Stintino is a former fishing village at the far northwestern tip of Sardinia, known primarily for one beach: La Pelosa. That beach — white sand, shallow turquoise water, views to the island of Asinara — is genuinely among the best in the Mediterranean. The village itself is small and focused on summer tourism, with a harbour, seafood restaurants, and not much else. Stintino is a one-note destination, but the note is very high. If beach quality is your primary criterion, it's hard to beat.
Why Stay in Stintino
- La Pelosa beach: The headline attraction. Shallow water that stays waist-deep for 50 metres, white sand, and an Aragonese watchtower on a rocky islet in the foreground. It's often compared to Caribbean beaches. In summer, access is controlled: numbers are capped, and you must stand on a towel or mat to protect the sand.
- Asinara National Park: The island visible from La Pelosa is a former penal colony, now a national park. Boat trips and guided tours visit the abandoned prison buildings, beaches, and wildlife (including the island's famous white donkeys). It's a worthwhile day out.
- Seafood: The village restaurants serve fresh-catch seafood. Lobster (aragosta alla castellanese) is the local speciality, typically expensive but good. The harbour-side restaurants are the best options.
- Simplicity: There's no nightlife scene, no shopping strip, no cultural programme. Stintino is a place to swim, eat, read, and repeat. For some that's limiting; for others, it's exactly the point.