Redazione Visit Italy

Redazione Visit Italy

The most beautiful beaches in Italy in 2025: a complete guide from north to south for your next Italian seaside holiday.

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📆 Last update
26/05/2025

As it happens in other countries bordering the Mediterranean, Italy has a love affair with its sea, which represents a spectacular tourist and environmental resource. 

The sea wraps almost entirely around the peninsula and its islands, offering over 7,000 kilometres of coastline and an extraordinarily diverse landscape, from secluded little coves to wide, sandy beaches.

As true ambassadors of Italian beauty, we’ve taken on a nearly impossible task: selecting the most beautiful beaches in Italy for 2025.

By the end of this journey, you’ll realise just how difficult it is to compile a definitive list without leaving out dozens of breathtaking spots that truly deserve a mention.

Choosing was tough, but the experience will be a breeze.

Dive into our guide to the best beaches in Italy in 2025 and start planning your perfect summer getaway!

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Discovering the most beautiful beaches in Italy in 2025

the most beautiful beaches in Italy

The colours of the Italian sea truly represent all shades of blue, from the pale silvery shimmer of the waves washing the shore to the most intense turquoise and the deepest blue.

It's no coincidence that Italy is home to the 2025 most beautiful beach in the world according to the World's 50 Best Beaches list.

Sandy beaches, strangely shaped reefs, ever-changing landscapes and the scent of salt mingling with the fragrances of the surrounding nature: that's basically what you can expect while travelling through the most beautiful beaches in Italy in 2025

P.S. Have a look at our selection of the best Italian seaside destinations: 

. The best nudist beaches in Italy 

. The secret beaches in Italy 

. The Italian beaches to reach by boat 

. The best beaches in North Sardinia 

. The best beaches in Calabria  

. The best beaches in Campania 

The most beautiful seaside destinations in Puglia 

. The perfect beaches in Sicily 

. The best seaside in Liguria 

The most beautiful beaches in Northern Italy 2025

Best beaches in Northern Italy

Our journey to discover the most beautiful beaches in Italy in 2025 begins along the northern coastlines.

We'll travel from Liguria and Friuli's pebble and rocky shores to the vast sandy stretches of the Veneto and Romagna coasts.

Often overlooked in favour of the South's more famous beaches, these northern gems boast crystal-clear waters, gently sloping sandy seabeds (the best for children), and countless charming seaside villages just steps from the shore.

We begin on the northwest coast, in Liguria, a region that has repeatedly claimed the highest number of "blue flag" beaches in Italy.

Northern Italy’s Most Beautiful Beaches in 2025:

. Saraceni Bay – Varigotti (Liguria)

. San Fruttuoso Beach – Camogli (Liguria)

. Sistiana Bay– Trieste (Friuli Venezia Giulia)

. Eraclea Mare – Venice (Veneto)

. Pellestrina Island – Venice (Veneto)

. Lidi Ferraresi – (Emilia-Romagna)

. Lido di Classe – Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna)

Listen to the podcast version of the article with Monna Lisa and Leonardo's voices

1. Saraceni Bay – Varigotti (Liguria)

 Bay of Saracens Beach, Liguria

In Varigotti, a picturesque village in the province of Savona, you cannot miss Baia dei Saraceni, one of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in Liguria and Northern Italy.

A splendid bay enclosed by rocky cliffs and unspoilt nature. It's an ideal destination for snorkelling, which is widely practised in the area.

Facilities: The beach is mostly free to access, although there is also a beach club. Canoes and pedal boats are available for hire during the high season.

How to get there: By car via the Aurelia road (SS1), exiting the A10 motorway at Spotorno or Finale Ligure. The beach is also accessible by train to Finale Ligure, followed by a bus or bicycle ride. The bay is an easy walk from the centre of Varigotti.

Where to park: There’s a paid car park near the bay, but spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly in summer. It’s best to arrive early in the morning. Alternatively, you can park along the nearby Via Aurelia or Varigotti, though parking is scarce during summer.

2. San Fruttuoso Beach – Camogli (Liguria)

San Fruttuoso, Camogli – Among the most beautiful beaches in Italy

Moving on to Camogli in the province of Genoa, you can admire the scenic San Fruttuoso Beach with the Abbey of San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte and the Doria Tower dominating the bay. The beach is located in the protected marine area of Portofino.

Swim in the clear blue sea, dive and see the Christ of the Abyss, a statue placed at a depth of about 17 metres.

Facilities: Pebble beach, mostly free, with a small equipped area. A bar and a restaurant available. No accessible public toilets. A popular spot for snorkelling.

How to get there: Accessible only by sea (ferries from Camogli, Portofino, and Santa Margherita) or on foot via hiking trails through the Portofino Park (a 2–3 hour walk).

Where to park: Parking is available in Camogli or Santa Margherita, where ferries depart. There is no direct parking at the beach.

3. Sistiana Bay – Trieste (Friuli Venezia Giulia)

The Bay of Sistiana, Trieste - Friuli Venezia Giulia

In the province of Trieste lies Baia di Sistiana, home to charming coves and striking cliffs that plunge into the sea.

The beach is made of small pebbles and is suitable for all ages. Majestic white cliffs set against the deep blue of the Adriatic frame the place.

Facilities: Wide choice of beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Sunbeds, parasols, and water sports equipment are available for hire. The beach is a mix of sand, pebbles, and piers.

How to get there: Easily accessible by car via the A4 motorway, exit at Sistiana. Also connected by bus from Trieste. A cycle path runs nearby.

Where to park: Well-signposted paid parking is available close to the beach. Spaces tend to fill up quickly in high season, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning.

4. Eraclea Mare – Venezia (Veneto)

Jesolo beach - Veneto

Among the most beautiful beaches in Veneto, we recommend Eraclea Mare, a beach with good quality services, a clean sea, and a large pine forest behind it that has given it the name "green pearl" of the Adriatic. A top destination for enjoying sports both in and out of the water.

Facilities: 
A wide, sandy beach with plenty of space and numerous beach clubs, bars, restaurants, and children’s play areas. Perfect for families. There’s also a shaded area with a pine forest just behind the beach.

How to get there: 
By car via the A4 motorway, exit at San Donà di Piave – Noventa, then follow the SP42. Bus connections are available from Venice and Mestre. Also accessible by bike via dedicated cycle routes.

Where to park: 
Several free and paid car parks are available near the beach and pine forest. Designated parking areas for campervans are also provided.

5. Pellestrina Island – Venice (Veneto)

Pellestrina Island – Among Italy’s most beautiful beaches

Even those visiting the Venetian Lagoon can unwind on the beach!

We particularly recommend Pellestrina Island, where, alongside a charming fishing village, you can visit the Ca' Roman Nature Reserve, home to a beautiful wild beach, dunes, and forest.

Facilities: A peaceful, less touristy, free beach with minimal services. There are a few bars, restaurants, and kiosks nearby. Ideal for those seeking nature and relaxation.

How to get there: Ferry operated by ACTV from Chioggia or Lido di Venezia. You can also bring your bike on board the vaporetto. Regular connections available in summer.

Where to park: Parking is available in Chioggia or Lido before boarding the ferry. There's no direct parking on the island, which can be easily explored on foot or by bike.

6. Lidi Ferraresi (Emilia-Romagna)

Emilia Romagna coastline

In the province of Ferrara, in the Po Delta Regional Park - Unesco World Heritage Site, you will find the Lidi Ferraresi or Lidi di Comacchio, seven extensive, well-equipped white beaches surrounded by green pine forests.

The Lido di Volano is ideal for birdwatching, fishing and cycling tours. Porto Garibaldi, the oldest of the lidos, Lido degli Scacchi and Lido di Pomposa, are quieter destinations, ideal for families. 

Lido degli Estensi, considered the "capital" of the Lidos, offers many clubs and restaurants for pleasant evenings in company. Lido di Spina is known as the 'greenest lido' thanks to its extensive green pine forest.

Facilities: 
Extensive tourist infrastructure, including beach clubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, children’s play areas, and rental services for pedal boats and water sports. Sandy beaches make this an ideal destination for families.

How to get there: 
By car via the SS309 Romea road. The Lidi are easily accessible from both Ravenna and Ferrara, and are also served by local buses. Some cycle paths connect the various Lidi.

Where to park: 
Plenty of parking is available, both free and paid, close to the main beach access points.

7. Lido di Classe – Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna)

* Lido di Classe – Peaceful retreat among Italy’s most beautiful beaches

In the province of Ravenna, Lido di Classe is a standout destination, with its beach framed by a pine forest within the Ravennate Coastal Dune Nature Reserve.

Just a short distance from Ravenna, the art city home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this beach offers full comfort for families and plenty of activities for younger visitors.

Facilities: A mix of beach clubs and free beach areas, bars, restaurants, campsites, tennis courts, beach volleyball, soccer and basketball facilities, family-friendly zones. you can try kitesurfing, skydiving, hang-gliding, or even horse riding just steps from the sea. A natural pine forest lies just behind the beach.

How to get there: By car via the SS16 Adriatica, exit at Lido di Classe. There are bus connections from Ravenna and Cervia, and a cycle path runs along the coastline.

Where to park: Parking is available near the beach and pine forest, with free or time-limited options.

Get your Ravenna Pass

The most beautiful beaches in Central Italy 2025

Best beaches in Central Italy

Washed by the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic Seas, the regions of Central Italy boast sandy shores, rocky coves, inlets nestled beneath headlands, and postcard-worthy views in every direction.

Sea lovers can experience it all, from long, well-equipped sandy stretches offering every comfort to secluded bays accessible only by adventurous paths. Our journey in Central Italy starts on the Adriatic coast, in the Marche region.

The Most Beautiful Beaches in Central Italy 2025:

. Fiorenzuola di Focara Beach – Pesaro (Marche)

. Due Sorelle Beach – Sirolo (Marche)

. Turchino Beach – San Vito Chietino (Abruzzo)

. Acquabella Beach – Ortona (Abruzzo)

. Quercetano Bay – Castiglioncello (Tuscany)

. Cala del Gesso – Monte Argentario (Tuscany)

. Angolo Beach – Sperlonga (Lazio)

. Maga Circe Beach (also known as Cala del Porto) – Palmarola, Pontine Islands (Lazio)

1. Fiorenzuola di Focara Beach – Pesaro (Marche)

* Fiorenzuola di Focara – Hidden gem among the most beautiful beaches in Italy

Between Cattolica and Pesaro, near the bustling beaches of Emilia-Romagna, stands the Fiorenzuola di Focara Beach, a wild and peaceful hideaway at the foot of Mount San Bartolo.

The long stretch of soft white sand blessed by gently sloping seabed and wonderfully clear, turquoise waters is accessible only on foot. The lush greenery of Monte San Bartolo frames the landscape.

Facilities: Unspoilt, free beach with no clubs or facilities. A bar and restaurant are available in the village above the cliffs. Ideal for those seeking nature and tranquillity.

How to get there: Accessible only via a scenic path descending from the village of Fiorenzuola di Focara (Monte San Bartolo Park). Not suitable for those with limited mobility.

Where to park: Parking is available near the village and along Via Tasino.

2. Due Sorelle Beach – Sirolo (Marche)

* Due Sorelle – Among the most beautiful beaches in Italy’s Adriatic coast

The stretch of coastline sheltered by Mount Conero is dotted with bays and coves framed by lush, untamed vegetation.

Among the most stunning spots is the postcard-perfect Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle, a sensational ribbon of white sand tucked beneath towering cliffs and facing the twin sea stacks that have become an icon of the Conero Riviera.

Facilities: A completely wild, unspoilt beach, no clubs, no cafés. Crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling. Bring everything you need with you.

How to get there: Only by sea. Boats depart from San Michele Beach in Sirolo, the port of Numana, and Marcelli di Numana. You can also arrive by kayak or private boat. The old hiking trail has been closed for safety reasons. In the past, a visitor limit system was used to regulate access to the beach. As of the publication of this article, details for the 2025 summer season have not yet been released. For updates and booking information, visit turismosirolo.it.

Where to park: In Sirolo, parking is available at the town entrance, along the seafront, or near the small port. Numana has a designated parking area on Via Monte Albano near the cemetery. The harbour is just a short walk away.

3. Turchino Beach – San Vito Chietino (Abruzzo)

 Trabocchi Coast - Abruzzo

Costa dei Trabocchi, the coastline named after the traditional wooden fishing platforms (trabocchi) connected to the shore by narrow wooden walkways, extends between Ortona and vasto. 

The Turchino Beach is a top spot of the area. Famous for its vivid turquoise waters and the historic Trabocco Turchino immortalised by poet Gabriele D’Annunzio in The Triumph of Death, this spiaggia features a crystal-clear sea that makes it a favourite for snorkelling enthusiasts.

Facilities: A wild and unspoilt beach with no services, beach clubs, or cafés.

How to get there: Accessible by car via the SS16 Adriatica coastal road. Alternatively, you can cycle there via the scenic coastal bike path.

Where to park: There are a few small parking areas along the coastal road or near the train station, but spots are limited and can be hard to find during peak season.

4. Acquabella Beach – Ortona (Abruzzo)

* Acquabella – Among the most beautiful beaches in Italy’s Abruzzo region

Acquabella Beach is considered one of the most beautiful spots in Central Italy. Sited in a protected nature reserve, this spiaggia is accessible only on foot via a small path that winds through abandoned houses and Mediterranean greenery. The name says it all — “Acquabella” means “beautiful water”, and here you’ll find exactly that: incredibly clear, turquoise waters and pristine pebble seabeds. 

Facilities: Free access pebble beach with transparent waters. No beach clubs or facilities directly on site, but kiosks and small bars are available in the surrounding area.

How to get there: Reachable via a scenic walking path that begins near the Acquabella viewpoint (belvedere). You can get to the area by car or public transport from Ortona.

Where to park: Parking spots are available along the coastal road or near the belvedere. These can be limited during the high season, so arriving early is recommended.

5. Baia del Quercetano – Castiglioncello (Toscana)

Quercetano Bay – Tuscan elegance among the most beautiful beaches in Italy

Along the Livorno coast lies Quercetano Bay. Rocky outcrops and lush Mediterranean vegetation frame this half-moon-shaped beach of fine sand. The bay is sheltered from the wind and boasts a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy the sunset from one of the lovely seafront cafés or restaurants after a relaxing day by the sea.

Facilities: Mix of free beach areas and beach clubs with sunbeds and umbrellas. Bars and restaurants nearby. The water is clear, and the rocky seabed makes it ideal for snorkelling.

How to get there: By car via the SS1 Aurelia, exit at Castiglioncello. Also accessible by train: the railway station is just a short walk from the bay.

Where to park: Paid parking is available near the centre of Castiglioncello and along the scenic coastal road. Parking can be limited in summer, so it’s best to arrive early.

6. Cala del Gesso – Monte Argentario (Toscana)

Cala del Gesso – Tuscan paradise among the most beautiful beaches in Italy

Let's go to the province of Grosseto, to the beaches near Monte Argentario. Among the many beaches and coves immersed in nature, we recommend Cala del Gesso, a wild pebbly cove washed by an emerald sea and reachable only by sea or land via a challenging nature trail. The effort of the walk will be repaid by a unique and exclusive place.

Facilities: A completely wild and free beach. No services available: bring water and a packed lunch.

How to get there: By sea either renting a boat or using a taxi service from Porto Ercole harbour. Alternatively, it's accessible on foot via a steep path that starts from the panoramic coastal road. Drive to Cala Moresca, then follow Via dei Pionieri to a gate. From there, continue on foot down a paved path with steps.

Where to park: Free parking is available along the panoramic road, though spaces are limited. A guarded car park is also located near the pedestrian path.

7. La Spiaggia dell’Angolo – Sperlonga (Lazio)

Sperlonga – L’Angolo beach, among the most beautiful beaches in Italy

Continuing along the Tyrrhenian coast, the Latium coastline is highly varied, between the wilder cliffs and coves of the Circeo National Park and better-known resorts, also equipped for families with children.

Among the many beautiful beaches between Anzio and Gaeta is the Angolo Beach in Sperlonga, a picturesque ancient village overlooking the sea. The sand is golden with a few rocks, and the sea is blue and crystal clear, with a sandy seabed.

Facilities: Both free access areas and beach clubs. Bars and restaurants nearby. Ideal for families. 

How to get there: Easily reached on foot from the centre of Sperlonga by continuing past Ponente Beach. Also accessible by car or public transport to the town.

Where to park: Municipal parking available in Via dell’Angolo, close to the beach entrance.

8. Cala del Porto or Spiaggia della Maga Circe – Palmarola (Pontine Islands, Lazio)

Sperlonga - beach

The Pontine Islands boast precious gems such as the "mythic" Sorceress Circe Beach (Spiaggia della Maga Circe) on the island of Palmarola. An impressive sea stack (Faraglione di San Silverio) overlooks the sand and pebble beach that also features some tufa caves. Pristine environment with transparent waters and seabeds perfect for snorkelling and diving. 

Facilities: Completely wild beach with no amenities. No beach clubs, bars, or restaurants. 

How to get there: Only accessible by sea through private boats, taxi boats or organised day trips from the island of Ponza. During the summer, numerous operators offer excursions with stops at Palmarola.

Where to park: There are no parking facilities on the island, which is entirely uninhabited. You must depart from Ponza, where you can park your car or scooter before boarding a boat for the day.

Book boat tour Pontine Islands

The most beautiful beaches in Southern Italy 2025

Best beaches in Southern Italy and Islands

Welcome to Southern Italy, a land of sun, sea and heavenly beaches. 

The southern coasts, washed by three different seas, the Adriatic, Ionian and Tyrrhenian, boast extraordinary bays, inlets, white sandy beaches and coves comparable to Caribbean beaches. And between one beach and the next, you can visit villages, cities of art and cultural attractions of great value.

The most beautiful beaches in Southern Italy 2025:

. Spiaggia della Tartaruga (turtle beach) – Vico Equense (Campania)

. Trentova Bay – Agropoli (Campania)

. I Vranne Beach – Maratea (Basilicata)

. Spiaggia del Bosco Pantano – Policoro (Basilicata)

. Rotonda Beach – Tropea (Calabria)

Spiaggia dei Gigli  (lily beach) – Isola di Capo Rizzuto (Calabria)

. Sant’Antonio Beach – Termoli (Molise)

. Campomarino Lido – Campomarino (Molise)

. Pescoluse – Salve, Marina di Pescoluse (Puglia)

. San Vito Lo Capo Beach – San Vito Lo Capo (Sicily)

. Scala dei Turchi – Realmonte (Sicily)

. La Pelosa – Stintino (Sardinia)

. Cala Goloritzé – Baunei (Sardinia)

1. Turtle Beach – Vico Equense (Campania)

Spiaggia della Tartaruga tra le più belle d’Italia

Several beaches on the Sorrento Coast  have repeatedly been awarded the Blue Flag for water quality. Spiaggia della Tartaruga (Turtle Beach) is among them. Its peculiar name comes from a rock formation resembling a turtle.

Due to strong currents and deep waters close to shore, it is not recommended for families with children. However, nature lovers seeking untouched beauty have the green light.

Facilities: S wild beach with rocky surroundings and crystal-clear waters. No beach clubs, bars, or amenities. Great for snorkelling and exploring small sea caves. Shaded in the morning but bathed in sunlight from midday onwards.

How to get there: Only accessible by sea. You can reach it via small boats, kayaks or by booking a local boat tour from the port of Vico Equense or Marina di Seiano.

Where to park: Parking is available in the centre of Vico Equense or at Marina di Seiano port (paid parking). 

Book boat tour from Vico Equense

2. Trentova Bay – Agropoli (Campania)

Agropoli – Trentova Bay, a gem among Italy’s most beautiful beaches

Near the coastal town of Agropoli, within the Cilento National Park,  lies Trentova Bay. This beautiful spot is surrounded by lush, unspoiled nature and overlooks a sea of extraordinary shades of blue, always clean, refreshing, and perfect for those who love to spend their days underwater.

Facilities: 
Equipped beach resorts, bars, restaurants, sunbed and pedalo rentals, showers, and free beach areas.

How to get there: 
By car via the SS18 road. Also accessible by public transport from Agropoli.

Where to park: 
Large paid car park near the beach and along the access road.

3. I Vranne Beach – Maratea (Basilicata)

Maratea – I Vranne Beach, one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches

On the Tyrrhenian coast, in the province of Potenza, don’t miss Maratea, a charming town nicknamed “the pearl of the Tyrrhenian.” It’s a renowned seaside destination with plenty of beautiful beaches.

One of the most beloved is I Vranne Beach, one of the wildest along the Lucanian coast, featuring dark sand, pebbles, clear waters and deep seabeds rich in seagrass. A stunning spot for lovers of unspoilt nature and snorkelling.

Facilities: Completely wild and unspoilt beach. No beach clubs, bars or services available.

How to get there: Accessible only by sea via taxi boat, private boats, or guided tours departing from the harbour of Maratea (Fiumicello or Marina). During the summer, many local cooperatives organise mini-cruises with a stop at the beach.

Where to park: Departure points for excursions are the port of Maratea or nearby marinas (e.g. Marina di Maratea, Fiumicello). Paid parking is available, with some free spots during low season.

4. Bosco Pantano Beach – Policoro (Basilicata)

Policoro – Bosco Pantano Beach, one of Italy’s most beautiful natural beaches

Moving on to the Ionian coast in the province of Matera, we find inlets and sandy beaches.  We particularly recommend the Bosco Pantano beach in Policoro, a beach immersed in beautiful wood, where turtles breed.  Lush nature, sandy seabed and a spectacular blue sea!

Facilities: Protected natural area. No tourist services available. Wild and untouched environment.

How to get there: From Policoro, take the SP176 or SP104 roads and follow signs for the WWF Oasis.

Where to park: Parking is available near the visitor centre of the oasis. From there, the beach is accessible on foot.

5. Rotonda Beach – Tropea (Calabria)

Tropea – Rotonda Beach, iconic among Italy’s most beautiful beaches

Calabria is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. One not to miss is Rotonda Beach in Tropea, a special place where the town seems to merge with the sea via a dramatic rocky cliff. Once you arrive on this vast sandy beach, just look up to take in the breathtaking scenery above. Tropea and Costa degli Dewill fascinate you! 

Facilities: Beach clubs, restaurants, sunbed and canoe rentals. Turquoise waters and light-coloured sand.

How to get there: From Tropea’s historic centre via stairways.

Where to park: Parking available in the town centre or near the Belvedere; continue on foot from there.

6. Spiaggia dei Gigli Beach (Lily beach) – Isola di Capo Rizzuto (Calabria)

Capo Rizzuto, among the most beautiful beaches in Italy in 2025

We move to the Ionian side to Isola di Capo Rizzuto and its protected marine area. Bathed by a turquoise sea, the Gigli Beach, so called for the lilies that grow spontaneously on its dunes, is sandy and golden. This dreamy place is immersed in a natural setting of Mediterranean maquis and white cliffs.

Facilities: Free public beach and equipped areas. Restaurants and bars nearby.

How to get there: Accessible by car via the SS106 road; follow local signs to the beach.

Where to park: Guarded car park with showers located near the path leading down to the beach.

7. Sant’Antonio Beach – Termoli (Molise)

Termoli - Molise

Just steps from the historic centre of Termoli, Molise, lies Sant'Antonio Beach, a long sandy stretch with views of the Swabian Castle, a 12th-century fortress that dominates the coastline. Running for around 10 km, it's particularly popular in summer, so it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.

Facilities: Beach resorts, bars, restaurants, and showers. Conveniently located near the old town.

How to get there: Direct access from Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo.

Where to park: Public parking available near the town centre and the port.

8. Campomarino Lido – Campomarino (Molise)

Campomarino Lido – A relaxing spot among the most beautiful beaches in Italy

Heading further south towards Puglia, you'll come across the beautiful beach of Campomarino Lido, which has been awarded several times for the clarity of its waters. With fine golden sand, crystal-clear sea, and refreshing pinewoods, it's suitable for families with children.

Facilities: Beach clubs, free public beaches, bars, campsites, and accommodation facilities.

How to get there: Accessible via the SS16 Adriatica. Also served by the Campomarino railway station.

Where to park: Large car parks are available near the seafront and along the main road.

9. Pescoluse Beach – Salve (Puglia)

Best beaches in Italy: Pescoluse Beach, Apulia

Among Puglia's most famous seaside destinations is Pescoluse Beach. Fine sand, blue sea and tropical colours are enough for Pescoluse and other nearby places to be known as the Maldives or Seychelles of Salento. The environment is predominantly sandy, but several rocky spots create a peculiar natural combination.

Choosing the most beautiful beaches in Puglia is almost a mission: impossible. For this reason, we recommend you to read our article 7 days in Apulia: an itinerary through sun, nature and villages.

Facilities: Beach resorts, luxury lidos, bars, showers, and secure parking available.

How to get there: Accessible via the SS274 or SP339 from Gallipoli or Santa Maria di Leuca.

Where to park: Plenty of paid car parks located close to the beach.

10. San Vito Lo Capo Beach – (Sicily)

Most beautiful beaches in Italy: San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily

Transparent waters, golden sand, incredible sunsets: this is San Vito Lo Capo Beach, a  3-kilometre stretch of paradise between the whitewashed village houses and the scenic backdrop of Monte Monaco. The shallow, clear water and the presence of facilities designed for people with reduced mobility make it accessible to all.

Facilities: Beach clubs, free public areas, restaurants, hotels, water sports, and beach bars.

How to get there: From Palermo or Trapani via SS187 or SP16. Also reachable by bus from Trapani.

Where to park: Various car parks (some with shuttle services to the beach) in Via la Goulette, Via la Piana, Via Senia, and Via San Vito al Tagliamento.

Book boat tour in Sicily

11. Scala dei Turchi – Realmonte (Sicily)

Scala dei Turchi – Natural wonder among the most beautiful beaches in Italy

Scala dei Turchi is a spectacular geological site, whose beauty is the result of a long natural process. The “steps” were formed over centuries by wind and rain eroding the marl, creating this stunning natural staircase.

The name “Scala dei Turchi” (Stair of the Turks) originates from local legends: historically, people referred to Saracen pirates as “Turks”, and it’s believed these invaders once used the natural staircase to climb ashore and raid the nearby coastal villages, including what is now Realmonte.

Facilities: Natural area; no beach facilities or services.

How to get there: Via SP68 from Agrigento or Realmonte.

Where to park: Private paid car parks along the access road. Walking required to reach the site.

12. La Pelosa – Stintino (Sardinia)

Stintino – La Pelosa, spiaggia da cartolina tra le più belle d’Italia

La Pelosa Beach in Stintino is one of the most iconic attractions in all of Sardinia and among the most spectacular places in the world. The sand is incredibly white and fine, and the shallow waters stretch out for many meters, reaching only ankle depth. The shades of blue and turquoise between the sky and sea resemble something out of the Caribbean.

Facilities: Limited beach establishments, toilets, and showers. Access is restricted: reservation is required via the official portal: spiaggiapelosa.it.

How to get there: From Porto Torres or Sassari via SP34. Reservations are mandatory in high season.

Where to park: Paid parking is available near the beach, with a shuttle service to the entrance.


13. Cala Goloritzé – Baunei (Sardinia)

Baunei – Cala Goloritzé, natural wonder among Italy’s most beautiful beaches

Voted the most beautiful beach in the world by the 2025 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking, Cala Goloritzé has been an Italian national monument since 1995. This iconic beach was formed in the 1960s after a landslide reshaped the coastline. Described as a "mystical amphitheatre", it is framed by striking limestone pinnacles that tower dramatically above the shore: an irresistible challenge for free climbing enthusiasts.

Facilities: Protected natural area. No services. Visitors can stay until 5:00 PM. Popular among hikers.

How to get there: Hiking (approx. 1.5 hours) from Golgo di Baunei, or by sea (excursions from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese). Access is limited to 250 visitors per day, and an entrance ticket is required. Reservations can be made online at heartofsardinia.com.

Where to park: Paid parking available at the trailhead near the “Su Porteddu” rest area.

Top FAQs About Italy’s Most Beautiful Beaches in 2025

The most beautiful Italian beaches for 2025

What is the nicest beach in Italy? Italy has many stunning seaside resorts. However, The World's 50 Best Beaches named Cala Goloritzè, in Sardinia, the most beautiful beach in the world for 2025. Sited in Baunei, it's an Italian paradise accessible only by boat or a long hiking trail.

Where are the white sandy beaches in Italy? White sandy beaches can be found in various regions, particularly in the south. Top locations include: Sardinia (La Pelosa, Cala Brandinchi, Rena Bianca); Puglia (Pescoluse, also known as the "Maldives of Salento"); Sicily (San Vito Lo Capo); Calabria (Tropea, Capo Vaticano). 

What side of Italy has better beaches? Both coasts offer beautiful beaches, but they differ. The Tyrrhenian (west) coast is more dramatic, with rugged cliffs, coves, and iconic spots like Amalfi, Sardinia, and Sicily. The Adriatic (east) coast has longer, flatter beaches, often sandy and family-friendly, like those in Emilia-Romagna and Puglia.

Does Italy have swimmable beaches? Italy has hundreds of swimmable beaches, many of which are awarded the Blue Flag each year for cleanliness and safety. The sea around Italy is generally calm and clear so you can swim during the summer and, in some parts of southern Italy, in winter, too.

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Written on 19/05/2024