The Best Beaches in Italy

Picture this: turquoise waves lapping at cliffs dusted with wildflowers, hidden coves where pirates once docked, and sand so white it glows under the Mediterranean sun. Italy’s coastline isn’t just pretty—it’s a full-blown love affair between land and sea. From Sardinia’s celeb-studded shores to Sicily’s turtle-nesting hideaways, let’s dive into spots that’ll make your Instagram feed jealous and your soul sigh with joy. Below is the list of beaches of Italy that are more than worthy of your time.

Atrani, Campania  

One of the best beaches in Italy for those seeking some relaxed vibes. Wedged between Amalfi and Ravello, this village feels like nonna’s secret recipe—simple, authentic, and utterly delicious. Zigzag through lemon-scented alleys past houses painted in hues of pistachio and raspberry, then plop onto its pocket-sized pebble beach. Pro tip: Stick around for the Festa di San Salvatore. Imagine glowing boats parading under fireworks while locals belt out folk songs—pure magic. 

Reasons to visit Atrani:

• Postcard-perfect village: Cobblestone alleys, pastel houses, and a tiny pebble beach tucked between cliffs;
• Local vibes: Family-run trattorias, espresso sipped at waterfront cafés, and the annual Festa di San Salvatore boat parade;
• Escape the crowds: A quieter, authentic slice of the Amalfi Coast;

Chiaia di Luna, Ponza  

Another place for an Italy beach vacation. Ever walked through a 2,000-year-old tunnel to find paradise? On Ponza Island, that’s exactly how you reach this golden crescent framed by cliffs taller than a Roman colosseum. Legend says goddesses bathed here under moonlight. I’d believe it—the water’s so clear, you’ll spot neon fish darting around your toes. Stay past sunset: the sky becomes a disco ball of stars. 

Reasons to visit Chiaia di Luna:

• Ancient Roman tunnel: Walk through history to reach this golden crescent beach;
• Mythic cliffs: 300-foot volcanic walls that glow amber at sunset; 
• Snorkeler’s paradise: Crystal-clear waters teeming with damselfish;

La Pelosa, Sardinia

Sardinia’s answer to the Maldives, regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Knee-deep turquoise waters, a crumbling Aragonese tower, and views of Asinara Island’s wild donkeys. But heads up—this place is popular. They’ve capped daily visitors, so book tickets online like you’re snagging concert seats. Snorkel around the rocks at dawn (yes, dawn—trust us, it’s worth the sunrise alarm). 

Reasons to visit La Pelosa:

• Caribbean vibes: Shallow turquoise lagoon with views of Asinara Island;
• Medieval flair: A crumbling Aragonese watchtower adds drama;  
• Eco-conscious access: Timed entry tickets required—book early; 

Scala dei Turchi, Sicily

Yet another beach in Italy. Imagine Mother Nature built a giant marble staircase into the sea. That’s Scala dei Turchi. By day, it’s a blinding white cliffside; by sunset, it glows like a peach-hued Instagram filter. Want free spa treatment? Slather yourself in the cliff’s mineral mud—locals swear it’s anti-aging. Just don’t wear your favorite swimsuit; the clay stains like a toddler with markers. 

Reasons to visit Scala dei Turchi:

• Natural staircase: Smooth white limestone cliffs that look like a giant’s playground;  
• DIY spa: Slather on mineral-rich mud for a free skincare treatment;
• Pirate lore: Named after Turkish raiders who once hid here;

San Fruttuoso, Liguria

One of the best Italian beaches for those tired of civilization. No roads. No trains. Just a 10th-century abbey squatting on a pebble beach like a storybook illustration. Hike through pine forests or arrive by boat—either way, you’ll earn that focaccia picnic. Snorkelers: Swim out to the Christ of the Abyss, an eerie bronze statue waving at you from 50 feet below. Pro tip: The water’s chilly, but the bragging rights are warm. 

Reasons to visit San Fruttuoso:

– Seclusion: Reachable only by boat or a pine-shaded hike;

– Medieval abbey on the beach: A 10th-century stone gem reflected in the cove’s mirror-like waters;

Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa

“Rabbit Beach” isn’t just pretty—it’s a turtle maternity ward. It’s one of the best beaches of Italy to observe nature. From May to August, loggerheads drag themselves ashore to lay eggs. Volunteers mark nests with tiny fences, so watch your step! The sand? Like powdered sugar. The water? So clear you’ll feel guilty for not being a mermaid. 

Reasons to visit Spiaggia dei Conigli:

– Sugar-soft sand: Feels like walking on powdered sugar;

– Desert island vibes: Uninhabited Isola dei Conigli stares back from the horizon;

Marasusa, Calabria

In Tropea’s “Coast of the Gods,” Marasusa dazzles with ivory sand and views of Stromboli’s puffing volcano. The beach’s shallow, bath-warm waters make it one of the best beaches in Italy for family vacations. Rent a paddleboard to explore hidden grottoes or stroll Tropea’s clifftop promenade at sunset, gelato in hand. Don’t miss the town’s fiery nduja sausage, a Calabrian specialty.  

Reasons to visit Marasusa:

• Volcano views: Stromboli’s puffing peak steals the show;
• Baby-friendly waters: Shallow enough for toddlers, warm enough for grumpy teens; 

Baia dei Turchi, Puglia  

Named for Ottoman invaders who sought refuge here, Baia dei Turchi near Otranto is a wild blend of Adriatic brilliance and aromatic Aleppo pine forests. Follow a sandy path through the woods to reach the bay, where waves crash against jagged rocks. The water’s clarity reveals schools of silvery sea bream—snorkel here at midday for the best visibility. Post-swim, explore Otranto’s mosaic-floored cathedral, a Byzantine masterpiece.  

Reasons to visit Baia dei Turchi:

• Snorkel at noon: Midday sun reveals silvery sea bream galore;
• Post-beach culture: Otranto’s mosaic cathedral will humble your Instagram feed;

Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia

In Italy, beaches often offer more than simply swimming and sunbathing. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, Cala Goloritzé is crowned by the 500-foot Aguglia pinnacle, a rock-climber’s dream. The beach itself, accessible via a rugged 90-minute hike or private boat, is a vision: aquamarine waters lap against limestone boulders polished smooth by time. Underwater, the seabed drops suddenly into a deep blue abyss, attracting advanced divers.  

Reasons to visit Cala Goloritzé:

• UNESCO bragging rights: That iconic 500-foot limestone pinnacle? Climber’s paradise;
• Earn your swim: Grueling 90-minute hike or a fancy boat ride; 
• Abyss alert: The seafloor drops suddenly;

Vendicari Nature Reserve, Sicily

A haven for birdwatchers, Vendicari’s salt marshes host flamingos, herons, and migratory cranes. Trails wind through ancient tuna-fishing ruins and Byzantine tombs to reach Calamosche Beach, where dunes dotted with sea lilies meet gentle surf. Visit in autumn for fewer crowds and dramatic sunsets over the Ionian Sea.  

Reasons to visit Vendicari Nature Reserve:

• Flamingo party: Pink birds wading in salt marshes—no filter needed;
• Ancient ruins meets beach: Byzantine tombs + tuna-fishing relics = history buff heaven;

Cala Pulcino, Lampedusa  

In Italy, beaches are often secluded. Seclusion also defines Cala Pulcino, a crescent of sand reachable only by a 40-minute hike across rocky terrain. The trek rewards with a sheltered bay where neon-colored wrasse dart through seagrass meadows. Pack water and shade—there are no facilities—and time your visit to avoid the midday sun.  

Reasons to visit Cala Pulcino:

• Hike or bust: 40-minute rocky trek;
• Neon fish disco: Wrasse dart through seagrass like underwater fireworks;
• Zero facilities: Just you, the sea, and that novel you’ve been meaning to read;  

Cala di Volpe, Sardinia 

According to luxury enjoyers, this is the best beach in Italy. Epitomizing Costa Smeralda’s glamour, Cala di Volpe is flanked by the eponymous luxury hotel, a favorite of jetsetters since the 1960s. The bay’s emerald waters mirror the hues of megayachts anchored offshore. For a taste of opulence, book a sunset aperitivo at the hotel’s terrace bar, where Aperol spritzes are served with panoramic views.  

Reasons to visit Cala di Volpe:

• Jet-set playground: The hotel where Bond villains vacation;
• Emerald envy: Waters so rich they’ll make your wallet nervous;
• Aperitivo flex: Sunset Aperol spritz with yacht views;

Isola Spargi, Sardinia

Another worthy addition to our list of Italian beaches. Part of the La Maddalena archipelago, Isola Spargi’s Cala Corsara beach boasts sand tinged pink by crushed coral and granite. Sail here on a rented gozzo (traditional boat) to snorkel in coves where moray eels lurk. The island is uninhabited, so bring supplies—and a camera to capture waters that shift from sapphire to teal.  

Reasons to visit Isola Spargi:

• Pink sand sorcery: Crushed coral + granite = Insta gold;
• Moray eel hideouts: Just snorkel carefully;
• Castaway vibes on an uninhabited island;

Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle, Marche

Named for twin limestone cliffs that rise like sentinels, this Adriatic gem near Ancona is accessible only by boat. Local fishermen offer rides from Portonovo, passing the eerie remains of a submerged Roman villa. The beach’s white pebbles gleam against turquoise waves, while inland trails lead to wild orchids and medieval watchtowers.  

Reasons to visit Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle:

• Twin cliff guardians: Limestone “sisters” towering over the Adriatic;
• Submerged Roman villa: Boat rides pass ancient ruins;  
• Orchid hikes: Trails bloom with wildflowers in spring;

Baia delle Zagare, Puglia  

Also known as Baia dei Mergoli, this beach near Mattinata is framed by ivory cliffs and sea stacks shaped like giant’s teeth. Stay at the adjacent resort for private beach access, or arrive early to claim a public spot. The cliffs’ stratified layers reveal millennia of geological history—geology buffs will delight in spotting fossilized shells.  

Reasons to visit Baia delle Zagare:

• Cliff drama: Ivory rocks shaped like giant’s molars; 
• Fossil hunting: Geology nerds, bring your magnifying glasses;
• Resort life: Pay for privacy or race the sunrise for free;

Cala Tonnarella, Sicily  

A pebbly cove near Palermo, Tonnarella is beloved for its translucent waters and views of Monte Pellegrino. Local families arrive at dawn to secure spots under tamarisk trees. After swimming, explore the nearby Grotta dell’Uzzo, a prehistoric cave adorned with Neolithic carvings.  

Reasons to visit Cala Tonnarella:

• Monte Pellegrino backdrop: A mountain that moonlights as a postcard;
• Dawn wars: Sicilian nonnas arrive early to claim shade;
• Prehistoric art: Nearby cave carvings older than your student loans;

Spiaggia di Sansone, Isola d’Elba

Picture this: a crescent of alabaster pebbles so smooth they feel like silk underfoot. Sansone isn’t just a beach—it’s a drama queen. Daredevils launch themselves off limestone cliffs into water so blue it hurts your eyes, while snorkelers slip into hidden caves (mermaid hangouts, maybe?). Pro tip? Go in May. You’ll dodge the crowds and catch the hillsides exploding with golden broom flowers. Trust us, it’s worth setting that alarm for sunrise.  

Reasons to visit Spiaggia di Sansone:

• Alabaster pebbles: So smooth they’ll ruin other beaches for you; 
• Cliff jumps: 30-foot leaps into cerulean pools; 
• May magic: Yellow broom flowers turn hills into Van Gogh paintings;  

Palazzo Margherita, Basilicata  

Need a break from sand in your shoes? Coppola’s hideout in Bernalda is la dolce vita meets Southern Italian soul. Think lemon trees, frescoed ceilings, and a vibe so chilled you’ll forget your to-do list. From here, the Tyrrhenian coast is your playground:  

– Spiaggia Nera: Volcanic sands meet water so clear you’ll mistake it for a pool;

– Grotta delle Stelle: Paddle through a cave where the walls glow like constellations after dark;

Fun fact: The hotel’s courtyard is where Coppola himself edits films. Cue the Hollywood daydreams;

Reasons to visit Palazzo Margherita:

• Coppola’s hideout: Sleep where Hollywood royalty plots vacations;
• Volcanic black sand: Instagram’s goth beach fantasy;
• Glow-in-the-dark caves: Ideal for bioluminescent swims;

Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino  

Perched like a crown above Portofino’s sherbet-colored harbor, this place is pure Riviera fantasy. Skip the crowds—their private boat whisks you to secret coves like San Fruttuoso, where medieval monks once hid treasures. Lunch? Spaghetti alle vongole on the terrace, with olives bobbing in your Aperol spritz. Then, hike the cliffside trail to burn off those pasta calories. Warning: The sea views might ruin you for all other landscapes. 

Reasons to visit Splendido:

• Boat princess treatment: Private rides to secret beaches; 
• Spaghetti with a view: Clams so fresh they practically introduce themselves;
• Hike for bragging rights: Panoramic sea views > step count;

Fontane Bianche, Sicily  

Parents, rejoice! This Syracuse gem has sand like powdered sugar and water so shallow even toddlers can splash safely. When the kids tire of paddleboarding, hit the Ear of Dionysus—a cave so acoustically wild, whispers echo like shouts. Legend says a tyrant used it to eavesdrop on prisoners.Pack a sunset picnic: cannoli, local Nero d’Avola, and the satisfaction of nailing “family vacation” without a single meltdown.  

Reasons to visit Fontane Bianche:

• Kiddie paradise: Shallow waters + sandcastle-ready sand; 
• Ear of Dionysus: Whisper secrets into a cave with legendary echoes;
• Paddleboard zen: Glide over glassy shallows like a gondolier;  

Sperlonga, Lazio

Let us proceed with our list of beaches in Italy. Midway between Rome and Naples, Sperlonga’s medieval whitewashed village towers above golden beaches. Explore the Grotto of Tiberius, a Roman emperor’s seaside dining hall adorned with sculptures, then savor spaghetti alla pescatora at a beachfront trattoria.  

Reasons to visit Sperlonga:

• Medieval maze: Whitewashed alleys that smell like lemon and laundry;
• Emperor’s grotto: Tiberius’s seaside dining room;

San Vito lo Capo, Sicily  

A windsurfing mecca, San Vito lo Capo’s crescent of sand is framed by the Zingaro cliffs. In September, the town hosts the Cous Cous Fest, celebrating Sicilian-North African cuisine. Hike into Zingaro Reserve to discover hidden coves where peregrine falcons nest.  

Reasons to visit San Vito lo Capo:

• Windsurfing heaven: Ride waves with Zingaro cliffs as your fan club;
• Cous Cous Fest: A delicious contest; 
• Secret coves: Hike to spots where falcons nest and influencers don’t;

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