Italian beaches. Doesn’t it just sound like something straight out of a dream? A dream likely complete with wine and cheeses, of course! I had been dreaming of visiting Italy for years, and finally, some 5-ish years ago, I finally got my opportunity to visit! My dear friend Kate was getting married on the sandy shores of Otranto Beach. It was everything I could have possibly dreamed of: white sand, turquoise waters, delicious wines, and the BEST cheeses. And to top it all off, I was here for one of my best friend’s weddings! It is definitely one of the best beaches in Italy!
We spent our days in Otranto sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming before finishing things off with some fresh seafood or handmade pizza. The small town vibe was incredible and it made me anxious to visit other beaches in Italy. Someday soon, I hope to visit some of these highly touted Italian beaches to relax in the sand!
Tropea Beach
Known for it’s towering cliffs, tourists looking to avoid large crowds should head here. The area is less commercialized so you will find fewer big box stores, restaurants, and fewer crowds. It’s considered to be one of the least crowded beaches in Italy. The small town is practically ancient and there is even a 12th-century cathedral sitting atop one of the cliffs! History buffs and beachgoers will be right at home here.
Isola Bella
Isola Bella is a small island just off the coast of Sicily, Italy. The tiny island is located within a small bay, so the swimming and snorkeling conditions are practically perfect all year round. The great part about this coastal gem is that the island is actually accessible from the mainland! Visitors can walk across a bridge connecting the island to mainland Italy, or they can ride a cable car between the two. Either way, you’re certain to be greeted with incredible views!
Mezzavalle Beach
This remote beach will likely be empty when you visit, so make sure that you bring plenty of snacks and other necessities because this beach does not have amenities. However, what this beach lacks in amenities, it makes up for in sheer natural beauty. This beach is bordered with strawberry bushes, grand oak trees, and impressive stone cliffs. Hike to the top for the best photo op of your vacation!
Cala Goloritzé
This tiny beach is nestled among limestone rocks in southern Sardinia and it’s one that absolutely cannot be missed. The hike to reach this beach is a long 90 minutes, but the soft sand and unique limestone cliffs will make the hard walk completely worth it. The water here is seriously the clearest you’ll ever see it and I’ve heard rave reviews about the snorkeling and scuba diving here! If you can manage to hike all of your gear in, do it!
Marina Grande
You’ve probably seen this stunning 300-meter long beach photographed with its rows and rows of neatly lined beach chairs and umbrellas. Though the chairs always seem to be completely tidy, tourists should be warned that this beach is BUSY. While enjoying the area, visit one of the restaurants located in the cliffs above the beach..the views are absolutely to die for– especially at sunset!
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