An Italian beach holiday sounds like a dream, right? Agreed. That’s why we’ve chosen our all-time favourite Italy beaches. From glistening turquoise waters and incredible views to beautiful architecture and hidden coves, these beaches will turn your Italian holiday from great to perfect. Just wait and see…
Best for something unique: Scala dei Turchi, Sicily
Translating to ‘The Turkish Stairs’, this beach is a perfect example of nature at its finest. Formed of limestone and white marl, the lapping waves have eroded the stone to create undulating curves and mesmerizing patterns on the surface. Climb the bright white stone, jump into the dazzling blue sea or relax on the contrasting warm, golden sand. This is an absolute must-see; prepare to be amazed.
///misnamed.solids.frolic*
Where to stay: Villa Marianello | Sleeps 6 | From £61pppn ($79pppn)
Best for families: Baia dei Turchi, Puglia
Nestled into a cliff, this little beach oozes natural beauty. Baia dei Turchi is perfect for a day out with small kids as the waters are shallow and stay warm all year round – but make sure to pack a picnic lunch as there aren’t any facilities on the beach. To get there, you can walk or take a family cycle through the pine forest to reach the idyllic stretch of golden sand. But be warned, it can get pretty crowded so we’d recommend visiting at sunset or mid-week.
///tooted.fizzed.midterm*
Where to stay: Marsa Cortina | Sleeps 10 | From £86pppn ($111pppn)
Best for history: San Fruttuoso, Liguria
This extremely scenic bay offers crystal clear waters and a 10th-century Benedictine abbey overlooking the water. If you like diving, be sure to check out the Christ of the Abyss dive to discover the huge bronze statue of Jesus submerged in the water. Built as a benediction of peace and acting as a protector of fishermen, it’s not to be missed! To reach San Fruttuoso, you can either take a picturesque hike through the National Park of Portofino or hop on a ferry from just outside of Genoa.
///intake.ascends.rucksack*
Where to stay: Villa Pitagora | Sleeps 10 | From £259pppn ($335pppn)
Best for seclusion: Cala Tonnarella, Sicily
Unique, stunningly beautiful and hidden away from the crowds, how often does that happen?! You’ll have to endure an hour long hike to reach this hidden cove but it’ll definitely be worth the effort. Located in the Zingaro Nature Reserve, the beach is an unspoiled and secluded spot, perfect for a relaxing afternoon spent sunbathing! Welcome to paradise.
///bookshelves.looses.liberated*
Where to stay: Casa Artemisia | Sleeps 6-8 | From £38pppn ($49pppn)
Best for snorkeling: Cala Goloritzé, Sardinia
Crowned a UNESCO heritage site and known to locals as the best snorkeling beach in Sardinia, Cala Goloritze is picture-perfect. Get your goggles on and indulge in the turquoise waters where you’ll find shawls of fish and colourful coral. If you fancy hiking to this perfect little hotspot, plan for a 3-hour round trip as it sits at the bottom of a deep (but beautiful!) ravine which may be harder on the way back up!
///appeal.leap.renewable*
Where to stay: Casa Ruja| Sleeps 8 | From £57pppn
Best for a morning swim: Cala Violina, Tuscany
If your’re looking for a great beach but don’t want to spend the whole day sunbathing, this one is ideal for an early morning exploration. As with most of the best beaches, Cala Violina gets quite overcrowded during the day but arguably the most beautiful time to visit is first thing in the morning. A fresh, post-breakfast walk through the nearby pine forest will lead you straight to the beach which will be sparkling in the morning sunrise. Gaze at the stunning views, take a dip or pack a picnic for brunch on the beach! It’s the perfect way to start your day.
///tiredly.private.orchids*
Where to stay: Villa Tolomei | Sleeps 18 | From £94pppn ($121pppn)
Best for adults: Bagni della Regina Giovanna, Sorrento
Easily one of the most remote and private beaches on the Sorrento coast, Bagni della Regina Giovanna is truly unique. Nestled amongst the the rocky cliffs of Capo di Sorrento, you’ll be awestruck by the natural stone arch and fascinated by the ancient ruins of a Roman villa. As it’s pretty difficult to reach and can only be accessed by foot or boat, this is definitely not one for young kids – but perfect for those looking an escape from the crowds.
///miracles.envision.stumps*
Where to stay: Villa Sorrentina | Sleeps 10 | From £116pppn ($149pppn)
Best for adventure: The Tremiti Islands, Puglia
Breathtakingly beautiful and delightfully mysterious, the islands are perfect for anyone looking for adventure. Explore the hidden grottoes or take the kids to discover the many sandy coves. The island of San Nicola is home to an exquisite Benedictine abbey called Maria a Mare. Don’t miss the floor mosaic which was made in the 11th and 12th centuries!
///foxtrot.jackpot.permanent*
Where to stay: Casa Luisa | Sleeps 6 | From £36pppn ($46pppn)
Best for island hopping: Isola Maddelena, Sardinia
Brimming with outrageously beautiful beaches, we couldn’t choose just one. If you’re looking for an exciting day trip, why not book a tour or rent a boat for a day filled with island hopping? You’ll be spoiled for choice so pack your snorkel and get involved in these waters!
///survey.seasons.smile*
Where to stay: Villa Capuccini | Sleeps 6 | From £123pppn ($158pppn)
Best for The Gram: Isola Bella, Sicily
Translating to the ‘beautiful island’, Isola Bella will certainly impress! Take a cable car from the city of Taormina into a tiny village at the bottom of the mountain and then a short walk will lead you to this pretty island. Whether you’re up for a dip in the crystal clear waters or just fancy kicking back and relaxing on the beachfront, make sure to snap some pictures because you won’t want to be forgetting this one in a hurry!
///outdoors.parallel.grad*
Where to stay: Villa Liberty | Sleeps 6-8 | From £52pppn ($67pppn)
*Find and navigate to this beach by entering its what3words address in the free what3words app.
Prices correct at time of publishing
Map of Italy beaches
We’ve got a whole collection of Italian villas near the beach to suit your beachy holiday. If it’s all a little overwhelming, get in touch with our concierge team who can help you find the perfect villa for your needs.
The Best 7 Beaches in Southern Italy
Beach Bucket List: 24 of Europe’s Best Beaches
Best Family Activities in Puglia
Leave a Reply