The Best Coastal Towns in Italy You Must Visit in 2025: Hidden Gems and Breathtaking Beaches

We’ve handpicked the best coastal towns in Italy to explore in 2025 if you’re looking for something beyond the usual Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri and the like.

This guide shows you the hidden beach towns in Italy worth visiting this year to escape the city heat, dive into crystal-clear waters, and uncover some truly special seaside gems.

It’s always a good time to head to the seaside. But the real question is: where? We’re here to help.

If you’re already picturing yourself squeezed among huge summer crowds along the Mediterranean, feeling a bit like a pizza in a wood-fired oven at 400°C, don’t worry, we’ve got you. That’s precisely why we’ve skipped the usual tourist hotspots and focused on Italy’s coastal towns that are a little more off the beaten path, relaxed, authentic, and full of local charm.

We can’t promise empty beaches in the middle of August (that would truly be a miracle), but we do have some great ideas to help you enjoy the coast in a different way, far from the summer rush.

Here’s what you’ll find in this article:

- A curated list of the best coastal towns in Italy to visit in 2025

- Southern Italy’s most beautiful seaside villages with stunning beaches

- Italian islands that are still well off the tourist radar

- Top tips for making the most of your Italy beach destination in 2025.

Here are 4 seaside gems that honestly deserve your attention. We’ve selected destinations in Liguria, Lazio, Basilicata, and Puglia. These places are the essence of the Italian summer, but you can soak up their authentic beauty, Mediterranean atmosphere, and peaceful vibes almost all year round.

These are the best coastal towns in Italy to visit in 2025, according to us:

- Tellaro

- Sperlonga

- Maratea

- Vieste 

The first of our seaside villages in Italy is Tellaro, a tiny fishing village in Lerici, along the Ligurian coast. With colourful houses, a church tower leaning out over the sea, narrow lanes and tucked-away squares, it will be your next favourite hidden beach town in Italy, especially if you’re after a less touristy alternative to the Cinque Terre.

Top tip: on the second Sunday of August, the village hosts the Octopus Festival (Sagra del Polpo). Tellaro doesn’t have extensive beaches, but its rocky coves offer wonderfully romantic sea access. Anyway, the sandy beaches of Fiascherino are just a short walk away.

Halfway between Rome and Naples, Sperlonga overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea with its whitewashed houses, panoramic terraces, and a historic centre that seems made to be photographed. The beaches here are wide and sandy, with clear, shallow waters perfect for families with young children.

It’s not just about swimming though, cause there’s plenty of culture to explore too. Don’t miss the archaeological complex of Tiberius’s Villa and the fascinating Sperlonga Cave. In summer, the town has a lively buzz but never feels overwhelming. Ideal for seaside strolls, relaxing in waterfront cafés, and browsing small boutiques.

Part wild coastline, part chic hideaway, part little Rio de Janeiro, Maratea is one of the best coastal towns in Italy. Expect dramatic cliffs, a mix of sandy and pebbly beaches scattered along the coast, and an incredible variety of landscapes. The town is dotted with charming churches and chapels, and best of all, it won’t break the bank.

Towering above Maratea is the statue of Christ the Redeemer: those who make the scenic climb from the historic centre up to Monte San Biagio will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from there. In summer, Maratea has a bouncy yet relaxed vibe, with plenty of seaside bars and a picturesque marina for setting sail to nearby littoral.

In Vieste, the sea is the undisputed star. You’ll find turquoise waters, long stretches of golden sand, and the famous sea stacks (Faraglioni) that rise strikingly from the sea.

Your days will naturally fill up with trips to the most beautiful beaches of the Gargano area, like Baia delle Zagare, and walks through the ancient, whitewashed town perched dramatically above the sea.

The most iconic sight is Pizzomunno, the enormous monolith standing guard over the main beach. Vieste is among the best coastal towns in Italy and is fantastic if you’re after an energetic seaside holiday with lively nightlife and endless natural beauty to explore (like the Tremiti islands)

Southern Italy is full of hidden gems, coastal corners that are often overlooked and destinations that offer something a little different. These are the places where you can still enjoy a softer, more laid-back kind of tourism, even at the height of summer, while the sea remains as dazzling as ever.

Here are 3 seaside villages in Italy that deserve a spot on your travel list in 2025:

- Scilla

- Pizzo

- Santa Maria di Leuca

The charming fishing village of Scilla, overlooking the Strait of Messina, has a mix of idyllic beaches, a picture-perfect old town, and a surprisingly good food scene. Step into Chianalea, the Venice-like historic district built right on the water, where houses are reflected in the sea. 

Scilla is one of the best hidden beach towns in Italy, still relatively under the radar, easy to reach by car or train, and an excellent base for exploring the entire Costa Viola. Summer has a lively but affordable atmosphere, and you absolutely must try the local street food hero: a simple swordfish sandwich that’s become a cult favourite in recent years.

Pizzo may be less famous than nearby Tropea, but it certainly holds its own. Its beaches, such as Piedigrotta, Colamaio, and Marinella, overlook the crystal-clear waters of the stunning Costa degli Dei.

The historic centre sits proudly on a tufa promontory with sweeping views over the main square, Piazza della Repubblica, and Castello Murat, the ancient fortress where the French general and King of Naples, Joachim Murat, was imprisoned and sentenced to death in 1815. Prices remain affordable, and the vibe is wonderfully local, with many cafés and restaurants frequented mainly by locals. Be sure to try the famous Tartufo di Pizzo, the artisan gelato invented in 1952 and still very much loved.

If Italy is a stiletto boot, Santa Maria di Leuca is the very tip of the heel, pointing where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet and mingle. This seaside town is known for its spectacular cliffs, dotted with caves and hidden coves that can be explored by traditional gozzo boats, which set off frequently throughout the day.

You’re also just a short drive from the Caribbean-like beaches along the Ionian coast. The seafront promenade is lined with beautiful Art Nouveau villas. Highlights of this hidden beach town in Italy include the lighthouse, the astounding Basilica of Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae, and the impressive man-made waterfall.

Small, authentic, and easy to explore on foot or by scooter, these islands still have the power to surprise and aren’t completely overrun by tourists, even in peak season. They’re relatively easy to reach and tend to be more affordable compared to Italy’s most famous island destinations. You’ll find essential but good-quality services and simple, stress-free travel connections.

Here are 3 Italian islands to consider for an escape away from the crowds:

- Ponza

- Procida

- Lipari

The largest of the Pontine Islands can be reached by hydrofoil in around 70–80 minutes from Anzio, Terracina, or Formia. Ponza is best experienced by boat: some of its most beautiful beaches, such as Chiaia di Luna and Cala Felce, are only accessible from the sea.

Getting around is simple: you can hop on local buses or rent a scooter to explore at your own pace. By day, dive for a snorkelling session. By night, live the life around the harbour, with open-air bars and cosy restaurants. 

Prices can rise during the high season, but Ponza remains one of the best hidden beach towns in Italy for those seeking a more laid-back island experience.

Procida is the smallest of the islands in the Gulf of Naples. It's just a 40-minute hydrofoil ride from Naples; it's easy to explore on foot or by scooter and has a much more casual pace than Ischia or Capri. The best beaches include Chiaiolella, Pozzo Vecchio—famously featured in the Oscar-nominated film Il Postino (The Postman)—and Ciraccio, known for its black sand and sea stacks. The heart of Procida is Marina Corricella, where colourful houses line the waterfront

It's good even for a short break: the island is easy to navigate, you won't need a car, and prices are refreshingly reasonable. Procida is one of the best coastal towns in Italy for those seeking a crowd-free seaside escape.

The largest of the Aeolian Islands, Lipari is also the most convenient for travellers who want to explore beaches, villages, and nearby islands with ease. You can get there by hydrofoil in about an hour from Milazzo. The most popular beaches are Canneto and Acquacalda, but Lipari offers more than just seaside relaxation. It's well worth visiting the Aeolian Archaeological Museum and wandering through the Castello district, which offers lovely views over the port.

A scooter is the perfect way to get around independently and discover the hidden corners. Lipari is beautiful all over, and you'll generally find it more affordable than nearby Panarea. For 2025, it's one of the top Italy beach destinations for travellers looking for more informal vibes.

Relaxing in the sunshine is always a good idea, but the best coastal towns in Italy offer so much more than just beach days. Here are some fun, easy-to-plan activities to help you make the most of your seaside holiday in Italy.

- Boat Trips — Hiring a small boat without a licence is a fantastic way to explore hidden caves, secluded coves, and dramatic cliffs that can only be reached by sea. Prices usually start from around €50–70, depending on the type of boat.

- Watersports — In Vieste and Salento, the wind makes these spots ideal for surfers and kitesurfers. You’ll find schools and equipment hire along the beaches. For diving enthusiasts, Maratea, Lipari, and Ponza offer stunning seabeds, and the local diving centres run guided trips suitable even for beginners. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are also popular and perfect for exploring the coastline on your own or with organised tours.

- Scenic Walks — There are plenty of coastal walks for all levels. From Tellaro, you can follow seaside paths to Lerici or Punta Corvo. In Vieste, there’s the romantic Sentiero dell’Amore (Lovers’ Path) and the scenic Trabucchi Trail. Near Santa Maria di Leuca, you’ll find the Porto Selvaggio trail, the Cipolliane path, and the caves trek from Punta Ristola to Punta Meliso.

- Cultural Visits — Seaside holidays and culture go hand in hand. Each of these seaside villages in Italy has museums and historical sites worth visiting between swims. Highlights include the Piedigrotta Church in Pizzo, carved directly into the rock by sailors, the impressive Ruffo Castle in Scilla, and the archaeological site of Tiberius’ Villa in Sperlonga.

- Local Festivals —Many hidden beach towns in Italy come alive in summer with traditional festivals and food fairs from July to September. Some not-to-miss events in 2025 include the Sagra del Polpo in Tellaro (the second Sunday in August), the Tartufo Festival in Pizzo (August), Festa di San Rocco in Scilla (the weekend after 16 August), and the annual Sagra del Mare in Procida (late July).

- Food and Wine Experiences — Every day is a delicious opportunity. Join wine tastings, visit olive oil mills, or stroll down the harbour to buy the freshest fish from the returning boats. Don’t miss local specialities like polpo alla tellarese (Tellaro-style octopus), a glass of Pampanuto wine in Vieste, Zibibbo in Pizzo, and the famous lingua pastry for breakfast in Procida.

Even though many of the best coastal towns in Italy we’ve selected tend to fly under the radar, peace and quiet in peak summer is still a bit of a dream.

If possible, try to steer clear of mid-August, when Italy’s beach destinations are at their busiest. Instead, late June and early September often offer the perfect balance: warm weather, almost fully open services, and far fewer crowds.

If you’re interested in planning crowd-free travel, check out our dedicated article on off-season holidays.

For the most relaxed beach days and sightseeing, aim for weekdays rather than weekends when beaches and attractions are naturally less crowded.

When it comes to booking hotels and B&Bs, especially in the smaller seaside villages in Italy, it’s best to secure your accommodation at least 2–3 months in advance if you’re travelling in June or September. If you’re planning a trip in August, particularly to popular spots like Vieste or Ponza, book at least 4 months ahead to get the best options.

What are the most beautiful coastal towns in Italy?


A selection of some of the most beautiful and interesting seaside towns in Italy includes:

- Tellaro (Liguria)

- Sperlonga (Lazio)

- Maratea (Basilicata)

- Vieste (Puglia)

- Scilla (Calabria)

- Pizzo (Calabria)

- Santa Maria di Leuca (Puglia)

- Ponza (Pontine Islands, Lazio)

- Procida (Campania)

- Lipari (Aeolian Islands, Sicily)

What’s a quiet alternative to Cinque Terre?


If you’re looking for a peaceful alternative to Cinque Terre, Tellaro is an excellent choice. It has colorful houses, small coves, and scenic coastal walks, but without the heavy tourist crowds. It’s one of the top hidden beach towns in Italy for 2025. Take a look at our in-depth article on the best alternatives to the Cinque Terre.

Where to avoid crowds on the Italian coast?


Top hotspots like Positano, Amalfi, and the Sardinian Costa Smeralda are among the best coastal towns in Italy but are usually packed during the summer. Visiting in May, June, or September can help enjoying the places with fewer people. Also try less glamorous destinations like Scilla, Pizzo, Santa Maria di Leuca, Vieste, and the islands of Ponza and Procida.

What’s the best time to book a beach holiday in Italy?


If you’re planning to visit the best coastal towns in Italy in July or August, it’s best to book accommodation at least 3 to 5 months in advance, especially in smaller towns where rooms sell out quickly. For boat rentals, beach clubs, and popular local events, consider reserving a few weeks ahead, particularly in August when availability drops.

What are the best areas for holidays in Italy?

It depends on the type of holiday: summer in the city, a romantic getaway, astro-tourism, solo travel, holidays for true clubbers, or a mountain escape. If you’re looking for wild landscapes, Basilicata and Calabria are ideal, while for nightlife and water sports, Salento and the Pontine Islands are perfect.