Discover and Enjoy Italy’s Stunning Beach Destinations
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Antonella Deuster
Travel Expert for Italy
Updated on 05/14/2025
This Italian beach is hidden between Portofino and the sleepy town of Camogli. Surrounded by an enchanting hilly landscape and dense vegetation, the small bay with its turquoise waters looks like something out of a fairy tale. The view of the medieval abbey that rises up in front of the small sandy beach is unforgettable.
But in combination with the white sand and crystal-clear water, the beach at San Fruttuoso will leave you speechless. So if you want to enjoy not only Italy's beautiful beaches but also its unique nature, this is the place for you. Take the ferry from Portofino to San Fruttuoso or discover this Ligurian treasure after a breathtaking hike through the mountains.
San Vito Lo Capo in Sicily has one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. The backdrop here is strongly reminiscent of the Caribbean. The gleaming white sandy beach, the light blue sea and the green slopes in the background instinctively create a vacation atmosphere.
The tiny coral fragments that wash up on the beach every day give the surf on San Vito Lo Capo beach a pink shimmer. But it's not just the beach that delights. The small village also captivates visitors with its small white houses and excellent cuisine. Come and see for yourself!
In Calabria, the beach at Tropea offers a unique panorama. In the very south of the country, the breathtaking view of the azure blue sea awaits you here. It's no wonder that both Italians and tourists from all over the world are drawn to the picturesque coast.
Whether you are soaking up the sun, swimming or relaxing - you will undoubtedly get a feeling for la dolce vita here. Discover the long, bright beach and plunge into the glorious waters. Or explore the beautiful old town of Tropea, which rises like an ancient fortress above the spectacular beach. But be careful: you may never want to leave!
The beach at Cala Mariolu is without doubt one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. And although this spot can only be reached by boat, it attracts numerous visitors and sun worshippers, especially during the summer months. If you want to have the unique play of colors of the sea, the spectacular rock formations and the fascinating underwater world of Sardinia all to yourself, you should visit Cala Mariolu in the low season.
Be inspired by Italy's beautiful nature, take long walks along the fine pebble beach or snorkel in the crystal-clear water and discover the many small fish that swim off the coast of Sardinia. Relaxation and recuperation come naturally here.
Sardinia has some of the best beaches in Italy. La Cinta in San Teodoro is one of them. The contrast between the huge, snow-white beach and the turquoise blue sea of the picturesque lagoon alone will take your breath away. A whole three kilometers of sand await you here: enough space to unwind and recharge your batteries.
Those who have had enough of sunbathing can try out numerous water sports at the Spiaggia, refresh themselves in the shallow water or enjoy Italian cuisine in the various restaurants and bars. Especially for a family vacation with children, you have everything you could wish for here.
Italy’s beaches are truly one of a kind—and Lido di Jesolo is a standout. This beautiful stretch of fine, golden sand runs for nearly 9.5 miles along the Adriatic coast, offering plenty of space for every type of beachgoer.
Here, you can soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, and take full advantage of Jesolo’s excellent beachside infrastructure. From local eateries to a wide range of water sports, everything you need is within easy reach. Plus, Jesolo makes a great base for a day trip to nearby Venice, whether you drive or hop on a ferry.
Also located along the Adriatic, Bibione is the perfect spot to unwind and explore at your own pace. Its wide, inviting beach promenade stretches nearly 9.5 miles, offering plenty of room for both relaxation and activity.
You’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay—cafés, restaurants, restrooms, showers, and a variety of water sports. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for a longer getaway. Claim your spot in the sand, kick back, and enjoy front-row views of beach life all around you. Or head out for a long walk along the shoreline—yes, even with your dog.
In contrast to the beach in Bibione, Cala del Gesso in Tuscany impresses with its untouched nature and tranquillity. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and surrounded by vegetation typical of the region, a beach awaits you on the Monte Argentario peninsula that you won't soon forget.
The small bay with its fine sandy beach and breathtaking views of the crystal-clear sea make Cala del Gesso one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Pack a snack or two for a leisurely picnic and enjoy this extraordinary beach to the full.
Capo Vaticano is worth a visit even if you don't just want to spend the day on the beach. The cape captivates with its picturesque surroundings and views that will delight any globetrotter. Go on extensive hikes or take a boat trip to see the region's beautiful bays and secluded beaches.
And don't miss out on a day at the beach at Praia i Focu. Far away from the hustle and bustle, a unique atmosphere awaits you in this small bay in the middle of Calabria's overgrown cliffs. Whether you're relaxing on the beach or swimming in the turquoise waters, you'll definitely get that vacation feeling here.
Located in the Gulf of Naples, the island of Ischia is also a great place to relax and sunbathe. The Lido dei Maronti in particular attracts both local and international beach holidaymakers. Why? Because the mere fact that this beach is not a white sandy beach is something special.
Due to the volcanic origin of the island of Ischia, the beach here consists of gray to black pebbles. And although you don't have to do without a romantic walk on the beach despite the fine pebbles at Lido dei Maronti, bathing shoes are recommended. This is because the small pebbles heat up easily in the midday sun.
The Spiaggia Eraclea Minoa in Sicily is also something very special. Against the backdrop of the steeply sloping chalk cliffs of the impressive Capo Bianco, a beach awaits you here that impresses above all with its natural beauty.
Surrounded by untouched nature, dense pine forests and impressive hills, Spiaggia Eraclea Minoa invites you to relax and enjoy. Explore the enchanting surroundings on a walk along the miles of sandy beach, wade through the shallow water or take in the unique scenery while enjoying a typical Italian snack in one of the numerous kiosks.
Sorrento is no longer an insider tip, especially among Italy fans. Nevertheless, there is still plenty to discover on the picturesque peninsula . For example, you should not miss the Spiaggia di Meta. Located at the foot of the impressive cliffs, a seemingly endless sandy beach with deep blue water invites you to relax and refresh.
As the sea here is particularly shallow, this beach is ideal for a relaxing family vacation. Even small children can safely dig and swim at Meta Beach. And the adults? They can enjoy not only the wonderful surroundings, but above all the fabulous view of the Vesuvius volcano.
La Pelosa Beach is often ranked among the most beautiful in all of Italy—and for good reason. While Sardinia as a whole is full of jaw-dropping coastal spots, La Pelosa is the crown jewel. With nearly 1.25 miles of powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and sweeping views, it’s the kind of place that feels like a dream.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore or get out on the water, La Pelosa has you covered. Rent a pedalo and explore the calm shallows, catch sight of the island of Asinara, or admire the historic watchtower perched on Isola Piana. Feeling adventurous? The steady wind and open water make this stretch of coast a favorite among kite- and windsurfers.
This beach on the Italian island of Lampedusa is not only one of the best in the country, but also one of the most beautiful in Europe. Located between Malta and Tunisia, it offers a very special panorama. Snow-white rock formations, powdery sandy beaches and crystal-clear water invite you to enjoy a first-class beach vacation.
As the Spiaggia dei Conigli, the Rabbit Beach, is located in the middle of a nature reserve, the beach not only impresses with its unique surroundings, but above all with its tranquillity. Leave the stress and hustle and bustle behind and surrender to the magic of Italy on Lampedusa. You will be amazed!
Just a short boat or ferry ride from Sicily will take you to the small island of Favignana. And here lies the beautiful Cala Rossa beach. Surrounded by two bays and a magical rocky landscape, this sandy beach boasts a unique panorama.
While there is only limited space for sun loungers here, you can sunbathe perfectly on the rocks. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to cool off and enjoy an unforgettable stay with plenty of natural charm.
Italy’s most enchanting beaches aren’t just found on the mainland—some of the best are tucked away on the island of Elba. One standout is Spiaggia di Cavoli, a stunning beach set in the heart of the Tuscan Archipelago. Surrounded by rugged coastal cliffs and lush greenery, this slice of paradise features crystal-clear water, more than 1,300 feet of fine sand, and incredible sea views.
In summer, both locals and visitors flock here to swim, relax, and soak up the sun. But if you arrive early, you might just catch a quiet moment to yourself—just you, the soft sand, and the turquoise waters of Cavoli.
If you want to reach this beach in Sardinia, you need a boat. Cala Corsara, located on the island of Spargi in the La Maddalena archipelago, can only be reached by sea . While this picturesque spot has long served as a pirate hideout, today the white sandy beach itself is the treasure. The finest sand, beautiful rock formations and the crystal-clear water, which shimmers from light blue to turquoise in the sun, invite you to swim and relax.
So don't just let the breathtaking view of the small bay put you in a vacation mood, but enjoy a touch of the Caribbean. And who knows, maybe you won't want to go back to the mainland in the end!
Another must for all bathing beauties and sun worshippers is a trip to the Spiaggia di Maria Pia near Alghero. As one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, this long sandy beach in Sardinia never fails to enchant its many visitors. Enjoy the shallow, turquoise waters and the relaxed atmosphere on site.
Soak up the sun and enjoy the magnificent view of the sea in the shade of one of the many parasols. Or explore the surrounding pine forest on a long walk. And at the end, you can reflect on an unforgettable day in one of the various beach bars.
The beautiful Cala Goloritzé in Sardinia is something for adventurers. The journey to the turquoise-blue shore alone requires chartering a boat or an hour and a half hike through Sardinia's hilly landscape. However, those who take on the challenge will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful unspoiled beaches in the country.
Take in the picturesque surroundings. Discover the many tiny bays and enjoy both the white pebble beach and the beautiful water. Whether hiking, swimming or snorkeling, take in the picturesque surroundings in all their facets and let the untouched nature of Sardinia speak for itself.
The Amalfi Coast feels like a dream—and Positano captures its magic effortlessly with a stunning blend of history, architecture, and coastal charm. And of course, no visit would be complete without time at the beach. Marina Grande is the perfect spot to soak it all in.
Wander down Positano’s winding alleys to reach this bright pebble beach, where soft waves meet nearly 1,000 feet of shoreline. Pick a front-row spot, dip into the clear blue water, or linger over a fresh seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants. Whether you're here to relax, swim, or simply take in the view, Marina Grande is unforgettable.
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