Towering cliffs, pristine white pebbles and turquoise waters: Sardinia is home to one of Europe's most breathtaking beaches. Nestled along the wild coastline of Baunei, Cala dei Gabbiani has just been named one of the continent's finest beaches in The World's 50 Best Beaches 2026 ranking.
Each year, the widely followed The World's 50 Best Beaches list is compiled from the votes of more than 1,000 travel professionals. Its aim is not only to recognise the world's most beautiful coastal landscapes, but also to highlight unspoilt, authentic destinations that offer visitors a truly unique experience. In the 2026 edition, Cala dei Gabbiani secured an impressive third place in Europe, reinforcing Sardinia's growing appeal among travellers seeking nature, tranquillity and a genuine escape.
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Cala dei Gabbiani: a hidden gem in the heart of the Gulf of Orosei
Located on Sardinia's eastern coast, Cala dei Gabbiani lies within the spectacular Gulf of Orosei, one of the island's most beautiful stretches of coastline. Accessible mainly by boat, this secluded cove sits beneath towering limestone cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea.
From the moment visitors arrive, the scenery is striking. The contrast between the sheer rock faces, Mediterranean vegetation and the sea's many shades of blue creates a landscape worthy of a postcard. Unlike the long sandy beaches found elsewhere around the Mediterranean, Cala dei Gabbiani is covered in smooth white pebbles, which contribute to the exceptional clarity of its waters.
This distinctive feature ensures excellent underwater visibility, even when several boats are anchored nearby. Visitors can easily admire the seabed and enjoy swimming in remarkably transparent water. The seabed drops away quickly, allowing swimmers to reach deep, crystal-clear water almost immediately.
A spectacular beach captivating travellers from around the world
Although the Baunei coastline is home to several renowned coves, Cala dei Gabbiani has a character all of its own. Its relative seclusion and limited access help preserve its unspoilt, natural atmosphere. Here, nature remains the undisputed star of the show.
The beach appeals equally to those looking for a relaxing swim and to visitors in search of spectacular scenery. Boat excursions around the Gulf of Orosei offer breathtaking views of the coastline and provide an especially memorable approach to the cove. The feeling of arriving at a hidden beach, sheltered by dramatic cliffs, is a large part of its enduring appeal.
This year, its exceptional qualities earned it third place in the European ranking of The World's 50 Best Beaches, behind Fteri Beach in Greece and Cala Macarella in Spain, while placing ahead of iconic destinations such as Kaputaş Beach in Türkiye and Porto Katsiki in Greece.
Beyond its obvious natural beauty, Cala dei Gabbiani also represents a different style of travel—one focused on discovering protected landscapes and immersing oneself in outstanding natural surroundings. Its place among Europe's most beautiful beaches simply confirms what visitors have long known: this Sardinian cove is one of the Mediterranean's most captivating treasures, a destination that immediately inspires you to set sail and explore the island's rugged coastline.
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