Best Beaches in Italy
If you’re chartering a yacht in Italy, you’re in the right place. These five Italian beaches – some famous, some hidden – are perfect for anchoring, swimming, and soaking up the Med.
From Sardinia’s pristine shores to Sicily’s dramatic cliffs, these beaches offer the perfect places to drop anchor and unwind. Below, we’ve highlighted five of Italy’s top beaches that you can’t miss during your sailing adventure.
Top beaches to visit on your yacht charter in Italy
- La Pelosa, Sardinia
- Scala dei Turchi, Sicily
- The Chia Coast, Sardinia
- Elephant Beach, Sardinia
- Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa
1. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia
Located in the northwest of Sardinia, La Pelosa Beach is a family-friendly beach known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and fine, white sand. The beach offers stunning views of La Pelosa Tower and Isola Piana, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.
What makes La Pelosa one of the best beaches in Italy?
La Pelosa stands out for its calm, clear waters that stretch far from the shore, making it ideal for families. The beach’s soft sand and serene atmosphere create the perfect environment for a peaceful day by the sea.
Why it’s perfect for a yacht charter
La Pelosa is easily accessible by yacht, with Porto Torres nearby for docking. It has the perfect combination of accessible beauty and a relaxing beach experience, making it a top choice for yacht charterers.
Things to do and see nearby
Apart from enjoying the beach, you can visit the historic La Pelosa Tower, built in the 16th century, or explore the wildlife of Asinara National Park on a short boat ride. Both offer fantastic opportunities to take in the island’s natural beauty.
Key practical information
- A reservation is required if you want to come here before 6pm during peak season.
- This beach is ideal for shallow-water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling. The calm water is perfect for those with children, making it a great choice for family yacht charters.
2. Scala dei Turchi, Sicily
Located along the southern coast of Sicily near Realmonte, Scala dei Turchi is famous for its striking white limestone cliffs that resemble natural steps. The beach below offers golden sands and clear waters, making it a picturesque spot to visit by yacht.
What makes Scala dei Turchi one of the best beaches in Italy?
Scala dei Turchi is renowned for its unique white cliffs, which are naturally eroded into smooth, stepped formations. The contrast of the white rock against the deep blue sea creates one of the most iconic views in Italy.
Why it’s perfect for a yacht charter
Accessible by boat, Scala dei Turchi offers a beautiful spot to anchor and enjoy the panoramic views of the cliffs and ocean. Its proximity to Palermo makes it an easy stop for yacht charterers exploring the Sicilian coastline.
Things to do and see nearby
Visitors can climb the famous cliffs for a panoramic view of the coastline, or enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters below. The area is also near several Greek temples, adding a touch of history to your visit.
Key practical information
- The cliffs are best viewed at sunset for those capturing photos, as the lighting makes the white limestone glow. For fewer crowds, try visiting early in the morning or off-peak season.
- Be mindful of the steep, eroded steps on the cliff. Climbing can be challenging, so wear sturdy footwear if you plan to walk up for a panoramic view.
- While Scala dei Turchi is accessible by land, exploring it by boat offers a stunning vantage point. It’s possible to anchor close to the cliffs for a unique view of the white limestone formation.
3. The Beaches of the Chia Coast, Sardinia
Located on the southern tip of Sardinia, the beaches of the Chia Coast stretch across nine miles of stunning coastline, offering a mix of secluded spots and popular destinations. Whether you want to bask in the sun at Giudeu Beach, enjoy the seclusion of Cala del Morto, or relax by the expansive sands of Sa Colonia Beach, there’s something for every type of beachgoer. The crystal-clear waters and natural surroundings make it an idyllic destination for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
What makes the Chia Coast some of the best beaches in Italy?
The beaches of the Chia Coast are renowned for their variety, making it a perfect destination for all types of beach lovers. The combination of vibrant natural beauty, clear waters, and the unique mix of quiet and lively beaches sets it apart as one of the top beach destinations in Italy.
Why they’re perfect for a yacht charter
The Chia Coast offers multiple beach options easily accessible by yacht, making it ideal for a leisurely sailing itinerary. Porto Teulada provides convenient docking, and from there, visitors can sail along the coast, exploring different beaches at their own pace.
Things to do and see nearby
Beyond its stunning beaches, the Chia Coast offers attractions like the Chia Tower, an ancient structure perched above the coast that provides sweeping views of the entire area. Cala del Morto is a great spot for snorkeling, and the Stangioni de Su Sali, a natural saltwater pond near Giudeu Beach, adds a unique touch to your beach day. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby wetlands, where birdwatching and peaceful walks are a perfect complement to a beach day.
Key practical information
- Giudeu Beach offers loungers and umbrellas for rent, providing an easy, comfortable beach experience for families.
- To enjoy a peaceful visit, go during early mornings or late afternoons. The beaches can get crowded during the summer, so try to avoid peak hours.
- The beaches of the Chia Coast are easily accessible by boat, with Porto Teulada and Cagliari Marina being convenient docking points.
4. Elephant Beach, Sardinia
Located on the northeast coast of Sardinia, Elephant Beach is a picturesque spot along the exclusive Costa Smeralda. Famous for its distinctive rock formation resembling an elephant’s trunk, the beach is a unique destination surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes.
What makes Elephant Beach one of the best beaches in Italy?
What makes Elephant Beach special is not just the stunning natural beauty, but the unique rock formation that gives the beach its name. The clear turquoise waters and peaceful atmosphere offer a perfect escape for those looking to unwind while surrounded by the luxury of the Costa Smeralda.
Why it’s perfect for a yacht charter
Accessible by boat, Elephant Beach offers an exclusive feel, with calm waters and beautiful surroundings perfect for a day of relaxation on the water. It’s conveniently located near Romazzino, one of Costa Smeralda’s charming areas, and can be reached easily from several nearby marinas, making it an ideal itinerary stop for Sardinia yacht charters.
Things to do and see nearby
Elephant Beach offers more than just its beautiful shore. Visitors can explore nearby Romazzino, a charming town with boutique shops and cafes, or take a leisurely stroll along the coast to discover other hidden coves and beaches along the Costa Smeralda. For those feeling adventurous, walking along the coastline offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and surrounding landscapes.
Key practical information
- The beach is accessible by boat, with easy docking options at Porto Cervo or Romazzino, both a short distance from the beach.
- Those looking for a peaceful experience should plan to visit in late spring or early autumn.
- Elephant Beach is relatively undeveloped, so it offers a more natural experience compared to some other beaches along Costa Smeralda. Come prepared with food, water, and sun protection.
5. Rabbit Beach, Lampedusa
Located on the island of Lampedusa, Rabbit Beach is famed for its pristine beauty and crystal-clear waters. Accessible by land via an 800-meter rocky pathway, this beach offers a tranquil escape away from the hustle and bustle.
What makes Rabbit Beach one of the best beaches in Italy?
Rabbit Beach is renowned not just for its breathtaking beauty, but also for its sense of solitude. The beach’s powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters offer the perfect backdrop for swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding in one of the most unspoiled spots in Italy. It’s a natural sanctuary, often described as “paradise found,” and is known for being a haven for loggerhead sea turtles that nest here, adding a layer of environmental importance to its appeal.
Why it’s perfect for a yacht charter
Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, Rabbit Beach offers a rare opportunity for yacht charter guests to experience an untouched part of the Mediterranean. Anchor off the shore to enjoy the views and calm waters or take a tender to the beach to soak up the serenity. The seclusion of the island makes it a perfect stop for those looking to escape the usual tourist crowds.
Things to do and see nearby
Beyond basking in the beach’s natural beauty, Rabbit Beach is a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Due to its protected status as part of a nature reserve, the beach is pristine and free of commercial developments. Spend time swimming in the clear waters or simply relax, listening to the gentle waves lap the shore. If you’re up for it, explore nearby Lampedusa for charming streets, delicious seafood, and the island’s relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
Key practical information
- There are no facilities on the beach, so pack accordingly with water, snacks, and sun protection. There are no food stalls or bathrooms available on the beach itself.
- Rabbit Beach is only accessible via an 800-meter rocky pathway. It’s worth the hike, but visitors should wear comfortable shoes for the walk.
- The beach is closed to visitors during certain months to protect the loggerhead sea turtles that use the beach as a nesting ground. Be sure to check for seasonal access before planning your trip.
Enjoy Italy’s best beaches on an Italian Yacht Charter
From the crystal-clear waters of La Pelosa in Sardinia to the striking white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi in Sicily, these five beaches represent the best of what Italy’s coastlines have to offer. Whether you’re anchored off the secluded sands of Rabbit Beach in Lampedusa, enjoying the family-friendly shores of the Chia Coast, or soaking in the exclusive ambiance of Elephant Beach, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience for yacht charterers.
Sail your way through Italy’s most stunning shores – where history, food, and perfect beaches meet. Whether you prefer hidden coves or lively bays, there’s a yacht and a beach with your name on it. Your next unforgettable Mediterranean adventure is waiting.
Contributor
isabelcoltham
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