11 Unforgettable Beach Destinations for a Summer Holiday in Italy
Italy’s turquoise waters are alluring, beckoning locals and tourists to its pristine beaches scattered throughout the regions. Every beach possesses a unique composition and coastal charm. Breathtaking shores coupled with medieval villages are a power-duo anyone would be so lucky to enjoy over a summer holiday. It’s perhaps for this reason more internationals are deciding to make Italy their home. They come for a holiday and decide to stay for a lifetime. Why not, especially when you can benefit from so many tax incentives.
With over 4,700 miles of coastline, it was challenging to narrow down a selection of Italy’s top beaches. Nonetheless, here are 11 breathtaking options to make the cut. Whether you’re up for exploring along the Ligurian Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea, Adriatic Sea or Ionian Sea this summer season, there’s mesmerising locations abound each worthy of adding to your bucket list.
Let’s dive in!
Marasusa Beach, Tropea, Calabria
“The Coast of the Gods” or La Costa degli Dei has a nice ring to it. The Calabrian coast, in ancient times was said to be chosen by the gods for its scenic beauty, and totals 34 miles of majestic terrain. Marasusa Beach, in the town of Tropea, boasts scenic cliffs, clear waters, and a white sandy shore. The Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola sits atop the homonymous rock, reachable via a staircase of approximately 300 steps built in the early 1800s.
Positano, Amalfi Coast, Campania
Is anywhere in Italy more internationally recognized than Positano? Full of Italian splendor, this coastal village on the Amalfi Coast impresses with world-famous hotels, top-quality restaurants, and high-end boutiques. Spiaggia Grande is the place to see and be seen, while photos of Positano’s vibrant villas cascading down to the shoreline are Instagram royalty. Perhaps best of all, a day trip to the exclusive island of Capri is accessible via ferry April through October.
Atrani, Campania
A short drive from the hotspots of the Amalfi Coast is the small fishing village of Atrani, often referred to as one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. The colorful cliffside along the Tyrrhenian Sea is full of thirteenth-century baroque churches and piazzas and home to one of the most picturesque beaches in Italy. The warm, clear water is perfect for swimming or snorkelling, and after a day at the beach be sure to explore the antique town whose scenic streets have been a favorite of the international film industry.
Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre, Liguria
It’s impossible to mention an Italian summer holiday and not include Cinque Terre. While the Amalfi Coast offers glitz and glamour, Cinque Terre takes travellers off the beaten path. Should you wish to couple your relaxing summer vacation with exploration and exercise, Cinque Terre is composed of five villages that are linked by hiking trails. Of all the seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, Monterosso al Mare is the most populated for its ease of access and extensive sandy shore.
San Fruttuoso, Liguria
An emerald jewel in the province of Genoa lies this small bay only reachable by sea or along a panoramic hiking trail inside the Regional Park of Portofino. San Fruttuoso is a peaceful and spiritual retreat. Don’t miss a visit to the Benedictine monastery from the 10th century, today perfectly restored by the non-profit foundation, FAI for the preservation of Italy’s heritage.
Spiaggia Delle Due Sorelle, Marche
Another beach only reachable by boat is “Two Sisters Beach,” named after a pair of rocks jutting out of the deep blue ocean. It is located in Sirolo, in Italy’s central region of Marche, and is an iconic symbol of the Conero Riviera. Totally wild and untouched, the beach provides postcard worthy views and an unforgettable experience.
Baia Delle Zagare, Puglia
Puglia, which forms the heel of Italy’s boot, is a treasure trove of art, history, wine and food for locals and tourists alike. On its spur lies the Baia Delle Zagare, one of two beaches separated by a cliff along the Gargano sea. It’s named after the flowers of the nearby lemon trees and is often a stop for boat excursions on their exploration of the Gargano’s sea caves. The sea’s changing colors of blue and green is truly breathtaking and Baia Delle Zagare’s wild Mediterranean shore has been deemed a must-visit location at least once in your lifetime.
Polignano a Mare, Puglia
A mere 40 minutes from the Bari International airport, Polignano a Mare is easily accessible for international visitors. Encompassed by limestone cliffs that tower 20 meters high, the beach is a famous spot for adrenaline-seeking cliff divers who jump from the Grotta Piana into the Adriatic Sea. For a perfect summer day, discover the old town and its white-washed houses characteristic of the area via the Porta Vecchia gate, grab an artisan gelato, and unwind on the shore of this Blue Flag awarded beach.
Cala Goloritzè, Sardinia
Sardinia may hold the record for the number of most gorgeous beaches and with beauties like Cala Goloritzè it’s not hard to imagine why. The sea and mountains unite here along the Gulf of Orosei in eastern Sardinia. Located in the town of Baunei, the area is excellent for snorkelling, hiking, climbing, and birdwatching. In fact, the beach, which is nestled at the base of a deep ravine, can only be reached by boat or by foot. If on foot, the journey requires roughly 1 hour and likely double for the return; but don’t worry there’s also plenty of boat tour guides to help you reach this gem. The stunning beach is perhaps the most photographed in the province of Ogliastra and was elected a UNESCO world heritage site in 1995.
La Pelosa, Sardinia
Akin to a shallow swimming pool, this enormous saltwater haven is also located in Sardinia along the island’s northwestern coast in the Gulf of Asinara. La Pelosa sits around the corner from the little village of Stintino and stretches for 300 meters, allowing families with small children the opportunity to easily wade out into its calm waters. The 16th Century watchtower is a significant landmark of the region popular among divers.
Bay of Chia, Sardinia
The Bay of Chia is home to several beaches beloved for their peach-colored sand and turquoise waters. Located in the south of Sardinia, its ideal wind conditions makes it a favorite among surfers, kite-surfers and sailors. The Bay of Chia is flush with sand dunes, some reaching up to 30 meters high, and spotted with juniper trees. Beachgoers can also catch sightings of dolphins and pink flamingos in the nearby lagoon.
It’s important to note, though, the dunes provide a protective barrier against the wind and it’s prohibited to walk on them. It is also forbidden to take sand, shells, and stones from Sardinian beaches; if you do you could get a fine.
Let us know where you’re making your summer plans this year, we’d love to hear about it! If you’re interested in purchasing a property in a coastal town, fill out our Property Search request form or contact us here so we can start sending you listings today.
We surely couldn’t fit in all of Italy’s remarkable beaches, so stay tuned for our special edition on top beach recommendations in Sicily!