20 Best Beaches In Italy
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Italy is known for many beautiful attractions, but the one enjoyed by tourists and locals alike is its stunning public beaches. From white sand shoeboxes to black volcanic beaches surrounded by an emerald-green sea, it's no wonder Italy has been a favorite vacation destination since ancient Roman times! In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best beaches in Italy to visit, highlighting everything from its sandy shores to nearby attractions so you can plan your perfect beach getaway.
1. Forno Beach, Island of Elba, Tuscany
Forno Beach is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Nestled on the Island of Elba, off the coast of Tuscany, this beach offers stunning views and plenty of activities to keep you busy. With white sand and a crystal clear sea, it's no wonder why locals flock here every summer! Besides swimming and sunbathing, visitors can explore the nearby attractions, such as the ancient Roman ruins at Portoferraio, take a boat trip, or even hike up to Monte Capanne for spectacular panoramic views.
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2. Levanto, Cinque Terre, one of the best beaches in Italy
Levanto in Liguria is one of the most popular beaches in Italy. It is located in Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and villages perched atop rugged cliffs. Levanto has a long stretch of white sandy beach with plenty of space for all visitors. Nearby you'll find restaurants, bars, and shops to explore before or after your dip in the clear blue waters.
3. Cefalù, long and curving sands in Sicily
Cefalù is a lively beach town in Sicily with a long, curving beach of golden sand. Its turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and its nearby promenade is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, making it the ideal spot for an evening stroll or sunset view.
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4. Acquaviva, another of Elba's best beaches in Italy
Acquaviva, located on the Island of Elba, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. This beach has a wonderful mix of a pebbly and blue sea, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in the sun. Many nearby restaurants and bars make Acquaviva a great place to spend a day or two on your Italian beach vacation.
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5. Fornillo Spiaggia, Positano, Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most magical places in Italy, and Fornillo Spiaggia is no exception. This beach is a little paradise with its picture-perfect white sand, blue water, and picturesque views of nearby Positano. Visitors can rent umbrellas or sun loungers and enjoy a few drinks at one of the beach bars with sea views. Fornillo Spiaggia is the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
6. Tonnara di Scopello, western Sicily
Tonnara di Scopello is a stunning beach on the western coast of Sicily. This beach has a unique mix of white sand and black volcanic rock formations, making it both beautiful and interesting to explore. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling or lay back and relax in one of the many sun loungers.
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7. La Guardia, Elba, Tuscany
La Guardia beach sits on the Island of Elba off the coast of Tuscany. This beach is a beautiful combination of white sand and emerald-green waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in the scenic views. The nearby promenade offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore before or after you enjoy a dip in the sea.
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8. Sant'Andrea, Elba, Tuscany
For an alternative beach experience, head to Sant'Andrea in Elba. This beach is ideal for strolling and enjoying a picnic or two on the shore. Plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas are available if you dip in the crystal-clear waters.
9. Calla dello Spido, San Domino, Tremiti Islands
San Domino is the greenest of the Tremiti Islands, and one of its most spectacular beaches is Calla dello Spido. This one is among Italy's most beautiful beaches to visit in Southern Italy, with its crystal clear waters and breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. You can also explore nearby attractions, such as the ancient Roman ruins, or take a boat trip around the islands on your Italian beach getaway.
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10. Torre Guaceto Marine Reserve, Puglia
Discover some of Italy's most beautiful marine life at Torre Guaceto Marine Reserve in Puglia. This protected area is home to various wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and rare bird species, and one of the most protected marine areas in Italy. The beach with its crystal-clear waters and a long stretch of sand making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can also explore the nearby trails or take an organized reserve tour.
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11. Rinella, Salina, Aeolian Islands
Sail to Salina from Sicily and discover one of Italy's most gorgeous beaches - Rinella. This beach has a stunning mix of white sand, turquoise waters, and lush green hills, making it the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply taking in the views. There are plenty of nearby restaurants and bars to explore before or after you enjoy your day at Rinella.
12. Maratea on Basilicata's Tyrrhenian Coast
Beautiful beaches can be found all over Italy, and Maratea on Basilicata's Tyrrhenian Coast is no exception. This beach has a unique mix of white sand and pebbles, making it an ideal spot for swimming or simply taking in the views from your sunbed. There are plenty of nearby restaurants and bars to explore before or after your dip in the crystal-clear waters.
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13. Mazarron on the northeast coast of Sicily
Explore the stunning scenery of Mazarron beach on the northeastern coast of Sicily. This beach has white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling or lay back and relax in one of the many beach bars overlooking the sea.
14. Riserva Naturale de Vendicari, Sicily
Riserva Naturale de Vendicari is a stunning natural reserve on the southeast Sicily coast. This beach has white sand, crystal-clear waters, and wildlife to explore. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling or lay back and relax in one of the many beach bars.
15. Cala Gonone on the island of Sardinia
Pretty little Cala Gonone on the island of Sardinia is a great spot for beachgoers looking for something a bit quieter. This beach has white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling or lay back and relax in one of the many beach bars. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants, bars, and shops to explore before or after your day at the beach.
16. Anzio, Lazio
Anzio, Lazio is another great spot for beachgoers looking for something a bit quieter. This beach has white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling or lay back and relax in one of the many places to enjoy a cocktail on the beach. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants, bars, and shops to explore before or after your day at the beach.
17. The Lido towns of Emilia-Romagna
The nine Lido towns of Emilia-Romagna offer the perfect spot for beachgoers looking for something more laid back along the coast. This area is home to white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters to have a swim,or enjoy your holiday with a drink in hand at one of the many beach cafes. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants and shops to explore before or after your day in the sun at the beach.
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18. Marina di Vasto city beach in Abruzzo
Marina di Vasto city beach in Abruzzo is a great spot to spend the day. This beach is among the most beautiful ones with its white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear blue ocean for swimming or snorkeling or sit back and enjoy a drink in one of the many cafes on the beach. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants, bars, and shops to explore before or after your day at the beach.
19. Capri, Campania
Explore the stunning scenery of Capri in Campania. This beach has white sand, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling or lay back and relax in one of the many cafes. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants, bars, and shops to explore before or after your day at the beach.
20. Camogli Beach, Liguria
Camogli Beach in Liguria is a great spot for beach lovers. This beach has white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters for swimming or snorkeling or lay back and relax in one of the many bars on the beach. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants, bars, and shops to explore before or after your day at the beach.
Best Beaches In Italy For Singles
1. Spiaggia di Chia, Sardinia: Located on the south coast of Sardinia, Spiaggia di Chia is a great option for singles looking to enjoy beach time. With its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. When not in the water, explore nearby attractions like the Nuraghe di Chia archaeological site and the 4th century BC tower.
2. La Pelosa, Sardinia: Another great beach for singles is La Pelosa in Sardinia. This stunning beach has white sand and a crystal-clear turquoise sea that you can take in a while sunbathing or swimming. The nearby 16th-century fort of St. Pietro adds to the appeal of this spot.
3. Cala Rossa, Sicily: If you're looking for a beautiful and lively beach, Cala Rossa on the northeast coast of Sicily is your ideal spot. With its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach is perfect for sunbathing or swimming. The nearby bars and restaurants make it great to meet fellow singles and explore the local culture.
4. Spiaggia di Gallipoli, Puglia: Located in the town of Gallipoli on the Ionian Sea, this beach has a wide variety of activities for singles to enjoy. There's sunbathing on its white sand, swimming in its calm waters, and exploring nearby attractions like the 16th-century castle. The beach also has a lively nightlife and great restaurants for singles to socialize.
5. Spiaggia di Campo Felice, Abruzzo: Located on the Adriatic coast of Abruzzo, this beach is perfect for singles looking for quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming or sunbathing. The nearby villages also offer opportunities to explore local culture and delicious cuisine.
No matter which beach in Italy you choose to visit, you're sure to have a great time. So pack your bags and get ready for a relaxing and memorable beach vacation!
Best Beaches In Italy For Swimming
Looking for a beach with crystal-clear waters where it's less crowded and there is plenty of space for swimming? Then head south to Puglia. Gargano Promontory is the perfect spot for taking a dip, with its invitingly blue waters complemented by white sand beaches. For those looking for a more secluded setting, head to Polignano al Mare, which has a rocky, secluded shoreline perfect for taking a dip.
Fancy a beach holiday with a bit of adventure? Then you should head to Sicily and explore the coastline around Agrigento. Here, you can take in fantastic views of rocky cliffs, sea stacks, and secret coves while swimming in crystal-clear waters. As a bonus, you'll be able to spot some stunning marine life, such as dolphins and sea turtles.
Elba Island is a perfect choice for those looking for a bit of everything on their beach holiday. You will find golden sand beaches with plenty of space for swimming and a variety of nearby attractions such as old towns and thermal spas. Spend the day lounging on the beach and then venture out for a delicious dinner in one of Elba's charming villages.
As you can see, Italy is packed with stunning beaches offering something for everyone. No matter your preference, there's sure to be a beach perfect for your next getaway! So start planning your Italian beach vacation today and include one of Italy's beaches in your itinerary!
I hope this article has helped you find the perfect beach for your Italy vacation. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed adventure, there is something for everyone. Each destination offers unique charm and beauty, from white sand shoeboxes to black volcanic beaches surrounded by an emerald-green sea.
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FAQ
Q: Which part of Italy has the best beaches?
A: One popular destination for beach-goers is Puglia, a region located in southern Italy known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. In particular, Salento – also referred to as “the heel” – boasts some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the country. The area’s Ionian Sea offers calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while Punta Prosciutto’s fine sandy shores are ideal for sunbathing.
Q: What is the clearest beach in Italy?
A: The answer lies in a small island in Sardinia - La Maddalena. La Maddalena is a group of islands located on the northeastern coast of Sardinia. It is known for its crystal clear waters and picturesque landscapes. The archipelago is dotted with small sandy coves and hidden beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
One beach that stands out among others in terms of water clarity is Spiaggia del Relitto (Wreck Beach). Its name comes from an old shipwreck that can still be seen submerged in shallow waters near the shore. This secluded beach boasts pristine white sand and turquoise waters that are so clear you can see schools of fish swimming around your feet.
Q: Where are the white beaches in Italy?
A: Unlike other countries in Europe that boast pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, Italy's beaches tend to be pebbly or rocky. However, there are still a few places where visitors can find those coveted white sand beaches.
One of the most famous of these destinations is Sardinia, an island off the west coast of Italy. The coastline here boasts stunning turquoise waters and stretches of powdery white sand that are reminiscent of tropical paradises. Popular spots include Costa Smeralda and La Pelosa Beach, which have become renowned tourist hotspots in recent years.
Another location worth mentioning is Calabria, located in the south of Italy. This region offers some picturesque stretches of beach with soft white sand and crystal clear water perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Q: Are beaches in Italy free?
A: The good news is that most of the beaches in Italy are free and open to the public. There are some private beaches in Italy that charge a fee for access. These beaches often offer additional amenities such as sun loungers, parasols, and beach bars. However, there are plenty of public beaches along the Italian coast that do not charge any fees for entry.
Q: What beach in Italy has black sand?
A: Although not as commonly known as white or golden sands, black sand beaches can be found in various parts of Italy. The most famous one is the beach of Vulcano Island located in the Aeolian Islands chain.
Vulcano Island's black sand beach is renowned for its therapeutic properties. The sands contain high levels of iron and magnesium which have been said to help alleviate joint pain, muscle tension, and skin conditions. Additionally, the beach offers stunning views of the island's active volcano, Gran Cratere della Fossa. Visitors can take a hike up the volcano or relax on the beach while enjoying natural mud baths that are also said to have healing powers.
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