Rugged cliffs, smooth sandy beaches and turquoise sea – Italy makes one of the best destinations in all of Europe for an extensive beach vacation. However, which beach is actually the most beautiful and what are some of the best beaches in Italy?
Mamma Mia – Italy offers the perfect vacation destination for a trip full of enjoyment, culture and joie de vivre. This is why, especially in the summer months, countless beach vacationers come to the coastal resorts of the country and the Italian islands. Since Italy really does have many dream beaches on the turquoise blue sea, here’s an overview of our favorite beaches in this popular vacation destination.
The Best and Most Beautiful Beaches of Italy
In this article, we will offer you, our personal selection of the best beaches in Italy, with no claim that it is absolute and final. Choosing the beaches was hard. Let’s explore the 50 best beaches in Italy and at the end, please let us know which one is your favorite?
SARDINIA – Porto Giunco, Villasimius (Cagliari)
The beach of Porto Giunco is a stretch of fine white sand dividing two blue expanses. The sea in front of it has Caribbean nuances, and behind it, the pond of Notteri, habitat of pink flamingos, is surrounded by dunes, juniper bushes and a grove of eucalyptus trees to be crossed on foot to reach the beach. Porto Giunco, 45 kilometers from Cagliari, is a jewel of the Capo Carbonara marine area.
It is served by kiosks, bars and hotels and is not only loved by families and by those looking for relaxation, but also by surfing and snorkeling enthusiasts. In fact, the seabed displays granite rocks, wrecks, sea daisies, gorgonians and schools of fish. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
CAMPANIA – Marina Grande, Capri (Naples)
This beach is the largest on the island of Capri and is situated near the dock of Marina Grande, where ferries and hydrofoils dock. Nevertheless, it is one of the most beautiful in the area, renowned for its clean waters. Especially families with children appreciate it, thanks to the vastness of the beach.
This is a rare gift on the island, which is instead famous for the coves to be reached by boat and the rocks. In summer it is very crowded, and is ideal for those who want to take a last dive before leaving. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
SARDINIA – Cala Goloritzé, Baunei (Nuoro)
Cala Goloritzé was declared a national monument in 1995 and is a symbol of the Gulf of Orosei. The white pebbles of Monte Caroddi, dominated by a limestone spire, on whose walls freeclimbers put themselves to the test, are enchanted by its frame of overhanging rocks and transparent waters. You can reach it on foot, walking along the path that from the parking lot of su Porteddu goes up to the Supramonte of Baunei.
The journey in the middle of the Mediterranean scrub pays off with the spectacle of the small bay. As an alternative, it is also possible to arrive comfortably by sea, with rubber dinghies to rent at the ports of Arbatax, Cala Gonone and Santa Maria Navarrese. Or by trips from Marina di Orosei and Cala Gonone, which usually stop at the cave of the sea ox and the Pools of Venus.
BASILICATA – Beach of Policoro (Matera)
The ancient Heraclea, Policoro is located in the Gulf of Taranto, on the Ionian coast. Its waterfront – Lido di Policoro – is one of the most beautiful in Italy and has been recognized several times by the FEE with the Blue Flag.
Its beach is wide, with fine sand and sloping seabed. In some sections the beach is free while in others it is occupied by bathing establishments. When sitting on the shore, there is no shortage of surprises: dolphins can often be spotted offshore, as well as Caretta Caretta turtles. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
SARDINIA – Cala Capriccioli, Arzachena (Sassari)
One of the most famous seaside resorts of the Costa Smeralda, a little to the north of Cala di Volpe, Cala Capriccioli is enchanting with its pink and yellow granite rocks, the bright green of the junipers, lentisks and maritime pines, drawing a panorama of wild beauty. The cliffs divide the beaches of fine sand and shallow water, which are easily accessible and protected from the mistral.
The first one, “del Pirata”, is served by a pier for the mooring of boats, while the second one, protected by the dunes, is an area where sea turtles nest. Up ahead, you can see the profile of the islands of Soffi, Camere and the small island of Mortorio, a naturalistic oasis for the nesting of rare species of birds.
PUGLIA – Beach of Pescoluse (Lecce)
This is the perfect beach for families. There are four kilometers of shallow water, without danger, with small islands that peep out from the surface of the sea. It is called “the Maldives of Salento”, it is between Ugento and Santa Maria di Leuca on the map, Legambiente has awarded it a Blue Flag. Many equipped stretches, as well as free portions of sand where you can lay your towels.
The sand dunes are covered with acacias and white lilies, and in the kiosks that emerge among the reeds and palm trees you can have a drink after a swim. A tropical dream just around the corner.
SARDINIA – La Pelosa, Stintino (Sassari)
In Asinara Gulf, between the stacks of Capo Falcone, Piana island and Asinara, La Pelosa is a beach of tropical charm. Turquoise colored waters, always calm and flat, lap a candid coastline. In front, there is a small island guarded by an Aragonese tower dating back to 1578. Who decides to visit the beach is invited to respect the regulations in force since last summer: no smoking, banned umbrellas, as well as beach towels permitted only if placed on mats.
This is to preserve the beauty of the dunes and nature. Do not miss the nearby Pelosetta, the coves of sand and stones as Biggiu Marinu (the monk seal, in Sardinian), known as Valle della Luna, and Cala del Vapore, and the Museum of Tonnara.
SICILY – Isola Bella, Taormina (Catania)
It is impossible to visit Taormina without making a trip to the beach of Isola Bella, so called because of the small island, wrapped in the crystal clear waters of the bay, which was declared of relevant historical and artistic interest in 1984, and natural reserve since 1998. Always the place is a source of inspiration for writers, from Goethe, to Byron, to Dillon.
Its exotic vegetation adds an eccentric note to the Mediterranean scrub. In order to protect it, in 2010 the Archaeological Park of Naxos was born, which includes, besides the beautiful island, also the Ancient Theater of Taormina, the Museum of Giardini Naxos and Francavilla. Info for trips, Archaeological Park Naxos Taormina.
CALABRIA – Island of Capo Rizzuto (Crotone)
Within the Marine Protected Area “Capo Rizzuto” there are 40 kilometers of coastline to discover. Inside, a dense pine forest with lentisks, thyme, crystal grass, myrtle, capers, tamarisks, brooms and juniper. In the depths, live groupers, barracudas, tuna and sometimes dolphins.
The diversity of nature makes this stretch of sea a unique environment. For those who do not dive, it is possible to observe the beauty of the depths with boats that have a transparent bottom. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
SICILY – Cala Junco, Panarea, Aeolian Islands (Messina)
Embedded among the rocks, when viewed from above it is an inviting, sparkling natural pool. Cala Junco is situated near the prehistoric village of Punta Milazzese, southwest of San Pietro pier. In this part of the island, a small paradise, the oldest artifacts of the entire archipelago have been found. There was a village of the Bronze Age, 23 huts, some found with remains of flooring and furniture, mortars, millstones, tables and slabs used as seats.
These valuable finds are now kept in large part by the Museum of Lipari. The beach, a small natural amphitheater, is a must see (not in August, however, because it is too crowded). You can reach the sea on foot in half an hour from Drautto through an ancient path and a flight of steps. For more information check the website of the Region of Sicily.
SARDINIA – Pink Beach, Island of Budelli (Sassari)
The Maddalena Archipelago has 60 islets and large rocks and is preserved as a national park. Between the main islands stand Caprera, Santo Stefano, Santa Maria, Spargi, La Maddalena, Razzoli and Budelli, a solitary and wild island, which became famous for its pink beach. It is protected by special environmental constraints, to preserve the precious sandy shore, and can be admired from the sea, at a distance, without ever anchoring, bathing or treading on the beach, in the company of the park guides.
This beach was also portrayed in the film “Red Desert” by Michelangelo Antonioni. The entire archipelago, however, boasts scenic treasures and to conquer are not only the dream coves. In fact, snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will love the Washington Shoal, between Budelli and Spargi, colored by red gorgonians. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
SICILY – Torre Conca, Pollina (Palermo)
Also known as “Valtur beach” because of the presence of the homonymous (former) village, Torre Conca beach is the most famous of Pollina. It is situated in an inlet under the promontory of Capo Rais Gerbi and it is famous for its sand mixed with gravel and for its crystalline waters.
The seabed becomes deep just a short distance from the shoreline. You can access it through a path, on foot, after leaving the car in a parking lot on the highway 113. A must see is the Cefalù, with its beach and its Cathedral, and the Madonie Park.
CALABRIA – Beach of Tonnara di Palmi (Reggio Calabria)
It takes its name from an ancient tuna fishery that was located here until the twentieth century, for swordfish fishing, but which today there is no longer any trace. The Tonnara di Palmi beach is surrounded by a cliff dominated by the Ulivo rock, located in one of the most picturesque places of the Costa Viola.
Ahead, a sea of a dazzling turquoise, with rocky seabed that invites you to be discovered with fins and mask. The beach is fitted out with beach umbrellas and restaurants, but it also has a free area and is very popular in the summer months. Using a boat, you can then explore the entire coast of Palmi, edged with fascinating caves: the cave of the Sirens, the Arcudace and the Perciata.
EMILIA ROMAGNA – Beach Marina Romea, Ravenna
The Ravenna coast has much to offer to nature lovers. People do not come here only to relax by the sea: the beach of Marina Romea, for example, is immersed in the green and can be easily reached by walking along paths among the pine trees.
The equipped lidos along the coast offer every comfort, while behind, the nature of the Po Delta Park, with the charming landscapes of Pialassa Baiona, where the waters are salty and among the vegetation you can see little egrets, seagulls, marangons and cormorants. It is a perfect place for birdwatching, as well as for canoe and bike tours, horseback riding and walking.
CALABRIA – Tropea (Vibo Valentia)
Popular with international tourism, renowned for its white sandy beach and crystal clear sea, Tropea has an old town with noble buildings dating back to the eighteenth century, perched on a cliff overlooking the beach. The villages and hotels line its coast as far as Capo Vaticano. A must see is the little church of the island, on a promontory surrounded by the sea. During the month of July here there is the Festival of blue fish and the famous local red onion, with a sweet taste.
PUGLIA – Cala Matano, Tremiti Islands (Foggia)
Going out to sea towards the archipelago of Tremiti, the obligatory stop is the wild Cala Matano, called Cala Matana or of the Duchess, with reference to a noblewoman who used to live in these parts. It was here, in her house overlooking the bay, that Lucio Dalla in 2001 wrote Luna Matana and Com’è profondo il mare. It descends along a dirt path hidden in the vegetation just below the belvedere and in a few minutes you will reach the small inlet. In the bay the pine trees lap the Caribbean-colored water.
SARDINIA – Cala Brandinchi, Capo Coda Cavallo (Sassari)
A part of the Marine Protected Area Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo, Cala Brandinchi is considered one of the most impressive beaches of Gallura, so as to deserve the nickname of Tahiti. The reason is simple: the dazzling white sand is in contrast with the turquoise sea and the richness of the seabed is reminiscent of tropical paradises.
Furthermore, the bay is bordered by dunes, gardens and a beautiful pine forest. Interesting fact: It is said that Giuseppe Garibaldi, after having left Caprera, sailed from this beach on October 17, 1867, to try to free Rome. The neighboring beach Lu Impostu is also worth a visit. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
PUGLIA – Bay of Vignanotica (Vieste)
Vignanotica is considered one of the most beautiful beaches of the Gargano, located in the territory of Vieste. Charming and spectacular, it is worth the effort it takes to reach it: you get there in fact only after having walked a long dirt path surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. The prize at the end is the beautiful white beach, because of the glow of the cliffs that frame it.
Before heading down to the sea, it is certainly worth stopping at the belvedere at the top, equipped with benches and a wooden canopy, facing a dream landscape. Encircled by limestone stacks, Vignanotica is also called the “beach of the seagulls” because at night the herring gulls that have their nests among the rocks land here.
SICILY – Cala Rossa, Island of Favignana (Trapani)
The butterfly-shaped Egadi island of Favignana can be accessed by ferry from Trapani. In the island, where coves and beaches are generally all easily accessible, there is also Cala Rossa, more difficult to reach because you have to face a long descent. Therefore, it is not suitable for families with children under three years of age, the elderly and pregnant women.
The name evokes the blood that colored the waters during the Punic Wars. Nowadays it is renowned as the most beautiful cove of the island. The water is crystal clear and the rocks are flat: a great place for tanning maniacs. If you want to go around the island, it is very good, in fact it is strongly recommended to rent a bicycle. Not many climbs and descents, a lot of nature, wind and perfumes are there for you.
PUGLIA – Bay of the Zagare, Mattinata (Vieste)
Known also as “Bay of Mergoli” (from the dialectal name of blackbirds) it is located between Pugnochiuso and Mattinata, near Vignanotica. Like Vignanotica, you can walk between almond trees, olive groves and pine forests. This beach is split in two by a high limestone cliff: the sea is as clear as the Caribbean, the sand is very light, and there are white pebbles. From the water sprout white limestone stacks such as the Arch of Diomede or Forbici. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
LAZIO – Dune of Sabaudia (Latina)
Situated inside the Circeo National Park, the amber-colored dunes of Sabaudia beach stretch for about 25 kilometers between Latina Lido and Torre Paola to the south, at the foot of Mount Circeo and the rocky promontory.
At the back, the coastal lakes of Fogliano, Monaci, Caprolace, and Paola and bushes of juniper, myrtle and lentisk are to be found. Everybody finds here the stretch of sea he prefers: the most popular is the coast after Torre Paola; more private is La Bufalara, which can be reached by a path through the dunes and a wooden footbridge leading to the sea. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
PUGLIA – Bay of Torre dell’Orso, Melendugno (Lecce)
It appears among the olive groves, on the Adriatic coast. The small town Melendugno in the province of Lecce, is situated only nine kilometers away. Torre dell’Orso beach is a crescent of sand almost a kilometer long: the sixteenth-century watchtower (from which it takes its name) overlooks it from above.
The two Sisters, the imposing stacks of light-colored stone, are mirrored in the waters that the sea currents of the Channel of Otranto keep transparent. In the grottoes you can admire graffiti in Latin and Greek, proof of the faith of the ancient sailors.
SICILY – Mondello (Palermo)
The Palermo people’s beach, which is just 20 minutes from the city center. It is a long stretch of pale sand, super-equipped with elegant establishments and retro flavor that offer everything necessary for a day of absolute relaxation. There are also, optionally, the numerous fresh fish restaurants spread all along the coast.
You should not miss a trip (on foot) on the path to Capo Gallo (nature reserve) with stunning cliff views, and tours to the nearby island of Femmine, and of course the taste of traditional local street food: sesame sandwiches with panelle (chickpea flour fritters) and potato croquettes, boiled octopus, spaghetti with sea urchins or clams and mussels, all prepared and served on the spot. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
PUGLIA – Punta Prosciutto, Porto Cesareo (Lecce)
Punta Prosciutto, also known locally as “Li Prisuti” or “Lido degli Angeli”, is a suburb of Porto Cesareo, about ten kilometers away, in Salento. Crystal clear waters, beaches of fine white sand, dunes eight meters high, stretches of Mediterranean vegetation are the hallmarks of this marine protected area.
Charming Salina dei Monaci, located on the west bank of Torre Colimena, is the kingdom of pink flamingos. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
BASILICATA – Beach of Maratea (Potenza)
There are around thirty kilometers of coastline in Basilicata overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is in this small portion of Basilicata that is located in Maratea. A true jewel, with coves, beaches, caves, bays and islets surrounded by crystal clear waters which have nothing to envy to the sea of Greece. One of the most famous beaches is Fiumicello, a short distance from the historic center, with its homonymous caves where, in the ’60s they found the remains of Paleolithic settlements there.
There is also the beach D’i Vranne, which can only be reached by sea and is dominated by a high cliff in which is hidden the Cave of Giorgio. There is also the Nera beach, of volcanic origin, and the Gnola beach, which is the longest beach on the coast of Maratea, wild and sandy.
ABRUZZO – Beach of Roseto degli Abruzzi, Roseto degli Abruzzi (Teramo)
This beach is perfect for families with children: it is sandy, wide, with shallow waters and protected by breakwater cliffs. This is proved by the fact that, in addition to having been awarded the Blue Flag, the beach of Roseto degli Abruzzi was also awarded the Green Flag by the Italian Paediatricians’ Association.
It is six kilometers long, and is separated from the road by a long bike path and boasts, as well as bars, ice cream parlors and restaurants, large playgrounds for children. In particular, do not miss the Savini park, to the north, and the famous pinewood in front of the Railway Station, more in the center.
After a full day at the beach, you can explore Roseto degli Abruzzi, the so-called “City of Roses” for the variety of roses and oleanders that once adorned the streets and balconies of the houses. Another attraction is Montepagano, perched on the hills of Roseto, with its lovely medieval old town and incomparable view of the sea.
MOLISE – Beach of Sant’Antonio, Termoli (Campobasso)
This beach is the beach par excellence of the people of Termoli. And because of this, in high summer it is always a bit crowded. However, getting there early to find a place is an endeavor that is soon repaid by the view. In fact, in the background stands the Swabian Castle, dating back to the thirteenth century, in all its austerity.
In the evening you can get lost inside the walls, among markets, concerts and exhibitions, while in the daytime you can relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, with fine sand and shallow waters. There are many establishments, for those seeking comfort.
For many years it was thought that the “traffic circle on the sea” that inspired Fred Bongusto for the song of the same name was in these waters, since the singer was originally from Termoli. However, in 2006, it was revealed that he was in Senigallia. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
CAMPANIA – Bay of Erchie (Salerno)
Whoever visits the Amalfi Coast (and loves the sea) cannot miss this place. Erchie Bay is located in Erchie, between Cetara and Maiori, and is one of the most charming beaches of the area. It is small and crowded in summer, and can be reached only on foot, but the beauty of its waters and the panorama repay the effort.
There are two towers that surround it: Torre Cerniola on the left and Torre di Tummolo on the right. The homonymous village, point of access to the beach, with its typical stores and restaurants with the scent of the sea, is not to be missed. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
TUSCANY – Cala Violina, Follonica (Grosseto)
It is a clear crescent-shaped beach along the coast between Follonica and Punta Ala, within the Natural Reserve of Bandite di Scarlino. Cala Violina is an oasis of tranquility. It has soft sand, with tiny quartz crystals crunching underfoot and moved by the waves, making that pleasant sound that inspired its name.
Surrounding it are clear waters and a dense pine forest. You can reach it on foot, after leaving the car at the parking lot, by selecting one of the two paths: the first, longer and more scenic, touching also Cala Francese and Cala Martina is about 4 kilometers long; the second, however, shorter, is passable by bike or on foot and is 2 kilometers long.
MARCHE – Sirolo (Ancona)
It is a small paradise, along the coast of the Marche, with a sea that touches all shades of blue. It has many strong points: the turquoise water, the luxuriant and spontaneous flora and the mild climate. Sirolo’s beaches, in the province of Ancona, are some of the most beautiful on the Conero.
Many titles of which they can boast: Blue Flag since 1994, Four Sails of Legambiente and Touring Club, proving the quality of water and coastline. The most famous ones are: Urbani Beach, on the slopes of the village, Gabbiani Beach, to the north, and San Michele Beach, equipped with bathing establishments.
SICILY – Rabbit Island, Lampedusa (Agrigento)
It is situated on the island of Lampedusa, in front of the Isola dei Conigli. It was elected “the most beautiful in the world” in 2013. The water temperature here, in the summer months, is never lower than 21 degrees. Occasionally (the last time in 2008) the islet reunites with the larger island through a strip of sand made by the waves and tides.
This is also the favorite beach of Caretta Caretta turtles, who come back here every year to lay their eggs. You can get to know these animals closely, visiting the recovery center “Turtles and Wildlife”, at the end of the old port. It is run by WWF volunteers. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
TUSCANY – Capo Bianco, Island of Elba (Livorno)
Only 1 kilometer from Portoferraio, with a transparent sea, it is a beach of white pebbles and shallow rocky seabed to discover with mask and snorkel, diving from the side of the promontory to the nearby shoals of Capobianco. You can spot salpa, occhiate and giudole here.
The Capo Bianco beach is equipped with a bar, beach umbrella and sun bed rental, as well as a large paid parking lot, also serving the nearby Padulella beach. The advice? Stay until sunset. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
SICILY – San Vito Lo Capo (Trapani)
This beach should be seen and enjoyed possibly out of season (not in July and August, because it is taken by storm). Other than a splendid long golden sand, interrupted only here and there by palm trees, San Vito also provides a pleasant hot summer from a cultural, musical and gastronomic point of view.
An event in September is the “Cous Cous Fest”, the Festival of flavors that celebrates the cous cous, dish of peace and integration between peoples. Do not forget to visit the Zingaro Reserve: wild nature and coves with transparent water, only for willing and well-equipped walkers.
TUSCANY – Marina di Alberese (Grosseto)
This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Maremma Park. You can reach it by car, by bicycle, or with the convenient shuttle service from Alberese which, during the summer, operates daily. The sand is fine, the coast is dotted with the classic “capannette” of the Maremma (shelters built for shade), wild nature and sunsets that stay in the memory. It is well worth taking a break from the sun and enjoy the beautiful walks in the park, where you can meet water birds, turtles, chianina and horses in the wild.
PUGLIA – Porto Cesareo (Lecce)
Located inside a protected marine area and thus with vast uncontaminated stretches, the beach of Porto Cesareo is part of the Guida Blu di Legambiente 2019, and has taken home 5 blue sails. In this small tourist center, very distinctive from the gastronomic point of view, it is worth stopping in Via Silvio Pellico, called “road of the fishmongers”.
CAMPANIA – Maronti Beach, Ischia (Naples)
There are no tourists in Ischia who have never had the desire to make a trip to the Maronti Beach. This is one of the most famous beaches of the island, with the hills in the background and the blue waters lapping the coast.
Approximately 3 kilometers long, it is famous for its “caves”: dark ravines, behind the beach, which contain significant thermal springs. Probably the most powerful of Ischia – the Sorgente della Cava Scura – is situated right on this beach. This is a good reason to go up to here and take a bath in tubs full of thermal water, already enjoyed by the Ancient Romans.
LAZIO – Chiaia di Luna, Island of Ponza (Latina)
Approximately one hour by hydrofoil from Anzio and Formia, Ponza is a wild and fascinating land. This is where the sea has endless blue and turquoise reflections and washes enchanting beaches. Such as Chiaia di Luna, it is one of the most famous of the island, which from the top resembles a slice of the moon: white, of stones, narrow and guarded by a high and imposing cliff, sadly, it is prone to landslides. In fact, at the moment, Chiaia di Luna can be visited only by sea, with a ban on landing on the beach.
But there are ongoing construction and safety works that – hopefully – will make it available again this summer. It was frequented already at the time of the Romans and used as a natural port. Evidence of this is the tunnel dug in the rock and the remains of the necropolis visible on the top of the cliff. In the evening, the cove turns red and orange, while the sun becomes a fiery ball on the horizon.
MARCHE – Spiaggia dei Frati, Numana (Ancona)
There is no lack of enchanting beaches along the Conero Riviera. However, there is one that deserves to be included among the 50 most beautiful beaches in Italy. It is Spiaggia dei Frati, in Numana, which is one of the two – together with Spiaggiola – of Numana Alta.
This small bay is surrounded by a cliff on the slopes of the Conero. It is long and narrow, with fine white sand and crystal clear sea. Getting there is not easy – you have to walk down a 500-meter-long road – particularly if you have small children in strollers. But once you have got over the fatigue, relaxation is guaranteed.
EMILIA ROMAGNA – Riccione Beach (Rimini)
It is a paradise for families and young people, with a long sandy beach, equipped with every kind of comfort – from entertainment and mini club to sand and water sports – and marked by 151 bathing establishments.
There are also the “Beaches of Wellness”, where visitors can take part in lessons in harmonic gymnastics, oriental dances and creative workshops, and beaches open to four-legged friends. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
LIGURIA – Beach of Vernazza (La Spezia)
It is a very small sandy beach near the church of Santa Margherita. This is a miniature corner of paradise, in the center of the town, in the heart of the Cinque Terre. It is certainly not one of the biggest beaches in Liguria, but perhaps this is why it is so special. You have to walk 200 meters from the train station to get there (the alternative is to reach it by boat).
Once you’ve laid down your towel, you can relax in the midst of a handful of colorful houses, dominated by the castle with its tower and the Belforte, a quadrangular bastion. If you wish, it is possible to reach the other villages of the Cinque Terre on foot: Monterosso, for example, is a 90-minute walk away.
SARDINIA – Su Giudeu, fraz. Chia, Domus De Maria (Cagliari)
It is a crescent of white sand encircled by junipers and dunes shaped by the wind. With the sea gently sloping down, ranging from light blue to deep emerald. Su Giudeu is another of the wonderful beaches of Chia, a small paradise with shallow waters, which are perfect for children. It is also marked by the rocky islet to be reached on foot, taking advantage of the low tide, to enjoy the view of the coastline. In the neighbourhood, it is worth visiting the archaeological area of Bithia.
LIGURIA – Bay of Silence, Sestri Levante (Genoa)
There have been many artists who have set foot here, captivated by the beauty of the bay. To mention just a few, the German composer Richard Wagner, the writer Hans Christian Andersen and the scientist Guglielmo Marconi. Many years later, still today the Baia del Silenzio is surprising for its charming atmosphere.
A stretch of fine sand, which can be reached only on foot and, for this reason, it is particularly silent. The characteristic colorful houses of Sestri Levante, together with significant historical buildings such as the overhanging Church of the Capuchins, which offers an incomparable view of the bay itself, are the frame. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
SICILY – Scala dei Turchi (Agrigento)
The cliffs carved by wind and rain between Realmonte and Porto Empedocle, in the province of Agrigento, has the shape of a majestic staircase. Legend has it that the Saracen pirates made use of it to penetrate from the sea and raid the villages (that’s why “of the Turks”). Its particularity is the color: white, dazzling, made even brighter by the sunlight that is placed between the blue of the sky and the transparent blue of the water.
Nearby there is everything: the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Villa Aurea, luxurious home from the first century AD and the necropolis near Vallone Forte, the equally beautiful beaches of Giallonardo, Pergole, Pietre Cadute, Lido Rossello and Punta Grande. Want to know more of the best beaches in Italy? Stay tuned!
LIGURIA – San Fruttuoso Beach, Camogli (Genoa)
This is one of the seven Italian beaches not to be missed, according to Forbes magazine. Why? Because of its atmosphere. Although it’s crowded in the summer, it keeps a special atmosphere thanks to the absence of cars. You can only get there by boat – from Camogli, Portofino and other Ligurian towns – or by strolling along a path on the Portofino Peninsula.
Upon arrival, the view is unique, with the tiny beach framing the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a medieval complex once belonged to the Doria family. Relaxing here is guaranteed, among white pebbles and crystal clear water. For those who want, there is also the possibility to rent sun beds and umbrellas.
ABRUZZO – Pineto Beach, Pineto (Teramo)
The pearl of the Abruzzo Riviera, Pineto beach has been rewarded 16 times with the Blue Flag (the last in 2019) due to its waters. It is covered with fine golden sand and is nearly 10 kilometers long, 2 of which are lined by a pine forest (a part, the so-called Pineta Foggetta, is part of the Torre del Cerrano National Park and consists of 2100 trees dating back to the 1950s).
What makes the beach famous is the Tower of Cerrano, which dates back to ‘500. It is one of the best protected fortresses of the entire Abruzzo Riviera. At one time it was a watchtower, and today is the headquarters of the Marine Park of Cerrano and the symbol of the city.
LIGURIA – Beach of Varigotti, Finale Ligure (Savona)
It is considered the beach of VIPs in Liguria. Most of all, those who travel with children in tow. Some of the most frequent visitors are Michelle Hunziker and Eva Herzigova, but also athletes such as Antonio Cassano. Why? It is simple: it is one of the most beautiful parts of the sea in the region, renowned for its crystal clear waters.
Ideal for children, the beach of Varigotti (a district of the municipality of Finale Ligure) is full of sand and small pebbles and is surrounded by colorful little houses. Another reason to stop in the Ligurian village, is its Saracen architectural influences and wild nature. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
SARDINIA – Mari Ermi, Cabras (Oristano)
White, light green and pink quartz grains, combined with golden sand and iridescent waters. Is the show of the beach of Mari Ermi, two and a half kilometers of coastline between the beautiful Is Arutas and Porto Suedda. It is popular with kitesurfing and windsurfing enthusiasts, while behind you will discover a pond where flamingos and other sea birds can be spotted.
Up ahead, the island of Mal di Ventre, so called because of the fast changes in the wind, is a safe haven for sea turtles. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
LIGURIA – Balzi Rossi Beach, Ventimiglia (Imperia)
Just a few kilometers from the French border, Balzi Rossi Beach is at the foot of a rocky cliff overlooking the sea, with many caves once inhabited by prehistoric men. There is no shortage of pebbles here, mostly white (hence the nickname “little egg beach”), in an ongoing game of contrasts thanks to the presence of red rocks and turquoise sea.
It was rated by Forbes magazine in 2018 as one of the seven best beaches in Italy. Because of the richness of its seabed, it is much loved and visited by divers. Just a stone’s throw away are the famous Villa Hanbury Gardens.
FRIULI VENEZIA GIULIA – Beach of Grado (Gorizia)
They called it “Island of the Sun”. This is due to the three kilometers of beach, never in the shade, one of the most beautiful and pleasant of Friuli Venezia Giulia, the beautiful sea on which for years has been awarded the Blue Flag, the air rich in sodium, which is good for your health. It is no coincidence that Grado is a favorite among lovers of thalassotherapy.
There is golden sand, gently sloping seabed, ideal for children to play and beaches equipped with sun beds, umbrellas and sports fields. Fans of kite surfing choose the beach of Grado Pineta, linked to the city center by the bike path. There are also kiosks and bars here, which make it a meeting place for young people at sunset.
For a good swim, while not going too far out to sea, the westernmost beach, known as the “spiaggia vecja”, has a seabed that descends more rapidly. There are restaurants along the promenade, which is lovely to walk along in the evening. And if you go on vacation with your four-legged friends? There is the Lido di Fido. Stay tuned for more of the best beaches in Italy.
VENETO – Bibione, San Michele al Tagliamento (Venice)
If you love large spaces, this is the ideal place: the beach of Bibione is 8 kilometers long and more than 300 meters wide. It is the perfect destination particularly for families with children, who can play here in peace and quiet but also take advantage of the free animation.
Water quality and environmental protection here are beyond doubt: recently Bibione obtained the 25th Blue Flag and the 1st Green Flag. The sand, too, boasts the merit of being “zero km”: it comes from the Friulian Dolomites and is transported downstream by the river Tagliamento. One interesting fact: from 2019 it is the first smoke-free beach, a ban on smoking along the entire beach is in force.
