Best Beaches in Italy to Visit on Vacation

Italy’s seaside villages boast pristine beaches that accentuate the country’s art, ruins, and culture. They celebrate regional heritage with delicious cuisine and drinks that highlight the diverse flavors of coastlines that brim with life, especially in summer. Capture the majesty of Italy’s beaches while focusing on flavorful cuisine, magnificent wines, and charming cocktails.

1. Manarola, Liguria

One of the five villages of Cinque Terre, Manarola is famed for its culinary hotspots and dramatic, colorful cliffside setting. It offers lofty panoramas of the turquoise waters from its perch atop a rocky plateau. Immerse yourself in its surroundings on an Italy Tour for Families: Discovering Liguria and Tuscany.

What to Expect

• Vertical Landscape: Iconic pastel-colored tower homes cling dramatically to the cliffs above the shimmering Ligurian Sea.
• Terraced Dining: Savor exquisitely fresh pesto and regional seafood with breathtaking views from a stylish, terraced restaurant.
• Hillside Wines: Pair your meal with marvelous white wines produced in the nearby terraced vineyards that contour the steep landscape.
• Charming Sounds: The lively chatter from waterfront cafés mixes with the distant toll of church bells drifting over the village.
• Atmosphere: A postcard-perfect village where every turn reveals a charming, vertical scene begging to be photographed.

2. Porto Ercole, Tuscany

A dreamy Tuscan coastal town, Porto Ercole blends historic fortresses with a sophisticated culinary scene. Situated halfway between Florence and Rome, it proves that Tuscany's legendary charm extends to its stunning beaches.

What to Expect

• Spanish Fortresses: Explore the grandeur of the six-pointed Forte Stella, a historic Spanish fort that has guarded the bay for centuries.
• Harborside Cuisine: Indulge in superb, freshly caught seafood and excellent local Tuscan wines at an elegant eatery overlooking the water.
• Natural Pools: Stroll to the swirling rock pools at Acqua Dolce for a unique coastal experience away from the main beach.
• Marina Ambiance: The gentle clinking of masts from luxury yachts in the marina creates a relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
• Coastal Tuscany: Discover a refined side of the region, where the history of ancient forts meets the charm of a modern seaside town. To find our more, take a look at our Extraordinary Tuscany Vacation: Countryside, Riviera, and More.

3. Venice Lido, Veneto

Just a short boat ride from the city's canals, Venice Lido is a seven-mile strip of sand that was once Europe's most luxurious seaside resort. Established in the 19th century, it offers a unique beach experience with a touch of Venetian glamour that you can experience on a Romantic Getaway Vacation to Lake Como and Venice.

What to Expect

• Historic Glamour: Walk in the footsteps of legendary guests like Coco Chanel and Lord Byron at Europe's very first bathing resort.
• Beachfront Venetian Cuisine: Delight in traditional specialties like salt cod and tender cuttlefish at restaurants right on the sand.
• Art Nouveau Architecture: Admire the historic, elegant buildings and iconic striped beach cabins that speak to a bygone era of luxury.
• Lagoon Life: Experience a classic seaside holiday vibe, with the distant sounds of the lagoon's water buses as a unique soundtrack.
• Gran Viale: Enjoy a classic Venetian Spritz beneath an umbrella on the Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta, facing the Adriatic.

4. Tirreno Beach, Ponza • Lazio

A secret island escape for in-the-know Romans, Ponza offers stunning views, ancient history, and the art of dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing. This beautiful island has a history dating back to Etruscan colonies.

What to Expect

• Dolce Far Niente: Embrace the sweet act of doing nothing while sipping cocktails over ice on a recliner set on warm volcanic pebbles.
• Cinematic Beauty: Gaze upon the striking cliffs and grottoes that served as the backdrop for Wes Anderson's film, The Life Aquatic.
• Etruscan History: Discover an authentic island where ancient colonial history and dramatic natural beauty intertwine in a laid-back atmosphere.
• Local Escape: Experience the cool, transparent waters and unpretentious vibe of a true local getaway, easily reached from Rome on our Best of Greater Rome Tour: Wonders of Lazio.
• Sounds of the Island: The tranquil lapping of waves against the shore mixes with the distant hum of small fishing boats.

5. Acireale, Sicily

Shaped by nearby Mount Etna, Acireale's coastline is a dramatic landscape of dark volcanic rock meeting brilliant turquoise water. The hard stone creates spectacular scenery, making the sea feel like a natural swimming pool you can dive into on Zicasso’s Northern Italy to Sicily: Italy Tour for Second-Timers.

What to Expect

• Volcanic Coastline: Marvel at the stunning contrast of black volcanic stone against a sea so clear and transparent it feels like a swimming pool.
• Baroque Grandeur: The town above is decorated with ornate Baroque churches, offering a rich cultural backdrop to the dramatic natural scenery.
• Cliffside Views: Taste exquisite Sicilian seafood and local wines at celebrated cafés that offer a unique panorama of the bay.
• Natural Pools: Explore a coastline where smooth, hard stone has been shaped by the volcano to create stunning natural pools for swimming.
• Sounds of Sicily: The gentle rhythm of the sea against the dark shore blends with the vibrant sounds of the historic town.

6. Numana, Marche

Nestled in the Marche region, Numana offers rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards reminiscent of Tuscany, but with the added beauty of stunning Adriatic sea views, unique caves, and secluded beaches.

What to Expect

• Castaway Beach: Discover the secluded pebbles of Grotte del Passetto, a private and accessible castaway beach nestled between the main streets.
• Fishers’ Huts: Admire the trabocchi, traditional elevated fishing huts on stilts that are unique to this coastline and speak to its heritage.
• Authentic Cuisine: Savor authentic Marche dishes, like Ciauscolo salami, at a small, hidden beachfront restaurant.
• Undiscovered Gem: Unwind in a picturesque setting of rolling hills and sea caves that feels distinctly Italian, yet wonderfully private and serene.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy the quiet lapping of waves and the peaceful calm of a region often overlooked by visitors. To find out more, see our Soulful Italy: Umbria, The Marches, and Abruzzo Tour.

Italy’s seaside destinations offer calm, shallow waters perfect for maritime immersion. These beaches provide safe and comfortable access to the water, from the depths of Calabria to the luxe shores of Liguria.

1. Tropea Beach, Calabria

This popular summer destination for Italians remains a hidden gem for outsiders. Its clean sand spreads beneath epic rock formations, with cobbled lanes perched above the calm, turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea.

What to Expect

• Pristine Sands: Feel the fine, white sand sinking beneath your toes on a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of pristine beach.
• Calm Waters: Dip into the refreshingly temperate sea, where an easy-going tide and shallow depths make for perfect swimming.
• Dramatic Scenery: Gaze upon majestic rock formations rising from the sea and the iconic Santa Maria dell'Isola sanctuary perched on a cliff.
• Underwater Life: Immerse yourself in a pristine sea where colorful fish swim freely around your feet, visible in the clear water.
• Local Flavors: On our Exploring the Southern Coast of Italy Tour, delight in fresh Calabrian seafood and the region's famous sweet red onions at a nearby trattoria.

2. Spiaggia de Maria Pia, Sardinia

With its delightful shores and shallow waters, this Sardinian beach is a top destination for swimming. Its relaxed ambiance is complemented by majestic dunes and lush pine forests that will frame the shoreline on your Secrets of Meditteranean Islands: Sardinia and Corsica Tour.

What to Expect

• Gentle Waters: The gently sloping seafloor and shallow waters make this an exceptionally safe and relaxing place for a swim.
• Unique Sands: Feel the unique sensation of soft, dark volcanic sand blending with patches of bright, white sand near the dunes.
• Pine Forest Backdrop: Enjoy the refreshing scent and welcome shade from the lush pine trees that border the long stretch of beach.
• Beach Bar Culture: Sip refreshing drinks and enjoy light bites from laid-back beach bars nestled amongst the trees.
• Ultimate Relaxation: Arrive early to reserve a sunbed and unwind in an atmosphere of pure tranquility.

3. Marina Piccola, Capri

This small, quiet beach boasts unending charm, with colorful restaurants and classic fishers' homes lining the sandy cove. On a Romantic Getaway to the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and Capri, your view will be composed of colorful umbrellas and crystalline, turquoise waters.

What to Expect

• The Faraglioni View: Behold iconic, picture-perfect views of Capri's famous Faraglioni sea stacks rising from the water.
• Safe Swimming: The boats remain at a respectful distance, keeping the remarkably clear, shallow waters safe for swimmers and sunbathers on innertubes.
• Pebbled Shore: Feel the smooth pebbles underfoot leading into the comfortable water of the protected cove.
• Charming Eateries: Indulge in fresh seafood and classic Capri cocktails at the vibrant, traditional fishermen's restaurants that line the beach.
• Picturesque Haven: Experience a classic Capri seaside day, perfect for relaxed sunbathing and crystalline swims.

4. Torre Guaceto, Puglia

This protected marine reserve offers long stretches of sandy, undeveloped beaches meeting the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea. The seclusion and protected nature of the reserve make it an incredible spot for swimming on an Off-the-Beaten-Path Puglia Discovery Tour.

What to Expect

• Protected Nature: Connect with nature in a truly secluded setting, where coastal dunes protect the fine sand from the wind.
• Pristine Ecosystem: Hear the natural sounds of a pristine environment, from coastal birds to the gentle lapping of the sea.
• Pure Tranquility: The absence of crowds, boats, and development ensures a purely peaceful swimming experience.
• Untouched Sands: Feel the fine, soft sand of a protected nature reserve leading into incredibly calm, transparent Adriatic waters.
• Simple Flavors: Savor fresh, local food and drinks at small, environmentally conscious kiosks within the reserve.

5. Baia del Silenzio, Liguria

Living up to its name, the Bay of Silence offers a surprisingly tranquil ambiance. This fishing village, halfway between La Spezia and Genoa, has calm, shallow waters and serene panoramas from its sandy white beach.

What to Expect

• Glassy Waters: Gaze upon picturesque, pastel-colored buildings beautifully reflected in the glassy, turquoise water of the bay.
• Utterly Calm: The bay's geography protects it, creating calm, shallow waters ideal for serene swims and peaceful wading.
• Soft White Sand: Feel the soft sand underfoot, a rarity on the often-rocky Ligurian coast, perfect for relaxing on a lounger.
• Waterfront Cafés: Taste fresh Ligurian pesto, focaccia, and local seafood from charming cafés on the waterfront when you Discover the Culture and Charm of Genoa, Cinque Terre and Rome.
• Peaceful Oasis: Discover a truly quiet escape on the bustling Ligurian coastline, where the loudest sound is the distant toll of church bells.

These beaches offer beautiful sandy shores flooded with uninterrupted, golden sunlight. From the corner of Puglia to the island of Elba, they are great places for lazing about and enjoying the warm Mediterranean light.

1. Otranto Beach, Puglia

A Perfect 9-Day Puglia Exploration could see you enjoying the turquoise waters and soft, white sands of Otranto Beach along the edge of Italy’s easternmost town. This popular retreat for history enthusiasts is also a sunbather's paradise.

What to Expect

• Powdery Sand: Feel the incredibly soft, white sand warming beneath the sun, reflecting the light and enhancing the heat.
• Lounger Service: Relax in a comfortable lounger where fresh seafood and refreshing Italian cocktails can be served directly to you.
• Historic Backdrop: The charming, historic town of Otranto, with its ancient castle and walls, frames the brilliant turquoise waters.
• Sophisticated Atmosphere: The gentle rhythm of the Adriatic waves mixes with the relaxed, sophisticated chatter from nearby high-end resorts.
• Effortless Relaxation: Indulge in a classic, luxurious beach day where comfort and historical charm meet.

2. Gavitella Beach, Campania

This treasured beach in Praiano on the Amalfi Coast is a sun-worshipper's dream. Two concrete piers lead into the water, while the nearly 100-foot-long stretch of sand offers ample space for sunbathing.

What to Expect

• Maximum Sun: As one of the few west-facing beaches on the coast, it's a paradise that maximizes your exposure to the glorious afternoon and evening sun.
• Capri Views: Witness unparalleled, direct views of the legendary cliffs of Capri and the vast expanse of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea.
• Vibrant Beach Club: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with refreshing drinks and light bites that you can find out more about with our 7 Dishes to Try on Your Trip to Campania.
• Unique Shoreline: Feel the warm, dark sand and pebbles that absorb the heat, keeping the beach toasty until late in the day.
• Secluded Access: Located down a series of steps from the town's main square, the journey ensures a sense of discovery and seclusion.

3. Campo all’Aia, Elba

The fine sands along Campo all’Aia create the longest beach on the island of Elba. Its sheer size lends itself to privacy, offering a fantastic setting for umbrellas, sunbeds, and a convenient beach bar that you can ensconce yourself at on our Splendors of the Italian Coastline: Elba Island, and Cinque Terre Tour.

What to Expect

• Sense of Space: Enjoy the freedom of a vast beach, whose size prevents the crowding found at neighboring shores, ideal for long, undisturbed sunbathing.
• Corsica Sunsets: Behold stunning sunsets painting the sky, with the sun's brilliant glow illuminating views of the distant French island of Corsica.
• Fine Sand: Feel the expansive, soft sand beneath your umbrella, perfect for a full day of comfortable lounging.
• Convenient Refreshments: Relish cool drinks and light food from the beach bar, all with clear views of the water.
• Tuscan Island Charm: Experience an easy-to-visit beach with its direct connection to the famous region of Tuscany.

These beaches cover the range of magnificent images an Italian coast possesses. From secluded coves with Roman ruins to dramatic cliffs and golden shores, these treasured spots are celebrated for their enchanting scenery.

1. Cala Granara, Sardinia

This beach embodies the quintessential dream setting, with powdery white sand, warm turquoise water, and a tropical ambiance. Located on the treasured Emerald Coast, its classic beauty is enhanced by ancient history.

What to Expect

• Velvet Sand: Feel the powdery white sand, soft as velvet underfoot, leading into impossibly clear, warm, and shallow turquoise water.
• Tropical Paradise: Witness a scene straight from a dream, complete with swaying palm trees and subtropical plants framing the beach.
• Roman Ruins: Discover the unique backdrop of ancient Roman ruins just behind the beach, adding a layer of history to the natural beauty.
• Emerald Coast Views: Look out from the shore to see luxury sailboats dotting the horizon on the famed Costa Smeralda. Enjoy them on a Fully Immersive Tour of Italy: Highlights and Hidden Gems.
• Pristine Sounds: Hear the gentle rustle of plants and the soft lapping of calm, pristine waves in an idyllic, natural setting.

2. Scala dei Turchi, Sicily

This stunning shoreline does not conform to classic beach beauty, instead carving its own niche of alluring visual drama. It features sand the color of bronze contrasting with glistening, sculpted limestone cliffs.

What to Expect

• Natural Staircase: Gaze upon a dramatic natural wonder where a white "staircase" of smooth marl rock descends into the vibrant blue sea.
• Unique Geology: Feel the smooth, cool, sculpted white limestone under your feet, a stark and beautiful contrast to the bronze-colored sand below. To find out more about the region, see our Top 7 Things to Do in Sicily.
• Roman History: A nearby Roman villa blends the splendors of nature with the grandeur of history, offering a fantastic touchpoint on a Sicily tour.
• Natural Symphony: Hear the subtle sounds of waves gently eroding the soft rock, a quiet soundtrack to the visual masterpiece.
• Refreshing Flavors: Taste Sicilian granita and fresh fruit from nearby vendors, enhancing your scenic exploration.

3. Marina di Vasto, Abruzzo

On the unexplored coastline of Abruzzo, the unspoiled town of Vasto boasts a beautiful marina with boutique accommodations and a large, sandy beach. The smell of gelato often merges with the gentle sea breeze along the promenade. For more inspiration on visiting the region, take a look at our Heart and Soul of Italy Tour: Umbria to Abruzzo.

What to Expect

• The Trabucos: Admire the traditional wooden fishing machines, known as trabucos, which are typical of the region and dot the coastline.
• Medieval Backdrop: Enjoy the ambiance of beach cafés set beneath a magnificent medieval castle and cathedral that overlook the marina.
• Unspoiled Coastline: Discover a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty on a stretch of shore often overlooked by tourists.
• Promenade Life: Hear the cheerful sounds of the marina promenade as you stroll with a scoop of authentic local gelato in hand.
• Rugged Coves: Feel the soft sands of the main beach and explore the rugged charm of nearby pebbled and stone beaches that conceal hidden coves.

4. Zagare, Puglia

This half-mile stretch of golden sand offers unrestrained panoramas of the shimmering Adriatic Sea. Located in a bay surrounded by dramatic cliffs, it overlooks sensational rock formations carved by time. Visit it on Zicasso’s Exploring the Rustic Charm of Puglia Itinerary.

What to Expect

• Iconic Sea Stacks: Behold the two famous, dazzling white sea stacks (faraglioni) that rise dramatically from the water, creating an iconic view.
• Exclusive Access: The semi-private beach only allows a certain number of visitors per day, protecting its majesty and ensuring a unique experience.
• Hidden Staircase: Ascend a staircase carved into the cliffs, revealing stunning new perspectives of this magnificent coastal sanctuary.
• Scent of Orange Blossoms: The vivid scenery is enhanced by the fragrance of nearby orange groves mixing with the sea breeze.
• Three Shades of Blue: Witness waters so clear they shimmer in three distinct shades of blue, from turquoise to deep azure.

Scuba diving shines a light on a different side of Italy’s coastlines. With thousands of miles of shoreline, abundant marine life, and a maritime history that eclipses many other countries, Italy is a remarkable diving destination.

1. Punta Di Fetovaia, Elba

This enchanting dive site is famous for its vibrant corals and fantastic year-round visibility. It offers a thrilling experience for new and advanced divers exploring the untouched ecosystem as part of a Visions of the Past: Art and History Tour of Rome and Elba Island.

What to Expect

• Gorgonian Forest: Witness magnificent red, white, and yellow gorgonian corals that resemble underwater trees and span over 65 feet of the seafloor.
• Abundant Marine Life: Encounter diverse schools of fish, including large groupers and chromis, while lobsters and scorpionfish find refuge below.
• Apex Predators: Feel the thrill of swimming near barracuda that patrol the thriving Posidonia seagrass meadows.
• Clear Visibility: Experience fantastic, luminous year-round visibility that makes every dive feel like you're in a natural aquarium.
• Pristine Ecosystem: Descend into clear, warm waters rich with life, a testament to the health of this untouched environment.

2. Ustica, Sicily

Consistently rated one of the best scuba-diving destinations in the Mediterranean, the island of Ustica is an underwater playground for divers, featuring abundant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and a protected marine reserve.

What to Expect

• Top-Rated Diving: Feel the excitement of exploring one of the Mediterranean's premier dive sites, a true paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
• Submerged Grottoes: Discover hidden, submerged grottoes and tunnels whose walls are decorated with colorful coral and sponges.
• Ancient Shipwrecks: See history preserved underwater, with ancient Roman shipwrecks still carrying their cargo of protected marble slabs. To do so, plan a UNESCO World Heritage Treasures of Sicily Tour.
• Large Pelagics: Swim alongside substantial populations of barracuda, goliath grouper, and amberjacks in the crystal-clear protected waters.
• Thriving Reefs: Experience an underwater world teeming with abundant coral reefs and diverse fish that feast on the untouched elements.

3. Saint Lucia, Rome

This unique dive site off the coast of Rome, which you can visit on a Whirlwind 3-Week Tour of Italy, celebrates the history of the Mediterranean with a magnificent wreck dive. It leads to a boat sunk during World War II, revealing a compelling story of nature's persistence.

What to Expect

• WWII Wreck: Feel the historical significance of exploring a WWII shipwreck resting on the seabed, with many features still intact.
• Intact Features: Witness a remarkably preserved anchor, propeller, and stern handrail, offering a tangible connection to the past.
• Nature's Reclamation: See how marine life has taken over the vessel, with colorful coral, waving seagrass, and snapping moray eels making it their home.
• Underwater Narrative: Discover a truly unique dive site where human history and the relentless force of nature converge in a compelling story.
• Historical Dive: Experience the unique blend of a historical dive just a short trip from the ancient wonders of Rome.

4. Aci Trezza, Sicily

This marvelous dive site brings to life the maritime culture of Sicily with numerous shipwrecks spanning from the Roman Age to World War II. It features astonishing volcanic rock formations above and below the water that you can explore on our Soul of Sicily Tour.

What to Expect

• Cyclopean Rocks: Explore the astonishing Cyclopean rock formations, volcanic basalt columns that create a dramatic underwater landscape.
• Rich Wreck History: Experience a dive site rich in maritime history, with remnants of wrecks from two millennia of seafaring.
• Giant Sea Fans: Witness gigantic gorgonian sea fans thriving in the protected waters, alongside bright, igneous stones.
• Elusive Seahorses: Search for seahorses, which are often found here but are so well camouflaged they are frequently unnoticed.
• Volcanic Boulders: Feel the cool water currents as you navigate around ancient volcanic boulders on the seafloor.

A collection of Italy’s beaches retain a relaxing ambiance set in unspoiled nature, providing refuge from the crowds. These best-kept secrets offer idyllic seas and hideaway coves for those seeking privacy.

1. San Fruttuoso, Liguria

This fabulous, secluded beach is only accessible by boat or a long hike. Its velvety sands line the foothills of coastal cliffs between the cities of Portofino and Camogli, with lush vegetation accentuating the sense of privacy.

What to Expect

• Exclusive Access: Feel the unique privilege of reaching this hidden cove only by a scenic boat trip or a rewarding, steep hike.
• Medieval Abbey: Witness the majestic 10th-century Fruttuoso Abbey, a stone monastery that rises directly from the pebbled shore.
• Christ of the Abyss: Discover the famous underwater bronze statue of Jesus Christ, visible to snorkelers and divers in the clear, cerulean water.
• Rustic Dining: Savor simple, exquisite Ligurian flavors like fresh fish and pesto at one of the few rustic trattorias on the beach. Find out more by taking a look at our Exploring the Cuisine and Culture of Liguria and Emilia-Romagna Tour.
• Natural Calm: Hear the quiet lapping of the sea against the shore, a peaceful soundscape undisturbed by roads or traffic.

2. Laurito, Campania

While the Amalfi Coast is celebrated for its lavish accommodations, its true charms are often protected by locals like pirate treasure. Laurito is one such perfect, secluded beach, popular with locals, but mostly out of sight of visitors. Uncover its secrets when you embark on an Italian Adventure to Rome, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily.

What to Expect

• A Local's Secret: Experience a truly hidden gem, offering a rare sense of privacy and authenticity on the celebrated Amalfi Coast.
• Indigo Sea: Gaze upon the deep indigo hues of the sea, which create a dramatic juxtaposition with the dark sand and pebbles of the shoreline.
• Undisturbed Peace: Hear the gentle murmur of waves and the quiet chatter of locals, a peaceful soundtrack free from the usual tourist bustle.
• Intimate Embrace: Feel the cozy, intimate atmosphere of this small beach, reached by a flight of steps from the main road.
• Relaxed Sunbathing: Indulge in the famous Mediterranean sunlight while relaxing on a simple deck chair, far from the larger, crowded beaches.

3. Riserva dello Zingaro, Sicily

The rugged landscape of Sicily's first nature reserve protects the soft, white sand and clear water of its many hidden beaches. Steep paths and its protected status keep crowds away from this pristine coastline.

What to Expect

• Hiker's Reward: On a Hiking Southern Italy Tour: Trails of the Bay of Naples and Sicily, take to scenic coastal paths that reveal a series of stunning hidden coves, rewarding your effort with unparalleled seclusion.
• Untouched Nature: Savor the simplicity of a picnic lunch enjoyed amidst unspoiled nature, as there are no commercial establishments in the reserve.
• Pristine Sounds: Hear the calls of diverse seabirds and the natural symphony of waves in a coastal paradise protected from development.
• Subtropical Beauty: Witness over four miles of pristine coastline decorated with rugged cliffs and lush subtropical vegetation.
• Invigorating Swims: Feel the soft, untouched white sand and dive into the invigorating, crystal-clear water of the protected coves.

4. Macarro Beach, Basilicata

This small, hidden black-sand beach, a favorite among locals, remains mostly overlooked by tourists. It lies along the shores of Basilicata on the Tyrrhenian Sea, providing an idyllic and secluded setting that you can enjoy on our Exclusive Southern Italy Vacation: Sorrento, Matera, and Ostuni.

What to Expect

• A True Secret: Experience a true local's spot, accessible via a steep but scenic path that guarantees a sense of private discovery.
• Black Sand: Feel the unique texture of the dark, volcanic sand, which creates a stunning visual contrast with the turquoise sea.
• Hidden Caves: Discover thrilling hideaway caves carved into the rock faces at the edge of the beach, adding an adventurous element to your visit.
• Pine Forest Backdrop: Hear the soft rustle of the majestic pine forest that connects directly to the shoreline, blending with the lapping of the waves.
• Undisturbed Relaxation: Indulge in swimming, snorkeling, or simply sinking into a lounge chair, far from any crowds.

These beaches are famous for reliable sunshine and temperate waters that are warm and inviting. From southern Italy to the islands, they offer the perfect conditions for a classic beach holiday from spring through autumn.

1. Arco Magno, Calabria

This unforgettable beach has streaks of gray pebbles and impossibly clear, azure waters hidden inside a secluded cove. A natural stone arch rises out of the water, turning the scenery into a storybook. For more information, take a look at our Best Southern Italy Itineraries and Tours.

What to Expect

• The Stone Arch: Witness a spectacular scene as a dramatic natural stone arch frames the impossibly clear, azure waters of the lagoon.
• Storybook Sunsets: Experience a magical evening as the setting sun casts a bronze hue over the water, fading perfectly through the fabled archway.
• Warm Lagoon: Feel the consistently warm, inviting waters of the fan-shaped lagoon, perfect for swimming from April through November.
• Secluded Cove: Enjoy the unique, intimate ambiance of the secluded cove, hidden from the main beach and accessible through the arch.
• Gray Pebbles: The beach's smooth gray pebbles create a beautiful contrast with the turquoise water.

2. Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia

The majesty of this beach is a gift for those eager enough to make the journey, as it is only reachable by boat or a long hike. The reward is crystalline water and a secluded cove with glistening ivory-hued sand and pebbles.

What to Expect

• A Hiker's Paradise: On Zicasso’s Immersive Italian Tour to Florence, Cinque Terre, and Sardinia, embark on a rewarding hike or boat trip to reach this pristine, secluded paradise, an effort that guarantees its preservation.
• Natural Monuments: Gaze upon two iconic natural sculptures: a towering 470-foot limestone spire and a dramatic stone arch plunging into the sea.
• Ivory Sands: Feel the fine, ivory-hued sand and smooth pebbles, which radiate the day's warmth under the intense Sardinian sun.
• Afternoon Shade: The sun disappears behind the tall rocks in the mid-afternoon, providing natural shade for a perfect excursion during the day's warmest hours.
• Pristine Water: Savor a swim in the crystalline, turquoise water, so clear it feels like a natural swimming pool.

3. Sansone, Elba

This picturesque island off the coast of Tuscany was once home to an imprisoned Napoleon. Today, it's famous for the sensational strip of sand and pebbles that shape Sansone Beach. Framed by craggy white cliffs, pay it a visit during a Visions of the Past: Art and History Tour of Rome and Elba Island.

What to Expect

• Striking White Cliffs: Admire the dramatic, craggy white cliffs that plunge into the sea, framing the beach and making the water appear even more blue.
• Translucent Water: Indulge in leisurely dips in the translucent, azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, perfect for cooling off.
• Long Beach Season: Enjoy the relaxed sounds of beach life here from May to October, when the weather is ideal and the water is warm.
• Napoleonic History: Experience the easy-going charm of Elba, an island with a unique history as the temporary home of an exiled Napoleon.
• Refreshing Mix: Feel the pleasant mix of white sand and smooth pebbles underfoot on this beautiful and popular beach.

4. Isola Bella, Sicily

A stunning stretch of narrow sand connects the shores beneath Taormina with Isola Bella, or "Beautiful Island." The islet's exotic plants and mild climate have made it a popular destination for over a century. Add it to our best Southern Italy tours and vacations.

What to Expect

• The Beautiful Island: Witness the captivating beauty of this tiny, lush nature reserve, connected to the mainland by a sandbar you can walk across.
• Cable Car Access: Enjoy effortless access to the beach via a scenic cable car ride from the historic resort town of Taormina above.
• Warm, Protected Bay: Feel the consistently warm and inviting waters of the Ionian Sea, kept calm and placid by the protection of the bay.
• Sicilian Flavors: Savor the vibrant flavors of Sicilian street food like arancini, easily accessible from the many lidos and cafés.
• Exotic Plants: Discover the islet's history as a private home, now a nature reserve adorned with rare and exotic plants.

5. Anzio, Lazio

This charming beach connects to a medium-sized fishing port and is steeped in history. It was the site of a grand villa belonging to the Roman Emperor Nero and where the Allies landed during World War II.

What to Expect

• Roman Ruins: Explore the fascinating ruins of Nero's imperial villa, which once overtook half a mile of the cliffs overlooking the sea.
• WWII History: Feel the historical significance of the manicured beaches where the Allies landed in 1944 on an In the Footsteps of Italian History Tour: From Antiquity to Contemporary.
• Ideal Climate: Bask in the perfect weather and warm water of the Lazio coastline, ideal for a beach day between late May and early October.
• Working Port: Hear the lively sounds of a working fishing port mingling with the relaxed chatter of beachgoers at waterfront restaurants.
• Easy Day Trip: Experience a unique blend of history and relaxation, easily accessible for a day trip from the capital city of Rome.

Italy is a country that has it all, from enticing beaches to mouthwatering cuisine, ancient history to timeless fashion. Whether looking for the perfect place to soak in the golden Mediterranean sun or escape for a serene ocean view, with our travel specialists’ help, you can find an Italian beach that is perfect for your bespoke vacation.

For more information on planning a trip to this glorious country, see our Italy travel guide or Italy tours and trip packages. Then, connect with our experts and they will customize your perfect beach vacation in Italy.