10 Best Beaches in Italy

Italy's pristine coastline, which includes people-watching spots like Portofino and Positano, as well as lidos and gelato-cool beach clubs, helped define the jet-set lifestyle of the 1950s and 1960s. Some of Italy's greatest beaches are found scattered along the country's coastline, boasting picture-perfect vistas, and hidden gems, which are sparingly populated. However, what are the beaches that stand out from the lot, you wonder?

From the white beaches of Sardinia to the lesser-known coves and islands of Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, the inlets of Liguria, and other overlooked locations on the mainland, here are our favorite beaches in Italy. (Indians need a Schengen visa for Italy, so apply early for summer.)

1. Polignano a Mare, Puglia

Cala Porto, also called Lama Monachile, is a popular stretch of beach nestled between rocky cliffs in the municipality of Polignano a Mare. White pebble beaches and white-washed homes characterize this section of the Bari coastline. From the cliffs around the cove, crossed by an old Roman bridge, you may witness courageous people cliff dive straight into the Adriatic Sea; the town has hosted the Red Bull Cliff Diving series. Who's up for the water stunt?

2. Capri, Campania

The island of Capri needs no introduction. The famous Grotta Azzurra and a tour of the Insta-worthy roads lined with bougainvillaea are sights that one must not miss when here. The best sun spots, perfect for sunbathing, can be found at Beachside Marina Grande, which is also lined with eateries offering delectable ocean views. The smaller Marina Piccola (to the south of the island), has a few free beach strips where visitors can perch themselves on the pebbles while basking in the sun.

3. Porto Cesareo, Puglia

Porto Cesareo, on the Ionian coast of the Salento, has long sandy beaches and shallow, clear water inside a marine reserve. Puglia is the southern region known for its whitewashed hill towns, farmland and a stunning Mediterranean coastline. A lesser-known historical, and culinary gem, Puglia offers stunning coastal drives, where you can stop by the rocky bays for a quick swim. Sitting on the rocky shores, overlooking the sea calms your senses, allowing you to slow down and take it all in. Ain't this the best thing to do?

4. Scala dei Turchi, Sicily

Known for its Greek temples in Agrigento, Southern Sicily is a haven for beach bums. Head to the pristine beaches near Porto Empedocle to click the best views or simply access the sandy beaches where you can relax and unwind. The highlight is the Scala dei Turchi itself, a staircase of dazzling white marl cliffs. Walking on the rock has been restricted to protect it, but the beaches beside it give breathtaking views and swims.

5. Forte dei Marmi, Tuscany

If you're the kind who enjoys a hi-fi beach life, this is where you must head. Docked between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Apuan Alps, Forte dei Marmi is dotted with luxury beach clubs, where you can pick your private cabana and enjoy a relaxed day by the beach. The town becomes even livelier at night, with crowds buzzing in music clubs, and seafood restaurants overlooking the beach. In short, this is a paradise where you can spend all summer!

6. Baratti, Tuscany

A favourite among history lovers, this region equally boasts a stunning coastline. Baratti’s remote location and pristine blue waters make this an idyllic location for a summer away from the hustle and bustle. Besides, it sits on the Etruscan Coast, close to the Bolgheri wine area, and the ancient Etruscan site of Populonia looks down over the bay.

7. Positano, Campania

Looking to spam your gram on your Italy trip? This is one for gram-lovers! Decked with bubble-gum coloured houses sitting on a steep incline, overlooking the waters, this little gem looks straight out of a film set. Walkers can arrive on foot after hiking the famed Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), which ends above the town, then take the long flight of steps down to the beach. It's worth every bit of your sweat!

8. Lido di Orrì, Sardegna

This beach is one of the most beautiful on Italy's second-largest island, with its immaculate waters and quiet coves. The golden and white sand of Orrì beach is incredibly smooth and almost impalpable. The bottom slopes gently and is low for around 300 meters off the coast, making it ideal for inexperienced swimmers and kid-friendly games. The pure and crystalline seas are a brilliant array of colors, from turquoise to emerald green, due to the play of light created by the sun reflected on the bottom.

9. Atrani, Campania

Down the coast from Amalfi, on the road to Ravello, is Atrani, one of the region's best-kept secrets. This small fishing village has a small beach on the Tyrrhenian Sea, with loungers positioned in the shadows of the hilltop houses. Lounge in the charming but run-down external décor, have a Spritz with the locals at Piazza Umberto I, the town's main square or simply enjoy the views.

10. Cefalù, Sicily

This quaint, picturesque village has several tiny lanes leading to its watery edge. Swim among the golden sands of Lungomare Giuseppe Giardina after touring the streets and the Duomo from the 12th century. Famous for its mouthwatering seafood, Cefalù served as the backdrop for the movie Cinema Paradiso. After a good swim, binge on a plate of pasta con frutti di mare, which consists of mussels, clams, squid, and prawns.