Find the best beach holidays in Italy

Find beach holidays in Italy with Natasha Foges who shares her favourites from peaceful beaches in Puglia, Sicily and Sardinia to seaside breaks in Tuscany and south of the Amalfi Coast. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Italy your travel guide for visiting Italy.

Planning your Italian beach holiday

Planning a trip to Italy at the beach? Spending a day at a private beach club costs money, but many people find it worthwhile for the convenience. The prices will vary depending on the location—popular spots tend to be more expensive, while less touristy areas can be more affordable. Public beaches are always an option, though they lack amenities, so bringing your own shade and seating makes a big difference. 

Booking tips

If you’re planning to visit a well-known beach club, booking ahead can make things easier, especially if you want a prime spot near the water. The front row of sunbeds tends to go first, often reserved well in advance. If you’re staying for multiple days, some clubs give discounts for weekly rentals, and some even include extras like food and drinks. 

A common choice at beach clubs is between a sunbed (lettino) and a deck chair (sdraio). Sunbeds cost more but are much more comfortable for spending an entire day at the beach, while deck chairs are cheaper but better suited for shorter stays. 

Public vs. private beaches

Beaches in Italy work a little differently than in other countries. Most of the coastline is split between private beach clubs, known as "stabilimenti balneari," and free public sections called "spiaggia libera."  

The private clubs provide sunbeds, umbrellas, restrooms, and food options for a fee, while the public areas let you set up your own spot without paying. The free beaches can get crowded, but the views and the water are the same as in the paid sections. Its a good choice if your planning a trip to Italy on a budget.

Blue flag certification system

Some Italian beaches have a Blue Flag certification, which means they meet certain environmental and safety standards. The certification looks at water quality, cleanliness, and sustainability efforts. While a Blue Flag can be a helpful sign of a well-maintained beach, plenty of great spots don’t participate in the program. Just because a beach doesn’t have a flag doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting; some of Italy's best beaches, in fact, do not have this rating.

When to visit Italian beaches

The best time to visit Italy depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. July and August are the busiest months, especially around Ferragosto on August 15, when much of the country heads to the coast. Beaches during this time are lively but also packed, and prices for beach access and accommodation are at their highest. If you prefer a quieter trip, September is a good choice. The sea stays warm, the crowds shrink, and it’s easier to find a good spot at the beach.

During peak season, temperatures often climb above 85°F (30°C) or more, so shade becomes essential. Ferragosto is one of the busiest beach days of the year, making it hard to find space unless you arrive early.

Family-friendly beaches

Planning Italy beach holidays with kids? Look for the "bandiera verde" (green flag) certification—this means the beach has been recognized for being especially kid-friendly, with gentle slopes, clean water, and lifeguards on duty. Many beach resorts also have "baby kitchens," handy spaces where you can prepare and warm up meals for little ones. 

Santa Maria di Castellabate

• Transport: Direct bus from Salerno (2 hours) or drive along SS267
• Parking: Yes, €5-10 per day in designated lots near the beach
• Where to stay: Castellabate old town (5 min drive) – small B&Bs and hotels

This crescent-shaped bay has clear, shallow waters that make it easy for kids to wade in and swim safely. The water stays calm most days, and the gradual slope means no sudden drop-offs. Just beyond the beach, the medieval town of Castellabate is a fun place to explore, with winding alleys and a historic castle. Many beach clubs here think about families, with changing tables, supervised kids' activities, and beach gear in smaller sizes. Some even have shallow pools just for toddlers. 

Castiglione della Pescaia

• Transport: Regional trains to Grosseto, then 20-minute bus ride
• Parking: Yes, €8-15 per day in town lots
• Where to stay: Castiglione medieval town (10 min walk) – mix of hotels and apartments

Right on the edge of Maremma Natural Park, Castiglione della Pescaia is a great pick for families looking for an Italy beach holiday. The beach has a gentle slope into the water, so kids have plenty of space to splash around. Pine forests along the shore create natural shade, which is useful when the sun gets too strong. Many beach clubs here keep kids entertained with animation programs, playgrounds, and sports. The medieval town nearby has a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of spots to grab an easy meal or a gelato.

San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily

• Transport: Bus from Trapani (1 hour) or drive along the coastline
• Parking: Yes, €10 per day in summer
• Where to stay: San Vito town center (5 min walk) – family resorts and vacation rentals

San Vito Lo Capo is one of Sicily’s most family-friendly beach spots. The clear, shallow water extends several meters from shore, so kids can play safely without sudden depth changes. The beach sits in a natural bay, keeping waves small and manageable. Soft white sand makes it an easy place for kids to run around, and there are plenty of shaded play areas, activity programs, and sports schools with lessons for younger visitors. Along the beachfront, you'll find plenty of casual dining spots and ice cream shops, as well as baby care stations and family changing rooms.

Party & nightlife beaches

Want to check out Italy’s beach party scene? Timing is everything—many beach clubs are relaxed during the day but shift into lively venues around sunset (usually 7-9 PM), with parties lasting well into the night. If you're planning a full day out, look for combo tickets that include both daytime access and nighttime entry.

Rimini Coast

• Transport: Direct trains from Bologna (1 hour), Milan (3 hours)
• Parking: Yes, multiple garages, €15-20 per day
• Where to stay: Marina Centro area – beachfront hotels and party hostels

The Rimini Coast is known for its long stretch of beach clubs, a historic resort that meets modern nightlife. Venues like Coconuts and Villa delle Rose bring in international DJs and keep the party going all summer. During the day, people spread out on sun loungers or join in on beach sports. At night, the scene shifts—some clubs transform their daytime lounge chairs into nighttime seating.

Riccione

• Transport: Train station in town center, frequent beach buses
• Parking: Yes, €10-15 per day in beach areas
• Where to stay: Viale Ceccarini area – boutique hotels and beach resorts

Riccione is a great place for an Italy beach holiday. Spots like Mojito and Opéra Beach create different vibes throughout the day, from relaxed sunset drinks to full-on dance parties. The summer calendar is packed with events, including live concerts and themed parties, especially in July and August. The area between Viale Ceccarini and Viale Dante has the highest concentration of bars and clubs. On Thursdays, Riccione's main shopping street, Viale Ceccarini, turns into an open-air festival, with street markets and live performances adding to the energy.  

Gallipoli, Puglia

• Transport: Train to Lecce, then bus (1.5 hours)
• Parking: Yes, €10 per day, limited in peak season
• Where to stay: Corso Roma area—a mix of historic hotels and modern apartments

During the day, the coastline is laid-back, but as the sun sets, Gallipoli’s beach clubs turn into one of Italy’s busiest nightlife hubs. Spots like Samsara Beach and Praja bring in well-known DJs and host foam parties and music festivals. The most energetic stretch is between Baia Verde and Lido San Giovanni, where beach clubs compete with creative party themes and big productions. Expect music, crowds, and a full night of dancing. 

Hidden gems

Skip the crowded beaches and head to quieter spots that locals tend to keep to themselves. Cell service can be spotty in these remote areas, so download offline maps before you go. If you want to see places that are really hidden, look for fishermen offering gita in barca (boat trips). These informal tours usually stop at hidden coves and come with local stories—often at better prices than commercial operators.

Hidden gems of Salento

• Getting around: You’ll need a car.
• Parking: Mostly free.
• Where to stay: Castro or Santa Cesarea Terme—small, local hotels.

Salento has some of the most untouched coastline in Italy, with rocky cliffs on one side and sandy beaches on the other. Tricase Porto has sea caves that are great for swimming, while Torre Pali is a quiet beach away from the crowds. When you need a snack, grab a frisella from a beach kiosk—this local staple is a dried bread softened with water and topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and salt.  

Gargano Peninsula

• Getting around: A car is essential—public transport is limited.
• Parking: Varies by beach (€5–15).
• Where to stay: Vieste or Peschici—clifftop hotels and agriturismos.

The Gargano Peninsula is known for its limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and old wooden fishing platforms called trabucchi. The coastline is full of small coves, but some of the best ones, like Porto Greco, take a short hike to reach. Late May and September are good times to visit—there are fewer people, but the weather is still warm. 

Ponza Island

• Getting around: Ferry from Formia (2.5 hours) or Anzio (3 hours).
• Parking: None—it’s a car-free island.
• Where to stay: Ponza Porto—small guesthouses with sea views.

Ponza has quiet beaches, sea caves, and even ancient Roman swimming pools carved into the cliffs. The best way to explore is by boat, since many of the best swimming spots aren’t accessible by land. Ferries can run on an unpredictable schedule, so check return times the morning of your trip. Boats sometimes leave earlier than posted.  

Island beaches of Italy

Island-hopping takes a little planning. Ferry schedules don’t just change seasonally—they can shift daily, so check the return times before heading out. Cafes on the islands tend to be pricier than the mainland, so packing snacks is a good idea. These aren’t the beaches most tourists go to, but they’re the ones you’ll remember.

Sardinia’s beaches

• Getting around: Fly into Olbia or Cagliari, then take a car or bus.
• Parking: Available (€5–25, depending on the beach).
• Where to stay: Costa Smeralda or Villasimius—plenty of options from budget stays to high-end resorts.

Sardinia’s coastline is different depending on where you go. Costa Smeralda has rocky coves, Chia has long sandy stretches, and the eastern side feels more remote. The local food is worth trying—bottarga (cured fish roe) is popular, often served on pasta or seafood dishes. The beach season lasts from May through October, and the water stays warm well into autumn. One fantastic way to see the beaches is to take a road trip through Sardinia.  

Elba’s Highlights

• Getting around: Ferry from Piombino (1 hour).
• Parking: Yes, around €10–15 per day near main beaches.
• Where to stay: Portoferraio or Marina di Campo—historic hotels and beachfront stays.

Elba has beaches with everything from soft sand to smooth pebbles. Biodola Bay is known for its sunsets, while Padulella and Sant’Andrea have clear water and good swimming. The island has a reliable bus system, but renting a scooter gives you more flexibility to check out the smaller coves. The calm waters here are great for snorkeling. 

Aeolian Islands

• Getting around: Hydrofoil or ferry from Milazzo, Sicily.
• Parking: Leave your car in Milazzo—these islands are mostly car-free.
• Where to stay: Lipari or Panarea—boutique hotels and village guesthouses.

The Aeolian Islands are known for their black sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and natural hot springs. Each island has something different—Vulcano has mud baths, Stromboli has an active volcano you can hike, and Lipari has pumice beaches where the stones float in the water. If you’re visiting in peak season, it’s best to book your ferry tickets in advance. Thanks to the volcanic activity, some beaches have warm water even when the air is cooler. 

Historic Coastal Towns

Italy’s coastal towns are a beautiful way to take an Italy beach holiday. Some places have combo tickets that include both beach club access and museum entry—worth checking out if you want to save money and explore more.

Sperlonga

• Transport: Train to Fondi-Sperlonga, then local bus (15 mins)
• Parking: Yes, €15 per day in summer
• Where to stay: Historic center – converted palazzos and seaside hotels

Sperlonga sits on a cliff above one of Italy’s nicest beaches, with whitewashed buildings that lead down to the shore. It was once a retreat for Emperor Tiberius, and you can still visit his grotto and the nearby archaeological museum.

Just an hour from Rome, it’s an easy escape from the summer heat. Spend your day switching between the beach and wandering through medieval alleyways

Viareggio

• Transport: Direct trains from Florence / Pisa
• Parking: Yes, €12–18 per day in town
• Where to stay: Art Nouveau promenade – grand hotels and pension houses

Viareggio has an old-school beach town feel, with Liberty-style (Art Nouveau) buildings along the waterfront. The historic beach clubs here have been around for generations, and the town is known for its long promenade lined with cafes and shops. It’s lively in the summer but still has a laid-back vibe. If you visit in February, expect a completely different scene—Viareggio’s Carnival takes over the town with huge parades and floats.

If you're looking for more ideas, be sure to check out our Tuscany itineraries with tips from local experts.

Monterosso al Mare

• Transport: Train on Cinque Terre line
• Parking: Limited, €25 per day, advance booking required
• Where to stay: Old Town or New Town – historic inns and modern hotels

Monterosso al Mare is the only Cinque Terre village with a proper beach. The old town has winding streets and stone buildings, while the newer part feels more like a resort. The striped church and dramatic cliffs give the beach a great backdrop. Monterosso is also known for its anchovies, which have been packed here using the same techniques for centuries. Restaurants by the water serve them fresh, just steps from the sea.

City & Beach Combinations

Taking a trip with both city time and beach time is easy in Italy. Many urban beaches have luggage storage, so you can drop your bags and enjoy the sun before heading off to explore.

Palermo and Mondello

• Transport: Regular buses from Palermo (30 mins)
• Parking: Yes, €8–12 per day
• Where to stay: Villas in Mondello or city center hotels in Palermo 

Mondello beach is just outside Palermo, with a long stretch of sand lined with Art Nouveau villas and a historic pier. Mornings here are quiet and peaceful, perfect for a swim before the crowds arrive. Locals like to spend long afternoons at seafood restaurants by the water. The view of Monte Pellegrino makes for a great backdrop while you relax.

Naples and Posillipo

• Transport: Metro to Mergellina, then bus or walk
• Parking: Yes, €15–20 per day, limited spots
• Where to stay: Chiaia district — elegant hotels with bay views

Posillipo is where ancient Roman villas meet the sea, just a quick trip from Naples. Small rocky beaches and hidden swimming spots have incredible views of Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples. Marechiaro, a tiny fishing village, has a timeless feel, while the Gaiola Archaeological Park has spots to swim among Roman ruins. Visiting on a weekday or early morning helps avoid the busiest times.

Venice and Lido di Venezia

• Transport: Vaporetto water bus from Venice (20 mins)
• Parking: No – leave your car on the mainland
• Where to stay: Venice 

Lido di Venezia is a quick escape from the crowds of Venice, with wide sandy beaches and a more relaxed pace. It still holds onto its Belle Époque charm, with grand hotels and rows of classic beach cabanas. The Lido is also home to the Venice Film Festival, so you might spot a celebrity or two if you visit at the right time. The best swimming spots are near the historic Hotel Des Bains, away from the busiest areas.

Accessible & Adapted Beaches

Italy has been making its beaches more accessible, with many coastal spots adding features for visitors with mobility needs. Local disability associations are a great resource for up-to-date accessibility details and discounts on beach services and equipment rentals.

Lido di Ostia, Rome

• Transport: Metro from Rome (30 mins) + short walk
• Parking: Yes, €8–12 per day
• Where to stay: Ostia town center – modern hotels with accessibility features

Lido di Ostia is an easy beach escape from Rome, and it’s one of the more accessible options. Private beach clubs have boardwalk systems, beach wheelchairs, and staff trained to assist visitors. Adapted changing rooms, accessible showers, and water sports equipment designed for mobility needs make these spots a good choice. Public beaches have some ramps, but private.

Bibione Spiaggia, Veneto

• Transport: Train to Latisana, then bus (30 mins)
• Parking: Yes, €10 per day, dedicated accessible spots
• Where to stay: Bibione center — specially adapted hotels and apartments

Bibione Spiaggia has been recognized for its accessibility efforts, with floating wheelchairs, long ramps reaching into the water, and boardwalks connecting key facilities. Staff are trained to assist visitors. The beachfront promenade is step-free, and many hotels nearby have rooms designed with accessibility in mind. During peak season, staff assist visitors at designated access points along the beach.

Punta Marina, Ravenna

• Transport: Regular buses from Ravenna (20 mins)
• Parking: Yes, €8 per day, multiple accessible spots
• Where to stay: Punta Marina Terme — hotels with accessible rooms

Punta Marina is designed with accessibility in mind. Boardwalks connect major areas, and private beach clubs provide specialized equipment and trained staff. A hydraulic lift swimming platform allows for easier and safer water entry, and adapted loungers and amphibious wheelchairs are available for rent. It’s best to reserve equipment in advance, especially during peak season. Nearby, the thermal spa has wellness treatments designed with accessibility in mind.

Sport & Water Activity Beaches

A little planning goes a long way for beach sports in Italy. Many spots have early morning discounts on rentals before 9 AM. Wind sports enthusiasts can use the Windy app for reliable local wind forecasts.

Porto Pollo, Sardinia

• Transport: Car required, 1 hour from Olbia airport
• Parking: Yes, €5 per day
• Where to stay: Palau or Porto Pollo village 

Porto Pollo is a well-known spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to steady thermal winds and a bay with two distinct wind zones. One side is great for beginners, while the other provides more of a challenge. Several schools provide lessons in multiple languages, and rental shops have equipment for all skill levels. Even on non-windsurfing days, the views of the Maddalena Archipelago make this a scenic place to spend time.

Marina di Ragusa, Sicily

• Transport: Bus from Ragusa (40 mins), or drive
• Parking: Yes, free in most areas
• Where to stay: Marina di Ragusa town 

This coastal town in Sicily is a great base for diving and snorkeling. The nearby Plemmirio Marine Reserve has well-preserved underwater ecosystems with shipwrecks, volcanic formations, and diverse marine life. Dive centers provide PADI certification courses and guided dives for different experience levels. Full moon night dives are a unique way to see nocturnal marine life. The area is also known for good sailing conditions, with lessons available from beginner to advanced levels. Water sports centers rent out gear for stand-up paddleboarding, water skiing, and other activities.

Levanto, Liguria

• Transport: Train on Genoa-La Spezia line
• Parking: Yes, €15 per day in central lots
• Where to stay: Levanto center 

Levanto is known for its surf-friendly coastline, with waves year-round thanks to the bay’s shape. The gentle beach break makes it a good spot for beginners, while winter swells bring in more experienced surfers. Surf schools run lessons in multiple languages, including programs for kids and teens. Rental shops carry a variety of boards, and the town has a relaxed, surf-friendly atmosphere with beachfront cafes and surf shops. Because it's close to Cinque Terre, wave conditions vary slightly, giving surfers different challenges depending on the season.

Plan your trip with ease

Not sure where to start? Our Italy itineraries take the stress out of planning while leaving plenty of room for spontaneity. They’re designed to give you a solid starting point—so you can hit the ground running without feeling tied down. After all, the best trips strike a balance between structure and freedom. 

• Italy itinerary 5 days: A quick trip to Italy’s must-see spots, usually focused on one or two iconic cities. Perfect if you want a taste of Italy’s famous art, history, and cuisine.
• Italy itinerary 7 days: A week in Italy allows you to experience both city life and a bit of countryside charm. You’ll have time to explore major sights and get a feel for Italy’s local culture.
• Italy itinerary 10 days: Ten days offers a good balance between Italy’s cities and scenic regions. You can enjoy both bustling urban highlights and quieter rural areas at a comfortable pace.
• Italy itinerary 14 days: With two weeks, you can take a deeper dive into Italy’s diverse regions. This itinerary covers a variety of landscapes, from historic towns to rolling vineyards and coastal views.