The Best Beaches in Italy Need a Reservation – Here’s How to Book

Campania: Cliffside Glamour and Mediterranean Magic

Campania’s coastline is the stuff of legend—pastel villages clinging to cliffs, boats bobbing in sapphire-blue waters, and lemon-scented breezes drifting from terraced groves. From the bustle of Naples to the refined elegance of Capri and the storybook beauty of Positano, this region offers an unforgettable coastal experience. Indulge in spaghetti alle vongole, sfogliatella pastries, and a glass of zesty Greco di Tufo. For a boutique retreat, check into Casa Angelina in Praiano—a minimalist gem with panoramic terraces and impeccable service.

Beaches that Require a Reservation

La Fontelina (Capri)

• • Season: Mid-May – September

  • Capacity: Yes, limited daily spots

  • Reservation: Strongly required via official website or hotel concierge

  • Details: One of Capri’s most exclusive beach clubs, nestled beneath the Faraglioni rocks. Book sunbeds and lunch well in advance.

Fiordo di Furore (Amalfi Coast)

• • Season: June – September

  • Capacity: Visitor flow controlled during peak season

  • Reservation: Required during summer via Amalfi Coast tourism portals or local apps

  • Details: A dramatic fjord-like cove between sheer cliffs. Because of its size and popularity, timed access is often enforced.

Bagno Elena (Naples – Posillipo)

• • Season: June – September

  • Capacity: Limited (private beach club)

  • Reservation: Required via official website or call-in

  • Details: A historic lido with views of Vesuvius, ideal for a chic city-beach day. Book in advance, especially weekends.

Marina Piccola (Sorrento)

• • Season: May – September

  • Capacity: Mixed (public & private sections)

  • Reservation: Recommended for private lidos (sunbeds/umbrellas)

  • Details: Nestled under Sorrento’s cliffs, with calm, swimmable waters and easy access to beach clubs. Public areas fill quickly.

Campania Beach Access Summary

Sicily: Volcanic Beauty and Secluded Shores

Sicily, the Mediterranean’s largest island, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and culinary splendor. The coastline is incredibly diverse—ranging from the golden beaches of San Vito Lo Capo to the volcanic coves of the Aeolian Islands. Sicilian cuisine is bold and unforgettable: savor arancini, pasta alla Norma, and fresh grilled swordfish, ideally with a glass of chilled Etna Bianco. Get away to a quite retreat, Monaci delle Terre Nere, an eco-luxury estate on the slopes of Mount Etna offering organic cuisine and views that stretch to the sea.

If you are looking for the White Lotus (season two) hotel, go to the San Domenico Palace Four Seasons in Taormina.

Beaches that Require a Reservation

Isola Bella (Taormina)

• • Season: June – September

  • Capacity: Yes, managed via local access limit and lido restrictions

  • Reservation: Recommended for beach clubs/lidos via hotel or individual websites

  • Details: A pebbly cove set beneath Taormina’s cliffs. The iconic islet is part of a marine reserve, and space is limited. Early arrival is key, or book a sunbed in advance.

Scala dei Turchi (Realmonte, Agrigento)

• • Season: All year, but monitored access in summer

  • Capacity: Limited in high season to protect the fragile marl cliffs

  • Reservation: Currently under environmental restriction—access sometimes only with guided tour or scheduled time slots

  • Details: Famous for its white limestone staircase formation. Occasionally closed due to erosion risks—check local tourism sites before visiting.

Vendicari Nature Reserve (Noto area)

• • Season: May – October

  • Capacity: No strict limit, but parking and access are controlled

  • Reservation: Not required, but recommended to arrive early or book a guided tour

  • Details: A protected area with crystal-clear waters and untouched sandy coves like Calamosche beach. Great for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Sicily Beach Access Summary

The Adriatic coast, a shimmering jewel of the Mediterranean, is a sun-drenched paradise that serves up a dazzling array of picture-perfect beaches, stunning landscapes, and charming coastal towns. From the enchanting waterways of Venice to the bustling city beaches of Rimini, the Adriatic coast is a rich tapestry of remarkable destinations, each brimming with their own unique culture, history, and culinary delights. Key highlights on the table include “Frutti di Mare” or fruits of the sea, which usually comprises a variety of shellfish, crustaceans, and mollusks served with pasta or risotto. Stay at the Grand Hotel Rimini for a luxurious seaside getaway.

Beaches along the Adriatic Coast (Veneto, Marche, Emilia Romanga Puglia) :

The Adriatic coast is mostly composed of broad sandy beaches with a mix of free public stretches (“spiaggia libera”) and private lidos offering umbrellas and loungers. Private beach clubs (Lido) have taken over most of the waterfront property and therefore, a place to set down a blanket is quite limited.

• • Free public areas: typically no reservation, access is on a first‑come, first‑serve basis.

  • Private lidos: strongly recommended to reserve ahead, especially in July–August, as spots (umbrellas/chairs/cabanas) are limited .

Venice Lido:
Iconic cabanas and beach huts available for rental. Day passes and reservations are available through lido authorities. In high season, a cabana may cost ~$20/day or more .

Marche: Adriatic Cliffs and Quiet Charms

Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbors, Marche is a hidden coastal gem. Here, the Adriatic Sea meets steep cliffs, pebbled coves, and turquoise waters. The Conero Riviera, in particular, offers breathtaking natural beauty without overwhelming crowds. Local specialties include olive all’ascolana (fried stuffed olives), brodetto di pesce (fish stew), and Verdicchio white wine. For a stay immersed in nature, book a room at Hotel Emilia, a hilltop boutique hotel near Portonovo with stunning sea views and refined tranquility.

Beaches that Require a Reservation

San Michele (Sirolo)

• • Season: May – September

  • Capacity: Limited

  • Reservation: Reservations required

  • Details: Located next to Urbani Beach, offering limited amenities with wilder scenery.

Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle (Sirolo)

• • Season: May – September

  • Capacity: Indirectly limited (accessible only by sea or guided boat tours)

  • Reservation: Required via official boat services from Numana or Sirolo

  • Details: A pristine white-pebble beach backed by sheer cliffs. No road access—boats only. Book your seat on the ferry in advance.

Mezzavalle Beach (Portonovo)

• • Season: June – September

  • Capacity: No fixed limit, but access via steep hiking path

  • Reservation: Not required, but private boat access and beach services (where available) often need booking

  • Details: A wilder alternative with no facilities—pack light and wear good shoes.

Marche Beach Access Summary

Puglia: White Villages and Azure Shores

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, has seen a surge in popularity—and for good reason. Its beaches range from dramatic cliffs to Caribbean-like sands, especially in Salento. The cuisine is earthy and irresistible: orecchiette with turnip greens, fresh burrata, and Primitivo di Manduria are regional musts. A wonderful boutique option is Masseria Torre Coccaro, a restored farmhouse near Fasano with luxury touches and countryside charm.

Beaches that Require a Reservation

Baia dei Turchi (Otranto)

• • Season: June – September

  • Capacity: Visitor flow managed by access trails and parking limits

  • Reservation: Required for beach shuttle or lido areas via local services

  • Details: A protected bay of soft sand and pine forest. Arrive early or pre-book shuttle from nearby parking.

Punta Prosciutto (Porto Cesareo)

• • Season: June – September

  • Capacity: No official limit, but often overcrowded

  • Reservation: Strongly recommended for beach clubs; free sections fill by 9:00 a.m.

  • Details: One of Salento’s most beautiful beaches—shallow waters and fine sand. Private lidos offer umbrella bookings.

Polignano a Mare (Lama Monachile)

• • Season: All year (high season June – Sept)

  • Capacity: Limited due to small size

  • Reservation: Not possible for public area; arrive early

  • Details: Iconic cliffside beach. Pack light—no facilities, but postcard-worthy views.

Puglia Beach Access Summary