From the cliffs of Liguria to Sardinia’s hidden coves, from the golden beaches of Puglia to Sicily’s volcanic shores, Italy offers an extraordinary variety of coastal landscapes. Here’s a unique summer journey through one beach from each of the 15 Italian regions overlooking the sea, with local tips to enhance your experience.
1. Liguria – Baia del Silenzio, Sestri Levante
A romantic and peaceful spot framed by colorful houses. Best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset.
Local tip: Have an aperitivo by the water along Via Portobello or stroll through the charming old town.
2. Tuscany – Cala Violina, Scarlino (Grosseto)
Accessible only by foot or bike, this beach is surrounded by Mediterranean scrub. The sand makes a violin-like sound when you walk on it.
Local tip: Visit the nearby Bandite di Scarlino nature reserve or stop for a wine tasting in a local vineyard.
3. Lazio – Sperlonga (Latina)
One of Italy’s most beautiful seaside villages, with clear waters and sandy beaches.
Local tip: Explore Emperor Tiberius’ ancient villa and its archaeological museum, right by the sea.
4. Campania – Marina Piccola, Sorrento (Naples)
A small beach beneath Sorrento’s cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples.
Local tip: Have lunch in one of the historic seaside trattorias and explore Sorrento’s lively town center.
5. Calabria – Grotticelle, Capo Vaticano (Vibo Valentia)
Three stunning coves with crystal-clear waters and great snorkeling.
Local tip: Climb to the lighthouse for panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Aeolian Islands.
6. Basilicata – Marina di Maratea (Potenza)
A hidden gem surrounded by cliffs and greenery on the Lucanian coast.
Local tip: Visit the statue of Christ the Redeemer and the picturesque village of Maratea.
7. Puglia – Punta Prosciutto, Porto Cesareo (Lecce)
White sand and turquoise waters make this spot look like the Caribbean.
Local tip: Taste Salento’s cuisine in Torre Lapillo and explore the Palude del Conte nature reserve.
8. Molise – Marina di Petacciato (Campobasso)
A quiet, unspoiled stretch of sand between Termoli and Vasto.
Local tip: Visit Termoli’s medieval town center and its Romanesque cathedral.
9. Abruzzo – Punta Aderci, Vasto (Chieti)
A wild beach set in a natural reserve with rural landscapes all around.
Local tip: Go biking through the reserve or visit the historic center of Vasto.
10. Marche – Due Sorelle, Conero Riviera (Ancona)
Only accessible by boat from Numana or Sirolo, this beach is a symbol of wild Adriatic beauty.
Local tip: Take an early ferry and end your day with a seafood dinner in Portonovo.
11. Emilia-Romagna – Lido di Classe (Ravenna)
A wide, peaceful beach loved by families and nature lovers.
Local tip: Cycle through the Classe pine forest or visit the Po Delta Park for birdwatching.
12. Veneto – Albarella Island (Rovigo)
A private island in the Po Delta lagoon with curated beaches and a quiet atmosphere.
Local tip: Explore the lagoon by canoe or dine with a view of the salt flats.
13. Friuli Venezia Giulia – Lignano Sabbiadoro (Udine)
A lively beach with plenty of events, services, and fun for all ages.
Local tip: Join a beach concert or ride the scenic bike path along the lagoon.
14. Sardinia – Cala Brandinchi, San Teodoro (Nuoro)
Also known as “Little Tahiti” for its stunning colors.
Local tip: Book your parking spot in advance (space is limited) and visit nearby Lu Impostu beach.
15. Sicily – Scopello Coves, Zingaro Nature Reserve (Trapani)
Crystal-clear waters and untouched landscapes reachable on foot or by boat.
Local tip: Enter the reserve from the southern entrance and don’t miss a sunset aperitivo at the historic Tonnara di Scopello.
Travel tip
August is peak season. Book ahead, visit early in the day, and always respect the environment—Italy’s most beautiful corners deserve care and attention.