Best Beaches in Italy

Seriously, who needs the Caribbean when you can get heavenly beaches in Italy? In addition to impressive and historic cities such as Rome, Florence and Venice, there is of course one thing you can’t miss when visiting Italy: a trip to the beach! Here are some of the most beautiful and best beaches in Italy that are definitely worth a visit:

• Spiaggia dei Conigli, Sicily
• Cala Mariolu, Sardinia
• Tropea Beach, Calabria
• Baia delle Zagare, Apulia
• Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso, Liguria
• Cala del Gesso, Tuscany

Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), Sicily

Located on the island of Lampedusa, part of the Pelagie Islands, Spiaggia dei Conigli is often ranked among the world’s top beaches. It features fine white sand and turquoise waters, creating a Caribbean-like paradise. It’s also known for its shallow, warm waters and as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles.

Special Features:

• Pristine Natural Beauty: The beach is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine white sand that creates a striking contrast with the blue sea, and a picturesque landscape. It’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Marine Life: The waters around Spiaggia dei Conigli are rich in marine biodiversity, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can see a variety of fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
• Sea Turtle Nesting: One of the most significant aspects of Spiaggia dei Conigli is its role as a nesting site for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Every year, these turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, and conservation efforts are in place to protect the nests and ensure the hatchlings make it to the sea.

• Accessibility: The beach is located on the island of Lampedusa, part of the Pelagie Islands in Italy. It is relatively remote, requiring a trek down a rocky path, which adds to its appeal as a secluded and less crowded destination compared to more accessible beaches.
• Environmental Protection: The beach is part of a protected natural reserve, which helps maintain its pristine condition. It is also a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, offering visitors a chance to see these magnificent creatures. Strict regulations are in place to preserve the natural habitat and prevent environmental degradation.
• Popularity and Recognition: Spiaggia dei Conigli has received numerous accolades and has been featured in various travel magazines and websites as one of the top beaches in the world. Its popularity has grown internationally, attracting visitors from around the globe.

Cala Mariolu, Sardinia

A pearl of the Gulf of Orosei, on the coast of central-eastern Sardinia: a small hidden bay with white and pink pebbles that is well worth a walk through the wild nature or a boat trip.

Take a dip in a sea that looks like it was painted. The beach is also known as pùligi de nie (snow fleas) because of its round, white and pink pebbles mixed with sand. Cala Mariolu, in the Baunei area, owes its name to the monk seal that stole the catch from the fishermen of Ponza, hence mariolo (thief).

Its panorama is so impressive due to its infinite shades of blue, emerald green and mid-blue, and the snowflake-like pebbles. The 1.650-feet (500 meter)-high cliff that surrounds it drops steeply both to the north and to the south. For this reason, Cala Mariolu can only be reached by land via a difficult path (for experts) through dense Mediterranean forest.

Watch out: There is no more sun on this stretch of beach from around 4 pm. It therefore makes sense to arrive a little earlier in the day. In addition to being one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, the bay of Cala Mariolu in Sardinia is even considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe! It is therefore definitely worth a visit.

Special Features:

• Crystal-Clear Waters: The waters at Cala Mariolu are exceptionally clear with a distinctive emerald hue which adds to its exotic appeal. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. The underwater visibility allows visitors to see a variety of marine life and colorful fish.
• Unique Pebble Beach: Unlike typical sandy beaches, Cala Mariolu is composed of small, rounded white pebbles mixed with sand, giving it a unique texture and appearance, and making the water appear even more vibrant.
• Dramatic Limestone Cliffs and Caves: The beach is surrounded by impressive towering limestone cliffs that provide a dramatic backdrop. These cliffs also feature numerous sea caves that can be explored by boat or while snorkeling. It is a snorkeler’s paradise with rich marine biodiversity.

• Marine Life: The rich marine environment makes Cala Mariolu a popular spot for divers and snorkelers. The clear waters and abundant sea life offer an exceptional underwater experience.
• Secluded Location: Cala Mariolu is relatively remote and not easily accessible by land, which adds to its charm and exclusivity. Most visitors reach the beach by boat, which can be rented from nearby towns such as Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: For those who prefer land-based adventures, there are challenging hiking trails leading to Cala Mariolu, offering stunning views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.

Tropea Beach, Calabria

In the far south, at the end of the Italian boot in Calabria, lies the small town of Tropea. With its well-preserved old town and its famous cathedral, Santa Maria dell’Isola, the town of 6,500 inhabitants is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, not only from Europe. It is not without reason that the town is also known as the “Pearl of Calabria”.

The special thing about Tropea: a picturesque sandy beach with azure blue water lies directly below the old town. And that’s not all. If you want a particularly quiet place, you can simply drive a little further along the coast. There are many more small bays to discover, which are a little more secluded. The rock formations and caves also invite you to go on a discovery tour.

Special Features:

• Stunning Scenery
  Tropea Beach is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The beach is set against dramatic cliffs that rise from the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The picturesque town of Tropea, perched atop these cliffs, offers a stunning backdrop, with its charming historic buildings and narrow streets.
• Pristine Waters
  Pristine clear and turquoise waters make it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The clean and inviting sea is one of the main attractions for visitors.
• Soft, White Sand
  Tropea Beach features soft, white sand that contrasts beautifully with the blue of the sea. This fine sand makes it a comfortable place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the coastal beauty.
• Historic Charme
  One of the most iconic sights near Tropea Beach is Santa Maria dell’Isola, a historic monastery situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the beach. This picturesque church adds to the charm and historical significance of the area, providing a stunning vantage point for panoramic views of the coastline.

• Rich History and Culture
  The town of Tropea itself is rich in history and culture, dating back to ancient times. The blend of historical architecture, including medieval and baroque buildings, along with local traditions and cuisine, makes a visit to Tropea Beach a culturally enriching experience.
• Relaxed Atmosphere
  Tropea Beach is also known for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic coastal retreat away from the more crowded and commercialized beach destinations.

Baia delle Zagare, Apulia

Baia delle Zagare, located in the Gargano Peninsula of Apulia, is famous for its stunning natural beauty and unique geological formations. It is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape with its breathtaking natural scenery, making it a popular spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the unspoiled beauty of the Italian coast.

Baia delle Zagare has become one of the symbolic beaches of the Gargano, also thanks to the presence of the high white cliffs and 2 beautiful limestone stacks sculpted by the wind, the pine trees and the white pebble beach that, combined with the blue sea create an incredible spectacle.

Special features:

• Dramatic Sea Stacks: The bay is particularly famous for its distinctive sea stacks, which are towering rock formations that rise dramatically from the sea. These natural structures have been sculpted by erosion over thousands of years, creating an iconic and picturesque landscape.
• Pristine Beaches: Baia delle Zagare boasts beautiful, secluded beaches with fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beaches are surrounded by steep limestone cliffs, adding to the sense of seclusion and natural beauty.
• Scenic Cliffs: The area is characterized by steep, white limestone cliffs that provide a stunning backdrop to the beaches. These cliffs are often covered with lush vegetation, adding to the scenic appeal.

• Secluded Location: The bay is relatively remote and not as heavily frequented as other tourist spots, which makes it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
• Mediterranean Flora: The surrounding area is rich in Mediterranean vegetation, including olive trees, aromatic herbs, and, as the name “Zagare” suggests, citrus trees. “Zagare” refers to the fragrant blossoms of citrus trees, which are common in the region.
• Protected Area: Baia delle Zagare is part of the Gargano National Park, which helps to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and marine environments.

Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso, Liguria

Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso is a picturesque beach located in a secluded bay on the Italian Riviera, between Camogli and Portofino in Liguria. It is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pebbled shoreline, and the historic Abbey of San Fruttuoso, which dates back to the 10th century. Accessible only by boat or via hiking trails through the Portofino Regional Park, the beach offers a serene and unspoiled atmosphere. The underwater statue, Christ of the Abyss, is a popular attraction for divers. This hidden gem combines natural beauty, historical significance, and a tranquil setting, making it a unique destination on the Ligurian coast.

Special features:

• The Christ of the Abyss: This submerged bronze statue of Jesus Christ, placed in the water in 1954, is a major attraction for scuba divers and snorkelers. It sits at a depth of about 56 feet (17 m) and is a symbol of protection for sailors and divers.
• The Abbey of San Fruttuoso: This historical Benedictine monastery dates back to the 10th century and is a significant cultural landmark. The abbey, with its picturesque architecture and serene setting, draws visitors interested in history and architecture.

• Scenic Beauty: The beach is located in a secluded cove within the Portofino Marine Protected Area, offering stunning natural scenery. The combination of crystal-clear waters, rugged coastline, and lush Mediterranean vegetation creates a breathtaking landscape.
• Accessibility: Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso is accessible only by boat or by hiking trails from Portofino or Camogli, adding to its charm and exclusivity. The journey itself, whether by sea or through scenic trails, is an adventure that enhances the overall experience.
• Tranquility: Due to its secluded location and limited accessibility, the beach tends to be less crowded compared to other tourist spots in the region, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Cala del Gesso, Tuscany

Imposing cliffs and lush green vegetation. The hidden bay of Cala del Gesso is located on the Monte Argentario peninsula in Tuscany. The beach is considered a real insider tip, but it is not easy to reach Cala del Gesso. Sturdy shoes, plenty of water and sun cream are therefore essential when visiting the beach.

To reach the bay, you first have to walk for about 20 minutes. The short hike is worth it: you will reach an idyllic spot that is guaranteed to invite you to linger. However, it is also important to know that Cala del Gesso has no tourist infrastructure. This means: take plenty of food with you! There is also a very special secret in the bay: the Grotta delle Pumadorine is located under the surface of the water.

Special features:

• Crystal-Clear Waters:
  The beach is famous for its exceptionally clear and pristine waters, which are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The visibility underwater is excellent, allowing visitors to explore the marine life and underwater landscapes.
• Scenic Beauty:
  Surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush Mediterranean vegetation, Cala del Gesso offers stunning natural scenery. The combination of the turquoise sea, white pebbles, and green surroundings creates a picturesque setting.
• Secluded Atmosphere:
  The beach is relatively secluded and less accessible than many other beaches, which helps to maintain a tranquil and peaceful environment. This seclusion makes it an attractive spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more private beach experience.
• Pebble Beach:
  Cala del Gesso features a pebble beach. The pebbles are smooth and add to the unique charm of the area, providing a different texture and experience for beachgoers.

• Ideal for Boating:
  The clear waters and beautiful surroundings make Cala del Gesso a popular spot for boating. Many visitors arrive by boat, and it’s an excellent location for anchoring and enjoying the coastal views.
• Dramatic Cliffs:
  The beach is backed by dramatic cliffs that not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide opportunities for hiking and exploring. The cliffs offer vantage points with breathtaking views of the sea and the coastline.
• Rich Marine Life:
  The waters around Cala del Gesso are teeming with marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. Visitors can observe various fish species, sea urchins, and other marine organisms in their natural habitat.
• Sunset Views:
  Cala del Gesso is an excellent spot for watching the sunset. The western orientation of the beach allows for stunning sunset views over the Tyrrhenian Sea, creating a romantic and memorable experience.
• Historical Tower:
  Nearby, on the cliff overlooking the beach, stands the Torre di Cala del Gesso, an ancient watchtower that adds a historical element to the area. The tower is a remnant of the coastal defense system and offers a glimpse into the region’s past.

These beaches are celebrated not only for their natural beauty but also for their unique characteristics that offer visitors a special and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for secluded tranquility, historical charm, or vibrant marine life, they have something extraordinary to offer. The list of the best beaches, however, is by far not complete.