Cala Luna in Sardinia is one of the most peculiar beaches in the island due to its grottos, white rocks and crystal clear blue water. Cala Luna is not easily accessible: the only way to get there is either via a hiking trail or by boat. In this guide, we’ll share all the essential information to get to Cala Luna.
Cala Luna is a beautiful stunning beach located on the eastern coast of Sardinia in the Gulf of Orosei. This beach is quite popular due to its unique landscape with white limestone cliffs and several natural caves. Another unique and beautiful beach in the Gulf of Orosei is Cala Goloritzé. Take a look a our guide: Sardinia: How to Get to Cala Goloritzé and What to Expect.
You may also like: East Sardinia 10-Day Itinerary: Best Beaches, What to Eat and Budget Breakdown
How to Get to Cala Luna
Cala Luna is not easily accessible. It can only be reached by boat or via a hiking trail. We did the hiking trail, which is a good option if you like hiking and if the sun is not scorching. Additionally, you’ll save money because the entrance to the beach is free. You can also opt to hike to Cala Luna and then get a boat back to Cala di Fuili or Cala Gonone.
Most boat tours to the Gulf of Orosei include a stop in Cala Luna and other beautiful beaches along the way. This is a great option is you want to see several beaches on the same day and you don’t want or can’t hike a 11km-long hiking trail.
Here’s a map of Gulf of Orosei for a reference and its different calas and beaches.
How to Get to Cala Luna – Hiking Trail
The hiking trail to Cala Luna starts at Cala Fuili that can be accessed by car. The hiking trail is approximately 5.5 kilometers long each way with an elevation gain of approximately 500 meters. It takes about two hours to complete each way. Below you cand find the hike details.
| Starting Point | Cala di Fuili |
| Where to Park | Parking next to Cala di Fuili (free) |
| Cost | Free entrance |
| Distance | 5.5km each way |
| Time | approximately 2 hours each way |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Elevation gain | 497 meters |
Parking Your Car – Cala Luna Hiking Trail
You can park your car in the available spots next to the entrance to Cala di Fuili. Make sure to park your car inside the white lines, otherwise you’ll get a fine. We saw the police checking the parked cars, so don’t facilitate. Parking is quite limited, so we recommend arriving early to guarantee a spot.
We arrived before 10AM in July and were able to find a spot. If you’re visiting in August, we recommend starting earlier not only because of the parking but also to avoid hiking on the scorching sun.
What to Expect on the Hike
This is considered a moderate hike. If you’re used to hike and walking, you won’t have any problems. However, I recommend to be in good physical condition as the trail is quite long and can be challenging in summer with high temperatures.
The trail is well marked, but there were one or two sections where the way was not so clear. So, I recommend downloading the Alltrails app to record your progress along the way.
The trail starts at Cala di Fuili that is quite beautiful. From there, you can see a wide extension of the Gulf of Orosei. At the start you can already see the signs to Cala Luna indicating a 2-hour hike.
You start by walking down some stairs that allow you to reach Cala di Fuili. After walking down, the trail will be uphill for approximately two thirds of the way. In my opinion, the first half-hour is the most demanding.
The path is mostly dirt and loose rocks, with tree roots along the way. The rocks can be very slippery, so be cautious. Make sure to wear closed shoes with good grip. My boyfriend slipped and got an open wound on his elbow during our way back.
You won’t see the coast for most of the trail. After completing about two-thirds of the way, you’ll reach a spot with a stunning view of the coast. From there, it’s mostly downhill until you arrive at the beach. Along the trail, you can deviate from the main trail and explore smaller calas, but we didn’t.
When you arrive at Cala Luna, there is a bar and restaurant if you need to stock up on water and snacks or use the toilet. These are the only facilities along the trail.
Getting Back from Cala Luna
To get back from Cala Luna you have two options: hike all the way back or get a boat back to Cala Fuili or Cala Gonone.
We did the hiking trail back, which was easier this time—we took approximately one hour and half. However, if you prefer to take a boat, you can get more information at the bar in Cala Luna.
How to Get to Cala Luna – Boat Tour
There are several boat tours to the Gulf of Orosei that include a stop at Cala Luna. These tours start at Cala Gonone or Arbatrax.
Alternatively, you can also rent an inflatable boat and go there by yourself.
Cala Luna What to Expect
The beach at Cala Luna is amazing and the white rocks and grottos are quite peculiar and different from all beaches we’ve seen until now. The sand is a bit coarse, but has a light color which makes a good contrast with the crystal clear water.
You can find shade in the grottos if it’s too hot, so there’s no need to carry a sun umbrella. The water is some of the most blue and turquoise/green we’ve ever seen. The section without the grottos has a more greenish color, while the water next to the grottos is more on the blue tone.
The “entrance” of the beach is the most crowded area because that’s also where the boats of the tours dock. Make sure you walk away from the “entrance” of the beach, and you’ll find a much quieter area. There are several small caves and after the first one, it will be very quiet.
FAQs About Getting to Cala Luna
How Long Does It Take to Hike to Cala Luna?
Hiking to Cala Luna usually takes around one hour and a half to two hours. The hike is 5.5 kilometers long each way.
Is the Cala LunaHike Difficult?
The hike to Cala Luna is considered a moderate hike. However, if you’re used to walking and hiking it will be relatively simple as long as you’re using proper shoes. But, take into account that it can be quite challenging if it’s too hot.
Do You Need a Guide to Hike to Cala Luna?
There’s no need for a guide to hike to Cala Luna. The trail is well-marked for most of the path, and you can easily follow it using apps like AllTrails.
Where to Park for the Cala Luna Hike?
Park next to the entrance of Cala di Fuili.
Is There an Entrance Fee for Cala Luna?
Entrance to Cala Luna is free.
Are There Any Facilities at Cala Luna?
There is a snack-bar/restaurant and public toilets on the beach.
Planning a Trip to Sardinia?
We hope you found this guide useful and that it helps you plan your hike or boat tour to Cala Luna.
If you’re planning a trip to Sardinia, make sure to check our Sardinia itinerary and travel guides:
- East Sardinia 10-Day Itinerary: Best Beaches, What to Eat and Budget Breakdown
- Sardinia: How to Get to Cala Goloritzé and What to Expect
If you also want to visit Rome, make sure to check out our 3-day itinerary:
Finally, you can use our links to book accommodation and activities and find cheap flights. You won’t pay more and you’ll be supporting our work.
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