Puglia is a treasure trove of coastal delights, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas hug its extensive shoreline, creating a landscape dotted with craggy cliffs and expansive beaches. From the white lilies that bloom along the dunes to the ancient olive groves that stretch towards the sea, this region offers a backdrop for the perfect beach holiday. Whether you’re looking to swim out to sea from the sandy shores of Torre dell’Orso or relax on sun loungers while gazing at the twin rocks of Sant’Andrea, Puglia’s beaches cater to every type of beachgoer.
Our pick of the best hotels in Puglia 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Santa Caterina Resort & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Masseria Torre Maizza
- 🏨 4-Star: Gran Paradiso
- 💸 Cheap: Trulli e Puglia Luxury Suite
- 🏢 Apartment: Marimar Apartments Otranto
- 🏩 For Couples: Dimora Villa Serena
For those interested in exploring beyond the typical tourist paths, Puglia’s lesser-known beaches, like Porto Selvaggio, provide unique swimming experiences in crystal-clear waters. Bird watchers will find themselves at home in the region’s quiet coves, where they can observe local wildlife in a serene setting. Additionally, the vineyards that line the coast near some beaches offer a taste of the local produce, enhancing the sensory experience of a visit to this enchanting region. To truly uncover the hidden gems of Puglia’s coastline, it’s recommended to hire a car, allowing you to discover secluded spots and the rustic charm of Salento in the south at your own pace.
Quick Guide on Top Beaches in Puglia 📋
- 🏝️ For White Sand: Pescoluse
- ⛰️ For Iconic Limestone Stacks: Torre dell’Orso
- 🐟 For Snorkeling: Baia dei Turchi (Otranto)
- 🌲 For Secluded Sandy Coves: Porto Selvaggio (Nardò)
- 🧗♀️ For Dramatic Cliffs: Vignanotica (Gargano)
- 🌙 For Nighlife: Spiaggia della Purità (Gallipoli)
- ⛵ For Unique Sea Cave Beach: Grotta della Poesia (Torre di Roca Vecchia)
1. Pescoluse – Best Beach in the Ionian Sea for White Sand 🏝️
📸 Insta-Worthy: This beach is an Instagrammer’s dream come true. The fine white sand contrasts beautifully against the shimmering turquoise waters, creating a scene reminiscent of the Maldives.
🚗 Getting There: Start your visit by parking near the center. From there, you can easily access the long stretch of beach on foot. The beach is accessible by car, with ample parking available near the beach. For those using public transport, buses run regularly from nearby towns during the summer months. Consider renting a bike or scooter for a scenic ride along the coast.
🍴 Taste of Salento: After soaking up some sun, satisfy your appetite at one of the beachside restaurants and bars. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like mussels, clams, and sea bream at Ristorante Riva dei Ginepri. Or grab a refreshing granita made with local produce at Cafe del Lido. For a casual meal, order a puccia (stuffed bread) at Pucceria Salentina.
📋 Info:
- Type: Long sandy beach with shallow waters
- Amenities: Beach clubs with loungers/umbrellas, bars, restaurants
- Location: Salento peninsula
- Access: Park in town and walk to beach
- Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, photography
Best beaches in Puglia near Pescoluse? 🏨
- Antica Masseria Ficazzana - Tenuta: a charming bed and breakfast located in Cisternino, Puglia, Italy, offering an outdoor pool, a garden, free private parking, and a terrace with stunning views of the surrounding countryside
- B&B Lu Cantoru: a cozy bed and breakfast situated in Locorotondo, Puglia, Italy, featuring free WiFi, air conditioning, a shared lounge, and a garden, located just 1.2 km from the picturesque historical center of Locorotondo.
2. Torre dell’Orso – Where to Stay for Iconic Limestone Stacks ⛰️
📸 Picture-Perfect: The beach is a jaw-dropping 800-meter stretch of velvety white sand, framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and surrounded by a verdant pine forest. The azure waters and iconic “Two Sisters” rock stacks create a visually stunning scene.
🥾 Coastal Meander: Gain access to the beach via the steps from the amphitheater area or the central staircase off Via Matteotti. Alternatively, take a delightful stroll through the pine forest to reach the beach clubs La Sorgente and I Caraibi del Salento. The beach is situated about 28 km from Lecce. Having your own vehicle provides the most convenient access, with several parking areas available near the beach. You can also journey there via public transportation to the town center.
🍴 Salentine Flavors: Dine at the beachside clubs like Lido La Sorgente or Lido La Cueva which offer restaurants, bars and amenities right on the silky sands. In town, sample Andrea’s for Mediterranean cuisine or Bar-b-q Torre Dell’orso for casual fare.
📋 Info:
- Type: Sand beach with limestone cliffs and rock pillars
- Amenities: Beach clubs with loungers, bars, eateries, parking
- Location: Melendugno, Salento peninsula
- Access: By car, town center stairs or through pine forest trails
- Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, photography, snorkeling
Where to stay near Torre dell’Orso? 🏨
- Hotel Belvedere: This hotel offers stunning views of the Adriatic sea and the iconic “Two Sisters” sea stacks. Surrounded by centuries-old olive trees, it’s the perfect base for a vacation in Puglia.
- Masseria Rauccio, Salento: Charming farmhouse turned hotel, near ancient caves and dwellings dating back to the Bronze Age. Guests can explore the nearby Marine Reserve and swim out to the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.
- Hotel Barone di Mare: Seafront hotel featuring a private beach area, an outdoor pool, free private parking, and a restaurant, located just 100 meters from the sandy beach of Torre Mozza.
3. Baia dei Turchi (Otranto) – Best Place for Snorkeling 🐟
🏞️ Natural Paradise: Baia dei Turchi is a breathtaking beach located near the town of Otranto, along the Ionian coastline of Puglia. This hidden beach is surrounded by cliffs covered in Mediterranean scrub, creating a picturesque and natural setting.
🌊 Pristine Waters: The main attraction is the stunning crescent of fine white sand reminiscent of the Maldives. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and admiring the vibrant seabed.
🥾 Private Access: While the beach itself is free to access, visitors must park their vehicles in the designated area and walk through a pine woods trail to reach the sandy shores.
📋 Info:
- Type: Sandy beach surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation
- Amenities: Parking area, hiking trail access, limited facilities
- Location: Near Otranto, part of the Oasi Protetta dei Laghi Alimini nature reserve
- Access: By car, followed by a short hike through pine woods
- Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, nature lovers
Where to stay near Baia dei Turchi? 🏨
- Marimar Apartments Otranto: Beachfront property offering air-conditioned apartments with kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and balconies or patios, located just 20 meters from the Alimini Lakes.
- Le Terrazze Otranto: Seafront property featuring a terrace with sea views, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, and free WiFi.
- Hotel Alba Dei Popoli: Modern hotel offering an outdoor pool, a restaurant, free private parking, and air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and balconies.
4. Porto Selvaggio (Nardò) – Best Place on Puglia Coast for Sandy Coves 🌲
🌲 Sanctuary: This place is a rugged beach set within a protected pine forest nature reserve near the town of Nardò. This hidden gem boasts crystal-clear azure waters and lush Mediterranean vegetation, creating a wild and picturesque scene.
🏞️ Natural Wonders: The beach itself is a series of pebbly coves and small sandy stretches, surrounded by towering cliffs and craggy rock formations. The clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering a glimpse into the vibrant marine life below.
🌿 Protected Paradise: The beach is part of the Riserva Naturale Regionale di Porto Selvaggio e Palude del Capitano, a protected area that preserves the region’s unique ecosystem and archaeological sites, including ancient caves and Bronze Age dwellings.
📋 Info:
- Type: Pebble beaches
- Amenities: Hiking trails, limited parking, no facilities
- Location: Near Nardò, Salento peninsula
- Access: Park and hike through pine forest reserve
- Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, hiking, nature, photography
Where to stay near Porto Selvaggio? 🏨
- Santa Caterina Resort & Spa: This luxurious seaside resort offers a private beach on the Ionian Sea, nestled in the sun-kissed Salento region. Relax by the outdoor pool overlooking the turquoise waters, indulge in the spa, or explore nearby coves and natural inlets like Lama Monachile.
- Dimora Villa Serena: A charming bed and breakfast surrounded by centuries-old olive groves just 450 meters from the beach. Enjoy the outdoor pool, garden, and air-conditioned rooms with views of this corner of the Maldives of Salento.
5. Vignanotica (Gargano) – Top Puglia’s Beach for Dramatic Cliffs 🧗♀️
🏞️ Natural Wonders: The beach itself is a crescent of sand, surrounded by craggy coves and towering cliffs covered in Mediterranean vegetation. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering a glimpse into the vibrant marine life below.
⛰️ Explore the Park: This beach is located within the Gargano National Park, a protected area known for its rugged coastline, ancient olive groves, and archaeological sites. Visitors can hike the park’s trails, explore Bronze Age dwellings and ancient caves, and immerse themselves in the region’s rich history.
🚶♀️ Off-the-Beaten-Path: To reach the beach, visitors must follow a scenic trail through the park, adding to the sense of seclusion and adventure. While the beach itself has limited facilities, the nearby towns of Peschici and Vieste offer a variety of dining options and accommodations.
📋 Info:
- Type: Sandy cove surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation
- Amenities: Limited facilities, hiking trail access
- Location: Within the Gargano National Park
- Access: By car, followed by a scenic hike through the park
- Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, hiking, nature lovers, seclusion seekers
Where to stay near Vignanotica? 🏨
- Centro di Spiritualità Padre Pio: This serene retreat center with a chapel and garden is located 1.4 km from the famous Padre Pio Pilgrimage Church in San Giovanni Rotondo.
- Hotel Gran Paradiso: A modern 4-star hotel just 1.3 km from the Padre Pio Shrine, offering an outdoor pool, spa, restaurant and air-conditioned rooms with balconies. The perfect spot to experience the spiritual heart of Italy’s boot.
- Hotel Manfredi: This elegant hotel in the heart of the coastal town of Manfredonia features a restaurant, bar and free parking just 200 meters from the sandy Adriatic beach. Explore the nearby Roman bridge, Bronze Age architecture and Mycenaean pottery.
6. Spiaggia della Purità (Gallipoli) – Best Beach of Puglia for Nightlife 🌙
🌙 Nightlife Hotspot: Gallipoli is a lively coastal town on the Ionian Sea, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. The main beach, Spiaggia della Purità, is a long stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters.
🍹 Bars and Clubs: Some of the hottest nightlife spots in Gallipoli include:
- Praja Gallipoli – This beachfront club is a favorite for its lively atmosphere and stunning sea views.
- Riobò – An iconic hotspot known for its trendy events, especially on Tuesdays.
- Il Vega – A new and fashionable club that’s currently the place to be.
🌅 Sunrise Parties: For an unforgettable experience, head to Blu Bay nightclub in Otranto. Perched on a rocky hilltop overlooking Castro Bay, it’s the perfect spot to dance the night away and watch the breathtaking sunrise. In addition to clubs, Gallipoli offers a vibrant live music scene. Many bars and piazzas host local bands playing traditional Puglian folk music, creating an energetic and authentic atmosphere.
📍 Info:
- Location: Historic center
- Top Clubs: Praja Gallipoli, Riobò, Il Vega, Blu Bay
- Vibe: Lively, energetic, party atmosphere
- Best for: Nightlife, dancing, live music, beach clubs
Where to stay near Gallipoli? 🏨
- Palazzo del Corso: A stylish historic hotel with a rooftop terrace in the center of Gallipoli, 200 meters from the beach. The perfect base to discover this Ionian coastal town’s picturesque old quarter.
- Palazzo Zaccà: A beautifully restored 16th-century palace turned boutique hotel, offering a rooftop terrace with stunning sea views in the heart of Gallipoli’s historic center.
- I Bastioni San Domenico: This charming B&B with a garden terrace overlooking the sea is situated just 100 meters from Gallipoli’s beach, ideal for a relaxing stay in Salento.
7. Grotta della Poesia (Torre di Roca Vecchia) – Great Place in Puglia for a Unique Cave Beach ⛵
⛵ Seaside Marvel: Grotta della Poesia, also known as the Cave of Poetry, is a breathtaking natural wonder located near the town of Roca Vecchia. This unique sea cave features a stunning sinkhole filled with crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a serene swimming hole.
🌊 Aquatic Adventure: Visitors can access the cave’s waters by descending a set of stairs carved into the rock or by taking a daring leap from the surrounding cliffs. Once inside, you can swim, snorkel, or simply float in the tranquil waters, marveling at the natural beauty that surrounds you.
🚶♀️ Coastal Exploration: The area surrounding Grotta della Poesia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a leisurely stroll along the rugged coastline, discover hidden coves and beaches, or embark on a boat tour to explore the nearby sea caves and grottoes.
📍 Info:
- Type: Natural sea cave and swimming hole
- Amenities: Stairs for access, limited facilities nearby
- Location: Near Roca Vecchia, Salento peninsula
- Access: By car, followed by a short walk
- Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, photography, nature lovers, cultural exploration
Where to stay near Grotta della Poesia? 🏨
- Oasi di Roca: A seafront resort with its own private beach, outdoor pool and restaurant, located 7 km from the iconic beach.
- Borgo Sentinella: A rustic-chic hotel offering an outdoor pool, restaurant and rooms with patios, 1.5 km from the sheltered natural sunbathing platform and stairs etched into the cliffs at Torre Mozza Beach.
- Hotel Barone di Mare: This seafront property features a private beach area right on the sandy shores of Torre Mozza Beach, as well as an outdoor pool, parking and restaurant to enjoy Puglia’s best beaches.
8. Spiaggia San Vito – Charming Cove Beach in the City Center 🏰
🏰 Picturesque Setting: Spiaggia San Vito is a small but enchanting beach that captivates visitors with its unique charm. Surrounded by the town’s iconic white-washed buildings that cling to the limestone cliffs, this cove beach offers a picture-perfect backdrop.
🚶♂️ Explore the Town: Discover the town’s rich history, sample delicious local cuisine, try local seafood specialties like octopus, sea urchins, and raw shrimp. Recommended restaurants include Mint Cucina Fresca and Pescaria. Stroll through the charming historic center and admire the stunning sea views from the panoramic terraces. Visit the Pino Pascali Museum Foundation dedicated to the Italian artist.
📍 Info:
- Type: Cove beach
- Amenities: Limited facilities, nearby restaurants and shops
- Location: City center of Polignano a Mare
- Access: By foot, short walk from the town center
- Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, photography, exploring the town
Where to stay near Spiaggia San Vito? 🏨
- Borgobianco Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort, offering a spa, an outdoor pool, a golf course, and elegant rooms with private terraces.
- Castellinaria Polignano a Mare: A unique hotel set in a restored medieval castle, featuring a rooftop terrace with panoramic sea views, a restaurant, and atmospheric rooms with stone walls.
- Grotta Palazzese: A stunning hotel built into a natural cave overlooking the Adriatic Sea, offering a gourmet restaurant with breathtaking views, a spa, and luxurious rooms with sea views.
9. Lama Monachile, Polignano a Mare – Iconic Pebble Beach Under the Roman Bridge 🌉
🚶♂️ Exploration: Also known as Cala Porto, Lama Monachile is Polignano a Mare’s main beach, distinguished by the stunning Roman bridge that spans the deep cove. This architectural wonder adds a touch of history and romance to the already breathtaking setting. The town is well connected by train to Bari and Brindisi.
🍦 Nearby cuisine: Polignano a Mare is known for its delicious gelato and coffee served in ice cream cones. Try local seafood specialties like octopus, sea urchins, and raw shrimp. Recommended restaurants include Mint Cucina Fresca and Pescaria. Also, visit the stunning Grotta Palazzese, a restaurant set inside a natural cave with sea views.
🤿 Cliff Diving Spectacle: Lama Monachile is famous for hosting the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, where daring athletes leap from the bridge into the crystal-clear waters below. Witness this thrilling event or simply admire the bravery of the local cliff jumpers who frequent the beach.
📍 Info:
- Type: Pebble beach with Roman bridge
- Amenities: Nearby restaurants, bars, and shops
- Location: Polignano a Mare city center
- Access: By foot, short walk from the town center
- Best for: Photography, cliff diving spectacle, unique beach experience
Where to stay near Lama Monachile? 🏨
- Dimora Valmar – A boutique hotel, boasting a rooftop terrace with sea views, a spa, and elegantly decorated rooms.
- MandorleOlio: A rustic-chic agriturismo set amidst olive groves, offering an outdoor pool, a restaurant serving traditional Puglian cuisine, and comfortable rooms with countryside views.
- La Mare Cucina e Dimore: A seafront hotel, featuring a private beach area, a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, and stylish rooms with sea views.
10. Spiaggia di Torre Guaceto, Carovigno – Pristine Beach in a Protected Marine Reserve 🐠
🐠 Unspoiled Beauty: Torre Guaceto is a protected marine reserve that boasts a pristine stretch of sandy beach. This untouched paradise is a haven for wildlife and a testament to the power of conservation.
👪 Family-Friendly Waters: The clear, shallow waters of Spiaggia di Torre Guaceto gradually deepen, making it an ideal spot for families with children. Torre Guaceto is located about 20 km north of Brindisi. You can reach the reserve entrance by car via the SP79 road. From there it’s a short walk to the beach.
🥘 Nearby cuisine & sights: In Carovigno, try local specialties like orecchiette with tomato and cacioricotta cheese, puréed fava beans with chicory, and bombette (small meat rolls). Recommended restaurants include Osteria Bell’Italia and Masseria Ferri. Aftr, you can xplore the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve with its walking trails, observation towers, and visitor center. Visit the nearby town of Ostuni, known as the “White City”, perched on a hill.
📍 Info:
- Type: Sandy beach in a protected marine reserve
- Amenities: Limited facilities, nearby nature center
- Location: Carovigno, Brindisi province
- Access: By car, followed by a short walk
- Best for: Swimming, nature lovers, birdwatching, eco-tourism
Where to stay near Spiaggia di Torre Guaceto? 🏨
- Dimora dell'Osanna: A charming B&B in the heart of Brindisi’s historic center, offering elegant rooms with vaulted ceilings, a terrace, and a delightful breakfast, just steps away from the city‘s iconic sights and pristine beaches.
- Arya Nobile Dimora: A luxurious hotel housed in a restored 18th-century palace, featuring a spa, an outdoor pool, and stylish rooms with frescoed ceilings.
- B&B Casavacanze Chiesa Madre Carovigno: A cozy bed and breakfast in the historic center of Carovigno, offering comfortable rooms, a terrace with panoramic views, and a delicious homemade breakfast.
FAQs about Visiting Puglia ❔
What part of Puglia has the best beaches?
The Salento area in the southern part of Puglia has some of the best beaches in the region.
What is the most beautiful seaside town in Puglia?
Polignano a Mare is considered one of the most beautiful seaside towns in Puglia.
Where to go to swim in Puglia?
Some of the best places to swim in Puglia include Pescoluse, Porto Selvaggio and Torre dell’Orso.
Is it better to stay in Bari or Polignano a Mare?
It is better to stay in Polignano a Mare if you want to be closer to the stunning beaches and coastal scenery, while Bari offers a more urban experience as the capital city.
