Authorities in Sardinia are taking measures to protect its beaches from over-tourism with several restrictions. Even before the pandemic, some of Sardinia’s most popular beaches were taken over by tourists. Too many, according to the Sardinians.
Since 2020, access to La Pelosa beach has been limited, with no cars allowed and an entrance fee to be paid upon arrival.The maximum number of people allowed is 1,500, with an entrance ticket of 3.5 euros per person. Children up to 12 years old enter free of charge.
The rate applies each year from June 1 to September 30. The beach hours are from 8 am to 6 pm. Beach operators are responsible for controlling access, managing reservations and selling tickets. The cost of showers is 0.60 euros while the toilets will be 0.50 euros. Tickets can be bought in advance.
At the entrance, a biodegradable bracelet of different colors is given to each visitor depending on the day of the week. The beach is accessible on foot even from nearby beaches for a walk, but visitors can only enter while wearing the bracelet. Some of the rules include
- No littering
- No smoking
- It is strictly forbidden to bring sand, stones and shells
- The use of soaps and shampoos is forbidden
- No peddling
- It is mandatory to use a mat between your beach towel and the sand
- Before leaving the beach, wash your feet with water taps
- Dogs are not allowed from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
- The use of toilets and showers is included in the ticket
The Spiaggia Rosa, on Budelli island, has been closed off to visitors since the mid-1990s after its sand began to disappear. According to Euronews, the local government discovered that tourists were taking the sand with them as souvenir.
Several other beaches have imposed a limit on the number of daily visitors: 1,300 for Santa Maria Navarrese, and 1,600 for Cala Sisine. At Cala Mariolu, 550 people are allowed per day with a €1 charge per person. People arriving by car will have to pay 10 euros for a parking spot (plus 1 euro per passenger) in Punta Molentis, Riu Trottu and Portu Sa Ruxi, all of them located in Villlasimius. Individuals coming by foot or on a bicycle have to pay 3 euros.
Euronews reports that in the archipelago of La Maddalena the beaches of Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantinanow have now restricted access, with a maiximum of 60 people per day. There is a 3-euro fee and visitors must book online their visit in advance.
