10 Best Beaches In Italy—From The Amalfi Coast To Sicily

Sunscreen? Check. Adventure? Double-check! This blog serves you the latest scoop on the best beaches in Italy, where sun, sand, and spectacular views await!

A crowd-free, tranquil sunrise scene at a beach in Sardinia, Italy.
A crowd-free, tranquil sunrise scene at a beach in Sardinia, Italy.

When you think of Italy, images of gelato, pasta, and fine wine would probably dance in your head right away. Well, since the country is known as one of the best foodie destinationswe really can’t blame you for that.

However, there’s certainly more to La Italia than its unrivaled culinary delights. That’s because beyond the bustling trattorias and vineyard-covered hills, Italy also offers a slice of paradise through its stunning beaches. From the glamorous Amalfi Coast to the serene shores of Sicily, each beach serves as a perfect canvas blending cerulean waters with dramatic landscapes.

Today, we’re taking you to some of the best beaches in Italy that are not just about soaking up the sun, but about experiencing la dolce vita by the sea!

Spiaggia Grande, Positano

Where Positano’s heart beats loudest, Spiaggia Grande dazzles with sunbathers and glitzy bars. It’s definitely the spot to see and be seen with a serving of gelato in one hand and your best sunnies in the other. 

Whether you’re lounging under an umbrella or sipping cocktails at a beachfront bar, every moment here sparkles with Positano’s glamorous lifestyle.

Fornillo Beach, Positano

But if you’re looking to escape the crowds in Positano, then Fornillo Beach offers peace with a view. 

Just a stroll away from Spiaggia Grande, it’s where locals go to catch their breath, and savvy travelers follow suit. This quieter beach alternative is perfect for those seeking a more serene day by the sea, with all the beauty and fewer footprints.

Marina Grande, Amalfi

A stone’s throw from historical marvels, Marina Grande is bustling with colorful umbrellas and seafood that jumps straight from the sea to your plate. It’s sun-soaking and history-hopping, all in one go. 

Stroll along the waterfront after a swim, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Amalfi, where every corner tells a tale of the sea.

A bustling day at Mondello Beach, where people are basking under the Mediterranean sun.
A bustling day at Mondello Beach, where people are basking under the Mediterranean sun.

Baia delle Sirene, Massa Lubrense

Hidden and hushed, Baia delle Sirene is where mermaid myths come alive. 

Dive in its serene waters, and maybe you’ll spot one swimming by in this snorkeler’s paradise. This secluded bay, surrounded by rugged nature, is certainly among the best beaches in Italy that lets you escape into a world of myth and tranquility far from the bustling tourist spots.

Mondello Beach, Palermo

Meanwhile, Mondello Beach is a stripe of paradise with soft sands that transition seamlessly into vibrant street festivals. 

Famous for its charming blend of local flavors and colors, you can swap your flip-flops for dancing shoes as the sun sets. Of course, you shouldn’t miss the many street vendors offering their trade here, one which can give you a taste of authentic Sicilian arancini by the sea, for instance.

San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily

Heading north, San Vito Lo Capo is your textbook Italian beach postcard but with a twist of lively cultural fests like the annual Cous Cous Fest

Here, crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrops inspire both awe and a plethora of Instagram snaps. It’s an authentic festival of flavors, sights, and sounds, all set against the backdrop of Sicily’s rugged beauty.

Cala Mosche, Noto

Tucked away in the Vendicari Nature Reserve, Cala Mosche is also among our picks for the best beaches in Italy. However, it remains a secret haven where nature commands the spotlight. 

With golden sands bordered by lush greenery and azure waters, it’s a natural retreat for those looking to escape the tourist trails. Make sure you bring a snorkel to explore underwater life or instead, dive into the pages of a good book if you’re not one for sea adventures.

The turquoise waters and white, sandy shores of a beach in Italy, viewed from a cliff overlooking the bay.
The turquoise waters and white, sandy shores of a beach in Italy, viewed from a cliff overlooking the bay.

Isola Bella, Taormina

Dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’, Isola Bella charms with its small but stunning pebble beach connected to a lush island nature reserve. 

It’s absolutely a magical mix of history and nature, where every swim feels like a dip into the past. Plus, the cable car to Taormina only adds a touch of vintage to the whole adventure.

Marina Piccola, Capri

Venturing south, Marina Piccola is Capri’s less frequented gem boasting spectacular views of the Faraglioni rocks. It’s a sunbather’s sanctuary where the sea sparkles just a bit brighter. 

Luxury yachts dot the horizon, and the beachside cafes serve up Capri’s best limoncello—a zesty end to a perfect beach day.

Tonnara di Scopello, Sicily

Finally, Tonnara di Scopello is where history meets the Mediterranean in a stunning display of Sicily’s coastal allure. 

Once a bustling tuna fishery and now a breathtaking beach spot, the entire area is framed by ancient towers and crystalline waters. Ideal for those who love to combine their beach days with a bit of exploration and Instagram-worthy ruins.

A panoramic view of Spiaggia dei Conigli in Italy, with its dramatic cliffs and deep blue waters.
A panoramic view of Spiaggia dei Conigli in Italy, with its dramatic cliffs and deep blue waters.

Let ThisCityKnows Take You To The Best Beaches in Italy

Now that you’ve had a glimpse of some of the best beaches in Italy, let ThisCityKnows guide you in planning your next coastal getaway. 

Whether it’s crafting your itinerary or securing that picturesque beachfront hotel, we’re ready to turn your Italian beach daydream into a reality.

With that, it’s time for you to brush up on your Italian, and plan your next summer getaway with ThisCityKnows!

Buon viaggio!

Katie
Author: Katie

Katie is all about hitting the road solo, always on the lookout for spots the internet hasn't fully discovered yet. She’s the one turning left when the map says right, hunting for those genuine, "you had to be there" moments. With a style that's as engaging as a late-night chat by the hostel fire, her stories aren't just about places, but the raw, unfiltered joy of exploring them on your own terms.

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