes, an islet you can walk to and flamingos in the lagoon

Chia is the stretch of coast of Domus de Maria, south of Pula, where the water turns turquoise and the sand forms tall dunes covered in juniper. There are about seven kilometres of sand split between several beaches. The best known is Su Giudeu: in front of it lies a dark rock islet, about 100 metres away, which you reach on foot at low tide, with the water up to your knees.

The beaches, from east to west

Sa Colonia is a long beach of pale sand east of the Chia tower, a Spanish-era watchtower on a headland. On the other side of the tower is Su Portu. Continuing west you reach Su Giudeu, with dunes up to twenty metres high, and Porto Campana, also with dunes. At the far end, from the last access point, a path leads on foot or by bike to Cala Cipolla, a small cove sheltered among rocks.

The Spartivento flamingos

Behind Su Giudeu is the Spartivento lagoon, where you can see pink flamingos, herons and coots. From the access path to the beach you have them in view: it is easy to combine a swim and a spell with the binoculars in the same morning.

Getting there and parking

From Cagliari, an hour by car on the SS195: you pass Pula and, about ten kilometres later, turn towards the coast in the direction of Capo Spartivento. Su Giudeu has three access points and parking, as well as umbrella and sunlounger hire, bars, a restaurant and a diving centre. In July and August, arrive early. By bus it is very complicated: this outing is done by car.

With children

The water between the shore and the islet is shallow and clear, good for children to walk to the islet holding hands. The dunes are fragile: enter the beach by the marked access points and do not climb on them. There is no natural shade on the sand; bring an umbrella or hire one.

When to go

From May to October for swimming. June and September are the best months: warm water and parking with room.