The beach takes its name from the nearby 'Torre Sabauda', constructed in 1737 to defend the coast against pirate raids.
Calasetta, where the beach is located, maintains strong linguistic and cultural ties to the Tabarchino dialect, rooted in the migration of Genoese coral fishermen from Tabarka, Tunisia.
The beach serves as one of the few urban-facing sandy stretches on Sant'Antioco that remains sheltered from the high-velocity Mistral winds typical of Southwestern Sardinia.
Spiaggia di Sottotorre is a distinctive beach located on the northern coast of Sant'Antioco Island in the town of Calasetta. The beach is defined by its fine, pale sand and shallow, turquoise waters, making it particularly accessible for families. It is named for its proximity to the historic Torre di Calasetta, a 17th-century coastal watchtower built by the Savoy dynasty. The coastline here is partially protected from the dominant Mistral wind, which frequently impacts other beaches on the island. The seabed consists primarily of sand with sparse rocky patches, offering visibility for light snorkeling. The beach is integrated into the urban fabric of Calasetta, allowing for direct pedestrian access from the town center. The area is characterized by its exposure to Mediterranean scrub and proximity to the local marina infrastructure.
From the elevated path leading up to the Torre di Calasetta for an overhead panoramic view of the crescent-shaped bay.
Visit during mid-week to avoid high density from local residents during the peak August holiday period.
Use the pedestrian pathways from the town center to avoid the complexities of beachside parking in the narrow streets of Calasetta.
Bring water shoes if planning to explore the rocky outcrops on the far northern edge of the cove.
Do not attempt to park a vehicle directly on the beachfront streets during mid-day in July and August, as space is severely limited.
Standard beach etiquette applies; do not remove sand, shells, or stones from the beach as it is strictly prohibited by regional law.
