Italy always tempts us. We have visited its shores on many trips, from Triestalong the Adriatic Sea Cesenaticodown to Brandsand from the coast of Florence along the Riviera to the border with France. We have described some of our travel experiences in this blog. Others are still missing. The only thing that hasn't worked out so far is the southern tip and the islands. Corona put a stop to a trip to Sicily. Other travel destinations are still on our wish list. We are therefore looking for the best beaches in Italy.
A few days ago a member of our social media community asked me how we prepare for our trips. That's why we're taking you with us as we prepare for new trips. So we start looking for the best beaches in Italy that we still want to visit. We can find a number of such beaches using the search engines. We also like to ask travel blogger colleagues who have already been there. You can also find their comments in our list of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. And if you know of beautiful beach destinations in Italy, we would also be happy to hear your recommendations in the comments.
The best beaches in Italy
Italy, with over 7.500 kilometers of coastline, offers some of Europe's most beautiful beaches, ranging from rugged cliff landscapes and hidden coves in the Ligurian Sea to the endless sandy shores of the Adria are sufficient. Each beach in Italy has its own charm and attracts sunbathers, families and adventurers year after year.
Natural beauty is what makes Italy's best beaches so special. From the shimmering turquoise sea of Sardinia to the pine-fringed coves of Tuscany, the landscape makes any beach visit spectacular.
Whether it's the historic watchtowers on the coast of Puglia, the dramatic rock formations of Sicily or the luxurious amenities of the Costa Smeralda - special characteristics give every beach in Italy a unique flair.
Italy has something to offer for every taste. Pack it swimwear and let's explore the most beautiful beaches in Italy!
Sardinia – An emerald in the Mediterranean and the best beaches in Italy
Costa Smeralda: Luxury and the best beaches on Italy's most glamorous coast
The Costa Smeralda* (advertisement), located on the north-east coast of Sardinia, is synonymous with luxury and spectacular natural beauty. This 20-kilometer stretch of coast is famous for its dazzling white sandy beaches. The emerald green waters make even the Caribbean pale in comparison. A paradise that attracts luxury travelers from all over the world while maintaining its unspoiled beauty.
A sea as if painted
The beaches of the Costa Smeralda are a dream for sun worshipers and water sports enthusiasts. The sand is so fine and white that it crunches underfoot. The sea shimmers in every shade of blue imaginable - from deep sapphire to bright turquoise. A swim in these clear waters is like a refreshment for the soul, and the well-preserved marine ecosystems make snorkeling and diving particularly attractive here.
Exclusivity on the Mediterranean
Luxury is omnipresent on the Costa Smeralda, especially in the form of the numerous high-end resorts dotted along the coast. These not only offer exceptional comfort and excellent service, but also privacy and exclusive access to the best stretches of beach. Places like the famous one Hotel Cala di Volpe* (ad) and the Pitrizza* (advertisement) are examples of the sophisticated hospitality that this region has to offer.
Activities around the Costa Smeralda
In addition to relaxing on the beach, the Costa Smeralda offers a variety of activities. Sailing, windsurfing and yachting are just some of the world-class water sports on offer here. On land there are golf courses, polo events and exclusive nightclubs. For culture lovers, there are excursions to archaeological sites and traditional Sardinian villages that allow you to experience the island's rich heritage up close.
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Spiaggia di Tuerredda: A touch of the Caribbean in Italy
One of Italy's best beaches, Spiaggia di Tuerredda in Sardinia is often referred to as the Caribbean feel of Europe. Tucked away between Capo Malfatano and Capo Spartivento, this beach is known for its natural beauty that attracts visitors from all over the world.
A paradise of water and sand
Spiaggia di Tuerredda is famous for its turquoise water. This is so clear that you can see the seabed even from a great distance. The fine, white sandy beach frames this tropical idyll. It makes the place a perfect destination for anyone looking for sun and sea in their purest form. The hilly landscape and the scattered green maquis bushes that reach almost to the water complement the picture and offer spectacular views and beautiful sunsets.
Activities in and around the water
For the more adventurous, Tuerredda offers good conditions for water sports, especially snorkeling. The clear water and rich marine fauna, including colorful fish, starfish and the occasional sea turtle, guarantee an excellent snorkeling experience. Not far from the beach are several small islands that can be easily explored by rented boat or even kayaking.
Boat trips are a particularly popular activity as they allow you to discover hidden coves and isolated beaches nearby that are otherwise difficult to access. These excursions offer the opportunity to enjoy the calm waters of the southern Sardinia coast in peace.
travel bloggers Jens Hoffmeister describes the Spiaggia di Tuerredda beach in Sardinia:
“Although we were there in August with a lot of other beach visitors, we liked this beach in the south of Sardinia the best. The sand is wonderful, the warm water is very clear and while snorkeling we spotted lots of colorful fish right on the beach. And at the golden hour, the beach, sea and island revealed all their enchanting splendor.”
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Tuscany – Italy’s best beaches and historical flair
Tuscany is famous for its landscapes and cultural treasures. At Madam Fernweh you will find numerous Tuscany insider tipsBut Tuscany also offers beautiful stretches of coast. A highlight among these beaches is Forte dei Marmi, the beach of artists and celebrities, which has been an exclusive holiday destination for decades.
Forte dei Marmi: meeting place for the rich and beautiful
Forte dei Marmi* (advertisement), located on the northern coast of Tuscany, is a piece of history that has been etched in the hearts of its visitors. In the 1960s, this place became known as a meeting place for the world's elite, including artists, actors and writers who appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the beauty of the landscape. The beach itself offers fine, golden sand and a calm sea, perfect for a relaxing dip in the Italian sun.
Cultural and sophisticated flair
The connection between the beach and its famous visitors is still felt today. The promenade of Forte dei Marmi is lined with exclusive boutiques and cafés that not only offer luxurious goods, but also a break in style. Here you can enjoy drinking Italian espresso while perhaps meeting a familiar face from the film industry.
One of the recommended cafés is the “Café Morin“, known for its homemade pasticceria and gelato artigianale.
A beach with character
Forte dei Marmi remains an emblematic place, striking not only for its natural beauty, but also for the historical and cultural echo that its promenades and beaches carry to this day. A visit here offers more than just sun and sea - it promises a journey through time in which every moment celebrates a piece of the Italian way of life.
Slow Travel travel blogger Christiane Barthels describes the Forte dei Marmi beach in her blog A second look:
“The golden yellow, flat beach of Forte dei Marmi is one of the most sophisticated and beautiful along the Versilia coast in Tuscany. The more than 4 km long, wide sandy beach is lined with elegant bathing establishments and in the evening you can stroll on the Pontile, the almost 300m long pier. In addition to the managed beach sections near the center, there is a very beautiful free beach in the northern district of Vitorio Apuana. This is bordered by a natural strip of dunes that is protected by the WWF. All beaches in Forte dei Marmi are connected by a beautifully landscaped panoramic promenade.”
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Marina di Alberese: pure nature in the heart of the Maremma
In the Maremma countryside, one of Italy's wildest and most fascinating regions, lies the hidden beach of Marina di Alberese. This place is a real natural paradise, surrounded by dense forests and vast fields that reach to the shore.
A refuge of peace
Marina di Alberese is characterized by its originality and the peace and quiet that are so characteristic of the Maremma. The beach is part of the Maremma Natural Park, a protected area. Access to the beach is limited, which limits the number of visitors. This guarantees the silence and seclusion that you can experience here. The sand is coarse and interspersed with pebbles, and the clear, clean water invites you to relax and swim in an almost private atmosphere.
Access and exploration
Access to the beach of Marina di Alberese, especially during the summer months, is regulated by a small access road that can be reached from the visitor center of the natural park. Visitors can either grab one of the rare parking spaces near the beach or use the shuttle bus that runs from the center.
For the more adventurous, the area around Marina di Alberese offers excellent hiking opportunities. One of the most popular trails is the path that runs along the coast through the pine forest and offers spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. These hikes also offer the chance to explore the local flora and fauna. You may even spot wild horses that live in the more remote parts of the park.
An idyllic nature experience
Marina di Alberese therefore remains an ideal place for those who want to experience and enjoy the true nature of Italy. Here you are also far away from the crowded tourist beaches. A visit promises pure relaxation in one of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes in Tuscany.
Travel blogger Benjamin Dehling (Bene) describes the Marina di Alberese beach in the Maremma National Park:
“The Marina di Alberese in the Maremma National Park is a wonderful natural beach that invites you to endless beach walks and hikes along the dunes. Here you won't find any rentable parasols or loungers, but rather small wooden tents and windbreak structures made from washed-up driftwood.
The perfect place to really unwind. The journey through the park with its pine trees is also a welcome change from the otherwise hilly route Tuscany. "
Amalfi Coast – Dramatic cliffs and best beaches in Italy
The Amalfi Coast in southern Italy is world famous for its spectacular coastal scenery. There, steep cliffs meet the waters of the Mediterranean. One of the most picturesque places along this coast is definitely Positano. This is a village that winds dramatically up the cliffs.
Positano Beach: A picturesque seaside village
Positano Beach is nestled between cliffs and the sea. It offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. The main beach, Spiaggia Grande, is 300 meters long and attracts beach lovers and sun worshipers alike with its fine pebbles and crystal clear water. This beach is both a place to relax and swim, and a lively meeting place for villagers.
The vibrant village life and the unique culture
Positano is also famous for its steep, narrow streets. These are lined with small boutiques, cafés and restaurants. These offer traditional Italian cuisine as well as artisanal products. The lively markets and shops also feature everything from leather goods to sandals, made locally.
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Spiaggia dei Conigli: Hidden paradise on Lampedusa
Lampedusa, the southernmost tip of Italy, is home to one of the most remote and beautiful beaches in the world: Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbit Beach. This exquisite beach is known for its crystal clear waters and fine white sand, surrounded by a tranquil and almost untouched natural landscape.
A place of undisturbed beauty
The isolation of Spiaggia dei Conigli is one of its greatest charms. Accessible only on foot or by boat, this beach offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a rare opportunity to enjoy nature in its purest form. The island of Lampedusa is far from the main tourist paths and access to Spiaggia dei Conigli is regulated by natural features, preserving the undisturbed beauty and tranquility of this place.
The best time to visit
To avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the tranquility of this paradisiacal beach, the best time to visit is outside of high season. The months of May, June and September offer warm, pleasant weather, but without the peak tourist visits of July and August. Early morning or late afternoon are also ideal times to visit Spiaggia dei Conigli, as most day visitors have left the beach at these times.
During the quieter months, sea turtles can often be seen coming onto the beach to lay their eggs, a natural spectacle that is rarely seen undisturbed during the busier months.
An unforgettable experience
Spiaggia dei Conigli guarantees an experience of isolation, beauty and tranquility. It is a place that offers its visitors the opportunity to connect with nature and experience the majestic landscape of Lampedusa in complete peace. A must for every nature lover and those seeking the real, untouched Italy.
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Puglia - The undiscovered coast and Italy's best beaches
Puglia, with its extensive coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, is an insider tip in southern Italy. A highlight of this region is Pescoluse Beach, also known as the “Maldives of Italy”, famous for its extensive flat sandbanks and crystal clear turquoise waters.
Pescoluse: Italy's answer to the tropics
Located on the Ionian coast of Puglia, Pescoluse offers breathtaking scenery that is often compared to that of tropical destinations. The fine, white sand and shallow, warm water make this beach particularly popular with families, as children can play safely in the shallow water. The length of the beach offers enough space, even in high season, allowing every visitor to find a quiet spot under the Italian sun.
Tips for families and leisure options
For families, Pescoluse offers perfect conditions for swimming and building sandcastles as well as a variety of leisure activities. Water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking and stand-up paddling are possible on the beach itself. The numerous beach bars and restaurants also provide culinary delights and refreshments.
A walk along the coast at golden hour offers spectacular views. The promenade behind the beach with its small shops and boutiques invites you to stroll and shop.
Families can also book horseback riding trips near Pescoluse. Or would you rather explore the historic villages of the Salento region, rich in culture and tradition. Adventurous souls can also go diving on the nearby coral reefs, which offer a fascinating underwater world.
An unforgettable beach day
Pescoluse combines the beauty of Puglia with the hospitality of its residents. This beach offers everything you need for a vacation: safety, fun and relaxation under the Mediterranean sun.
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Torre dell'Orso: A masterpiece of nature and history
Torre dell'Orso beach in Puglia is surrounded by nature and history. This beach offers a unique mix of natural beauty as well as historical treasures, perfect for anyone who loves the sea and culture.
A beach surrounded by history
The dramatic coastal landscape of Torre dell'Orso is defined by the famous rock arches. They form gateways to the turquoise water. Here you can swim, sunbathe or simply enjoy the view. Not far from the beach, ancient ruins testify to the region's rich history. You can explore the remains of ancient fortifications and watchtowers that once protected the coast.
Perfect places for your photos
For photography fans, Torre dell'Orso offers breathtaking motifs. The most famous photo spot is the “Due Sorelle” rock, two stone pillars in the sea. It's best to visit this place early in the morning to capture the best light and avoid the crowds. The tall watchtower after which the place is named also offers fantastic views and is a must-see on any visit.
Enjoy local specialties
After a day at the beach, the local taverns invite you to linger. For example, try “Frisella”, a crispy, twice-baked bread typical of the region. A glass of “Negroamaro”, a strong, local red wine, goes perfectly with this. For a sweet ending, we also recommend “Pasticciotto”, a filled pastry that no café should be without.
Travel blogger Brigitte Huber describes the Torre dell'Orso beach:
“A hotspot in summer, but also a picturesque place in winter where you can relax and unwind - I've been able to enjoy both. The sandy beach of the long bay is bordered in the north by a watchtower from the 16th century (hence the name) and in the south by two limestone rocks protruding from the water, the “due sorelle”. Tip: If this beach is too crowded for you, there are places around it more beautiful beaches on the coast of Puglia. "
Sicily – Best beaches in Italy – Wild and full of character
Sicily offers beaches that are as diverse as they are unique. San Vito Lo Capo is one such beach where the Mediterranean meets mountains.
San Vito Lo Capo: natural wonder and cultural meeting point
In San Vito Lo Capo, the blue water contrasts impressively with the rugged mountain peaks in the background. This setting is ideal for swimming but also perfect for photography enthusiasts. Be sure to pack your Camera because you will definitely be able to take fascinating photos here!
Photo spots you shouldn't miss
The main beach with its white sand and turquoise water also offer ideal conditions for classic beach photos. For a panoramic view of the bay, for example, climb up to the lighthouse. It's best to visit early in the morning, when the light gently sweeps across the landscape.
Cultural highlights: The Couscous Festival
San Vito Lo Capo is also for its annual Couscous feast known that brings together cultures and cuisines from across the Mediterranean. This festival takes place every September and offers a week full of music, dancing and of course couscous, prepared according to traditional recipes from various countries. It is a good opportunity to experience the local culture and gastronomy.
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Scala dei Turchi: The white cliff
Scala dei Turchi, a beach on Sicily's southern coast, is famous for its spectacular white cliff.
The geological peculiarity explained
The cliffs are made of marble that has eroded over the centuries to form a natural staircase of soft, white stone. This shape was created by wind and water, which eroded the marble layer by layer.
Safety first
The cliff can be slippery, especially when wet. Be sure to wear suitable footwear. Avoid climbing too close to the edge as the upper layers may be brittle.
Barbara Riedel, author of the travel guide Happiness places in Sicily, describes the Scala dei Turchi beach like this:
“The Scala dei Turchi, or “Stairs of the Turks” in German, is a real eye-catcher on Sicily’s south coast, not far from Realmonte. The rock formation is particularly striking because of its brilliant white marl cliffs, which look like stepped terraces. The white creates a breathtaking contrast to the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean, attracting lots of visitors and photography enthusiasts. The Scala dei Turchi is simply beautiful, especially at sunset.”
Conclusion: The incomparable beaches of Italy
Italy offers a variety of beaches that is second to none. From the white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi to the fine sandy beaches of Pescoluse, each beach has its own charm and attracts people from all over the world.
Why visit Italy's beaches?
The beaches of Italy are known for their clear waters as well as their unique landscapes. Whether you are looking for peace and quiet in Marina di Alberese or want to experience the lively village life in Positano, everyone will find their place here. The combination of natural beauty, historical attractions and cultural festivals makes these beaches special.
In addition, the possibilities for activities are almost unlimited. From snorkeling and sailing in Sardinia to culinary discoveries as well as cultural events such as the Couscous Festival in San Vito Lo Capo. Italy offers everything your heart desires.
Share your experiences and plan your next trip
We warmly invite you to share your own experiences on Italy's beaches. Which beach did you particularly love? Have you perhaps discovered an insider tip? Tell us and other readers about your adventures in the comments and share your tips with us.
Are you already planning your next vacation? Why not choose one of Italy's beaches? Whether alone, with friends or family, these beaches definitely offer perfect conditions for every visitor.
Finally
Italy's beaches are a must for anyone looking for the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. We look forward to hearing your stories and excited to see which beach you explore next.
That has to be in your This must be in your suitcase for a holiday on the best beaches in Italy
- A pair of binoculars that you can use to look out for ships, for example
- You also need for the beach a swimsuit.
- Definitely use our packing list for a beach vacation. This means you won't forget anything for your beach holiday.
- A sun hat also protects against the sun.
More sources for the beaches in Italy
- You can find the most beautiful beaches in Italy with ratings on Fantastic Italy.
- Italy has more than 400 blue flag beaches (a seal of quality). You can find these on this website.
Do you know anything else?
- Italy travel destinations
- Discover and get to know beautiful cities in Italy
- What to do in Cesenatico?
- Trieste Italy – Dolce Vita in Friuli
- Luxury Camping on the Adriatic Sea in Italy: Your Ultimate Guide
- The Hotel Marina in Moscenicka Draga
- Cape Enrage: lighthouse, cliffs and sea
- The historic old town of Stein am Rhein
- Landal Marina Lipno holiday park in Lipno nad Vltavou Czechia
Source: own research and quotes from travel bloggers. Our opinions definitely remain our own.
Text Most Beautiful Beaches in Italy: © Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos: © Monika Fuchs, Pixabay and travel bloggers who contributed quotes.
