19 Amazing Beaches in Italy That You Must Visit This Summer


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There are countless beaches in Italy with a variety of landscapes, and sceneries, offering a diverse range of experiences, from serene hidden coves to vibrant, bustling shores.

From tiny hidden bays in the southern regions to the sandy endless beach of Emilia Romagna on the Adriatic Sea, you will find a variety of options for your next summer vacation in Italy.

In this article, we’ve collaborated with writers who have explored these beaches firsthand, bringing you an authentic guide to some of the most stunning seaside spots in Italy.

Discover where to go, what to see, and why each beach is worth a visit.

Scroll down to get useful resources on traveling to Italy! and an Interactive Map!

Amalfi Coast Overview
The Amalfi Coast Italy Overview

Disclaimer: Obviously, there are many more amazing beaches in Italy but this is what our fellow bloggers and writers have picked for you. I am sure there’s enough beauty in this post to make it to your Italian bucket list!

The Best Beaches in Italy: Sicily

1. Cefalu, Sicily 

Cefalu empty beach sicily
Cefalu Sicily Italy – Photo © Zoe from Together In Switzerland

Beautifully located on the island of Sicily, there are many beaches to choose from, but a great suggestion is to spend your time visiting Cefalu. Located just a short 1-hour drive or train from Palermo, Cefalu is a lovely little Northern coastal city. 

The beach itself is a very sandy beach, which starts with shallow waters that are perfect for dipping your toes in or starting your full swim. The promenade is quite long to walk along first, so you can find plenty of space to spread out between other people and relax with your belongings.

There are also some facilities along the beach to rent loungers and sunshades, but it is best to bring your own towels, beach accessories, and sunshades if you have them already. 

The beach is located right next to the old town, where you can get lost in the little cobblestoned streets with boutiques and cafes. Here you can easily grab a bite to eat or cold drinks nearby. Perfect for those wanting to combine the beach day with some local Sicilian food and wine.

Cefalu is a popular location in the Summer for those also wanting to enjoy some water sports, such as sailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. It is recommended to book these activities in advance during the Summer to avoid missing out. There are also boat tours along the coast you can consider to combine with your beach trip! 

Contributed by Zoe from Together In Switzerland

2. Isola Bella, Sicily

Isola Bella beach, Sicily view from above
Isola Bella, Sicily © Simon of Backpack Moments

Isola Bella is a tiny island right off the coast of the ancient city of Taormina on the island of Sicily. The island is connected to the Sicilian mainland by a narrow 50-meter sandy path, forming Spiaggia di Isola Bella – the Beach of the Beautiful Island.

This name was coined by the German photographer Wilhelm von Gloeden who loved the island and made it famous worldwide at the beginning of the 20th century. Isola Bella was passed down from royalty to royalty until finally acquired by the Sicilian Regional Government in 1990 when it became a protected nature reserve.

You can get to Taormina from either Messina in the north or Catania in the south by public transport or car. From Taormina, opt to take the cable car to bring you down to the beach.

Isola Bella has a lifeguard on duty at all times as well as showers and toilets. There are also restaurants and small cafes nearby. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Sicily and is incredibly safe.

Pro tip: Wear flip-flops or water shoes as the beach has pebbles and you’ll need to walk over rocks to reach the amazing caves on the island. “

Contributed by Simon of Backpack Moments

3. Spiaggia di Punta Secca, Sicily

Punta Seca Beach Italy Overview
Punta Seca Beach Sicily Italy – ©  Soumya of Stories by Soumya

Spiaggia di Punta Secca is one of the most unique beaches in Italy. It is famous not for its golden sands and clear waters but for its association with the famous Italian series “Commissario Montalbano”. Therefore, it is often called Montalbano Beach or “Spiaggia di Montalbano”.

The protagonist in the series, Inspector Salvo Montalbano lives right here on the Punta Secca beach and is often seen swimming in these waters. 

Even though the last episode of the series aired in March 2021, the beach continues to be the mecca for Montalbano fans from around the world. 

Fans come to see the house where Montalbano lived and swim in the azure blue waters just as their hero did. The sea can get a little rough here sometimes. So, be careful.

If you’re not a Montalbano fan, don’t worry. You can still enjoy a gorgeous sunset at the shiny golden beach and stroll through the charming streets of the sleepy Punta Secca town which is quite safe.

Travelers often visit the Punta Secca beach on a day trip from nearby Ragusa, a beautiful baroque town in Southern Sicily. The drive takes around 40 minutes.

Montalbano fans, however, love this Southeast Sicily Inspector Montalbano Tour which allows them to visit Punta Secca, Ragusa, and Scicli.

Recommended by Soumya of Stories by Soumya

4. Beaches in Favignana Island Sicily

Favignana, some of the best beaches in Italy
Favignana  Cala Rossa Beach – © Along Dusty Roads

Located off the northwestern coast of Sicily (near the city of Trapani), the small island of Favignana is one of Italy’s most beautiful. Its azure waters, pretty beaches and wild landscapes make it a popular place for a day trip or – for those with a little more time – an ideal summer escape. 

Best explored by bicycle, a circular route around the island will deliver travellers to a number of quintessentially Italian beaches and swimming spots, including the popular Cala Rossa (a large bay with the most beautiful, clear Mediterranean blues), the old quarry of Blue Marino which offers adventurous travellers the chance to make a big splash from up high, and the calm bay of Cala Azzura.

Do be aware that the aforementioned beaches are a little lacking in facilities, and you’ll likely want a pair of sea sandals to protect your feet when getting in and out of the water.

Lovers of sandy beaches should instead head to Lido Burrone where you’ll find sun beads to rent and a number of great spots for lunch; it’s also a fantastic option for families. 

Although there are a number of rental properties and hotels dotted about the island, the best place to stay is within the port area, where you’ll find pretty pedestrianised plazas, an abundance of excellent restaurants, hotels and guesthouses for all budgets.To reach Favignana, you simply need to hop on one of the regular hydrofoils from 

Trapani or alternatively book a day tour for a more intimate experience.

Contributed by Andrew & Emily from Along Dusty Roads

The Best Beaches in Italy: Sardinia

5. Cala Coticcio, Caprera, Sardinia

person on a surfboard in turquise water surrounded by rocks
Cala Coticcio Caprera Sardinia – © Claudia Tavani

Cala Coticcio is one of the most famous beaches in Sardinia and for good reasons! This tiny cove located in Caprera Island (part of Maddalena Archipelago) is simply picture-perfect, and a complete dream to visit. 

This highly protected beach can only be reached via guided hikes that depart close to the Arbuticci parking lot—an area with many trails to other beaches on the island. Staff from Maddalena National Park will patrol the area to ensure that nobody who’s not on a guided tour accesses the trail.

Only 60 people per day (15 per time slot) can visit the beach, so you need to book your visit in advance. To do so, you have to access Maddalena National Park’s website and pick one of the local guides (the best one is Eleonora Amoroso).

All guides charge the same € 25 fee. In addition, there’s a €3 fee to the national park: your guide will explain how to pay that. The overall experience lasts about 5 hours, of which 2 are spent hiking to the beach and back.

The beach is absolutely stunning: imagine fine, bright white sand and incredible clear emerald waters that are perfect for snorkeling. There is nothing at the beach in terms of services (in fact, you can’t even lay a towel there, so as to avoid taking any of the precious sand back with you). You will find a nice kiosk that prepares gourmet sandwiches and sells drinks in the Arbuticci parking lot. 

To visit Cala Coticcio you will have to stay in La Maddalena, the only town in the archipelago. From there, it’s an easy drive to Caprera Island.

Contributed by Claudia Tavani, Strictly Sardinia

PRO TIP – You may want to stay in Palau and explore all the amazing beaches in La Maddalena Archipelago. Check out this article on The Best Sardinia Beaches Near Palau – 5 Days Itinerary

6. Spiaggia di Capriccioli – Porto Cervo (Sardinia)

Cala Capriccioli Beach Sardinia
Cala Capriccioli Beach Sardinia © Kristine from Wanderlust Designers

Capriccioli Beach, also known as Cala Capricicoli–is your picture-perfect beach with white sand, turquoise waters, and granite rocks that plunge into the sea (yup, it feels like a slice of Seychelles). Massive boulders separate Cala Capriccioli into “Est” and “Nord” parts.

The waters there are shallow and incredibly clear, which is great for some great snorkeling, and they are protected from the strong Maestrale wind.

Cala Capriccioli is located on the Costa Smeralda, south of the town of Porto Cervo. It’s best accessed by car, although you will have to pay a pretty penny for the parking.

There are a few hotels nearby and a bar right on the beach. I’d recommend taking your own food or going to the nearby Baretto Cala di Volpe for lunch.

Capriccioli is a safe beach, albeit you’ll find a few people selling overpriced goods or offering services.

It does get extremely crowded in the main season, so don’t expect too much privacy.

After exploring many of the beaches in the area, this is still our favorite one. If you have a chance, head to Cala Capriccioli for a sunset picnic! The beach gets empty and peaceful at the time – it’s one of our favorite memories from it.

Contributed by Kristine from Wanderlust Designers

7. Beaches along the Costa di Baunei Sardinia

Costa di Baunei  Beach overview
Costa di Baunei – Sardinia © Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child

One of the most beautiful and underrated European Italian summer destinations is the Costa di Baunei along eastern Sardinia. The entire Baunei Coast has untouched nature, crystalline waters, picturesque beaches, and towering mountains and cannot be excluded from a Sardinia itinerary.

The best way to visit all the beautiful and hidden beaches along the Baunei Coast is by chartering or renting a boat for the day from the town of Arbatax.

At the local marina, there are numerous companies where you can rent a Zodiac boat, with or without a captain, and sail the coast from there. You also don’t need a boating license to rent a Zodiac for most companies.

Sailing the Costa di Baunei is the top way to explore the beaches. If you choose not to rent a boat, you can hike the Parco Nazionale del Golfo di Orosei del Gennargentu, leading you to the secluded beaches.

When you sail along the Baunei Coast, there are no marinas to dock your boat and walk onto the beaches. You’ll have to anchor in the sea and swim over.

Most beaches along the Baunei Coast don’t have restaurants or eateries, so the best thing to do is stop at a local grocery store or market ahead of time and pick up food and drinks.

The most beautiful beaches to visit along the Costa di Baunei are Cala Luna, which is iconic for its massive caves; Cala Marioulu, which offers fun water sports and activities; and Cala Goloritzè, which was named the most beautiful beach in Italy.

Other spots to visit along the Baunei Coast are Piscine di Venere, which has a cave and some of the most crystal-clear waters, as well as Grotta del Fico, which allows you to walk through a cavern.

If you plan to explore the Costa di Baunei, the best place to stay is Arbatax near Porto Frailis, which has a beautiful beach area. Hotel La Bitta is an excellent accommodation with a fantastic seaside restaurant called Ristorante La Bitta.

Submitted by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child.

The Best Beaches in Italy: Liguria

8. Fegina Beach, Monterosso al Mare, Liguria

Fegina Beach, Monterosso al Mare, Liguria, one of the best beaches in Italy
Fegina Beach, Monterosso al Mare, Liguria © Claudia Tavani

Cinque Terre is a fantastic year-round destination that is popular among families as well as solo travelers. The beaches in Cinque Terre aren’t exactly comfortable or easy to access, but some will provide a fantastic experience.

The most famous beach is Fegina Beach, in Monterosso al Mare, famous for its clear waters and for being the only really sandy beach in the area. 

There is a small portion of the beach that is free to access so you can go there with your own umbrella. As you can imagine, it can get very crowded during the peak summer months, so plan to go very early to find a spot.

Otherwise, you can book an umbrella and sun beds at one of the lidos. The most famous is Bagni Eden – just don’t expect it to be cheap!

This lovely beach is pretty much in front of the train station in Monterosso al Mare, so it is easy to get to. There are many good restaurants in the area. The best that is close to the beach is La Cantina di Miky (closed in winter), which has a strong focus on local seasonal ingredients but prepares creative dishes (contemporary cuisine).

Another one is l’Ancora della Tortuga, which is beautifully perched on a hill overlooking the sea (closed in winter). 

INSIDER TIP: Please keep in mind that although Monterosso is a beautiful destination all year round, you may find some restaurants and other facilities closed during winter time.

Claudia Tavani, My Adventures Across The World

9. Baia del Silenzio, Sestri Levante, Liguria

Best Beaches in Italy - Baia del silenzio Liguria, front overview
Baia del Silenzio, Sestri Levante, Italy © Sarah from Life Part 2 and Beyond

The stunning crescent-shaped golden sandy Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence) is located in Sestri Levante on Italy’s Ligurian coast.

Its shoreline is dotted with colorful houses, charming cafes, and small fishing boats gently floating on the clear waters, creating a really beautiful, tranquil, scenic setting.

The absence of motorized water activities also contributes to the quiet atmosphere.

While the bay itself may not have as many amenities as some larger beaches, the charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty.

It’s the perfect spot from which to take leisurely walks along the shore, explore the nearby cafes, or simply relax and sunbathe. 

The town of Sestri Levante itself is also a delight to explore. It has some beautiful old churches in the historic center, cobbled streets, artisan shops, and fabulous restaurants. And as the town caters primarily to Italian visitors, the quality of the food in the restaurants is superb. 

Sestri Levante is a gem and perfectly safe and welcoming for solo female travelers. The town is easily accessible by train, and it will make a great day trip from Milan both by train or car (about 2hrs 30 minutes each way).

Also, the town’s harbor serves as a hub for boat tours to Cinque Terre, Portofino, and other Riviera di Levante towns.

Contributed by Sarah from Life Part 2 and Beyond

Best beaches in Italy: Adriatic Coast

10. Bibione beach, Veneto

BIbione beach with lots of people overview
©Jürgen-Reichenpfader Bibione Beach, italy

The wonderful Bibione Beach, also known as Spiaggia di Bibione, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, and although it is especially recommended for families with children it’s worth mentioning here since it’s quite a popular vacation destination for Italians and close to Venice.

This 4-kilometre-long golden sandy beach is located on the Upper Adriatic in Italy and is well known as a popular destination for a summer vacation. 

The velvety golden sand, the crystal-clear blue water, and the pleasant atmosphere make it one of the best beaches in the country. Furthermore, this beach has been awarded the Blue Flag, which stands for the best cleanliness, facilities, and top beach quality.

There are various great “lidos” along the long sandy beach, where you can hire parasols and sun loungers at a reasonable price.

In between, there are also some areas where you can spread out your own towel free of charge.

Really charming is the picturesque beach promenade, where a variety of stores, bars, and restaurants serve delicious Italian cuisine and tasty cocktails. 

Another special feature of Bibione is the lighthouse at the upper end of the resort. If you fancy, you can take a stroll along the beach to the lighthouse or take a bike ride through the nature park to get there. 

Getting to Bibione is relatively easy. The nearest airport is Venice Marco Polo, around 90 kilometers away. Really good accommodation can be found directly in the resort of Bibione, with some hotels offering a magnificent view of the sea.

Bibione is also a very safe vacation destination for solo female travelers. There are many families with children on the beach, but it is still advisable to keep an eye on your valuables.

Recommended by PlacesofJuma

11. Lido di Venezia, Veneto

Lido di Venezia, commonly known as Lido, is a picturesque barrier island that separates the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. The golden sandy beaches of the Lido offer a unique and serene escape from the bustling streets of Venice and a day trip here is a must on your Venice itinerary!

The beautiful beach that stretches along the island’s coastline is a nice change from Venice’s tight canals and historic buildings. Lido has a well-kept beach, perfect for chilling out with clear waters and views of the Adriatic Sea. You can kick back with some sunbathing, take a dip, or just stroll along the beach

You can easily reach Lido by a vaporetto, Venice’s water bus. The journey across the lagoon is scenic and it is easily accessible for day trips.

Lido is famous for the Venice Film Festival, hosted annually at the historic Palazzo del Cinema.

The Lido boasts a range of facilities, from beach clubs and water sports to charming cafes and boutiques along its main street, Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta.

For dining, check out Trattoria Andri and Al Mare da Rosario. Accommodations range from luxury options like Grand Hotel Excelsior to more budget-friendly choices, such as Relais Alberti

Lido Island has a relaxed atmosphere and is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. But as with any destination, staying aware of surroundings and taking standard safety measures is recommended.

Submission by Zi from Craving Adventure

The best beaches in Italy, Campania

12. Fisherman’s Beach, Ischia, Campania Italy

Fisherman Beach in Ischhia Overview
© Helen from Helen on her holidays

Fisherman’s Beach is in Ischia Ponte on the island of Ischia, in the Bay of Naples. The beach is a medium-sized sand and fine gravel strip, which shelves gently into the sea, but what really sets it apart is its knockout view. 

Fisherman’s Beach looks out onto the stunning Castello Aragonese. This medieval castle and former convent sit atop a rocky islet connected to the town by a lengthy stone bridge.

It’s open to the public and is definitely worth a visit if you can tear yourself away from your sun lounger, though sensitive individuals may prefer to skip the rather creepy crypt!

The castle also operates as one of Italy’s most unique and magical hotels; rooms have incredible views over the island and the castle gardens provide food for the on-site restaurant.

Like many beaches in Italy, Fisherman’s Beach has facilities provided by a handful of beach bars and clubs that run along the narrow road behind the beach. Ischia Ponte has a handful of shops, including a small supermarket.

The nearest city to Ischia Ponte is Naples, but in contrast to hectic Napoli, Ischia Ponte feels very relaxed and safe. You can get from Naples to Ischia by ferry or hydrofoil; the journey takes between an hour and 2 hours.

 Contributed by Helen from Helen on her holidays

13. Marina Piccola Capri

Marina Piccola Beach overview in Capri
Marina Piccola Capri

The beautiful island of Capri is undoubtedly one of the most exotic and interesting destinations in all of Italy. Along with ancient history, incredible restaurants, and stunning scenery, Capri also has one of the best beaches in Italy, Marina Piccola.

Located on the south side of the island with the Faraglioni Rocks in full view, the beach is an easy walk from the Piazzetta at the top of the island or from most of the nearby boutique hotels.

Once there, take the stairs down to where the rocks split the Marina Piccola beach in two with a section of beach on either side.

These are the very rocks mentioned in The Odyssey where the “Sirens” are said to have lured sailors onto the rocks.

The two sections of the beach, Marina di Mulo, and Marina di Pennauro, are the most popular on the island with calm clear azure water. Plan to arrive before noon to secure an ideal spot for sunbathing. No matter what time you arrive, Marina Piccola is always safe.

There’s no need to lug beach chairs or an umbrella. There are vendors where you can rent lounge chairs and buy cold drinks and a bite to eat.

For something more than a sandwich, there are nearby cafes and small restaurants just a short walk away.

Contributed by Lori from Travlinmad Slow Travel blog

14. Marina Grande Beach in Positano 

Marina Grande Positano Italy
Marina Grande Beach Positano – © Stefania Guglielimi

Marina Grande Beach – or Spiaggia Grande, as the Italians (like me!) call it – is Positano’s most important beach. While the Amalfi Coast is not particularly famous for its beaches, Marina Grande is not only an exception, but one of the unmissable things to do in Positano!

With a shoreline dotted with blue loungers and umbrellas, and the vertical town of Positano acting as a backdrop, it’s one of the most picturesque sights in the region.

Marina Grande is divided into two areas. There’s the free zone, where you can toss your towel and beach equipment, and the paid beach club, which doesn’t lack facilities. 

There are showers and changing cabins available, and the beach is lined by high-end restaurants that will bring your food and drinks to your chair. 

Besides relaxing on a sunbed with a cocktail and swimming, you can take a boat trip to visit hidden coves around Positano. 

The beach stretches for 1,000 feet, and it’s equally popular among locals, holiday-makers, and celebrities. If you visit during the high season, you’ll have good chances of spotting one or two! 

It’s also family-friendly and safe for solo travelers, so there are no excuses to miss it. To reach the beach from Positano, you simply need to find the staircases that go down from the main road. They have signs, so it’s very easy to access! 

I highly recommend staying in Positano for a few days to explore the other gems around the region. The town is lively, and you’ll have plenty of accommodation and restaurant options to choose from. 

Contributed by Stefania Guglielmi from Every Steph

Best Beaches in Italy: Rome

15. Anzio Beaches, Lazio

Anzio Beach and lighthouse at sunset
Anzio Beach and lighthouse at sunset

If you have more than a long weekend to spend in Rome, I highly suggest taking a day trip to nearby Anzio. This little Italian town, conveniently just an hour from Rome by train, is unexpectedly the home of some of the best beaches in Italy.

It offers a tranquil escape reminiscent of the Caribbean, with its inviting white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters – a stark contrast to many of Italy’s most touristy beaches, like the rugged shores of the Amalfi Coast. 

The Anzio beaches are white sand and clear water as far as the eye can see…with a couple of seafood restaurants and beach bars mixed in. It’s the picture-perfect Italian beach day, especially when paired with a couple of ice-cold Peronis and a good beach read. 

For those seeking more than sunbathing, venture to the Grotte di Nerone (caves of Nero) and uncover the ancient tunnels belonging to a villa built by the Roman Emperor, Nero.

And don’t forget to try some of Lazio’s freshest seafood at Romolo al Porto – at much lower prices than you would usually find in Italy. 

Contributed by Madison from Madison Footsteps

16. Sperlonga beaches, Lazio

Sperlonga beach overview in Italy
Sperlonga beach – Lazio Italy

Sperlonga is a stunning and culturally rich coastal beach town tucked away in the southern region of Italy. It is conveniently located next to tourist hot spots Rome and Naples, and its ideal central location makes it an easy train ride from the city.

However, you can drive around the Lazio region if you prefer a scenic drive. Just keep in mind that train travel is the preferred method of transportation, as it’s challenging to find adequate parking. 

The coastal beach town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and is frequently visited by tourists and locals. Due to its buzzing beaches, it’s a great beach to see if you are a solo traveler or traveling with a small party.

The town is well-lit near the main beach, and as first-time visitors, we could easily navigate via public transportation during the day and late evening. 

When choosing a place to stay, you’ll want to stay relatively close to the beach and old town. Hotel Aurora would be a great choice because of its central location, amenities, and private beach access. 

Regarding the sandy beach, it’s a great choice for various beachgoers, whether you wish to lounge around in a rented lounge chair and umbrella or enjoy the warm Tyrrhenian sea.

Now, if you also love a taste of history, take a break from the beach, explore the historical old town, and take in the aged beauty of the stone-covered buildings. Then visit the Sperlonga Archaeological Museum and hop over to the historical ruins of Tiberius Villa & Grotto. 

After all that, consider enjoying Sperlongas’ local cuisine of fresh seafood, delicious pasta dishes, and some perfectly made wood-fired pizzas. A notable food spot is Il Porticciolo, which is relatively close to the beach and features fantastic dishes like pasta with lobster or clams or tasty calamari. 

All in all, taking a break in Sperlonga, Italy, to enjoy its beautiful beaches is highly recommended if you are looking for dazzling shores, history, and rich food. 

Contributed by Yesenia, from The Sisters Who Voyage

17. Santa Severa beach

Santa Severa Beach in italy
Santa Severa Beach © Lisa of Rome Travelogues

Although many of the beaches near Rome may be infamous for their not-so-transparent water, there are notable exceptions. This is the case with Santa Severa Beach, one of the favorites among locals. 

The beach features yellowish sand with very fine grains and crystal-clear blue water, especially in the early part of the day when the sea is very calm.

A few rows of wave-breaking rocks make this beach ideal for those visiting with children and adults with little swimming abilities. However, the most impressive part of the landscape is the majestic Santa Severa Castle, located just a few meters from the water. 

Showcasing splendid Renaissance architecture, The castle at Santa Severa, stands on a site with ancient roots, tracing back to the Etruscan port of Pyrgi, centuries before Christ.

Visitors enjoy free access to the castle’s courtyards and convenient bathroom facilities, especially handy for those spending time at the beach.

Inside the castle, museums narrate its rich history; entry is available for a modest fee of €6.

Adjacent to the castle, Santa Severa Beach offers public areas and beach clubs manage sections. In the latter, you can rent beach equipment for approximately €20 per day.

For dining options, the beach boasts “Isola del Pescatore,” known for its sandwiches and fish dishes, and the Medcafe bistrot, located on the castle’s ground floor, offers excellent pizza.

Getting to the beach is straightforward: drive and park at the nearby paid parking lot, or opt for a train from Roma Termini to Santa Severa station, a journey of about 30 minutes.

For accommodations, consider the charming towns of Santa Marinella and Tolfa, both nestled in picturesque countryside and worth exploring.

By Lisa of Rome Travelogues

Best beaches in Italy: Puglia

18. Polignano a Mare, Puglia

Lama Monachile Beach Polignano a Mare Puglia
Lama Monacile Beach in Polignano a Mare – © Milijana of World Travel Connector 

Nestled in the heart of Polignano a Mare lies Lama Monachile, a charming pebble beach cradled between two massive cliffs. This spectacular location is a scenic wonder and a stage for the globally broadcasted Red Bull Cliff Diving competition, where athletes leap from these towering cliffs into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Renowned for its pristine conditions, Lama Monachile proudly boasts a Blue Flag status, signifying its cleanliness, safety, and excellent maintenance.

Beach enthusiasts are particularly fond of its fine pebbles, the unspoiled sea, and its ideal central location in the town. This convenience extends to easy access to nearby shops, bars, and hotels, making it a favorite among both solo travelers and families alike.

Apart from its stunning beauty, Lama Monachile offers a variety of activities. Whether you’re interested in swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, or diving, this beach has something for everyone.

Its central position also makes it a perfect spot to take a quick break and indulge in the local cuisine at a nearby trattoria, perhaps enjoying a classic pasta all vongole (pasta with clams) paired with a refreshing Aperol Spritz.

Situated in the beautiful region of Puglia in southern Italy, known for being one of the country’s premier beach destinations, Lama Monachile is conveniently located just a half-hour drive from Bari. The Bari International Airport serves as the main gateway to this region.

The best way to explore this beautiful region and its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes is to fly into Bari, rent a car, and embark on an unforgettable  Puglia road trip

Contributed by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

19. Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle in Puglia

Spiaggia di torre pozzelle
Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle in Puglia Italy

Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle is a gorgeous hidden beach in Puglia, Italy. Located just a 15-minute drive from Ostuni, this is a wonderful place to spend the day if you’re looking to avoid the summer beach crowds in Puglia. 

This unassuming beach area features a small beach and a rocky coastline. Within the rocky alcoves, there are plenty of great swimming spots. The small, sandy beach area gets a bit crowded, so lay out your towel on the rocks for a more secluded and relaxed experience. 

There is a beach bar located near the main parking area where you can purchase drinks and snacks. Otherwise, there aren’t any dedicated toilets or other facilities at the beach. 

Make sure to pack a lunch (if you don’t plan to eat at the bar), bring your own beach chairs or towels, and bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to spend the entire day here. 

Getting into the water is a bit uneven and rocky – bring some water shoes as well to make it easier to walk around in the water. 

This area is definitely safe for solo female travelers. However, it’s always recommended to bring a waterproof case for your phone and wallet to have with you while swimming.

There is free parking located just a quick walk from the beach, and you need a car to access Spiaggia di Torre Pozzelle. 

Contributed by Jenoa from The Travel Folk 

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19 Best Beaches in Italy Map

Map of Italy showing cities and surrounding areas, including Rome, Florence, and Milan, with pins marking specific locations in the region.
© Google Maps – Click on the image to open the interactive map!

Best Beaches in Italy: Frequently Asked Questions

Which part of Italy has best beaches?

Sardinia is renowned for having some of the best beaches in Italy, with its crystal-clear waters and beautiful sand. However, I can assure you that places like the south of Puglia or Sicilia are also spectacular and worth visiting.

Are there any white sand beaches in Italy?

Yes, Italy boasts white sand beaches and Sardinia is particularly abundant. Think of the long stretch of beach in Porto Pino, the white dunes of Arenas Biancas end La Pelosa Beach, Poetto, the beaches in Costa Rei e Villasimius, and San Teodoro.

Where is the clearest water in Italy?

I am afraid Sardinia is also the winner when it comes to clear water, Especially the La Maddalena archipelago, which is known for their stunningly blue waters, including the above-mentioned Cala Coticcio. But basically no matter where you go in Sardinia, you will find clear water!

What is the prettiest coast in Italy?

The Amalfi Coast is often cited as the prettiest coast in Italy, known for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque towns. However, there are many other amazing spots along the Italian Coast including the 5 Terre in Liguria, with its picturesque colorful houses perched on a cliff above the small bays.

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