Italy is not just a treasure trove of historic villages and unique monuments.
Beyond its cultural riches, our beautiful country also stands out for its stunning crystal-clear beaches that rival other places typically known for their seas, such as Greece or Spain.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best destinations for an unforgettable beach holiday in Italy and provide valuable tips for choosing the perfect accommodation to ensure maximum comfort throughout your stay.
Pack your bags and discover the perfect place to spend your next beach holiday in Italy!
1. Riviera del Conero, in the Marche region
If you’re planning trips to Italy to see the sea, the Riviera del Conero is a must-have on your list. This stretch of coast, dominated by the Monte Conero promontory, interrupts the long expanse of low and straight Adriatic coastline, offering a varied and fascinating landscape.
Here, the crystal-clear waters beautifully contrast with the lush green hinterland, creating unique and stunning panoramas. Among the most iconic beaches in the area are certainly that of the Due Sorelle (Two Sisters), known for its sea stacks, and the beautiful Mezzavalle.
2. Argentario, in Tuscany
If you’re thinking about booking your beach holidays in Italy, Argentario, located on the Tuscan coast in the province of Grosseto, is one of those destinations to absolutely consider. This promontory, which was originally an island, is now connected to the mainland by spectacular sandy strips of Giannella and Feniglia, enclosing the Orbetello lagoon.
This area is famous for both its long sandy beaches, ideal for families, and the intimate hidden coves in the Mediterranean scrub, such as Cala del Gesso, Cala Grande, and Cala Piccola, perfect for couples who want to enjoy the sea in privacy and away from tourist crowds.
The most characteristic and well-known places in the area are certainly Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole, two towns where you can enjoy splendid evening walks, but also delicious dinners where you can discover and taste the countless Tuscan delicacies.
3. Marina di Campo, on Elba Island
Elba, a splendid island in the heart of the Mediterranean, is famous not only for having hosted Napoleon Bonaparte during his period of exile but also for its wonderful beaches, such as Cavoli, Fetovaia, and Le Ghiaie, which welcome thousands of people from all over the world every year.
Tourists who come here can find tranquility and total relaxation among the beautiful coves of Monte Capanne, enjoy the more vibrant life among the venues of the splendid Portoferraio, or visit the magnificent historic buildings of the small villages of Marciana and Capoliveri.
If what you’re looking for is an offer in one of the most beautiful seas in Italy, Elba is certainly a destination that suits you. Book your beach holiday here now and ensure an unforgettable experience.
4. San Vito lo Capo, in Sicily
San Vito Lo Capo, nestled between the promontory of Monte Monaco and the Piana dell’Egitarso in western Sicily, is an ancient fishing village perfect for those who want a city and beach holiday in Italy.
This location is famous for the Zingaro Nature Reserve, with its hiking trails and paradisiacal beaches, and for the suggestive Sanctuary-fortress of San Vito Martire. The Tonnara del Secco, the romantic Bourbon Lighthouse, and the small Chapel of Santa Crescenzia are also unmissable.
San Vito Lo Capo is also famous for its delicious couscous, a typical dish of the Sicily region that is celebrated every year through the Cous Cous Fest.
5. Isola dei Conigli (Rabbit Island), in Lampedusa
Isola dei Conigli, nestled in the southwestern part of Lampedusa, is a true jewel of the Mediterranean and one of the best destinations for beach holidays in Italy. The main beach, which bears the name of the island, is one of the Italian destinations that is most invaded in summer, and the reason is not casual.
In fact, in 2013, the Rabbit Beach was defined by TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice contest as the most beautiful beach in the world. Here, nature reigns supreme, and for snorkeling enthusiasts, it’s not uncommon to spot Caretta Caretta sea turtle eggs on the seabed.
The peculiarity of this place is its limited accessibility. In fact, Rabbit Beach can only be reached on foot, and access is always regulated. For those who don’t have the luck to visit the beach, the island can surprise its tourists with other attractions, such as the famous villa of Domenico Modugno who, in love with the bay, decided to build his home in front of that sea he defined as “God’s swimming pool” for its splendor.
6. Gargano National Park, in Puglia
This promontory, known as “the spur of Italy”, is located in northern Puglia and features a breathtaking coast with white cliffs that plunge into the Adriatic, creating a chromatic contrast that leaves you speechless.
Seaside resorts like Vieste and Peschici are renowned for their pristine beaches and spectacular views. The marine reserve of the Tremiti Islands, part of the Gargano National Park, offers an extraordinary underwater experience thanks to the rich biodiversity hidden beneath the turquoise waters of the sea.
Beyond the wonder of the sea, Gargano enchants its guests also thanks to the pine forests and the magical Umbra Forest, a green oasis suitable for those who love to venture into nature.
7. Ortona, in Abruzzo
Ortona, located on the Adriatic coast of Abruzzo, is a splendid seaside resort that can satisfy any tourist planning a beach trip to Italy. This charming town extends for about 20 km of coastline and is characterized by both sandy beaches and rocky coves, such as the beach of Punta Ferruccio and the wonderful Lido Saraceni Beach.
In addition to the seaside beauties, Ortona also boasts a historic center rich in cultural attractions, such as the Aragonese Castle and the Cathedral of San Tommaso, and many restaurants where you can taste delicious fresh fish dishes and truly tasty local specialties.
8. Rimini, in Emilia Romagna
Rimini is one of the most renowned seaside destinations in Italy. With its 15 km of beaches, this city is the perfect place for both those who love spending their days under the umbrella and those who are fans of nightlife and want to spend their evenings among the most famous discos and beach clubs in Europe.
For art-loving tourists, in Rimini it’s also possible to photograph important monuments from the Roman era, such as the Arch of Augustus (the oldest existing Roman arch) and the Tiberius Bridge, as well as splendid Renaissance masterpieces, like Piazza (Square) Cavour (the beating heart of the city).
9. Sperlonga, in Lazio
When thinking of Lazio, the first places that come to mind are certainly not the maritime ones. In reality, however, this region offers little-known gems that are real surprises. One of these is Sperlonga, a city located on the Tyrrhenian Sea, which fully qualifies among the best destinations for beach holidays in Italy.
Here, beaches like those of Fontana, Bonifica, Salette, and Canzatora offer splendid panoramas where you can relax and sunbathe. As an alternative to the beach, you can visit the historic center of the city, a village situated on a promontory that offers suggestive views of the sea.
In the heart of the city, it’s also possible to visit both precious historical monuments, such as the Villa of Tiberius, and small shops and boutiques that allow you to purchase local artisanal objects.
10. Senigallia, in the Marche region
Senigallia, known for its famous Velvet Beach, is a lively and welcoming seaside town that offers tourists a splendid promenade rich in restaurants and trattorias where you can taste the best of Marche cuisine.
The city, famous for the iconic Rotonda a Mare (Sea Rotunda), is also renowned for the Summer Jamboree, a 40s and 50s music and culture festival that animates summer evenings, transforming Senigallia into an open-air stage.
Obviously, the attractions of this splendid Marche city don’t end here, and if you want to discover more about what to see in Senigallia, read our dedicated guide on the topic!
11. Pontine Islands, in Lazio
The Pontine Islands constitute an enchanting archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the coast of Lazio, composed of six islands: Ponza, Palmarola, Zannone, Gavi, Ventotene, and Santo Stefano.
The volcanic origin of the islands gives them jagged coastlines and an underwater environment of incredible beauty, making them a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts.
With excellent connections from the mainland and a typically Italian welcome, the Pontine Islands represent a perfect escape for those seeking clear waters, breathtaking landscapes, and the atmosphere of a typical fishing village.
12. Salento, in Puglia
Salento, better known as “the heel of the boot”, is a corner of Italy kissed by the Adriatic Sea to the east and the Ionian Sea to the west, which has managed to capture the hearts of many national and international stars thanks to its wonders.
From the Caribbean-like beaches of Porto Cesareo, passing through the enchanting sea caves of Santa Maria di Leuca, to the dream panoramas of Gallipoli and Otranto: the magical places of Salento make this land a true earthly paradise and the suitable place to spend a holiday with family, friends, or as a couple.
And it’s not just nature that enchants tourists: Salento’s food and wine is a triumph of authentic flavors and includes some of the most famous Italian excellences, such as olive oil, taralli, or stracciatella. Let yourself be enchanted by this land and enjoy moments of pure relaxation among the wonders of Salento.
13. Aeolian Islands, in Sicily
The Aeolian Islands, known as the “pearls of the Mediterranean”, are a group of seven volcanic islands located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, north of the Sicilian coast, and constitute one of the most beautiful travel destinations for those wishing to spend an Italian beach holiday.
Here, black sand beaches and jagged cliffs alternate with hidden coves and sea caves, giving tourists spectacular panoramas that are truly unexpected. From these magical places, it’s possible to witness truly scenic sunsets, which are able to offer unique shots to photography enthusiasts.
14. Cesenatico, in Emilia Romagna
Cesenatico, a charming town on the Adriatic coast of Emilia-Romagna, is the ideal place for those dreaming of a holiday full of sun, sea, and fun.
Known for its canal port designed by Leonardo da Vinci, where colorful historic boats gently sway on the water, Cesenatico is among the most beautiful and welcoming locations on the Romagna Riviera.
Its beaches are ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends who love spending their days under the umbrella. Here, in fact, the beach establishments are well-equipped and offer both sports activities for adults and animation and baby dance for the little ones.
There’s also no shortage of evening events and discos, which are a true hallmark of the Romagna Riviera and transform Cesenatico into an epicenter of nightlife, offering unforgettable evenings.
15. Versilia, in Tuscany
Versilia, an enchanting stretch of Tuscan coast, is the perfect destination for those seeking a holiday on the Italian coasts that allows for both fun and relaxation. For those who love seaside life, this place offers every comfort, with well-equipped beach establishments for any need and restaurants where you can taste fresh fish dishes and Tuscan specialties with a sea view.
For those who instead love wandering around cities, here you can visit some of the most refined seaside resorts in Italy, such as Forte dei Marmi, which with its luxury boutiques and chic cafes offers a sophisticated atmosphere, or Pietrasanta, a renowned artistic center famous for its art galleries and outdoor sculptures that give the city a unique charm.
Beach holiday in Italy: treat yourself to a dream stay
Whatever location you decide to spend your beach holiday in Italy, remember that accommodation also deserves special attention. Comfortable accommodation located in a strategic position is essential to allow you to relax and fully enjoy your holiday.
To live a dream experience, book now your villa in Italy with AnitaVillas. For you, elegant accommodations equipped with every comfort in the most beautiful places in Italy:
- Villas in the Marche
- Villas in Tuscany
- Villas in Sicily
- Villas in Apulia
- Villas in Emilia-Romagna
- Villas in Lazio
- Villas in Umbria
- Villas in Abruzzo
Find the accommodation that suits your needs and enjoy your worry-free holiday with Anita Villas.