Two shorelines, one on-the-day decision
Cala Portese is also known as Due Mari because it has two coastal sides. The name helps you picture distinct aspects of the bay, but it does not tell you which one will be better on a particular day. Wind, sea and access vary. Look at the conditions when you arrive and choose the stretch that suits both the weather and the people travelling with you.
Do not read “two seas” as a promise that one side is always sheltered. Orientation gives you a comparison, not a forecast. Check waves, gusts, the shore and local notices; if the sea is unsuitable, skip swimming or change plans. Conditions that look manageable in the morning do not guarantee the same afternoon.
Choose for your group
If you are travelling with children or anyone who prefers a sandy entry, check the exact stretch before unloading bags and equipment. Do not assume both sides have identical access or seabed. A visitor hoping to snorkel or sit on rock has different priorities; agree on those before choosing so nobody is left with a shoreline that does not suit them.
Cala Andreani can be reached from the Cala Portese area by a walk, so include that on foot segment in your decision. Do not assume every part of the coast is reachable from a car or that the route suits everyone. If walking is difficult for someone in your party, verify the precise access and consider another beach.
Arrive without guessing
A bridge connects Caprera with La Maddalena. From there, use a current map and local signs to locate the access to Cala Portese. A name or a description of the bay is not parking guidance: check where stopping is allowed, keep roads clear and avoid leaving a vehicle on a route or fragile verge.
Keep the day’s plan simple. Cala Portese can be the main stop or part of a nearby walk if you have checked the route and conditions. Do not treat Cala Coticcio or Cala Brigantina as freely accessible alternatives: an onshore visit there requires a GAE guide booked through the Park’s list. Check different access rules separately.
Make a prudent choice
Bring water and sun protection; do not assume shade or services will be available. Leave room to change sides or leave if conditions shift. Recent photos are not enough on their own: the camera angle and date may conceal wind, waves or an access point that is awkward for your group.
A good beach day does not require visiting both sides. Choose the stretch that fits and respect vegetation and passing space. If one shore feels exposed or crowded, consider another permitted place on the island after checking its route. No compass direction can replace an on-site assessment of the actual sea and access.
Frequently asked questions
Which side of Due Mari is more sheltered?
There is no fixed answer. Wind and sea conditions vary, so check them and local notices on arrival instead of relying on the bay’s orientation alone.
Is Cala Andreani right next door?
It can be reached from the Cala Portese area by a walking segment. Check the route, access and conditions before planning to combine the beaches.