Chia Laguna Resort Review

On southern Sardinia’s wild coast, flamingos wade through shallow lagoons, warm breezes flow through twisted juniper trees, and golden beaches face out across the Mediterranean towards Africa. Here one finds Chia Laguna Resort, where you can experience holistic wellness in a world-class spa, sip cold Ichnusa beer as waves lap at your feet, cycle Mediterranean coastal trails at golden hour, taste wines in the shade of mastic trees and dine on heartwarming Sardinian specialities.

The resort spreads across 13 hectares of Sardinian coastline where soft sand meets impossibly clear waters, offering distinct experiences within this spectacular natural setting. Both the Conrad and Baia di Chia properties capture the island’s authentic spirit through authentic, warm Mediterranean hospitality and thoughtful design details, like the ceramics in the Conrad reception so evocative of Sardinian history, the handwoven wool carpets in the suites, crafted by local artisans and bouganvillia clad terraces of the Baia di Chia.

Baia di Chia

Baia di Chia Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton feels like a secret hillside village of stone cottages, each with private terraces overlooking countryside, lagoon, and sea. From these elevated vantage points, the historic watchtower from the times of the Spanish occupation adds further layers of history to an already captivating view. A pathway leads directly down to exclusive areas for guests on the beach, along southern Sardinia’s beautiful coastline. 

The boutique property’s large semi-Olympic pool, surrounded by shaded loungers, provides a tranquil garden focal point, while the beach is just steps away.

The Il Ginepro restaurant serves signature Sardinian dishes, including antipasti of local cheeses and cured meats, culurgiones pasta stuffed with potato and cheese, and succulent seasonal lamb.

Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia

The Conrad Chia Laguna embodies island living on a grander scale, set further back from the coast, with larger, classically appointed rooms and suites. Mediterranean breezes flow through billowing lobby curtains, carrying aromatic scents of elicriso and wild herbs that perfume the southern Sardinian air. Marco Piva’s architectural refurbishment celebrates contemporary style and local heritage, creating spaces naturally rooted in their landscape.

The Conrad’s social heart beats at La Terrazza bar and restaurant overlooking Piazza degli Ulivi, the resort’s lively open-air plaza. Evening entertainment and live music animate this central meeting place, while boutique shops and an Italian gelateria create a family-friendly atmosphere connecting seamlessly to Hotel Village.

Wellbeing forms an integral part of the Conrad experience. The 1000m² spa draws inspiration for its wellness treatments from the island’s nature, where treatments incorporate salt from nearby flats rich in mineral elements, alongside Sardinian essential oils and local honey. Indoor, outdoor and rooftop pools create a sanctuary surrounded by Mediterranean aromas, bringing together ancient wellness traditions and modern practices.

Coastal cuisine

The resort’s beaches each offer distinct experiences. Spiaggia di Monte Cogoni, closest to the Baia property, provides Sardinia’s signature clear waters in a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere, the perfect place to crack open an ice-cold Ichnusa local beer, and snack on Sardinia’s favourite Crocchias crisps. 

Campana Dune Beach hosts Le Dune restaurant, where Executive Chef Roberto Chergia prepares authentic Sardinian cuisine including the island’s beloved spaghetti alla bottarga with golden fish roe cured in sea salt, and sea bass with crispy skin, soft potato and capers.

The Conrad’s main pool, elevated with views across the resort towards the lagoon and beaches, hosts poolside Bioaquam restaurant specialising in fresh fish and seafood. The fresh tuna and octopus dishes celebrate the island’s fishing heritage, highlighting local catch alongside light Mediterranean dishes and international poolside favourites.

Guest Experiences 

Southern Sardinia’s wild character reveals itself beyond the beaches. Evening e-bike adventures with local guide Andrea from Ajoha adventure company uncover remarkable Mediterranean landscape through golden hour light. Cycling past flamingos in shallow lagoons, passing centuries-old juniper trees lining coastal paths, through tall grasses swaying in warm breezes – the aromatic land tells stories of nature and history. From the lighthouse at Capo Spartivento, Italy’s southernmost point, views stretch towards Africa across an untouched coastline.

The resort curates authentic experiences for guests seeking deeper connection with Sardinian culture. Mountain biking adventures explore coastal paths and inland trails, while horseback riding traverses diverse landscapes from beaches to pine-clad hills. RIB boat excursions discover hidden coves and secluded bays rich in marine life. Archaeological enthusiasts can explore the well-preserved Roman site of Nora or visit the unique fishing village of Carloforte. Cooking classes reveal secrets of traditional Sardinian cuisine, while guided tours showcase local artisan workshops and centuries-old traditions.

The winding coastal road to Mesa Cantina passes unspoilt rugged terrain before reaching the winery, where wine tastings unfold beneath mastic trees. Here, stories flow as freely as the wine, beginning with crisp, delicious Giunco white from Vermentino grapes, with energetic and all-embracing freshness and a coastal saltiness with aromatic fruity and balsamic hints. The acclaimed Buio red from Carignano grapes follows, with a bright ruby richness and youthful freshness.

Our late afternoon sipping wines and devouring small bites beautifully crafted by Chef Stefano of local Restaurante da Stefano, served on artisan ceramics, was a delight. Unforgettable moments that captured the island’s notion of sharing tables with loved ones, of stories together, moments shared, shared in Sardinia, the way of life.

Ten months without rain create distinctively lighter, more drinkable wines reflecting the island’s relaxed lifestyle, while humid Mediterranean air keeps vines fresh with the sea’s salty influence providing natural balance.

Capital moments in Cagliari

Cagliari, the vibrant island capital less than an hour away, offers urban exploration through atmospheric streets revealing artisan boutiques and monuments from the magnificent cathedral with its intricate Pisan-Romanesque facade to panoramic Bastione Saint Remy views. Via San Saturnino provides edgier glimpses where graffiti and street art cover every surface. 

In the city, the Italian aperitivo ritual deserves respect, so sip a spritz at evocative Antico Caffé 1850 before dining at Cielo, the roof terrace restaurant overlooking the marina with sophisticated Sardinian-Italian cuisine that bridges island tradition with contemporary style.

Chia Laguna offers luxury amenities while maintaining authentic connections to southern Sardinia’s wild beauty and ancient culture. The combination of pristine beaches, comprehensive facilities, and genuine local experiences creates an ideal base for discovering this less commercialised corner of the Mediterranean’s most captivating island.