Last Updated on July 7, 2024 by Tori’s VA
Chances are, Italy is one of your favorite vacation destinations to dream about. For good reason, the scenery is ten out of ten, the food is the best in the world, the people are kind and friendly, the history is everywhere and we haven’t even mentioned the wine! And what could possibly make an Italian getaway that much more incredible? Visiting the best beach towns in Italy of course!
Imagine laying on a beach chair with the classic striped umbrellas hanging above you. An Aperol Spritz in your hand and the waves splashing in front of you. And you look up the jagged coast to the brightly colored buildings that seem to hang off the cliffs. It’s Summer in Italy and I promise there’s no place you’d rather be.
Last summer I had a baby, and while Miss Scarlett Capri is the absolute light of my life, I have been dreaming of a Summer getaway in Italy ever since my summer stuck inside. And now with the cold weather upon us, all I can dream of is Italy.
So to get us all ready for the Italian beach getaway of our dreams, I wanted to create a roundup of the absolute best beach towns in Italy that you must visit this summer. Pick as many as you can and explore these beaches in Italy!
This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!
Map of the Best Beach Towns in Italy
Packing List for Visiting Beach Towns in Italy
I won’t bore you with a long list of things to pack, but there are a few necessities you need to take with you.
Teema Towel
It’s the first thing that goes in my suitcase no matter the destination, but it is extra important to bring with you to these beach towns in Italy! These Teema Towels are cute and super soft, but there’s so much more to them. They’re quick to dry, sand doesn’t get stuck in the fabric, they fold up super tiny and can be used for so many things! A beach towel, pool towel, a sarong, picnic blanket, even as a blanket for plane or train rides! It’s a necessity and my favorite travel item.
I used my towel during our recent trip to Positano and Capri, keeping warm on the boat, drying off, to sit on at the beach and more. It’s the best! And yes, Teema towels are SO much better than the cheap alternatives on Amazon. I have both and I will only buy Teema forever, and I am not normally one to spend up!
Hiking Sandals
Okay you might think I’m crazy here. You’re planning to relax on the beach and eat delicious food, not hike, right? Well, most of these beach towns in Italy are on the side of cliffs which means lots and lots of stairs to get around. So, wear these hiking sandals because they’re open toed for the sand yet still sturdy, safe and comfortable for all the walking…and climbing!
Swimsuits
So this one is obvious, but sometimes finding cute and flattering suits can be hard. Here’s some of my favorite swimsuits to take with you to these beach towns in Italy!
Kindle
Laying out on the beach for vacation means lots of time to read, and lugging around bulky books (while I definitely love the real thing) can be super inconvenient when traveling. Bring a Kindle and you can have all your books on the go!
Sunglasses
I must be honest. I’m not the girl who owns expensive sunglasses. I know my limits, I break them and lose them so I just can’t justify the Ray-Bans. Here’s some cheap and cute sunglasses that won’t be a huge deal if you lose them somewhere on the Italian Riviera.
Best Beach Towns in Northern Italy
Sestri Levante
Recommended by Sarah of Life Part2 & Beyond
Sestri Levante is a lovely coastal town nestled between the more famous destinations of Portofino and Cinque Terre on the Gulf of Tigullio on Italy’s Ligurian coast.
The gem of Sestri Levante is the stunning crescent-shaped Baia del Silenzio, where cafés and houses line the shoreline, and small fishing boats bob in the crystal-clear waters, creating a truly picturesque scene.
Across the peninsula lies Baia delle Favole, (Fairytales Bay) named in honor of Hans Christian Andersen’s brief stay in the early 19th century. While not as visually striking as Baia del Silenzio, this larger beach offers more amenities with deckchairs and parasols for rent, along with beachside cafes and bars.
The town’s harbor on this side serves as a launching point for many boat tours along the coastline and small ferries to key tourist towns like Cinque Terre, Portofino, and more.
There are many things to do in Sestri Levante in addition to enjoying the beach. For those seeking a break from lazing on the beach, take a walk around Sestri Levante’s historic center. It’s a charming maze of narrow streets with colorful houses, churches, quaint piazzas, and great cafes perfect for coffee and people-watching.
Alternatively, the one-hour hike up to Punta Manara promises incredible sea views.
Sestri Levante is easily accessible by train and small enough that everything is within walking distance, thus eliminating the need for a rental car.
The town boasts several excellent restaurants. My favorites include the centrally located and deservedly popular Millelire and Aragosta D’Oro. But because Sestri Levante caters predominantly for the Italians, you will be pretty much guaranteed excellent food everywhere. Of all of the beach towns in Italy, this one might be one of the most authentic since it is less touched by tourists!
Region: Liguria
Closest Airport: Genoa
Type of Beach: Sandy
Where to Stay: Hotel Due Mari
Monterosso al Mare
Recommended by Imee of Italy In Focus
Known as the largest of the Cinque Terre villages, this charming seaside town is located between Punta Mesco and Punta Manara; it is one of the five charming villages that make up the Cinque Terre, a stunning coastal region in the Liguria region of Italy and one of the best beach towns in Italy.
If you visit Monterosso al Mare, the train is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach it. The village has a train station called “Monterosso” that is well-connected to major cities in Italy. Other options are by car and by boat.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Monterosso al Mare; aside from exploring the sandy beaches, you can wander around the town, which is divided into two, the Old Town and New Town, known as Fegina.
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Visit the historical center in the old town and be amazed by the ruins of its medieval fortress and watch towers. Don’t miss the stunning beauty of the Church of San Giovanni Battista, known for its beautiful façade and impressive stone bell tower.
You can also explore the Aurora Tower, a historic fortress overlooking the sea, which is another must-visit spot offering breathtaking coastline views.
Do not leave Monterosso al Mare without trying the famous Monterosso anchovies, a local specialty popular all over Cinque Terre. It is served deep-fried or salted with lemon; you can even try it on pasta. The best place to try this anchovy and other local dishes in Monterosso is the Trattoria Da Oscar.
Region: Liguria
Closest Airport: Genoa (GOA) Airport
Type of Beach: Long sandy beach
Where to Stay: Hotel Porto Roca
Grado
Recommended by Martina of PlacesofJuma
The charming town of Grado, located on Italy’s picturesque Adriatic coast, is a true secret tip among the most beautiful beach towns in Italy. Situated in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region on the northern coast of the Adriatic Sea, Grado is best reached by rental car or bus. With its uniquely Italian atmosphere, breathtaking sandy beaches and a picturesque old town as beautiful and unique as a picture book, it is easy to fall in love with this place.
A vacation in Grado has many highlights to enjoy. One of them is the miles and miles of Grado’s sandy beach with its nostalgic promenade, which still exudes the historical charm of times gone by. Over 100 years ago, Grado was an imperial seaside resort and already then the motto was: see and be seen. Not far from the beach, Grado’s charming old town invites you to explore its cobbled streets, ancient churches, quaint shops and cozy cafes.
But the surrounding area of Grado is also full of enchantment. A special experience is a boat trip to the nearby island of the Church of Barbana, an important place of pilgrimage in Grado. Already the boat ride starting from the picturesque port of Grado and sailing through the Grado lagoon is a wonderful experience. Another tip for an excursion is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aquileia and to the Val Cavanata nature reserve, where it is even possible to see flamingos.
Region: Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region
Nearest Airport: Trieste airport, about 25 km northeast of Grado
Type of Beach: Sandy
Where to stay: Hotel & Apartments Eldorado
Bellagio
Recommended by Joanna of The World in My Pocket
Bellagio is one of the most romantic beach towns in Italy, with two beaches and a lido at Lake Como. It sits on the tip of a small peninsula on Lake Como, offering incredible panoramic views on each side, with the Alps in the background.
Getting to Bellagio is easy. You can either take the train to Como from Milano, and from there the hydrofoil, or take the train to Varenna, and from there the local boat over the lake.
There are plenty of things to do in Bellagio, besides going to the beach. The town has two historic Villas: Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi. You can visit the gardens on Villa Serbelloni on a guided tour, but you have to book in advance as there is only a limited number of people allowed in every day. You can also see the Villa if you stay here, but it will cost you, as it’s a high end hotel. The gardens of Villa Melzi can be visited at any time.
A great place to eat in Bellagio is Antico Pozzo. Don’t miss the local dishes made with perch, a fish that lives in Lake Como.
Region: Lombardia
Closest Airport: Milano
Type of Beach: Rocky
Where to Stay: Residence L’Ulivo
Menaggio
Recommended by Zoe from Together In Switzerland
Located on the left, western side of Lake Como is the quaint little village of Mennagio. As a much smaller location in the region, it’s often overlooked compared to Bellagio, Como and Varenna, but should be considered on the list of beach towns in Italy. For a relaxing visit with the beach, it’s just the place to be. You can get there easiest with a public bus or a boat from Como city but by car is also possible.
The best time to visit is in Spring and Summer, when the village is the prettiest with flowers, sunshine and the warm heat of the season. This time is also best for enjoying a boat trip on Lake Como, where you can take a direct boat from Menaggio to Varenna and Bellagio across the water.
For those wanting to swim directly in Lake Como, head to the Spiaggia Lerai beach area, which is less than 10 minutes walking from the center of Menaggio. It’s a rocky beach, so don’t expect sand, but still perfect for those wanting to swim, sunbathe and relax with a book.
For a bite to eat, Menaggio has some delicious Italian restaurants. A top recommendation is to get a table at Il Ristorante Di Paolo.
Region: Lombardy
Closest Airport: Milan Malpensa/Linate/Bergamo
Type of Beach: rocky, spacious, but busy during a hot day
Where to Stay: Hotel Bellavista
Vernazza
Recommended by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles
Vernazza is one of the towns of the Cinque Terre, on the Ligurian coast of Italy. The pretty town is well worth putting on your Italy itinerary!
Although there isn’t really a proper beach (you’d need to head to Monterosso, one of the other Cinque Terre towns, for a regular beach), the town is still on the water, with a very scenic rocky shore that’s popular with visitors, especially at sunset.
Vernazza is tiny, and, other than hanging out by the water, you’d want to stroll through the town to admire the colorful facades, eat lots of seafood and pesto, drink local wine, and hike to a neighboring Cinque Terre town for views of the towns and the water.
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The easiest way to arrive in Vernazza is by train. From places like Milan or Florence, you would take a train to La Spezia or Monterosso. A local train connects all the towns and you can buy a day pass if you like.
Another way to arrive is by ferry, if you have more time. Bringing a car to Cinque Terre is a little bit of a hassle, because there isn’t any parking other than in Monterosso or La Spezia.
Ristorante La Torre is a wonderful place to dine, with views over the water.
Region: Liguria
Closest Airport: Pisa International Airport
Type of Beach: Rocky
Where to Stay: Hotel Gianni Franzi
Riomaggiore
Recommended by Soujanya of The Spicy Journey
Riomaggiore is one of the 5 charming towns in Cinque Terre – a picturesque region set along the Italian riviera. The town of Riomaggiore is famous for the striking colorful buildings set along a rocky harbor alongside the sea. Not only does this town provide views of the sea, a charming waterfront and seafood-based local specialties, but also hiking opportunities along the cliff overlooking the Ligurian sea.
The beaches in Riomaggiore are mainly rocky. Spiaggia del Paese, also known as the village beach, is the main beach here. It got its name because it is a small pebble beach located in the middle of the village. And although it’s not very large, it does tempt one with glistening, clear emerald waters that are canvassed by a greenery on one side and views of the town on the other.
Apart from that, there is a rocky area in Riomaggiore, next to the harbor, where one can jump into the waters with a clear view of this iconic town or even enjoy a takeout pizza from the famous Pizzeria Kepris while watching the sun go down. Two of the top seaside restaurants and bars in Riomaggiore are Dau Cila, Bar e Vini a Pie de Ma.
Even though Riomaggiore may not have many beaches in comparison to many other beach towns in Italy, its charm is unparalleled and there are abundant ways to enjoy the seaside from here.
Region: Liguria
Closest Airport: Pisa International Airport
Type of Beach: Rocky
Where to Stay: Hotel la Zorza
Manarola
Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler
Manarola is one of the charming towns of Cinque Terre with a lovely waterfront for swimming and boating. While the town lacks a sandy beach, the deep water swimming here is exceptional. You can climb a ladder up the rocks to jump into the beautiful turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea. Enjoy the bustling waterfront with traditional fishing boats while sunbathing on the rocks. The harbor is the perfect place to view a sunset.
The colorful houses of Manarola can best viewed from a hill across from the harbor. Stroll the town to enjoy delicious Italian foods and wine including locally made pesto and dessert wines. A hiking trail connects the five towns of Cinque Terre. See vineyards and olive groves on this splendid hike overlooking the ocean.
A train from La Spezia, with connections to major Italian cities, is the best way to get to Manarola. The train also connects all the villages of Cinque Terre so it’s easy to hop between the towns.
Region: Liguria
Closest Airport: Pisa Airport or Genoa International Airport
Type of Beach: busy harbor with big rocks
Where to Stay: Affittacamere Nuova Vandiris
Best Beach Towns in Central Italy
Fregene
Recommended by Lisa of Rome Travelogues
The most beautiful beach town in Italy near Rome is Fregene Beach. It is 5 km of soft yellow-gray beach, which at its northernmost part, near the Singita establishment, is very wide.
Fregene town, after which the beach is named, was a small fishing village until the 1950’s. Today the fishermen’s huts, in the oldest part of the town known as the ” fishermen’s village,” have been transformed into low houses painted white and blue.
During the 1960s, after director Federico Fellini shot some scenes of the famous film La Dolce Vita in Fregene, many Romans wanted to buy a second home in Fregene. The village grew larger, and today has 5,000 inhabitants, so it is perfect for a relaxing getaway from Rome.
Fregene Beach and town are wonderful places for a family vacation. The land is flat, perfect for getting around by bike. The waterfront has a bike path that touches all the beach clubs and public beaches.
Many beach clubs rent beach equipment at affordable prices and also offer a children’s pool and opportunities for water sports, such as Point Break.
A large part of Fregene is covered by a pine forest with monumental trees more than 200 years old. There is also an adventure park with fun trails for young and adults.
For those who love good food, the seafood dishes in this town, such as spaghetti allo scoglio, will give great satisfaction.
The best restaurant is Lo Spuntino, which in addition to fish and meat also offers excellent pizza.
You can get to Fregene by an FL5 train from Roma Termini, getting off at Maccarese/Fregene and then taking a local bus 11.
Region: Lazio
Nearest Airport: Fiumicino Intl. Airport
Type of Beach: Sandy
Where to Stay: Hotel La Conchiglia
Sperlonga
Recommended by Yesenia of The Sisters Who Voyage
Sperlonga is a beautiful and cozy little beach town that is located in the central part of Italy and is nestled between Rome and Naples. Due to its central location between tourist hotspots, it makes getting to the coastal beach town relatively easy by hopping on a train. The trip can also be made by car, but since it’s challenging to find parking, it’s not as recommended as public transportation by train.
While Sperlonga is mainly known for its iconic sandy beaches, it also is a great town to explore if you are a history lover. You can start by exploring the Sperlonga Archaeological Museum and Tiberius Villa & Grotto to experience the city’s connection to its historical past through its mesmerizing sculptures and ruins.
Another note-worthy adventure is touring through the whitewashed stone-covered old town historical center and grabbing a delicious meal along the way. The town is known for its fresh seafood but has typical Italian pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas that are equally as tasty.
A great place to try if you’re looking for the town’s specialty would be Il Porticciolo, located near the seaside. Some fantastic dishes would be Lobster pasta or pasta with clams because the catch is so fresh.
All in all, visiting the cozy beach town of Sperlonga is a must-see beach town in Italy if you are looking for beautiful scenery and a taste of history.
Region: Lazio Region
Nearest Airport: Naples Airport
Type of Beach: Sandy and busy during peak months
Where to stay: Hotel Aurora
Anzio
Recommended by Madison of Madison’s Footsteps
If you’re in search of the best beach towns in Italy, then make room for Anzio on the list! This sleepy beach town is only an hour from Rome by train, but if the weather’s warm, you’ll feel like you were transported to the Caribbean.
Unlike the rocky beaches you’ll find on a trip to the Amalfi Coast, Anzio’s beaches are all clear white sand and turquoise waters. Add a couple of ice-cold Peronis in the mix, and you have yourself a perfect Italian beach day.
If you’re not in the mood to soak up the sun, head over to the grotte di Nerone (the caves of Nero) to explore tunnels on the beach belonging to an ancient villa built by the Roman Emperor, Nero.
While you’re in town, be sure to sample some of the freshest seafood in Lazio at Romolo al Porto. Since Anzio isn’t exactly considered a tourist town, the prices are guaranteed to be a lot more budget-friendly than Rome.
Region: Lazio
Closest Airport: Rome Ciampino (CIA) Airport
Type of Beach: Sandy
Where to Stay: Astura Palace Hotel
Best Beach Towns in Southern Italy
Capri
Recommended by Me!
Located off the coast of Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast lies the dreamy island of Capri. My husband and I visited this island for the first time in 2022 and fell so in love with this coastal getaway that we named our baby girl after it in 2023. Needless to say, we love this place and it’s my favorite of the beach towns in Italy.
Capri is just a short boat ride from any of the places I listed above. Hire a private driver, small group tour, or get tickets for the ferry that runs all throughout the day from these destinations. If you can, try to spend a few days exploring the island to get a true feel for what it’s all about and to explore as much as possible. But a day trip to Capri is still absolutely worth the time and money.
Once you arrive at the port, you can explore the little shops close to the water. They’re mostly touristy though, so plan to head up the hill to the center of the island as soon as you can. Walk the pathway up to the center of town for a good workout, or hop on the Funicular for a quick ride up the hill.
Once you’re here, spend time wandering the cobblestone alleyways, shopping and admiring the town. Be sure to have handmade leather sandals made right to your foot!
For lunch or dinner, make reservations at Da Paolino, the most dreamy restaurant I’ve ever seen, hidden below the lemon groves. But be sure to make reservations very early as they book out far in advance. And order the lemon ravioli and caprese salad for the most local dishes!
As for the beach, there’s a few beach clubs you can visit like La Fontelina or Lido del Faro Beach Club. Or there are public beaches at both Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, located across the island from each other.
Region: Campania
Closest Airport: Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP)
Type of Beach: Sandy and Rocky
Where to Stay: Hotel La Floridiana
Positano
Recommended by Kaylee of KayleeJanell.com
Positano, Italy, is nestled on the stunning Amalfi coast and is a must-visit beach town that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. You can choose to rent a car and navigate the winding roads or opt for a bus ride from nearby cities.
Upon arrival, you’ll be taken by the breathtaking view of the town perched on the cliffs. They have a picturesque landscape that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. It has colorful buildings cascading down the hillside towards the sparkling sea.
You can wander through the charming boutiques that line the streets, many offer an array of lemon-themed ceramics which is what the region is known for producing.
When planning your trip, remember to create a travel budget that includes expenses for transportation, dining, shopping, and paying for a lounge chair on the beach. This will ensure a well-rounded and enjoyable experience without overspending as you explore these beach towns in Italy.
When it comes to dining, Ristorante Bruno is a must-visit. This restaurant not only serves some of the best Italian cuisine but also offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the mesmerizing sea. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset while absorbing the beauty of Positano.
Region: Campania
Closest Airport: Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP)
Type of Beach: Rocky
Where to Stay: Hotel Villa Gabrisa
Cagliari
Recommended by Claudia of Strictly Sardinia
Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, is probably the best of the beach towns in Italy. Not many actual cities in the world can offer a range of stunning beaches with perfectly clear water and white sand just minutes away from the city center and easy to access.
The main beach in Cagliari, Poetto, is a 9 km (5.6 miles) sandy beach backed by a marsh that is home to all sorts of bird life (including pink flamingos). The beach is free to access but if you want you can pay for services that go from lidos with beach umbrellas, sun beds, and showers. There also is a biking and running lane along the beach in case you want to exercise.
You can easily get to Poetto Beach by bus from the center of Cagliari – hop on any P bus and it will take you there in no more than 15 minutes.
If you care to explore more than just the beach, you can add lots to your Cagliari itinerary! Take the bus to the other main beach in the city (Calamosca) and hit the easy trail that will take you to the Sella del Diavolo, the promontory that surmounts Poetto Beach. It’s a moderate hike that offers beautiful views.
Back in the city, you can visit the archeological ruins of the Roman Amphitheater, the historic quarters of Castello (the hilltop historic district), La Marina, Stampace and Villanova where you will find a multitude of churches (the cathedral of Santa Maria is located in Castello), museums and galleries. You should consider an underground tour of Cagliari to uncover the many layers of its history.
If you want to grab a bite while at Poetto Beach, head to Le Palmette, a beach-side restaurant that offers modern cuisine at moderate prices. Back in town, you can have a taste of Sardinian cuisine with a modern twist at Chiaroscuro di Marina Ravarotto.
Region: Sardinia
Closest Airport: Cagliari Elmas
Type of Beach: Sandy
Where to Stay: Hotel Nautilus
Polignano a Mare
Recommended by Andrew & Emily of Along Dusty Roads
Polignano a Mare is the most famous of the beach towns in the southern Italian region.
The reason is Cala Porto – also known as Lama Monachile – which really launched the region of Puglia as a destination for non-Italians. Edged by limestone cliffs, white-washed houses, and the most vibrant of aquamarine waters, the small pebble beach is incredibly photogenic and free of the lidos which can overwhelm many Italian beaches in summer.
Easily accessible by train and car from the city of Bari in just 30 minutes, this small town is a popular summer day trip stop but also a great base from which to explore the rest of the Puglia’s Adriatic coastline
There’s plenty of things to do in Polignano a Mare aside from lounging on the sand. It really is a joy to wander around the pretty streets of Polignano a Mare in the early morning, where poetry is written on the walls and you’re never far from the sea.
Much of its lungomare and centro storico overlooks the water, offering excellent views, as does the spectacular terrace of its most in-demand restaurant: hidden within an ancient cave, Grotta Palazzese, has been used for banquets and parties since the 1700s and is the place for a splurge.
Region: Puglia
Closest Airport: Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla
Type of Beach: Busy w/ pebbles and rocks
Where To Stay: Polignano a Mare
Maiori
Recommended by Merry Allison of Virginia Vacation Guide
Maiori is a charming small beach town along the famed Amalfi Coast of Italy. The town is a popular summer vacation spot among locals and tourists alike and one of the most beautiful beach towns in Italy.
Maiori is a great alternative to some of its more crowded neighbors like Amalfi and Sorrento. It’s quieter and smaller but still provides guests with the calm beach waters and stunning rock cliffs that make the Amalfi Coast such a popular Italian vacation spot.
One of the highlights in town is the Path of Lemons (Sentiero dei Limoni), which is a stone trail that meanders from Maiori, hugging the cliff walls with stunning views of the water and rolling hills. The trail leads to the neighboring town of Minori, with a beautiful view overlooking the sister town. Along the way, you’ll spot the lemon trees that give the trail its name.
Maiori is filled with a handful of excellent restaurants and cafes that specialize in seafood dishes. One spot that you don’t want to miss is the Torre Normanna (the Norman Tower), which is a restaurant located in the striking 13th-century Norman Tower that dominates the Maiori coastline. Just exploring the beautiful stone tower with its gorgeous sea views is worth the visit!
Maiori can be reached by car from Naples (the nearest major city). It is about an hour and 30 minutes drive. Another option is to take the train from Naples to Salerno (which is about 36 minutes long), and then take a shorter 20-minute taxi ride from Salerno to Maiori.
Region: Campania
Closest Airport: Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP)
Type of Beach: Sandy, busy
Where to Stay: The Reginna Palace Hotel
Punta Secca
Recommended by Soumya of Stories by Soumya
Punta Secca in Southern Sicily is a charming beach town in Italy that’s known for its fine golden sand beaches and picturesque surroundings.
Spiaggia di Puntasecca or the beach of Punta Secca was made famous by the Italian TV series, Commissario Montalbano which first aired in 1999. The protagonist, a police officer named Salvo Montalbano lived in a house right across the Punta Secca beach and swam in its cool blue waters. Even today, you can swim here but be careful if the seas are rough.
The Punta Secca beach is pretty with shiny golden sands punctuated by crystal clear waters and rocky outcrops. It is a great place to witness a stunning sunset.
Apart from spending time at the beach, you can explore the quaint alleys of Punta Secca town and check out the famous house of Inspector Montalbano.
Summers are busy in Punta Secca because the place is thronged by Montalbano fans who come here every year for their annual pilgrimage. Montalbano guided tours are especially popular.
Located near the historic town of Ragusa, Punta Secca is easy to get to by car. The closest airport at Catania is just a couple of hours away making it a fun beach getaway to add to your Sicily itinerary.
Region: Sicily
Closest Airport: Catania Airport (CTA)
Type of Beach: Sandy with rocky outcrops
Where to Stay: Hotel Mar & Sol
Bari
Recommended by Morgan of Crave the Planet
Bari, Italy is known as the heart of Puglia – a region in the south of Italy that is less famous than Rome or Tuscany making it great for travelers that want a more authentic experience when they are visiting beach towns in Italy. You’ve got to hit up Pane e Pomodoro beach for its crystal clear – electric blue waters.
The best things to do in Bari include eating the fresh seafood, drinking delicious local wines, chilling at one of the many beaches, shopping and wandering the cobblestone lined old town marveling at the architecture. The street vendors offer savory cones of fried seafood to die for.
Many of the beaches in the Puglia region are superb and worthy of exploring from April to November and easily accessed from the train station in the middle of town. The Trenitalia system here is really well run and it’s easy to take short day trips to explore the region. Driving is a bit hectic.
You should also check out the neighboring Polignano a Mare and Monopoli to visit their grottos and sea caves.
Region: Puglia
Closest Airport: Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla
Type of Beach: Rocky
Where to Stay: Via Bozzi Luxury Home
Ischia Ponte
Recommended by Helen of Helen on Her Holidays
Ischia Ponte is one of the most beautiful and memorable beach towns you’ll find in Italy. Set on the northern coast of the island of Ischia in the bay of Naples, Ischia Ponte has a relaxed, family feel and an outstanding view of the dramatic Castello Aragonese. The medieval castle and former convent perches on a rocky islet and is connected to the town by a long stone bridge. It’s well worth visiting, although sensitive types may want to skip the rather gruesome crypt!
Ischia Ponte’s main beach is Spiaggia dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Beach), a pretty curved beach to the left of the town. The beach is sandy, with fine gravel if you dig deep enough, and shelves gently into the sea. Like many beaches in Italy, Ischia Ponte’s beach has beach bars which dominate the sand, but there are some free areas.
To get to Ischia, either take a flight or a train to Naples, then catch one of the regular ferries or hydrofoils to Ischia. Most ferries arrive at Ischia Porto, which is a pleasant 30 minute walk or short bus ride from Ischia Ponte.
Ischia has some of the most delicious food of any of the beach towns in Italy (perhaps because it’s so popular with Italian visitors) so you can’t really go wrong finding somewhere to eat. Bar Monzu is just across the street from the bridge to the castle and has both wonderful views and wonderful bruschetta.
Region: Campania
Closest Airport: Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP)
Type of Beach: sandy, family, busy
Where to Stay: Castello Aragonese
Monopoli
Recommended by Kate of Adventurous Kate
One of the most underrated beach towns in Italy and the Mediterranean is Monopoli Italy. This small town is picture-perfect, with winding small streets, whitewashed buildings with green shutters, and plants growing wildly everywhere!
As for the beaches, there’s a small sandy beach right next to the old town of Monopoli, which is the most convenient. But walk further south down the coast and you find additional sandy and rocky beaches, some that are home to Italian-style beach clubs with chair rentals.
Monopoli is easily accessible from Bari, the main transportation hub of the Puglia region. From Bari Airport it’s an hourlong drive or 15-minute plus 25-minute train journey.
Beyond the beach, Monopoli is a beautiful town for walking around and soaking it in. You can visit Castello Carlo V, with its lookout tower, tour the churches, or just relax with a gelato in front of the old port — my favorite!
It’s hard to have a bad meal in Monopoli, but if you’re looking for something special, I’m a fan of Ristorante Piazza Palmieri. If you’re a seafood fan, you’ll love any of their generous seafood plateau appetizers!
Region: Puglia
Closest Airport: Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla
Type of Beach: Sandy and rocky
Where to stay: Hotel Don Ferrante
Taormina
Recommended by Paula of Truly Expat Travel
Taormina is a beautiful town nestled away in one of the prettiest beach towns in Italy. It may not be a white sandy beach, but there are many little patches of Paradise along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Although there are plenty of coastal towns to visit, nothing is more beautiful than this part of Sicily. Whether you choose to stay in a hotel near one of the private beach areas or head down and pay for a lounge chair and umbrella, both options will make you wonder why you never came to Taormina earlier.
Unlike other Italian beaches you find in places like the Amalfi Coast, the beaches in this area won’t have you needing a breathalyzer whenever you need to hike back up to the carpark. The road to the beachfront is relatively close in comparison.
To reach Taormina Beach, you can take a bus or taxi or drive relatively easily from the nearest town and follow the signs leading to the beautiful coastal town of Taormina.
Taormina is a charming town known for its historical sites, such as the ancient Greek theater, where you can enjoy live performances with a breathtaking backdrop of Mount Etna. Exploring the narrow streets and alleys of the old town, filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, is also a delightful way to immerse yourself in the local culture while eating outside in the many beautiful restaurants dotted in and around the winding streets of the city center where you can indulge in the local Sicilian cuisine.
Region: Sicily
Closest Airport: Catania Fontanarossa “Vincenzo Bellini” International Airport
Type of Beach: The beaches are secluded in this part of Sicily with a mixture of sandy and rocky areas
Where to Stay: Hotel Lido Mediterranee
Favignana
Recommended by Becki of Meet Me In Departures
If you’re looking for the best beach destinations in Italy, the island of Favignana should be high on your list. Situated just off the coast of northwest Sicily, Favignana is the largest of the enchanting Egadi Islands. It’s home to a modest population of around 3,000 inhabitants and offers an authentic Italian experience.
Favignana boasts quaint towns brimming with rustic charm, but it’s real allure lies in its stunning beaches. Imagine stretches of white and even pink, sandy beaches encircled by crystal clear waters rivaling those of any Caribbean island. These pristine beaches offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of mainland Italy. Because there is minimal traffic, it’s also the perfect place to cycle. You can hire a bike from the main town.
Reaching Favignana is straightforward with a quick transfer service run by Liberty Lines from Trapani, making it an ideal day trip. Once on the island, exploring is best done via eBike.
There are places to eat dotted all over the island, however, the main hub is in the town – where the ferry docks.
Region: West of Sicily
Closest Airport: Trapani (mainland Sicily)
Type of Beach: Sandy, with large rocks and secluded
Where to Stay: Mangia’s Favignana Resort
Tropea
Recommended by Erin of Wanderlust with Kids
Set in the south of Italy on the stunning Tyrrhenian coast, Tropea is undeniably one of Italy’s best beach towns. With its beautiful sand beaches, crystal-clear water and breathtaking views, it’s a fantastic place to soak up the sun, but Tropea also boasts a rich history and vibrant culture, making it a great place to explore.
Tropea’s main beach provides a perfect setting for a sun-soaked escape. The fine golden sand stretches along the coast and the crystal-clear water provides incredible views across the sea to the Aeolian Islands.
Beyond relaxing on the beach and swimming in the clear water, there are plenty of things to do in Tropea. Wander through the narrow streets of the historic center, where you’ll find charming boutiques and outdoor cafes, or explore the picturesque Santa Maria dell’Isola, a fairy-tale medieval church perched on a rock beside the town’s main beach.
There are plenty of excellent restaurants dotted throughout the historic center, serving delicious fresh seafood and excellent pizza. Il Normano, Incipit and Ristorante Pizzeria La Scogliera are some top choices.
Tropea is easily accessible by both car and train. The local train station connects Tropea to major cities and smaller towns along the coast. Lamezia Terme is the nearest airport, offering service throughout Europe, as well as a few direct flights to North America.
Region: Calabria
Nearest Airport: Lamezia Terme
Type of Beach: Sandy
Where to Stay: Tropea Boutique Hotel
