Hidden In Italy Is A Secret Beach Promising Breathtaking Blissful Views

The charming Italian island of Sardinia (or Sardegna) is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, Sicily, the French island of Corsica (just to the north), and the mainland of Italy itself. However, Sardinia is one of the places in Italy that locals wish tourists would visit — as it offers everything the world loves about Italy, all on one compact, lesser-visited chunk of land in the Mediterranean. On Sardinia, you'll find miles of stunning coastline, plenty of fresh fish, intriguing archaeological sites, lemon groves, incredible local culinary specialties, and that famous Italian hospitality.

On those miles of coastline, visitors will also discover dozens of beaches, some sandy, some hidden in coves, some rockier, and some known for surfing. One of these hidden gems on the island is the little-known Spiaggia San Giovanni di Sinis (San Giovanni di Sinis Beach) on the jutting Sinis Peninsula. Located on the western edges of Sardinia and lying in the shadow of an old Spanish watchtower, this stretch of beach is known for its turquoise water, easy accessibility, and nearby cliffs with sweeping sea views.

Spiaggia San Giovanni di Sinis stretches for over 2 miles along the charming eponymous village, which lies on the peninsula 20 miles southwest of the provincial capital, Oristano. The curved beach, known for its surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, can be reached through the village or via the car park near the ruins of Tharros. The sands also stretch beneath the 16th-century Torre di San Giovanni, a watchtower that looms over the coast and the crashing waves of the Gulf of Oristano. For a good hike, climb the nearby sand cliffs, known as the "steps of the beach," to find even more incredible views.

While visiting the beach, you'll want to explore the city of Tharros, originally founded in the seventh century B.C. and once an integral Meditteranean port for both Carthage and Rome. Wander the excavated parts of the city to see the aqueduct, Roman baths, Greek-style columns, and more. When it's time to eat, you'll find plenty of dining options, with fresh seafood being the star. Get incredible deals at humble cafés along the beach, or walk farther into town for more choices.

When you're done relaxing in the sand, chowing down on seafood in a beach shack, or exploring the ruins of Tharros, other thrilling Sardinia adventures are within easy reach. Travel down to the bottom of the peninsula to see the yellow Cape Marco Lighthouse, either by driving or taking the walking path from Tharros. As the peninsula is relatively flat, it's ideal for cycling between some of the many gorgeous beaches of Sinis. Being an island, getting out on the water is especially easy. Take a boat tour (or rent one, if you're a sailor) to find hidden coves along the gulf.

Travel southeast to see another of Italy's most underrated destinations, the beautiful city of Caligari, with a well-preserved medieval citadel, a Roman amphitheater, and an archaeological museum. Nearby is a popular resort town, Villasimius, known for its pink and white sand beaches, and Notteri Pond, where you can continue the pink theme and spot flamingoes.