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Beaches and ponds

Spiaggia di Scivu

4.7 · 2,026 reviews
Wild, isolated, and serene
Spiaggia di Scivu, Arbus, Province of South Sardinia, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The beach is part of the Arbus 'Costa Verde', a region known for its former mining history and wild, unmanicured landscapes.

2

The dunes at Scivu are among the highest in Europe, often reaching heights of 30 to 50 meters.

3

The beach has been recognized as a 'Beach of the Year' in various national environmental reports for its high water quality and lack of infrastructure.

4

The area is a recognized nesting site for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in rare recorded instances.

5

Unlike many Sardinian beaches, Scivu is rarely crowded due to the significant walking distance from the parking area to the shoreline.

6

The coastal ecosystem here is strictly regulated to prevent erosion of the shifting dune systems.

Overview

Spiaggia di Scivu is a remote, 3-kilometer-long stretch of golden sand located on the Costa Verde in southwestern Sardinia. It is characterized by high, unstable dunes backed by cliffs, creating a secluded environment protected from urban development. The beach is exposed to the Mistral wind, which frequently influences wave conditions and coastal currents. Because of its isolated position, it lacks extensive commercial amenities, preserving its wild and rugged landscape. The seabed drops off relatively quickly, making it more suitable for strong swimmers than casual waders. It serves as a natural habitat for Mediterranean flora and fauna, integrated into the protected dunes of the Arbus region.

Photo spot

From the top of the dune ridge before the final descent to capture the contrast between the yellow sand and the turquoise sea.

Insider tips

Bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and sun protection, as there are no shops or cafes on the beach itself.

Wear sturdy footwear for the walk down the dunes, as the sand can be deep and difficult to navigate in flip-flops.

Check the daily wind forecast; the Mistral can make the sea quite rough and may cause sand-blasting on windy days.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to drive vehicles onto the dunes, as this is illegal and risks heavy fines; avoid swimming during high-wind conditions.

Etiquette

Respect the dunes by using designated paths to prevent erosion; do not remove sand or shells as it is strictly prohibited.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn to avoid the peak heat of summer and heavy tourist traffic while enjoying manageable wind speeds.
Address
Spiaggia di Scivu, Arbus, Province of South Sardinia, Italy
39.493, 8.410
Get directions
Details
TerrainGolden sand with high, unstable dunes
Water CharacteristicsDeep seabed with frequent wave activity

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn to avoid the peak heat of summer and heavy tourist traffic while enjoying manageable wind speeds..

From the top of the dune ridge before the final descent to capture the contrast between the yellow sand and the turquoise sea.

Close by you'll find Capo Pecora, Oasi WWF Scivu, Spiaggia di Portixeddu.