10 Best Beaches In Puglia

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Puglia, located in the southern part of Italy, is known for its pristine beaches that stretch along the coast of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. With soft white sand and turquoise waters, these beautiful beaches in Puglia are a paradise for travelers seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.

In this article, we have compiled a list of the best beaches in Puglia, based on their beauty, accessibility, and amenities. From Torre Lapillo to Torre Guaceto, these beaches offer something for every beach lover whether you are looking for a secluded spot to sunbathe or a lively beach with water sports and beach bars. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to explore the best beaches of Puglia's coastline.

1. Cala Porto, Polignano a Mare

One of the most iconic beaches of Puglia is Cala Porto, also known as Lama Monachile, located in the charming town of Polignano a Mare. This beach is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Puglia and looking for a unique and picturesque experience.

Cala Porto is a small beach surrounded by cliffs that create a stunning view from the old town. The beach itself is made of rocks and pebbles, which can be a bit uncomfortable to walk on barefoot, but it's worth it for the breathtaking scenery. The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the rocky cliffs create a natural shelter from the wind.

One of the most unique features of Cala Porto is the ancient aqueduct that runs above the beach, adding to the charm of the place. The aqueduct was built in the 16th century to provide water to the old town and is now a part of the town's cultural heritage.

During the summer months, Cala Porto gets quite busy with tourists, but it's still worth a visit. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can sit and enjoy the view while sipping on a refreshing drink or having a delicious meal.

2. Marina di Pescoluse, Salento

Marina di Pescoluse, nicknamed the “Maldives of Salento", is a small town located on the Ionian coast of Puglia. The town is renowned for its stunning Puglia beaches, which are some of the best in the region of Puglia.

The sand here is soft, white, and clean, making it perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. The shallow waters are crystal clear and ideal for swimming, especially for families with young children. This famous beach is also well-equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, making it easy to spend a whole day relaxing by the sea.

One of the highlights of Marina di Pescoluse is its dunes, which are a protected natural area. This unique landscape offers a beautiful backdrop for a walk or a bike ride, and it is also a popular spot for bird watching.

For those who love water sports, Marina di Pescoluse offers a variety of activities such as windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding. The town also has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.

3. Baia dei Turchi, Otranto

Baia Dei Turchi is a beautiful bay located in the town of Otranto and one of the best places in Puglia to visit. It is a popular destination for families and tourists who are looking for a relaxing and safe place to enjoy the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Ocean.

The bay is equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the beach comfortably. The water is crystal clear and safe for swimming, making it a great spot for families with children.

One of the best things about Baia Dei Turchi is that it is not as crowded as other beaches in the area, allowing visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The bay is also surrounded by lush greenery, providing a beautiful backdrop for a day at the beach.

If you are looking for a more adventurous experience, there are also several water sports available, including snorkeling and scuba diving. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several hiking trails in the area, providing a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.

4. Capitolo, Monopoli

Monopoli is a charming coastal town located in the Puglia region of Italy. It is known for its beautiful beaches in the region, with clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. One of the most popular beaches in Monopoli is the Capitolo Beach. This small and picturesque beach is surrounded by cliffs and offers stunning views of the sea. It is perfect for a relaxing day out with family and friends.

Apart from having one of the best beaches in Puglia, Monopoli is also famous for its bars and cafes. One of our favorites is Cafe Ca' Vignola, which serves delicious coffee and pastries. It is the perfect place to grab a quick bite before heading to the beach.

The region around Monopoli is dotted with small villages and towns that are worth exploring. Some of our favorites in this part of Puglia include Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, and Ostuni. These villages are known for their unique architecture, charming streets, and delicious local cuisine.

For those who love snorkeling, Monopoli has plenty of opportunities to explore the underwater world. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and octopuses.

5. Baia delle Zagare, Gargano

Baia delle Zagare is one of the most beautiful sand beaches in Puglia, located in the Gargano district on the Adriatic coast. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sands, and stunning cliffs. It is a perfect spot for those who love to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax in the sun.

The beach is surrounded by olive groves and olive trees, which add to its natural beauty. Visitors can take a stroll through the groves and enjoy the fresh scent of olive trees while taking in the breathtaking view of the sea.

Baia delle Zagare is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the peak summer months. The beach offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, and boat tours. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local dishes at the beach's restaurants.

If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing day at the beach, Baia delle Zagare is the perfect place to go. The beach is easily accessible and offers amazing views of the Adriatic sea. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Puglia.

6. Spiaggia di Punta Prosciuto, Porto Cesareo

The crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beach make it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Visitors can rent umbrellas and beach chairs to enjoy the beach comfortably. There are also plenty of paths to explore the surrounding area and take in the beautiful scenery of one of Puglia's best beaches.

For those looking for a more luxurious beach experience, there are several lidos nearby where you can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the stunning views. The beach is well-maintained, and the facilities at the beach are clean and modern.

Overall, we highly recommend visiting Punta Prosciutto beach if you're in the Porto Cesareo area. It's a beautiful beach with plenty to offer, and it's easy to see why it's so popular with locals and tourists. If you're looking for a relaxing day at the beach, this is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the sun.

While the beach itself is the main attraction, the nearby town of Nardò is also worth exploring. It's a charming town with a rich history and plenty of cultural attractions to discover. Whether you're looking for a day trip or a longer stay, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

7. Spiaggia di Marina di San Gregorio

One of the Puglia's beaches that we highly recommend visiting in Puglia is Spiaggia Di Marina Di San Gregorio. Located in the Marina Di San Gregorio settlement, this beach is just 0.2 km from its center and is a great spot for sunbathing and enjoying the crystal clear waters.

The coastline at Spiaggia Di Marina Di San Gregorio is stunning and offers a picturesque view of the Adriatic Sea. The beach is known for its clear waters, which are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Whether you want to relax on the beach or go for a swim, this is the perfect spot.

One of the best things about Spiaggia Di Marina Di San Gregorio is the fact that it is not as crowded as some of the other beaches in Puglia. This makes it a great spot for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. In my opinion, Puglia has some of the best beaches in Italy, and Spiaggia Di Marina Di San Gregorio is definitely one of my favorites.

8. Cala dei Pagliai, Tremiti Islands

One of the most picturesque beaches in Puglia is the Cala Dei Pagliai located in the Tremiti Islands. This sandy cove is a hidden gem that is only reachable by boat or on foot. It is one of the most secluded and peaceful beaches in the region.

The beach is surrounded by jagged cliffs that give it an intimate and secluded feel. The crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea lap against the white sandy shores, making it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling, as there is an abundance of marine life in the waters.

The Cala Dei Pagliai is a small beach, but it is well worth the effort to reach the beach. The beach is lined with umbrellas and sun loungers, making it a comfortable spot to spend your beach day. There are also a few small bars and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

9. Spiaggia della Purita, Gallipoli

Spiaggia Della Purita is a beautiful beach located in the seaside town of Gallipoli, which is known for its crystal clear waters and sandy beaches. The beach of purity is named after the nearby Chiesa di Santa Maria della Purita, a stunning church that overlooks the sea.

We highly recommend visiting Spiaggia Della Purita if you're in the area. This particular beach is easily accessible and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The shallow turquoise waters make it an ideal spot for families with children.

If you're feeling peckish, there are several restaurants and bars located near the beach that serve delicious local food and drinks. We recommend trying some of the fresh seafood dishes, which are a specialty in the area.

Gallipoli is a fascinating town with a rich history and culture. It was once a strategic stronghold for pirates and has since become a popular tourist destination. Besides for the nearby beaches, the town is also known for its stunning landscape, which includes sand dunes and rocky cliffs.

If you're planning a trip to Gallipoli, we recommend taking some time to explore the town and its surroundings. Bari and Lecce are both within easy reach and offer a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.

10. Grotta della Poesia, Roca

One of the must-visit natural wonders of Puglia is the Grotta Della Poesia, located in Roca. This beautiful natural inlet is a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.

The Grotta Della Poesia is a place of great historical and cultural importance. Legend has it that the cave was once the home of the Sirens, who lured sailors to their doom with their enchanting voices. It is said that the Roman poet Virgil was the first to discover the cave, and that he was so moved by its beauty that he wrote a poem about it.

The cave is surrounded by stunning rock formations and is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can also explore the nearby Roman bridge and olive tree groves. The town of Roca is just a few kilometers away and is home to many charming cafes and restaurants.