10 Best Beaches of Italy offer a diverse range, from remote and rugged to expansive sandy bays and idyllic paradises. Exploring the romantic coastline of this enchanting land is as thrilling as indulging in its delectable cuisine. Picture yourself splashing in the waters off the Amalfi Coast, surrounded by towering cliffs and charming towns.
Discover the otherworldly turquoise hues of Sardinia’s sumptuous shorelines and relax in the shallows of the divine coastline of Sicily. Italy’s beaches, with their diversity and majesty, beckon you to experience the beauty and tranquility they have to offer.
Cala Rossa, Favignana, Sicily
Located on the picturesque island of Favignana, Cala Rossa is a beach that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. Its beauty is truly eye-catching, with vibrant turquoise waters gently lapping against rusty red rocks. While it may not boast pure white sands, the unique rock formations create an inviting space to bask in the sun.
Given its popularity, arriving early is advisable. For those seeking more privacy and space, there are exclusive spots nestled between the rocks where you can enjoy the sun in tranquility.
Upon arrival, wearing shoes is recommended to navigate the rocky terrain before effortlessly slipping into the refreshing cool waters. The clean and clear sea provides fantastic snorkeling opportunities, allowing you to spot small fish darting around the rocks beneath the surface. Cala Rossa offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and seaside relaxation.
Marasusa Beach, Tropea, Calabria
Marasusa beach, nestled in the Calabrian city of Tropea along the ‘La Costa degli Dei’ or the Coast of the Gods, is a haven of tranquility. This beautiful stretch of coastline boasts calm seas and pristine sands, embraced by handsome cliffs, creating a setting so stunning that even the gods themselves would approve.
Take a break during your Italian vacation to spend leisurely days in one of the most beautiful bays in the region. Marasusa’s transparent waters are refreshing and serene, offering safe swimming conditions despite occasional waves.
The beach caters to everyone’s tastes, whether you fancy a bit of snorkeling, want to hire a boat, or simply prefer to relax with a cold drink at one of the lido bars. The town of Tropea also offers a selection of cafes, shops, and restaurants, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in all things deliciously Italian after long, lazy days spent lounging on the beach.
Cala Goloritze, Sardinia is one of the 10 Best Beaches of Italy
Nestled at the base of a gorge along Sardinia’s spectacular northeastern coast, Cala Goloritzé beach may be small but is undeniably stunning. Limestone formations, adorned with vibrant foliage, dramatically contrast with the soft white sands that gently cascade into the aquamarine ocean. However, accessing this beauty comes with a bit of effort.
Getting to this renowned beach isn’t as simple as hopping in a car or boat. To seek out this hidden gem, you’ll need to rely on your legs. The hike to reach this blissful Sardinian beach takes about an hour, guiding you down a rocky ravine where glimpses of the green-blue water provide a tantalizing preview of the beauty that awaits. The journey becomes an integral part of the experience, adding a touch of adventure to the pristine allure of Cala Goloritzé.
Cala Goloritzé is renowned not only for its stunning beauty but also as the best snorkeling spot in Sardinia. Venture into the crystal-clear waters and swim around the rocks to catch sight of the many fish that inhabit the area. Just be sure not to forget your goggles, as the underwater world here is a mesmerizing spectacle waiting to be explored.
Spiaggia del Fornillo, Positano
The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its charming towns perched high above the sea on rocky cliffs. While smaller and less glamorous than its neighboring beaches, Spiaggia del Fornillo is a hidden gem with pretty pebbles and clear waters. A leisurely stroll from the bustling beach at Positano, down a couple of steps, transports you to the unpretentious and tranquil atmosphere of Fornillo beach.
A perfect suntrap, this beach may be less crowded than others in the area. As the sun-worshippers retreat to their hotels, the beach bars and restaurants along the shore come alive. Spend an evening on the beach indulging in the fresh catch of the day, sipping local wine, and savoring the soothing sound of waves on the stones, creating a peaceful and delightful seaside experience.
La Pelosa, Stintino
La Pelosa Beach, near the village of Stintino in Capo Falcone, Sardinia, is a secluded haven characterized by translucent shallow seas gently lapping against a long curve of ivory sand. With its 300-meter stretch, La Pelosa could easily rival some of the beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It’s a popular spot for local families and groups of friends, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
An additional highlight is the 16th-century watchtower, Torre della Pelosa, perched on rocks extending into the sea. Originally used for defending the island, this sun-washed tower has become an iconic landmark along the coast, particularly popular with divers. To fully appreciate the beauty of La Pelosa, it’s advisable to arrive early during the summer, as its charm understandably draws a significant crowd.
Cala Granara, Spargi
Nestled on the Isola di Spargi, part of the Maddalena Archipelago, Cala Granara is a hidden paradise without the rugged, steep cliffs typically associated with many Italian beaches. The presence of pretty palms along the shore provides a natural shield from the sun’s heat, and the powdery sands create an ideal spot for sunbathing. However, reaching this Italian oasis requires a boat journey, adding an extra layer of exclusivity.
The lack of easy access contributes to the beach’s beauty, ensuring it remains remote and undeveloped. Free from the usual tourist traps, Cala Granara maintains its pristine state, featuring sporadic maccia trees along the gently sloping sand that meets the sparkling sea. The water displays a captivating spectrum of greens and blues, making Cala Granara a truly unspoiled and picturesque bay.
Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa, Sicily[SEE MAP]
Spiaggia dei Conigli, also known as Rabbit Beach, in Lampedusa is truly a special place with its topaz-colored sea and a bay nestled within a sloping, rocky coastline. Located in a nature reserve on the remote island of Lampedusa south of Sicily, this beach is renowned for its immense beauty. Loggerhead turtles are drawn to this pristine haven year after year to lay their eggs in the warm sands, prompting the beach to close in the evenings to ensure the safe return of the turtles.
While once voted the best beach in the world, reaching Spiaggia dei Conigli is no easy feat. Access involves a two-kilometer scramble down rocks, but the reward is a refreshing swim in the crystalline waters. The beach may attract sun-worshipers and day-trippers, but once you take a splash in the glistening shallows and snorkel out to catch a glimpse of the turtles, a sense of tranquility washes over you in this breathtaking and pristine sanctuary.
Isola Bella, Sicily
Translating as ‘the beautiful island,’ Isola Bella is situated just off the coast of Sicily, forming part of the Taormina region. Once privately owned until the 1990s, it is now a protected site with diverse bird species and a stunning beach that harmonizes with nature. Accessible by cable car from Sicily, this mode of transportation also provides breathtaking views of the island from above.
Isola Bella’s beach, a favorite among sunbathers, isn’t the typical sandy stretch; small stones and pebbles make wearing flip flops almost essential. Refreshments are available from vendors and cafes, and you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas. Engage in various activities, such as snorkeling, diving, or a boat trip to explore nearby caves, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Camogli Beach, Liguria
The charming fishing village of Camogli, tucked away on the Italian Riviera in Liguria, is a stylish gem about an hour’s drive from Milan. While not widely known to international travelers, it oozes with authentic Italian culture and is a delightful resort town.
Camogli beach, nestled at the base of sun-drenched hills, features stony sands gently caressed by the sea. As temperatures rise, the beach comes alive with Italian families, enjoying the blue waters, engaging in lively conversations, and relishing hearty meals of focaccia and flavorful cheese along the waterfront.
The beach truly shines during sunset. As the sun descends, it bathes the colorful buildings in warm hues, creating a breathtaking reflection in the silver sea, making it the perfect time to soak in the beauty of Camogli.
Cavoli Beach, Elba
Cavoli beach, situated on the island of Elba, is renowned for its clear turquoise waters and warm breezes, making it one of the most popular destinations on the island. Surrounded by rugged countryside and protected by craggy cliffs, Cavoli’s microclimate creates an ideal setting for sunbathing. While the sand may be somewhat stony, it doesn’t deter sunbathers.
This classically Italian coastline is brimming with natural beauty, attracting a bustling crowd during the summer months. With a length of around 300 meters, the beach is divided into two sections – one side for bars and sunbeds, and the other free for visitors to spend their time as they wish.
Don’t miss Grotta Azzurra – by renting a pedalo or a boat, you can explore the interior. For the more adventurous, consider joining groups of teenagers who enjoy diving from the surrounding cliffs into the deep sea.
