Budelli's Pink Beach: Myths, tales and extraordinary stories

Located in the Maddalena Archipelago National Park, off the north-east coast of Sardinia, the Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) on the island of Budelli is a unique place.
The famous beach enjoys full protection and environmental preservation, access is forbidden and the area has been assigned to the park, which by regulation forbids bathing and stipulates not to trample on the coastal beach.
Its charm is not limited to the peculiar pink hue of the sand, but extends to the myths, tales and stories that surround this corner of paradise.
In this article, we explore the legends linked to the Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach), unveil some lesser-known tales and discover why it has become one of Sardinia's most iconic destinations.
The Pink Beach of Budelli: a masterpiece of nature
The origin of the pink colour
The characteristic drift colouring precisely from this combination of foraminifera shellsfragments of coral and other organic particles and minerals. When these tiny shells accumulate among the grains of sand, they give the beach its unmistakable pinkish appearance and provide breathtaking views.
Over the years, this natural phenomenon has been the focus of numerous scientific studies, which have underlined the fragility of this delicate ecosystem.
Since 1994, direct access to the beach has been banned in order to preserve its integrity, making this unspoilt place even more mysterious and fascinating.
Myths and legends linked to Budelli's Pink Beach
The legend of the mermaid in love
One of the most fascinating stories linked to the Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) concerns a mermaid who, according to legend, lived on the seabed around the island of Budelli.
It is said that the mermaid fell in love with a young Sardinian fisherman and that their forbidden love was the cause of the pinkish hue of the beach.
It is said that the mermaid's tears, mixed with coral from the seabed, gave rise to the peculiar colour of the sand.
It is possible to skirt this enchanted place from the boat, thanks to the Consorzio Meraviglie dell'Arcipelago.
The Sunset Spell

Another myth says that at sunset, on summer days, the Pink Beach turns into a magical place where time seems to stand still.
The ancient inhabitants of the archipelago believed that anyone who could contemplate the sunset from a nearby boat would receive a special gift from nature: a long and peaceful life.
Pink Beach: untold stories and historical evidence
The beach of hidden treasure
A lesser-known story than that of the uniquely rosy Pink Beach is that of a mysterious treasure hidden near the Pink Beach. According to local accounts, a Spanish pirate known as 'El Rubí' hid a chest full of gems and gold near the island of Budelli in the 18th century. Although the treasure has never been found, many explorers have tried in vain to unravel the mystery, fuelling the beach's fascination.
The island of Budelli as a war refuge

During the Second World War, the island of Budelli was used as a hidden base for Italian military operations. Some surviving soldiers' accounts tell of nights illuminated by a pinkish light reflected from the beach, a phenomenon that many attributed to supernatural events.
Pink Beach: experiences and stories of travellers
The diary of a lone explorer
In the 1960s, an Italian explorer named Giovanni Melis spent several weeks on the island of Budelli, living in close contact with nature. In his diary, Melis describes the Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) as a place of wonder where 'land and sea meet to create a work of art'. One of his most evocative entries concerns a full moon night, during which he claimed to have seen figures dancing on the sand, enveloped in an unreal light.
The Island Guardian's Tale
Another extraordinary tale is that of Mauro Morandi, who after his landing was known as the 'guardian of Budelli' and lived on the island for over 30 years.
Morandi, who at first believed to be of New Zealand origin, abandoned city life in Modena and moved to Budelli in the 1980s, shared numerous anecdotes about the Pink Beach. Among them, he recalls a stormy night when the sea seemed to sing, an experience he described as a 'concert of nature'.
The Pink Beach and popular culture
The impact of cinema
The Pink Beach is part of the Park and has become internationally famous, thanks to the beauty of the sea and the film 'Red Desert' 1964 film by Michelangelo Antonioni, which was partly shot on the island. The images of the beach, with its extraordinary colour, have fascinated millions of viewers and are among the most beautiful in the world, turning it into a symbol of timeless natural beauty thanks to its crystal-clear waters.
Poetry inspired by the beach
Many poets and writers have found inspiration on the Spiaggia Rosa. An unpublished poem by a local author, Salvatore Pinna, describes the beach as 'a dream that the sea has decided not to forget'.
Budelli's Pink Beach: conservation and future challenges
The role of environmental protection
Thanks to the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, the Pink Beach has been protected from excessive human presence. However, pressure from tourism and climate change pose a constant threat.
Educational projects
One of the most significant projects related to the Pink Beach is the awareness-raising initiative involving local schools. Children learn the importance of preserving places like Budelli for future generations.
FAQ for tourists on Budelli Island's Pink Beach
1. Can I physically access the Pink Beach?
No, access to the Pink Beach is completely forbidden to protect its delicate ecosystem. It can only be admired from a distance of about 70 metres from the shore through regulated boat tours managed by the Consortium of the Wonders of the Archipelago.
2. Why is the sand on the Pink Beach so special?
La pink sand owes its colour to a combination of fragments of foraminifera shells, coraland other organic materials such as shells. This natural process is unique and delicate.
3. How do you reach the island of Budelli?
L'Island of Budelli can only be reached by boat. Regular departures are available from Palau e La Maddalenawith organised excursions or private tours.
4. Is it possible to swim near the Pink Beach?
La bathing is only permitted in designated areas away from the Pink Beach. The area around the beach is subject to strict protection rules to prevent damage to the ecosystem.
5. What role does Mauro Morandi play in the history of Budelli?
Mauro Morandi, former caretaker of the island, has lived on Budelli for over 30 years, dedicating himself to the integral preservation of the beach and raising visitors' awareness of respect for the environment.
6. Is it true that the Pink Beach was featured in a film?
Yes, the Pink Beach was immortalised in the film 'Red Desert' by Michelangelo Antonioni at 1964contributing to its international renown.
7. What are the main rules for visiting the island of Budelli?
The main rules provide for the prohibition of access, of bathing and of step on the beach. Visitors must observe a safe distance and respect the directions of the park guides.
8. What can I do to preserve the Pink Beach?
You can contribute to its preservation by respecting the rules, avoiding collecting sand or debris and supporting the activities of the Maddalena Archipelago National Park.
9. Is it possible to dive near the Pink Beach?
Diving is only permitted in designated areas with strict rules to protect the backdrop and the surrounding marine ecosystem.
10. What is the best time to visit Budelli Island?
The summer months, from June to September, offer the best weather conditions and greater availability of organised tours. However, even in the low season the island retains its charm, with fewer visitors.