Southern Sardinia: Swimming pools and Cala Pira

Southern Sardinia: Swimming pools and Cala Pira – A Practical Guide to Unspoiled Beauty

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Sardinian coastlines that combines natural beauty with a touch of adventure, the Southern Sardinia Swimming Pools and Cala Pira tour might just fit the bill. This two-hour excursion offers a chance to swim in natural sea pools, explore turquoise beaches, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of untouched nature. While it’s a short experience, what it delivers—spectacular views, a calm environment, and the opportunity to snorkel—can leave a lasting impression.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its accessible natural pools only reachable by sea and the picturesque Cala Pira beach, with its soft sand and vibrant waters. On the flip side, it’s a brief trip, which may not suit travelers wanting a full day of exploration. Still, if your time in Sardinia is limited or you prefer a laid-back, scenic escape, this tour offers genuine value. It’s especially ideal for those who love quiet beaches and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters without crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic natural pools accessible only by boat, ideal for swimming.
• Turquoise Cala Pira beach offers soft sand and a peaceful setting.
• Snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore underwater life.
• The tour is brief—around 2 hours—perfect for a quick scenic escape.
• Suited for travelers seeking calm, natural beauty rather than long excursions.
• Not recommended for pregnant women or those prone to seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

If your idea of a perfect Sardinian adventure involves exploring pristine beaches and swimming in calm, natural waters, then this tour offers a straightforward, relaxing way to do just that. It’s a quick trip that balances nature, adventure, and ease of access—all within a compact two-hour window.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it sets the scene for genuine tranquility. No crowded beaches here—just you, the sea, and some spectacular scenery. You get to see and swim in natural pools that are only accessible by boat, which adds a sense of adventure. Plus, the Cala Pira beach itself, with its 400-meter-long arch leading into the turquoise sea—think postcard perfect—really is a highlight. The lush surrounding forest of eucalyptus, juniper, mastic, and pine creates a wonderful backdrop for your walk and swim.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour does not include transportation to the meeting point—you’ll need to arrive at the designated beach of VOI Tanka Village, and parking is free at the Simius beach. Also, since it’s a sea-based activity, travelers prone to seasickness or pregnant women are advised to consider their suitability. The short duration makes it manageable, but you should be comfortable in a boat for a couple of hours.

Why We Love the Tour

We love the way this tour offers an authentic experience of Sardinia’s coastal serenity. The natural pools are accessible only by sea, which makes them feel like hidden gems, and the inclusion of snorkeling equipment allows you to explore beneath the surface. The soft sand and clear waters make for great relaxing moments, whether you want to float, paddle, or just soak up the sun.

Another standout aspect is the scenic sailing itself. Not just a boat ride, but a chance to see Sardinia’s coast from a different perspective—cliffs, forests, and endless blue waters. You’ll love the slow pace and the intimate group size that this kind of trip offers, ideal for families or travelers who prefer a low-key experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at the beach of VOI Tanka Village, where you meet your guide in front of the dinghy lane. From here, the boat gently sets sail along Sardinia’s southern coast, moving past beaches and rocky outcroppings where you can enjoy a bit of sun and sea breeze. The first stop is at the natural pools of Cala Pira, accessible only by boat. These pools are carved out of the rocks, filled with crystal-clear blue water that invites you for a swim. Many reviews praise this as a highlight, with one mentioning that “swimming in the natural pools is like floating in the sky’s reflection.”

After enjoying the pools, the boat cruises toward Cala Pira beach. This cove boasts a 400-meter-long arch that plunges into the sea, creating a perfect setting for photos and relaxation. The soft golden sand stretches along the shore, inviting you to take a leisurely walk or settle down with your snorkel gear. The dense eucalyptus, juniper, mastic, and pine trees surround the area, adding to the natural charm and offering some shade.

Throughout the trip, the guide provides insights into the local environment and marine life, adding context that enriches the experience. The snorkel equipment included allows you to appreciate the underwater world, which many travelers find rewarding, especially in such crystal-clear waters.

The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape. It’s quick enough to fit into a busy itinerary but packed with enough scenic beauty to feel like a meaningful outing.

What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviews highlight the value and serenity of this experience. One mentions, “the natural pools are stunning and accessible only by sea—what a treat.” Others appreciate the peaceful environment, noting it’s a great way to unwind and enjoy Sardinia’s natural beauty without the crowds.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear is well-received, with travelers stating it enhances the experience and allows for some underwater exploration. Many found the boat ride relaxing and enjoyed the small group size, which adds to the intimate feel.

However, some reviews note that since the trip is brief, it might not be enough for those wanting a full day of exploring. Also, because the activity is sea-based, be prepared for the possibility of seasickness, especially if the weather isn’t calm.

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Practical Details and Tips

Meeting Point: The tour starts at the VOI Tanka Village beach, specifically in front of the dinghy lane, with parking available at the free Simius beach. You will need to arrive on your own or organize transport.

Duration: Around 2 hours, with sailing and swimming. Check the schedule for available start times, as they can vary.

Included: Snorkeling equipment (mask), which means you can start exploring underwater immediately.

Not Included: Transport to the meeting point, food, drinks, or beach towels. Plan to bring your own towel if you want to relax on the shore.

Language: Tours are conducted in Italian and English, accommodating most travelers.

Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or anyone prone to seasickness. High-heeled shoes and oversize luggage are not allowed on the boat.

Weather: The activity might be canceled or postponed if conditions are unfavorable, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified, considering it’s a 2-hour boat tour with snorkeling gear included, it offers excellent value for travelers looking for a quick, scenic adventure. It’s not an all-day excursion, but it’s packed with enough sights and experiences to justify the cost—especially if you’re short on time but crave a taste of Sardinia’s natural coast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic break from more structured sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who love quiet beaches and snorkeling, and who prefer a small group or intimate experience. It’s less ideal for people with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those who are uncomfortable on boats or seasick.

If you’re a nature lover, enjoy water activities, or simply want a peaceful moment by Sardinia’s coast, this quick trip offers authentic scenery and peaceful waters in a compact form. It’s also a good choice if you prefer to combine it with other activities or sightseeing later in the day.

Final Thoughts

The Southern Sardinia: Swimming pools and Cala Pira tour is a straightforward, authentic way to experience some of Sardinia’s most beautiful coastal features in just a couple of hours. You get to swim in natural pools, enjoy a scenic boat ride, and walk along a stunning turquoise beach surrounded by fragrant trees—all within a manageable timeframe.

While it’s not a comprehensive day-long adventure, it provides a genuine, peaceful glimpse of Sardinia’s unspoiled coastline. The included snorkeling gear and small group setting make it a practical and pleasant choice for travelers seeking relaxation, natural beauty, and a touch of aquatic fun.

For those wanting a brief escape into Sardinia’s serene waters and scenic landscapes, this tour offers great value and authentic experiences, especially if you’re visiting the southern coast and have limited time.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you need to arrive at the beach of VOI Tanka Village yourself. Parking is free at Simius beach.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Tours are available in Italian and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, including sailing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, so you can explore the underwater scenery with ease.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as weather conditions can affect the activity.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t explicitly specify age restrictions, the short duration and calm waters suggest it could be suitable for families, provided children are comfortable on boats and in the sea.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people prone to seasickness. High-heeled shoes and oversized luggage aren’t allowed on the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring your own beach towel, sun protection, and perhaps a water bottle. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks.

In summary, this tour offers a simple, scenic, and authentic slice of Sardinia’s coast for those seeking peaceful beaches, natural pools, and underwater exploration—an excellent choice for a half-day escape into one of Italy’s most beautiful seaside regions.

You can check availability for your dates here: