15 Best Beaches in Italy: Incredible Italian Beaches
Have you been dreaming of the sun-kissed shores of Italy? Full of fascinating history, rich cultural cities, fantastic food, and don’t even get me started on the wine, Italy is an incredible country to visit! It also boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world and, if you’re looking for the best beaches in Italy, you’ve come to the right place.
From the rugged coastlines of the Amalfi Coast to the idyllic islands of Sicily and Sardinia, this enchanting country offers a diverse array of coastal paradises that cater to every beach lover’s dreams. Whether you’re seeking solitude on a secluded cove, vibrant nightlife along the shoreline, or simply a place to soak up the Mediterranean sun, Italy’s beaches. So, let’s dive into the best beaches in Italy and I can guarantee you’ll soon be craving an Aperol Spritz by the ocean!
Where are the best beaches in Italy?
Italy’s coastline stretches for over 7,600 kilometres, offering a plethora of beautiful beaches to explore. While opinions on the best beaches in Italy can vary depending on personal preferences, here are some of the most renowned and highly regarded beach destinations in Italy:
- Amalfi Coast: Known for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, and crystal-clear waters, the Amalfi Coast is home to some of Italy’s most captivating beaches. Positano, Praiano, and Atrani are just a few of the charming towns that line this stunning stretch of coastline.
- Cinque Terre: The rugged beauty of Cinque Terre’s five fishing villages is complemented by small pebble beaches and hidden coves. Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza are great places to soak up the sun.
- Sardinia: Sardinia is an island paradise with numerous beaches that rank among the world’s best. The Costa Smeralda, Cala Gonone, and Chia are some of the island’s top beach destinations, offering powdery white sands and azure waters.
- Sicily: Sicily’s coastline offers diverse beach experiences. San Vito Lo Capo boasts a long stretch of golden sand, while the Aeolian Islands, such as Salina and Lipari, provide volcanic black sand beaches.
- Puglia: The Adriatic and Ionian coasts of Puglia are adorned with stunning beaches. Visit Polignano a Mare for dramatic cliffside vistas or relax on the fine sands of Porto Cesareo.
These are just a few other beautiful Italian beaches that are well worth a visit.
The best 15 beaches in Italy
So, from rugged coves to stretches of golden sand, these beaches, here are some of the absolute best beaches in Italy.
1. Spiaggia dei Conigli, Pelagie Islands
Spiaggia dei Conigli, also known as “Rabbit Beach”, is a gorgeous beach nestled on the island of Lampedusa in Italy’s Pelagie Islands. This beach is one of the best sandy beaches in Italy, with powdery golden sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rugged limestone cliffs that frame the coastline.
With its pristine beauty and serene atmosphere, Spiaggia dei Conigli is often considered one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in the Mediterranean.
It’s a great destination for sunbathers, swimmers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape amidst nature’s splendour. The beach is relatively undeveloped, however. You’ll need to bring your own water, snacks, sunscreen, and any beach gear.
2. Spiaggia dei Cefalu, Sicily
Spiaggia dei Cefalù is a captivating coastal gem located in the charming town of Cefalù on the northern coast of Sicily, Italy. This crescent-shaped beach is renowned for its soft, golden sands, inviting Mediterranean waters, and the stunning backdrop of the historic town and the silhouette of its impressive Norman cathedral.
The beach has free public access and private lidos. To find a sun lounger, you’ll need to head to one of the private areas, which are usually beach clubs. Prices for clubs are around €15 per person, which isn’t the cheapest, but this also depends on when you arrive, and what services are on offer.
But, bear in mind that these beach clubs typically only operate during peak season. Cefalu Beach is usually packed during peak time anyway. So, if you were to visit in the off-season (April, for example), you most likely wouldn’t have to pay at all, and you’d avoid most of the crowds.
While you’re there, it’s also worth exploring the picturesque streets of Cefalù. In this town, you’ll find the vibrant streets of Cefalù with its enticing cafes, shops, and ancient architecture. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, water sports, or a taste of Sicilian culture, Spiaggia dei Cefalù is one of the best beaches in Italy, offering a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
3. Punta Molentis, Sardinia
Part of the Protected Marine Area of Capo Carbonara, near Villasimius, Punta Molentis is one of the most beautiful beaches in Southern Sardinia. The beach is actually made of two coves. One is a bit wider and is characterised by pebbles; the other is smaller and has incredibly fine white sand, and tiny corals which give it pink hues.
The beach is nicely sheltered from the wind, so it’s a great safe spot on a windy day. Furthermore, the water at Punta Molentis is quite shallow, making it a perfect place for families with children who can play safely.
Punta Molentis is a perfect spot if you enjoy snorkelling, thanks to the rock formations that surround it. There is a promontory surmounting the beach where you can go for the best photo opportunities.
This is a protected beach with a limited access number between June and September. Either plan to be there by 8:00 am, or book your spot via the website of the Comune di Villasimius. You will have to pay a €1 conservation fee per person, plus the parking lot.
Once at the beach, you will find toilets and a kiosk that serves food and drinks. You can also rent umbrellas. Boat tours of the nearby beaches and islands depart twice a day from the beach and can be booked directly at the kiosk.
Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Sardinia
4. Sestri Levante, Cinque Terre
The charming beach town Sestri Levante, located roughly halfway between the more well-known tourist towns of Portofino and Cinque Terre on the Gulf of Tigullio, is one of those places the locals have managed to keep to themselves. As such, it’s a bit of a hidden gem and one of the best beaches in Italy.
The most beautiful beach in Sestri Levante is the gorgeous crescent-shaped beach of Baia del Silenzio. Here, cafés and houses line the shore, and small fishing boats sit in the crystal-clear waters; it really is very picturesque. Unlike many beaches in Liguria, it is free to use, which means it can and will get jam-packed, especially during the summer months. But it is gorgeous.
The Baia delle Favole, located on the other side of the peninsula from Baia del Silenzio, is named after Hans Christian Andersen, who lived in Sestri Levante briefly in the early 19th century.
This second beach is much bigger and longer, with Lidos providing deckchairs, sun loungers and parasols for hire. It’s not as pretty as the Baia del Silenzio. But you will find more facilities at this beach, such as beachside cafes and bars.
The town’s harbour is also on this side. During the summer, you can take a boat tour along the coastline or small ferries to the main tourist towns along the Riviera di Levante. This includes Cinque Terre, Portofino, Portovenere, Rapallo, San Fruttuoso, and Santa Margherita Ligure.
Recommended by Sarah from Life Part2 & Beyond
5. Cala Goloritze, Sardinia
One of the most jaw-dropping and best beaches in Italy is Gala Goloritze on the Italian island of Sardinia. Entrenched in the stunning coastal mountains of the Gulf of Orosei National Park on the east coast of Sardinia, Cala Goloritze is what Mediterranean travel dreams are made of.
Part of Cala Goloritze’s draw is that it is not an easy beach to get to. It’s completely cut off from Sardinia’s road network and requires a 7 km round trip hike through the mountains to reach. Alternatively, you can reach it by boat. The hike is not difficult but at the same time not for anyone with mobility problems.
There are no facilities at the beach. You’ll just find a small, pristine stretch of Sardinian sand and some boulders in the water to jump off. There are no lifeguards, and the mobile phone reception is sketchy, to say the least. But should you come prepared, you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic day at one of the most unique beaches in all of Europe.
Even though the beach is secluded and difficult to get to, it can get pretty crowded. It’s a small cove, so there is not a ton of space to spread out on a busy day. Be sure to arrive either early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the most relaxing experience.
Recommended by Chris Heckmann of Around the World With Me
6. Marinella di Zambrone, Calabria
Located along the gorgeous Coast of the Gods in Calabria, Marinella di Zambrone beach rewards with some of the most pristine waters in all of Southern Italy. A secluded sliver of paradise, it is literally impossible not to fall captivated by this beach’s infinitely blue horizon and glistening sandy shores.
Nicknamed ‘Diver’s Paradise,’ it comes as no surprise that Marinella di Zambrone is a top choice amongst snorkelers. And not readily frequented by international tourists, the hidden gem is an absolute favourite amongst locals.
Located close to the Zambrone Train station, a 10-minute walk is required to access the beach. The brief hike ends with a descent down a steep staircase. For this reason, it’s not the most practical beach for families travelling with small children.
A free-access beach, Marinella di Zambrone offers no facilities. Remember to bring your own water, snacks, and umbrella. Also, given the mixture of pebbly/sandy shores, for your comfort, I recommend bringing water shoes as well.
Recommended by Linda from La Dolce Fit Vita.
7. Isola Bella Beach, Sicily
Isola Bella is a tiny island right off the coast of the ancient city of Taormina on the island of Sicily. “Right off the coast” is not an overstatement. The island is connected to the Sicilian mainland by a narrow 50-meter sandy path, together forming Spiaggia di Isola Bella – the fabled beach.
The name Isola Bella means beautiful island. It was coined by the German photographer Wilhelm von Gloeden who popularised the island worldwide at the beginning of the 20th century. Isola Bella was passed down from royalty to royalty until it was finally acquired by the Sicilian regional government in 1990. It was then declared a protected nature reserve.
Reaching Taormina is easy from either Messina in the north or Catania in the south by public transport or car. From Taormina, you can get a cable car to bring you down to the beach or walk the steep stairs.
The beach is perfect for anyone who loves unique and diverse nature. Isola Bella has a lifeguard on duty at all times as well as showers and toilets. Wear flip-flops or water shoes as the beach has pebbles and you’ll need to walk over rocks to reach the amazing caves on the island.
Recommended by Simon from Backpack Moments
8. San Fruttuoso, Portofino
San Fruttuoso Beach is located on the Italian Riviera in the middle of Portofino Regional Natural Park. There are no roads to the secluded beach, so there are only two ways to get there – on foot or by boat. Boats leave from Camogli and from Rapallo via Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. You can hike from Camogli or Portofino. A great option is to take a boat to Portofino and hike to San Fruttuoso from there and then take the boat back at the end of the day.
The tiny bay is dominated by a 10th-century Benedictine Abbey turned museum and surrounded by steep, wooded hills. The Mediterranean is a gorgeous emerald green colour. There is little else there other than several seafood restaurants and a casual cafe. Deck chairs and umbrellas are available for rent along half of the pebbly beach. There are also basic bathroom facilities and changing sheds.
One of the best things to do here is to admire the view of the beach through trees near the end of the hike from Portofino. Then, cool off from the hike in the cool waters of the Mediterranean, surrounded by a golden abbey.
The beach is best for adventurous people looking for a special experience that is different from your typical Italian beach.
Recommended by James Ian from Travel Collecting
9. San Vito lo Capo Beach, Sicily
If you are looking to spend some time at one of the best beaches in Italy, then San Vito lo Capo beach in Sicily should definitely be on your list. San Vito lo Capo beach is situated on the scenic northwestern coast of Sicily. It is approximately 65 miles northwest of Palermo and only 22 miles from the nearby town of Trapani.
San Vito lo Capo boasts gorgeous crystal-clear turquoise water and an incredible white, fine sand beach. This vibrant and popular beach is perfect for everyone from couples to families with young children.
For families, the kids will have an awesome time playing in the sand and splashing around in the warm, shallow water. There are even lifeguards on duty, which will put parents’ minds at ease. For couples, the surrounding restaurants and nightlife are perfect for a romantic date night, or even a weekend getaway.
The beach itself is just under 2 miles long and divided into public and private sections. The public portion of the beach is free, however, it tends to be quite crowded during the high season. The private portion of the beach is operated by several companies that offer their umbrellas and lounge chairs for a rental fee.
Either way, San Vito lo Capo Beach is definitely worth visiting when in Sicily.
Recommended by Marianne from Pasta Pretzels & Passports
10. Spiaggia Grande, Positano
Positano is without a doubt one of the most captivating destinations in Italy. Besides its reputation for fabulous restaurants, upscale boutique shopping, and jaw-dropping scenery, it’s also home to some of the best beaches in Italy.
The beaches in Positano, and all of the Amalfi Coast, are composed almost entirely of round, well-worn rocks and pebbles. They’re easy on the feet for the most part although water shoes can make walking in the water more comfortable.
Lounging on Spiaggia Grande, the main beach in Positano, is also its most popular thing to do. The beach itself is expansive with packed soft sand and filled with rows of colourful lounge chairs in high season.
It’s one of the best beaches along the Amalfi Coast for sunbathing, people-watching, and sheer beauty. The beach is encircled entirely by Positano’s dramatic cliffside. You might even catch a spirited game of volleyball in action.
Spiaggia Grande has both private and public areas. It can get pretty crowded during the high season when many Italians are on holiday. Even so, there always seems to be enough room and the beach has a long list of amenities. Get there early if you want to rent a beach umbrella and lounge chairs or maybe a sun bed.
Surrounding the beach are casual bars, cafes, and small shops. There are showers to wash off the salt and sand as well as restrooms. For a magical time, take a bottle of wine to the beach for sunset.
Recommended by Lori from Travlinmad
11. Forgia Vecchia, Stromboli
If paddling in the water or lounging on mineral-rich black sand in the shadow of an active volcano sounds like fun, then don’t miss Forgia Vecchia. This unique Italian beach is located on the volcano island of Stromboli, part of the Aeolian Archipelago off Sicily’s northwestern coast.
Just 300 metres from the main port, Forgia Vecchia is convenient to reach by hydrofoil from the mainland or from Lipari. The beach is made of coarse black pebbles that are a bit rough underfoot, giving your toes a mini exfoliation.
Remember to pack reef shoes for the walk down the beach from the port as the rocks are quite rough in places. A second beach, Spiaggia di Sabbia Nera, is located closer to the pier. This is a fine alternative if you want to limit the amount of walking. Back from the beach in the town you can buy natural volcanic pumice stone to recreate the experience at home!
The volcanic mound of Stromboli rises up directly behind the beach, making this swimming spot suitable for adventurers. It is a great place to rest and unwind on a morning swim after completing the sunset summit of the volcanic crater. At the same time, because of its location in a sheltered bay, the waters are quite gentle.
You’ll need to bring drinking water and snacks with you as facilities on the beach are limited.
Recommended by Emily from Wander-Lush
12. Lama Monachile, Puglia
Polignano a Mare is one of the most beautiful places in Puglia in southern Italy. The town stands on the sharp cliffs of the Adriatic Sea and is probably best known for its Lama Monachile beach.
Lama Monachile is often called the most Instagrammable beach in Italy. It becomes clear why Lama Monachille is one of the best beaches in Italy when you see it. This lovely pebble beach stands between two enormous cliffs while the turquoise Adriatic Sea washes its pebbles. The surrounding cliffs are amazingly high and have hosted the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition for the last ten years.
The turquoise water of Lama Monachile Beach is pristine and perfect for swimming and diving. Lama Monachile is a Blue Flag beach. Maybe the best thing about Lama Monachile is that this stunning beach is the town’s centre. Polignano a Mare is a walkable town, and Lama Monachile is in the centre.
Restaurants, bars, trattorias, and pizzerias are around the beach. Lama Monachile Beach is a public beach, and the surrounding restaurants offer sunbeds and sun umbrellas to rent to beachgoers. Polignano a Mare and Lama Monachile are must-sees in a lifetime. The entire area has some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Italy, best seen on a Puglia road trip.
Recommended by Milijana from World Travel Connector
13. Mondello Beach, Sicily
Mondello Beach is undoubtedly one of Italy’s best and most stunning beaches. Nestled along the northern coast of Sicily, it is a true gem that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, go for a swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, walk along the promenade or do some paddleboarding, Mondello has it all.
What sets Mondello apart is its balance between being well-known and yet maintaining an authentic charm. While it has garnered attention from tourists, as well as locals living in Palermo, it isn’t overcrowded. This makes it a perfect blend of a hidden gem and a sought-after destination.
Mondello Beach is suitable for various types of travellers. Families with children will appreciate the calm and shallow waters near the shore, while adventure seekers can take advantage of the water sports activities available.
There are clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers at Mondello Beach. Lifeguards are also on duty during the summer. The charming and relaxed village of Mondello is also right next to the beach, which has many cafes, restaurants, and gelaterias.
Getting to Mondello Beach is very convenient. It’s just a 30-minute bus ride from Palermo or a 20-minute drive from Palermo Airport.
Recommended by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover
14. Cala Violina Beach, Tuscany
One of the most unique beaches in Italy is located in Tuscany, specifically in the part of Tuscany known as Maremma. Cala Violina Beach is part of the Bandite di Scarlino nature reserve. The beach is washed by water of shades ranging from blue to emerald green, very clean, a true rarity for a beach in central Italy.
The uniqueness of this beach, however, lies precisely in the composition of the grains of golden sand. When you walk on Cala Violina Beach, the tiny quartz grains emit a sound reminiscent of a violin! This is therefore one of the rare musical beaches in the world.
To be able to hear the “sound of violins” you will have to visit the beach in the off-season, from October to May, when you will be among the few visitors to this jewel of nature. If, on the other hand, you want to visit Tuscany’s most beautiful beach in the summer, there is more info to consider.
Entrance to Cala Violina Beach is regulated; only a few hundred people are allowed in each day. To gain access, you have to register on the official website starting 3 days before the day of your visit, reservation costs €1 per person. If you reach the beach by car, you have to leave it in the parking lot located at the entrance of the nature reserve. Parking costs €10 for the whole day.
To reach the beach, you have to walk (or bike) for about half an hour along the trails in the woods of the reserve. Near the beach, there is a café where you can buy water and sandwiches.
Recommended by Lisa of Travel Connect Experience
15. Scala Dei Turchi, Sicily
Scala dei Turchi, also known as ‘The Turkish Stairs,’ or ‘Stair of the Turks’ is a strikingly white cliff with naturally waved, inbuilt steps that resemble a staircase. It’s one of the most unique places in Europe and a great spot to watch the sunset.
The sunsets at Scala dei Turchi are just as magical as they appear in pictures, displaying a palette of 100 pastel colours. This location is now a popular tourist hotspot. The stunningly blue cerulean waters, are perfect for daytime diving, snorkelling and some sunset viewing.
Its name, Scala dei Turchi, harks back to its eventful and tumultuous history. The Ottoman Empire, known then as ‘The Turks,’ once used this point as a lookout; by both the army and by Turkish pirates.
However, those days have long gone. Today, you’ll find tourists lounging around on the steps, swimming in the cool waters or climbing across to the hidden, sandy beach on the other side. It’s worth bringing your own picnic, drinks, snacks, some food and of course, suncream, as it’s unlikely to find many vendors. This is not the most easily accessible spot but is 100% worth the view!
Recommended by Adriana at Wanderlicious
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