Italy, renowned for its rich history, delectable cuisine, and stunning landscapes, is also home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. From the sun-kissed shores of Sardinia to the picturesque coves of Sicily, Italy offers a diverse array of coastal wonders that beckon travellers seeking sun, sand, and serenity. So, what are the best beaches in Italy? Let's explore them together!
Top 10 best beaches in Italy that will leave you spellbound
1. Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), Lampedusa
Tucked away on the island of Lampedusa, Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbit Beach, enchants visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sands. Voted as one of the world's best beaches, its untouched beauty and private location make it a true gem of the Mediterranean. Lampedusa is only 113 km from Africa and is the southernmost point of Italy, so much so that it is further south than Tunis and Algiers.
2. Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia
Nestled along the rugged coastline of Sardinia and created by a landslide, Cala Goloritzé captivates with its dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and pristine beach. Accessible only by a scenic hiking trail of 1 and a half hours, this secluded cove offers a sense of serenity amidst nature's grandeur. In 1993, Goloritzé was declared ‘Natural Monument’ of the Region and in 1995, it was named ‘Italian National Monument’. Up to 250 people a day are allowed in and there is an entrance ticket to pay.
3. Marina Grande Beach, Capri
In the glamorous island of Capri lies Marina Grande Beach, a charming pebble beach renowned for its vibrant coastal atmosphere. Boat trips leave from the port of Marina Grande for an unforgettable tour of the island where it is possibile to admire the Faraglioni rock formations. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting, it's a must-visit destination for beach aficionados. It is located next to the main arrival port of the ferries.
4. Tropea Beach, Calabria
Beneath the clifftop town of Tropea, this captivating beach boasts golden sands, azure waters, and a backdrop of medieval charm. With its panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola church, Tropea Beach offers an enchanting escape in southern Italy. Tropea was named ‘Most beautiful village in Italy’ for 2021 and produces a variety of red onions that are known all over Italy.
5. San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily
Located on the north-western coast of Sicily, San Vito Lo Capo beckons with its natural shores, crystalline waters, and towering cliffs. It’s one of the best destinations for beach holidays in Italy. Famous for its annual Cous Cous Fest and vibrant beach scene, it's a haven for sun worshippers and food enthusiasts alike.
6. Baia dei Turchi, Apulia
Nestled within a protected oasis in Apulia, Baia dei Turchi enchants visitors with its pristine coastline, tranquil waters, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Wild and uncontaminated, it can only be reached on foot. According to the legend, it is the place where the Turkish warriors landed during the Battle of Otranto in the 15th century. This event gave the name to the beach. With its sheltered location and natural beauty, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
7. Cala Mariolu, Sardinia
Tucked away along the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Mariolu mesmerizes with its rugged cliffs, transparent waters, and vibrant marine life. It is one of the best snorkelling beaches in Sardinia. Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, it rewards adventurers with unparalleled natural beauty and a sense of tranquillity. The name of Mariolu derives from the dialect word for ‘thief’, a nickname the overseas fishermen gave to the Monk Seal.
8. Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre
Part of the famed Cinque Terre region, Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five coastal villages that make up Cinque Terre. It boasts a picturesque coastline, colourful buildings, and a lively beachfront promenade. The entire Cinque Terre region has been UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. With its charming villages, scenic trails, and crystalline waters, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
9. Spiaggia di Sansone, Elba
On the island of Elba, Spiaggia di Sansone enchants with its sparkling waters, rugged cliffs, and fine white pebbles. Its name was inspired by Samson, the mythical biblical hero. Framed by lush Mediterranean vegetation and dramatic rock formations, it offers a private retreat for those seeking natural beauty and tranquillity.
10. Marina Piccola, Capri
Situated beneath the towering cliffs of Capri’s southern coast, Marina Piccola beckons with its azure waters, rugged coastline, and iconic Faraglioni views. It is located in the bay of the same name, where Ulysses was seduced by the sirens in Homer's Odyssey. With its vibrant beach clubs, scenic vistas from restaurants’ terraces, and glamorous atmosphere, it's a must-visit destination for discerning travellers.
From the quite shores of Lampedusa to the iconic coastline of Capri, Italy's beaches offer a myriad of experiences for every type of traveller. Whether you seek secluded coves, vibrant beach scenes, or breathtaking vistas, these coastal gems promise an unforgettable escape by the sea. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and embark on a journey to discover the best beaches in Italy, where every moment is a postcard-worthy memory.
Tucked away on the island of Lampedusa, Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbit Beach, enchants visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sands. Voted as one of the world's best beaches, its untouched beauty and private location make it a true gem of the Mediterranean. Lampedusa is only 113 km from Africa and is the southernmost point of Italy, so much so that it is further south than Tunis and Algiers.
2. Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia
Nestled along the rugged coastline of Sardinia and created by a landslide, Cala Goloritzé captivates with its dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and pristine beach. Accessible only by a scenic hiking trail of 1 and a half hours, this secluded cove offers a sense of serenity amidst nature's grandeur. In 1993, Goloritzé was declared ‘Natural Monument’ of the Region and in 1995, it was named ‘Italian National Monument’. Up to 250 people a day are allowed in and there is an entrance ticket to pay.
3. Marina Grande Beach, Capri
In the glamorous island of Capri lies Marina Grande Beach, a charming pebble beach renowned for its vibrant coastal atmosphere. Boat trips leave from the port of Marina Grande for an unforgettable tour of the island where it is possibile to admire the Faraglioni rock formations. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting, it's a must-visit destination for beach aficionados. It is located next to the main arrival port of the ferries.
4. Tropea Beach, Calabria
Beneath the clifftop town of Tropea, this captivating beach boasts golden sands, azure waters, and a backdrop of medieval charm. With its panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola church, Tropea Beach offers an enchanting escape in southern Italy. Tropea was named ‘Most beautiful village in Italy’ for 2021 and produces a variety of red onions that are known all over Italy.
5. San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily
Located on the north-western coast of Sicily, San Vito Lo Capo beckons with its natural shores, crystalline waters, and towering cliffs. It’s one of the best destinations for beach holidays in Italy. Famous for its annual Cous Cous Fest and vibrant beach scene, it's a haven for sun worshippers and food enthusiasts alike.
6. Baia dei Turchi, Apulia
Nestled within a protected oasis in Apulia, Baia dei Turchi enchants visitors with its pristine coastline, tranquil waters, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Wild and uncontaminated, it can only be reached on foot. According to the legend, it is the place where the Turkish warriors landed during the Battle of Otranto in the 15th century. This event gave the name to the beach. With its sheltered location and natural beauty, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
7. Cala Mariolu, Sardinia
Tucked away along the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Mariolu mesmerizes with its rugged cliffs, transparent waters, and vibrant marine life. It is one of the best snorkelling beaches in Sardinia. Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, it rewards adventurers with unparalleled natural beauty and a sense of tranquillity. The name of Mariolu derives from the dialect word for ‘thief’, a nickname the overseas fishermen gave to the Monk Seal.
8. Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre
Part of the famed Cinque Terre region, Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five coastal villages that make up Cinque Terre. It boasts a picturesque coastline, colourful buildings, and a lively beachfront promenade. The entire Cinque Terre region has been UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. With its charming villages, scenic trails, and crystalline waters, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
9. Spiaggia di Sansone, Elba
On the island of Elba, Spiaggia di Sansone enchants with its sparkling waters, rugged cliffs, and fine white pebbles. Its name was inspired by Samson, the mythical biblical hero. Framed by lush Mediterranean vegetation and dramatic rock formations, it offers a private retreat for those seeking natural beauty and tranquillity.
10. Marina Piccola, Capri
Situated beneath the towering cliffs of Capri’s southern coast, Marina Piccola beckons with its azure waters, rugged coastline, and iconic Faraglioni views. It is located in the bay of the same name, where Ulysses was seduced by the sirens in Homer's Odyssey. With its vibrant beach clubs, scenic vistas from restaurants’ terraces, and glamorous atmosphere, it's a must-visit destination for discerning travellers.
From the quite shores of Lampedusa to the iconic coastline of Capri, Italy's beaches offer a myriad of experiences for every type of traveller. Whether you seek secluded coves, vibrant beach scenes, or breathtaking vistas, these coastal gems promise an unforgettable escape by the sea. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and embark on a journey to discover the best beaches in Italy, where every moment is a postcard-worthy memory.
Exploring Italy might require English and French to Italian translations. No worries! As an Italian translator providing certified Italian translation services, my understanding of Italy’s culture and language extends beyond words to experiences and I can help with your document translations.
Curious about what to do in Italy this summer? Check out my blog post about the best events in Italy in summer!
Curious about what to do in Italy this summer? Check out my blog post about the best events in Italy in summer!