Tucked into a narrow cove framed by pink granite cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. Although the beach itself is relatively small, its sheltered setting, clear turquoise water, and rugged surroundings made it one of the most memorable beaches we visited during our road trip through Sardinia.
Part of what makes Cala Li Cossi special is how to get there: the beach cannot be reached directly by car, so you’ll need to follow a short coastal trail from the parking area. The walk is not particularly difficult, but it is much more scenic than a standard beach-access path, with stunning coastal views and clear water accompanying you along much of the route.
We put together this short guide to help you plan your visit to Cala Li Cossi, which includes where to park, what the trail is like, and what to expect once you make it to the beach.
Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi – At a Glance
Location:
Cala Li Cossi is located within Costa Paradiso on Sardinia’s northern coast, between Castelsardo and Santa Teresa Gallura.
Main Highlights
– Dramatic Natural Amphitheatre: Tucked inside a steep gorge surrounded by towering, wind-sculpted pink granite cliffs.
– Emerald Green Waters: Famous for its incredibly clear, shallow sea that creates a striking contrast against the dark red rocks.
– Unique River Lagoon: Backed by the mouth of the Li Cossi River, creating a calm freshwater pool directly behind the sandy beach.
– Scenic Coastal Walk: Accessed via a breathtaking, 10-minute cliffside pathway carved into the stone from the parking area.
Good to Know:
-The coastal trail is a relatively easy but very scenic coastal trail with some steps and some occasional uneven surfaces. Most people walk the trail in about 10 minutes.
-Parking is available near the beginning of the coastal trail, but spaces are limited and can fill quickly during the summer.
-Cala Li Cossi is a small and very popular beach, so arriving early is strongly recommended in July and August.
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Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi: Location, Map, and How to Get There
Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi is located within Costa Paradiso, a residential and resort area along Sardinia’s rugged northern coast. The beach sits between Castelsardo and Santa Teresa Gallura, surrounded by the pink granite rocks and Mediterranean vegetation characteristic of this part of the island.
There is no direct road access to the beach. To reach Cala Li Cossi, you must first drive through Costa Paradiso to the parking area near the end of the road, then continue on foot along a short coastal trail (more on the trail further below).
How to Get to Cala Li Cossi
By Car: Driving is the easiest and most practical way to reach Cala Li Cossi. After turning off the main coastal road, you’ll follow the winding roads through Costa Paradiso toward the trailhead and parking area
Typical driving times:
From Costa Paradiso: 5 min (5 km)
From Santa Teresa Gallura: 40 min (40 km)
From Castelsardo: 50 hour (40 km)
From Palau: 60 min (50 km)
From Porto Torres: 70 min (70 km)
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Parking for Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi
The main parking lot for Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi is located at the end of Via La Piana in Costa Paradiso, next to Hotel Costa Paradiso and the start of the scenic coastal trail leading to the beach (link to Google Maps).
During the peak summer season, this lot generally operates as paid parking. Rates are typically around €1 per hour, €4 for a half day, or €8 for a full day. Payment is made at automated parking meters, which only accepted coins when we last visited, so it is a good idea to bring some change.
The lot has space for roughly 40–50 vehicles, but it can fill quickly during the summer. We recommend arriving before 10:00 AM if you want the best chance of finding a space close to the trailhead.
There is also a second parking area about 800 metres farther back along Via La Piana (link to Google Maps), which you will pass before reaching the main lot. This parking area is free, but it often fills quickly for that reason. From there, allow approximately 10 additional minutes of walking to reach the official trailhead.
The Trail to Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi
The trail to Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi begins beside the small marina at the end of Via La Piana, close to the main parking area and Hotel Costa Paradiso.
Trail Difficulty and Length
From there, the path follows the rugged coastline for approximately 700 metres one way. The trail is generally rated as easy to moderate and takes around 10 minutes at a relaxed pace. But you may want to plan for slightly longer if you are bringing a lot of beach gear, or to allow extra time for photos, as the scenery is simply stunning.
The route combines hard-packed dirt, uneven granite steps, wooden footbridges, and short inclines. The trail is family-friendly but unsuitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to occasional uneven steps and inclines.
Scenery along the Trail
The walk is definitely one of the highlights of the visit. Along the way, you’ll get views over the open sea, pink granite cliffs, narrow coastal inlets, and the rocky landscape of Costa Paradiso.
Near the end, the trail opens onto an elevated view of the cove leading into Cala Li Cossi before descending toward the beach and lagoon below. It’s a stunning view you won’t soon forget!
Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi: What to Expect
The Beach Environment
Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi is a crescent-shaped beach of coarse golden sand, framed almost like a natural amphitheatre by massive, wind-sculpted pink granite cliffs.
The setting is especially special because the beach sits between two very different bodies of water. The open sea lies in front, while the calm green waters of the Riu Li Cossi lagoon sit directly behind the sand, somewhat similar to other popular beaches in Sardinia such as Cala Luna and Spiaggia di Ezzi Mannu
The seawater is exceptionally clear, with intense turquoise and emerald tones that contrast beautifully with the reddish-pink granite surrounding the cove.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming conditions are generally very good, as the narrow cove is relatively sheltered from strong winds and rougher seas. The water gets fairly deep quickly, making it a great spot for snorkeling.
The central seabed is mostly sandy, but there are also rocky sections and reefs around the sides of the cove, which can be sharp underfoot.
Beach Facilities and Amenities
Most of the beach is left open for visitors to set up their own towels and umbrellas. However, Cala Li Cossi is not particularly large, so available space becomes limited as the beach fills up during the summer.
A small seasonal concession usually operates during the peak months, offering a limited number of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. When we visited, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards were also available.
There is also a seasonal beach bar serving drinks, espresso, and sandwiches. Basic restroom facilities are available to customers of the bar or beach concession and may otherwise be accessible for a small fee.
Good to Know
– We strongly recommend bringing water shoes. Although the middle of the beach is sandy, the shoreline and water entrance include coarse gravel and sharp granite pebbles that can be uncomfortable under bare feet. The surrounding rocky reefs are excellent for snorkeling but can also be sharp to stand on.
– Mobile phone reception can be extremely weak or completely unavailable inside the cove, so download any information you may need before starting the trail.
– When we visited, there were no public trash cans on the beach. Be prepared to carry all of your waste back out with you along the trail.
Is Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi Worth Visiting?
Yes, we think Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi is worth visiting, especially if you are already exploring Costa Paradiso or traveling between Castelsardo and Santa Teresa Gallura. Honestly, it was easily one of our favorite beaches in Sardinia.
Why You Might Enjoy It:
– The cove is surrounded by striking pink granite formations
– The short approach trail is scenic and adds to the experience
– The sheltered water is generally good for swimming and snorkeling
Why It Might Not Be for You:
– The beach is small and can feel crowded during the summer
– Parking fills quickly, particularly close to the trailhead
– The coarse shoreline and rocky water entrance are less comfortable without water shoes
Bottom line: Cala Li Cossi is definitely worth the detour for its beautiful setting and scenic coastal trail.
Best Time to Visit Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi?
Best Time of Year
The best time to visit Cala Li Cossi is during the shoulder season, especially May, June, September, and early October. During these months, the weather is generally warm enough for swimming, but the beach and parking areas are usually less crowded than in July and August.
Outside the main season, Cala Li Cossi can still be beautiful for the coastal walk and scenery, but beach services may be closed and swimming conditions will depend more heavily on the weather.
Best Time of Day
We strongly recommend arriving before 10:00 AM, maybe even a bit earlier if visiting on a weekend. This gives you a better chance of finding parking near the trailhead, securing a comfortable place on the beach, and enjoying the coastal path before the day becomes hotter and busier.
Here’s what the beach looked like at 9 am on a weekday in September:
Here it is again about two hours later (11 am) on the same day:
Nearby Attractions and Short Trips from Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi
Santa Teresa Gallura
Further north, Santa Teresa Gallura is known for its seaside setting, granite landscapes, easy access to nearby beaches and viewpoints, and proximity to places like Capo Testa, where wind-shaped granite rocks and coastal views make it one of the most memorable stops in northern Sardinia. It is also a great base for taking the ferry to Bonifacio on a day trip.
Castelsardo
Further south, built on a rocky promontory overlooking the Gulf of Asinara, Castelsardo is one of the most scenic towns in northern Sardinia, known for its colorful houses, hilltop old town, medieval castle, and panoramic coastal views. It is the kind of place that immediately stands out as you approach from the coast and is definitely worth at the very least a short visit.
For more details on what to expect during your visit, see our detailed Castelsardo visiting guide.
Vineyards
Vineyards are another good reason to spend extra time around the area. There are several wineries in the surrounding countryside, and our favorite in the area was Cantina Li Duni, near Badesi. What makes it stand out is its beautiful coastal setting and connection to Badesi’s sandy vineyard landscape, where vines grow close to the Gulf of Asinara and the surrounding dunes.
Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi worth visiting?
Yes, Cala Li Cossi is worth visiting for its clear turquoise water, pink granite cliffs, freshwater lagoon, and scenic coastal trail.
Where is Cala Li Cossi located?
Cala Li Cossi is located within Costa Paradiso on Sardinia’s northern coast, between Castelsardo and Santa Teresa Gallura.
Can you drive directly to Cala Li Cossi?
No. You can drive to the parking area at the end of Via La Piana, but from there you must walk along a short coastal trail to reach the beach.
How long is the walk to Cala Li Cossi?
The trail is approximately 700 metres one way and usually takes around 10 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Is the trail to Cala Li Cossi difficult?
The trail is generally easy to moderate and is considered family-friendly. It includes hard-packed dirt, uneven granite steps, and a few short inclines. It is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
How much does parking cost at Cala Li Cossi?
During the peak season, the main lot near the trailhead typically costs around €1 per hour, €4 for a half day, or €8 for a full day. When we visited, the parking meters only accepted coins.
Is there free parking near Cala Li Cossi?
Yes, there is a smaller free parking area about 800 metres farther back along Via La Piana. However, it also fills quickly, and parking there adds roughly 10 minutes of walking before you reach the trailhead.
What time should you arrive at Cala Li Cossi?
During July and August, we recommend arriving before 10:00 AM. The main lot only holds around 40–50 vehicles, and the beach itself becomes crowded quickly.
Are there facilities at Cala Li Cossi?
During the main season, there is usually a beach bar serving drinks, espresso, and simple food. A small concession may also rent sunbeds, umbrellas, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.
Are there restrooms at Cala Li Cossi?
Basic restroom facilities are usually available through the beach bar or concession. They may be reserved for customers or available to others for a small fee.
Is Cala Li Cossi a sandy beach?
The center of the beach has coarse golden sand, while the shoreline and water entrance include gravel and granite pebbles. Water shoes are recommended.
Is Cala Li Cossi good for swimming?
Yes. The cove is generally sheltered, and the water is clear, but it becomes deep relatively quickly.
Is Cala Li Cossi good for snorkeling?
Yes. The rocky areas around the sides of the cove are good for snorkeling, with clear water and reefs where you may see fish.
Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
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Car Rentals
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Transfer from Airport
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Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Spiaggia di Cala Li Cossi Guide and that it will prove useful for planning your trip in Sardinia.
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