20 best beaches in Italy: our top picks

Italy’s coastline changes a lot from one region to the next. The Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Tyrrhenian seas each have their own look and feel. On the Amalfi Coast, villages cling to cliffs above deep blue water, while in Sardinia you’ll find calm, clear bays that feel a world away. Some beaches are right by busy towns with plenty going on, while others are quiet stretches where you can slow the pace. This guide walks you through the best Italy beaches worth knowing about so you can pick the ones that fit your trip.

1. Forno Beach, Island of Elba, Tuscany

Forno Beach (Spiaggia del Forno) is a small curve of golden sand on Elba’s northern coast, with granite cliffs behind. It's an excellent addition to any Italy itinerary.

The water is clear and calm, with plenty to see if you bring a snorkel. It’s only a short drive from Portoferraio, but it still feels laid-back.

This Italy beach is good for families because of the gentle slope into the water, and there’s a walking trail nearby with views across the bay and toward Napoleon’s old island home.

How to get to Forno Beach

From Portoferraio, drive about 10 minutes following signs to Magazzini and then Forno. Ferries from Piombino reach Portoferraio in 45–60 minutes. Parking is limited, so mornings are best if you’re driving. In summer, water taxis from Portoferraio bring you straight to the beach, and it’s a scenic ride.

When to visit Forno Beach

Late spring (mid-May to June) has warm days around 72–79°F (22–26°C) and fewer people. September is similar, once the summer crowds have gone. July and August are hotter at 79–84°F (26–29°C), and the beach fills up quickly, especially before noon. Mornings are the calmest. See more in our guide to the best time to visit Italy.
 

2. Levanto, Cinque Terre

Levanto Beach runs almost half a mile along a wide bay just outside the Cinque Terre and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Italy. You’ll have more room here than on the small coves in the nearby villages, and the sandy stretch works for both families and surfers.

Some areas have loungers and umbrellas for rent, while others are free if you bring your own setup. The promenade has gelato shops, seafood restaurants, and bike rentals, and the medieval town center (with its 13th-century church) is only a short walk away.

How to get to Levanto

The train is quick and easy to this Italy beach. It’s about an hour from Genoa or 15 minutes from La Spezia, and the station is just five minutes from the beach. If you’re driving, take the A12 motorway to the Carrodano–Levanto exit, then follow the SP566 for about 15 minutes.

When to visit Levanto

You can swim here earlier and later in the year than in many other Italian beach towns. Late April to mid-June brings warm water and fewer visitors. September and early October stay comfortable at 73–75°F (23–24°C) with great sunsets. For surfing, the best waves come between November and March. The town also has festivals in May–June and September.

3. Cefalù, Sicily

Cefalù’s beach runs for over a mile along a wide, gentle bay, with a Norman cathedral overlooking the town and a mountain rising behind it. The sand is soft underfoot, and the shallow, calm water makes it easy to wade straight in. You can spend the morning swimming, then walk a few minutes into the medieval streets for lunch or a coffee.

Some stretches have beach clubs with loungers and drinks, while others are free for anyone to use. The promenade is lined with seafood restaurants and gelaterias.

How to get to Cefalù

How to plan a trip to Italy that stops at Cefalù’s starts with basing yourself in Palermo. The train takes about 45 minutes and runs often. The station is an easy walk to the shore. By car, follow the A20 coastal highway and exit at Cefalù, about 43 miles (70 km) from Palermo.

In summer, ferries run from here to the Aeolian Islands, which makes it easy to combine a few days at the beach with some island time. The town is small enough to explore entirely on foot.

When to visit Cefalù

Late May and June usually mean warm days around 77°F (25°C), comfortable water at 68-72°F (20-22°C), and fewer people. September is still warm, with sea temperatures holding at 75-77°F (24-25°C). July and August are busier, so you’ll want to arrive early to get a place on the sand. 
 

4. Acquaviva, Elba, Tuscany

Acquaviva is a small cove with smooth white pebbles and clear, turquoise water and is a great addition to any Tuscany itinerary. On calm days, you can see right to the bottom, more than 65 feet (20 m) down, which makes it great for snorkeling around the rocks just offshore. 

The pebbles catch the sunlight and make the water even more vivid, and the hills behind give the whole place a bit of a secluded feel. Facilities are minimal, with a couple of refreshment stands in summer, umbrellas for rent, and some shade from the cliffs in the afternoon.

How to get to Acquaviva

It’s about 2.5 miles (4 km) north of Portoferraio, Elba’s main port. You’ll need to take the ferry from Piombino on the mainland, then follow signs to Acquaviva or Biodola. Parking is limited, so get there before 9am or later in the day. You can also walk in from the Enfola peninsula along a coastal path in about 30 minutes. In summer, buses run from Portoferraio in around 15 minutes.

When to visit Acquaviva

Early June and September are ideal, with temperatures around 77-81°F (25-27°C) and fewer people on the beach. Mornings are best for calm water and clear snorkeling conditions. Since the beach faces east, it’s protected from the afternoon westerly winds that can hit other parts of Elba. The water stays warm—about 73-77°F (23-25°C)—well into October.

5. Fornillo Spiaggia, Positano, Amalfi Coast

Fornillo Beach is a quieter choice than Positano’s main stretch, set just around a headland that keeps it sheltered from the busier scene. The beach runs about 300 yards, with dark volcanic sand, smooth pebbles, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Local fishermen still push their wooden boats into the water here in the mornings, and most of the shore is lined with beach clubs shaded by colorful umbrellas. The water drops off quickly, which makes it good for swimming and snorkeling.

How to get to Fornillo Beach

It’s about a 10-minute walk along a coastal path from Positano’s main beach, passing under bougainvillea and past small art studios. Water taxis run between the main pier and Fornillo throughout the day. If you’re staying nearby, you can reach it via a stepped path down from the hillside. See our guide to planning the perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary if you're wanting to see the best of the area.

When to visit Fornillo Beach

Late May and early June bring warm weather (75–79°F / 24–26°C), sea temperatures around 70–72°F (21–22°C), and fewer people than later in summer. September and early October are also pleasant, with warmer water (75°F / 24°C). In July and August, mornings before 11 a.m. are the quietest. 
 

6. Tonnara di Scopello, Western Sicily

Tonnara di Scopello is found within a centuries-old tuna fishing site that dates back to the 13th century.

The small pebble beach sits in a sheltered cove framed by limestone sea stacks, and the clear water is great for snorkeling. The old stone buildings where tuna was once processed are still in place, now preserved as part of a small museum. There’s a simple café for Sicilian dishes, and coastal trails nearby lead into the Zingaro Nature Reserve.

How to get to Tonnara di Scopello

It’s about 4 miles (7 km) from Castellammare del Golfo along a scenic coastal drive. From Scopello village, follow the signs to the Tonnara—there’s a small paid parking area. Many people pair it with a visit to the Zingaro Reserve, parking at the entrance and walking about 25 minutes along the coast. In summer, shuttles run from Castellammare, and boat tours from Castellammare and San Vito Lo Capo often stop for swims near the sea stacks.

When to visit Tonnara di Scopello

Mid-May through June has comfortable temperatures (73–79°F / 23–26°C), clear water for snorkeling, and fewer people than peak summer. Late September and October bring warm seas (75°F / 24°C) and soft afternoon light that’s good for photography. Early mornings are the most peaceful year round. The cove faces northwest, so the sun lights up the water best in the afternoons.

7. La Guardia, Elba, Tuscany

La Guardia Beach is in a quiet cove on Elba’s southern coast, where turquoise water washes over smooth white pebbles beneath tall granite cliffs. It stays peaceful because getting there takes a bit of effort. 

The water is especially clear, making it a good place for snorkeling—you’ll see fish weaving through the rocks. In summer, a small beach bar rents umbrellas and sells cold drinks, but otherwise the area feels untouched. You can swim into small caves or scramble along the rocks, and there are trails nearby that lead to views over the whole southern coast.

How to get to La Guardia

From Marina di Campo, it’s about 4.3 miles (7 km) along the coastal road to a small parking area. From there, it’s a short walk—about 5 minutes—down a footpath to the beach. In summer, shuttle boats run from Marina di Campo, which is a nice way to arrive, and you can also paddle over by kayak from nearby beaches. The trickier access is part of what keeps it quiet.

When to visit La Guardia

Early June and September are good months—sunny days around 77–81°F (25–27°C), clear water, and fewer people. The beach faces south, so it gets the morning sun and stays warm through the day. 
 

8. Sant’Andrea, Elba, Tuscany

Sant’Andrea is known for its smooth granite boulders that shape the shoreline into small coves with clear, shallow water. The white rock against the blue sea makes it one of the most distinctive stretches of coast on the island. 

The natural rock pools are calm and good for kids (see our guide to Italy with kids), and snorkelers will find fish hiding among the rocks. You can also swim to caves that are only reachable from the water. Above the beach, the village has a few seafood restaurants with sea views.

How to get to Sant’ Andrea

It’s about 4.3 miles (7 km) from Marciana Marina or 12.4 miles (20 km) from Portoferraio along a scenic coastal road. Public parking is available above the beach in summer for a small fee, and buses run from both towns during the season. Water taxis from Marciana Marina are another good way to arrive, giving you views of the cliffs along the way. If you like walking, the trail from Cotoncello takes about 40 minutes and follows the coast.

When to visit Sant’Andrea

Late May to June brings warm weather—around 75–79°F (24–26°C)—and calm seas for exploring the rocks. September is also great, with slightly warmer water at 73–75°F (23–24°C). The beach faces west, so sunsets are especially nice as the granite glows in the evening light.

9. Calla dello Spido, San Domino, Tremiti Islands

Calla dello Spido is found in a limestone cove, reachable only by boat or a steep footpath.

Its limited access keeps it feeling quiet. The water here is so clear you can often see right to the bottom, with schools of fish weaving through rock formations. There’s no development, so you get a sense of what the Mediterranean once looked like—just pines, pebbles, and the sound of the sea.

The small beach sits in the shade of fragrant pine trees, and for the more adventurous, there are sea caves and natural arches to explore nearby. Being part of a protected marine reserve means the water is especially clean and rich with marine life.

How to get to Calla dello Spido

First, you’ll need to get to the Tremiti Islands by ferry—Termoli is the quickest crossing (about an hour), while Vieste and Peschici take around 90 minutes. From San Domino’s main village, it’s about a 30-minute walk along a scenic trail toward Punta dello Spido. In summer, taxi boats circle the island and can drop you here on request. Renting a kayak is another good way to explore this stretch of coast.

When to visit Calla dello Spido

June and September are ideal—warm weather, clear water for snorkeling, and fewer people than in high summer. Mornings are usually calmest, with the cove catching the first sunlight of the day. Water stays warm well into October, and the Tremiti Islands’ microclimate often means sunnier skies than the Puglia mainland.
 

10. Torre Guaceto Marine Reserve, Puglia

Torre Guaceto is a protected stretch of coastline with sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, and centuries-old olive groves. It’s home to a wide variety of birdlife and marine species, and the water is clear enough for excellent snorkeling.

The area is carefully managed to keep it in good condition—visitor numbers are controlled, and there are wooden walkways to protect the dunes. Facilities are simple, but there’s an information center and marked swimming areas. The 16th-century watchtower overlooking the reserve is worth the short climb for the view.

How to get to Torre Guaceto

This Italy beach is between Brindisi and Ostuni, with summer shuttle buses running from Carovigno and Brindisi train stations to the visitor center. If you’re driving, follow the SP37 to the parking areas near Penna Grossa or Apani (there’s a small environmental fee). From there, wooden walkways lead you across the dunes to the beach in about five to ten minutes. You can also cycle in—the dedicated path runs the length of the reserve and connects with nearby towns.

When to visit Torre Guaceto

Late May to June is when you’ll get warm weather and blooming coastal wildflowers, while September and early October have warm sea temperatures and good birdwatching as migratory species pass through. Early mornings are best for spotting wildlife.

11. Rinella, Salina, Aeolian Islands

On Salina’s southern coast, Rinella Beach is a stretch of volcanic black sand with steep green hills and a row of colorful fishing boats bobbing just offshore. It’s the smallest village on the island, and life still moves at its own pace. You might find fishermen mending their nets right on the beach. 

The contrast between the dark sand and clear turquoise water is striking. You’ll find a handful of umbrellas and loungers to rent, plus a few family-run bars serving icy granita made with local lemons. From here, you can walk up trails to viewpoints over the coast or to abandoned terraced vineyards.

How to get to Rinella

Hydrofoils run from Milazzo, Sicily, in about 90 minutes, with less frequent routes from Naples, Palermo, and other Aeolian Islands. The small port is right beside the beach, so you can literally step off the boat onto the sand. 

In summer, water taxis link Rinella with Santa Marina Salina and other islands. Local buses connect the village with the rest of Salina, but a rental scooter makes it easier to get around. The island is small enough that you can walk between some places if you don’t mind the hills.

When to visit Rinella

Mid-May through June is when this Italy beach gets warm weather—about 73–77°F (23–25°C)—and calm seas without the summer rush. September feels similar, with the sea still warm at 75–77°F (24–25°C). If you’re here in the morning, you’ll see the fishing boats coming in; in the evening, sunsets can be spectacular, with Stromboli visible on clear days.

12. Maratea on Basilicata’s Tyrrhenian Coast

Maratea’s coastline is a chain of more than 20 coves and beaches, each with dramatic cliffs and washed by clear, blue-green water.

The steep terrain has kept it largely free of heavy development, so you get a mix of tiny pebble coves you can only reach by boat and wider stretches with amenities. The rocky seabed is great for snorkeling, and there are sea caves worth exploring by kayak or on a boat trip.

Hillsides covered in Mediterranean vegetation run right down to the shoreline. A quick trip inland takes you to the hilltop town of Maratea, where you’ll find restaurants serving Basilicata’s local dishes.

How to get to Maratea

The SS18 coastal road runs past most of the beaches, with small parking areas that fill up quickly in summer. The town itself is about 2 miles (3 km) inland, linked to the port and beaches by a summer shuttle. Maratea’s train station is on the Naples–Reggio Calabria line, with services from major cities; from there, you can take a local bus or taxi to the coast. From the port, boat tours reach coves that can’t be accessed from land.

When to visit Maratea

Late May to June is warm, around 75–79°F (24–26°C), with clear water that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. September is just as comfortable, with the sea still around 75–77°F (24–25°C). Many of the beaches face west, so afternoons run long and the evening light can be beautiful. The varied coastline means some beaches stay sheltered even on windy days, and you can usually swim here from mid-May into October.

13. Mazarro on the northeast coast of Sicily

Mazzarò Beach is found just below Taormina and is known for being home to blue water and coarse golden sand with limestone cliffs. Right next door is the Isola Bella nature reserve—a small island you can walk to along a narrow sandbar when the tide is low.

Getting here is easy thanks to a cable car that links the beach to Taormina, yet it still keeps a relaxed feel. You’ll find beach clubs with loungers, seafood restaurants right by the water, and calm, protected areas around Isola Bella that are great for snorkeling. From the shore, boat trips run to the Blue Grotto caves.

How to get to Mazzarò

From Taormina, the panoramic cable car takes just three minutes and runs from early morning to midnight in summer. If you’re driving, follow the SS114 coastal road and park in one of the nearby paid lots—spaces can be scarce and expensive in peak season. By train, get off at Taormina–Giardini station, then take a bus or taxi to the beach in about 10 minutes. 

An Italy travel tip: some people stay in Mazzarò itself for easy beach access, using the cable car to head into Taormina in the evenings.

When to visit Mazzarò

Late May and June bring a good time for warm weather (75–79°F / 24–26°C), clear water, and fewer crowds than mid-summer. September and early October are just as pleasant, with warmer sea temperatures (75–77°F / 24–25°C) and clear views of Mount Etna on many days. Because the bay faces east, mornings are especially scenic.
 

14. Riserva Naturale di Vendicari, Sicily

The Vendicari Nature Reserve protects one of Sicily’s last untouched stretches of coastline, where you’ll find long beaches of golden sand and clear, shallow water.

The reserve also includes wetlands that draw flamingos and other migrating birds, ancient Greek ruins, and about three miles (5 km) of beach. Strict conservation rules keep it undeveloped, so there are no facilities, only wooden walkways leading through dunes and wetlands to the shore.

How to get to Vendicari

Vendicari is about six miles (10 km) south of Noto. Drive along the SP19 toward Pachino and follow signs to the main entrance near Eloro. You can park for a small fee, then walk 10–15 minutes along boardwalks to reach the beach. 

There’s no direct public transport, so without a car you’ll need to arrange a taxi from Noto or join a tour. Cycling is also possible, and some rental shops in nearby towns will deliver bikes to your Italy accommodation.

When to visit Vendicari

May and June are ideal for warm days (75–79°F / 24–26°C), blooming wildflowers, and smaller crowds. September and October bring similar weather, warm sea temperatures (75–77°F / 24–25°C), and great birdwatching during migration season. Spring and autumn are best for wildlife, while July and August can be very hot (see our Italy travel health tips for advice on beating the heat).

15. Cala Gonone on the island of Sardinia

Cala Gonone is positioned on the edge of a dramatic stretch of Sardinia’s coast, where limestone bluffs drop straight into turquoise water.

The town’s main beach runs for about half a mile, with a mix of coarse sand and smooth pebbles, and has plenty of places to get what you need for the day.

Still, the real appeal is the coves scattered along the Gulf of Orosei, many of which you can only reach by boat or a steep trail. Boats from the marina head to beaches like Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu, both known for pale sand and clear water.

You can also climb, kayak, or hike to the more remote coves. The seafront has plenty of places serving Sardinian dishes, and there are limestone caves nearby worth checking out. It's a great addition to any Sardinia itinerary.

How to get to Cala Gonone

A winding road through the Lanaittu Valley links Cala Gonone to Dorgali (about 6 miles / 10 km). Most people fly into Olbia Airport (about 62 miles or 100 km) and drive south, though you can also arrive via Cagliari and head north. Public buses connect Nuoro to Dorgali, where you can catch a local bus to Cala Gonone. Once in town, it’s easy to get around on foot. In summer, boat tours leave regularly from the marina for the Gulf of Orosei’s beaches.

When to visit Cala Gonone

Late May through June brings warm weather (around 75–79°F / 24–26°C) and fewer visitors. September has a similar feel, with sea temperatures around 75°F (24°C) and generally lower prices. Because the town faces east, mornings are especially nice as the cliffs catch the first light.

16. Alghero in northwest Sardinia

Alghero is where you’ll find long stretches of beach and a historic center full of Catalan-influenced streets. The main beaches start right by the old town and run north, with golden sand and clear water that’s easy to get to from most places you’d stay.

You can swim in the morning, then spend the afternoon walking through the medieval lanes.

The coastline is good for windsurfing, sailing, and diving, and a path connects several beaches. Just outside town, Capo Caccia’s cliffs and Neptune’s Grotto are worth a short trip and are some of the best things to do in Italy.

How to get to Alghero

The airport is only about 6 miles (10 km) from town, and shuttle buses make the trip regularly. Trains link Alghero to Sassari and beyond. You can walk to the main beaches from most parts of town, and buses go to those farther away, like Maria Pia and Le Bombarde. Renting a bike is another good way to get around, with cycling paths along the coast. Boat trips from the marina head toward Capo Caccia.

When to visit Alghero

Late May to June is warm (about 75–79°F / 24–26°C) with pleasant swimming conditions and smaller crowds. September and early October are also good, with sea temperatures between 73 and 75°F (23–24°C) and lower prices. Festivals often run in late spring and early autumn.

17. Anzio, Lazio

Anzio Beach stretches out in a wide curve of golden sand, known for its history and working port life.

This is where wealthy Romans once built seaside villas and where Allied troops came ashore in WWII. It’s only about 37 miles (60 km) from Rome, so plenty of locals head here in summer.

Even with that, it still feels like a fishing town first—boats pull in with the day’s catch, and seafood is a big part of eating out here. There’s a mix of private beach clubs with sunbeds and open public areas where you can lay a towel. The water stays shallow for a good distance, so it’s easy for kids to play safely. Along the promenade, you’ll find gelato stands and casual restaurants serving fish straight from the harbor.

How to get to Anzio

The easiest way is to take a day trip from Rome by train. Direct services from Roma Termini take about an hour and drop you within a short walk of the sand. Driving takes roughly the same time via the Via Pontina (SS148), but parking can fill up fast on summer weekends. Once you’re there, you can get around on foot, with local buses running to Nettuno and smaller beaches nearby.

When to visit Anzio

Late May and June bring warm days (mid-70s°F / 24–26°C) and fewer people during the week, while the water starts to warm up. September is just as pleasant and less crowded. In July and August, weekends get busy, so weekdays are better. January has events marking the 1944 landings. In spring, the nearby coastal reserve fills with wildflowers.
 

18. The Lido towns of Emilia-Romagna

This stretch of the Adriatic runs for about 68 miles (110 km), lined with wide, sandy beaches, some nearly 1,300 feet (400 m) across. The water is so shallow and calm, it’s easy for kids to swim.

Rimini, Riccione, Cesenatico, and the other Lido towns each have their own character, but all are set up for long days outside, with rows of umbrellas, play areas, sports courts, and plenty of places to eat.

Behind the sand, you’ll find busy promenades with gelaterias, piadina stands, and seafood restaurants. This coast has been a go-to for Italian beach holidays for decades, and the routine is well-rehearsed.

How to get to the Lido towns

You can get here easily by train. Direct lines from Bologna, Milan, and Venice stop in towns like Rimini, Riccione, and Cervia-Milano Marittima, usually within walking distance of the beach. The SS16 highway follows the coastline for drivers. Bologna’s airport is the closest major hub, about one to two hours away by shuttle or train. Once you arrive, buses connect the towns, and there are bike paths running between them.

When to visit the Lido towns

Late May to mid-June brings warm weather (low-to-mid 70s°F / 23–25°C) and open facilities without peak-season prices. September works well too, with warm water (73–75°F / 23–24°C) and fewer people. July and August are much busier, but that’s when the beach clubs have their full entertainment programs.

19. La Pelosa, Sardinia

At Sardinia’s northwestern tip, La Pelosa has shallow, clear turquoise water that stretches far from shore, so you can walk out quite a distance before it gets deep.

The sand is fine and pale, and an old Aragonese tower sits just offshore with Asinara Island in the background. Families tend to like it here because the water is calm and shallow, but it’s an easy beach day for anyone.

You’ll find beach clubs renting loungers and umbrellas, plus a few seasonal restaurants nearby. If you want a change of scene, Asinara National Park is close enough for a day trip: you can hike or take a boat tour and might even see the island’s white donkeys.

How to get to La Pelosa

This Italy beach is about 2 miles (3 km) from Stintino village along the coastal road. In summer, you’ll need to book parking in advance, and there’s a shuttle from overflow lots. Many people stay in Stintino or in Alghero, about 28 miles (45 km) away, and make the trip from there. Buses run from Alghero and Porto Torres to Stintino, with a summer shuttle for the final leg to the beach. Peak season comes with strict visitor limits, so book ahead on the municipal site.

When to visit La Pelosa

Late May and June bring warm weather (73–77°F / 23–25°C), clear water, and fewer people than in midsummer. September is just as good, with warmer sea temperatures (73–75°F / 23–24°C). In July and August, you’ll need a reservation to get in. Early mornings are the quietest time, and the light is great then too.
 

20. Marina di Vasto city beach, Abruzzo

Marina di Vasto runs for about 4 miles (7 km) along the Adriatic, with wide sand and calm, shallow water. There are both private beach clubs and open public sections, so you can choose how you want to set up for the day.

A long promenade links the beach to Vasto’s historic center on the hill above, where you can explore the old castle and cathedral before heading back down for a swim.

How to get to Marina di Vasto

The A14 coastal highway has exits that take you straight to the marina area. The Vasto–San Salvo train station is around 3 miles (5 km) from the beach, with frequent buses connecting the two. There are also intercity buses from Rome, Naples, and other major cities. Once you’re in town, local buses link the marina and the old center. The flat seafront is good for cycling, and you can rent bikes or e-bikes from shops along the waterfront.

When to visit Marina di Vasto

Late May and June bring warm days (73–79°F / 23–26°C), fewer people, and the sea starting to warm. September has similar weather, with slightly warmer water (73–75°F / 23–24°C) and fewer crowds. In late spring and early autumn, Vasto also has food and cultural festivals.