Nestled along the stunning coastline of Puglia, Taranto and its surrounding province offer some of the most breathtaking beaches along the Ionian Sea. From the pristine shores of San Pietro in Bevagna to the serene coves of Marina di Pulsano, this coastal paradise boasts crystal-clear waters, golden sandy beaches, and natural beauty that has earned several locations the prestigious Blue Flag recognition. The area’s diverse shoreline features everything from picturesque beach resorts like Lido Bruno and Lido Azzurro to the untouched beauty of Posto Vecchio.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Taranto:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Histò San Pietro Sul Mar Piccolo
- ✨ 5-Star: Relais Villa San Martino
- 🏨 4-Star: Borgo Bevagna Relais
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Mansarda Canarina
- 💸 Cheap: Da Zia Lucia
- 🏢 Apartament: Villa Gianna Taranto
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Villa Salina Monaci
- 🏩 For Couples: Ticho's
The province of Taranto presents a remarkable variety of coastal landscapes, stretching from the stunning beach resort of Ginosa Marina to the historic Torre Colimena. Each kilometer of this Apulian coastline tells its own story, whether through the ancient cliffs near San Vito, the protected dunes of Salina dei Monaci, or the pristine waters of Spiaggia di Lido Gandoli. The region’s beach offerings are complemented by excellent accommodation options and modern facilities, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation seekers and nature enthusiasts who appreciate the untouched beauty of the Ionian coast.
Best Beaches in Taranto: Quick Overview
- 🏖️ Family-friendly beach fun: Lido Azzurro
- 🌊 Tranquil nature retreat: San Pietro in Bevagna
- 🌅 Romantic sunsets and charm: Spiaggia di Posto Vecchio
- 🚤 Sailing and regatta excitement: Marina di Pulsano
- 🏝️ Pristine beauty and relaxation: Lido Bruno
- 🐠 Snorkeling and marine exploration: Spiaggia Libera Lido Gandoli
- 🌿 Eco-friendly and birdwatching haven: Salina dei Monaci
- 🏖️ Serene beach resort vibes: Castellaneta Marina
1. 🏖️ Lido Azzurro – Family Paradise by the Ionian Sea
Unspoiled charm: Lido Azzurro, located near the center of Taranto, is one of the most popular beaches along the Taranto coast. Known for its crystal-clear waters and well-maintained facilities, this beach has become a favorite seaside destination for both locals and tourists seeking a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.
Diverse shoreline: The beach is characterized by fine golden sand and gentle slopes, making it ideal for swimming and perfect for families with children. Modern amenities include changing rooms, toilets, and well-equipped beach clubs that offer comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas.
Water activities: The clean, turquoise waters provide excellent conditions for various water activities. The beach offers several options for water sports enthusiasts, while the calm waters make it one of the cleanest and safest spots for swimming along the coast.
Local flavors: The area features numerous restaurants and beach bars serving traditional Pugliese cuisine. The beachfront establishments offer everything from quick snacks to full meals, making it convenient for full-day beach visits.
Best Hotels Near Lido Azzurro
- Histò San Pietro Sul Mar Piccolo: Set in a beautifully restored 13th-century monastery, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the Mar Piccolo. Guests can relax in the spa, enjoy thermal baths, and dine in a gourmet restaurant housed in atmospheric stone vaults.
- Relais Villa San Martino: Surrounded by lush gardens and olive groves, this elegant villa provides a serene escape with top-notch amenities. The property features an exquisite restaurant, a full-service spa, and personalized wellness treatments.
- Hotel Ara Solis: Located steps away from the beach, this hotel offers modern rooms with private balconies overlooking the Ionian Sea. Guests can enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving fresh local cuisine.
2. 🌊 San Pietro in Bevagna – Natural Haven
Unspoiled charm: San Pietro in Bevagna represents one of the most pristine stretches of the Puglia coastline. This beach is part of a protected nature reserve, offering visitors a peaceful retreat away from urban crowds.
Diverse shoreline: The beach is known for its long stretches of fine sand bordered by natural dunes and Mediterranean vegetation. The crystal-clear blue sea creates a perfect setting for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Water activities: The calm, shallow waters make this beach ideal for swimming and snorkeling. During the best time to visit, between June and September, the water temperature is perfect for extended bathing sessions.
Local flavors: While maintaining its natural charm, the area offers several small establishments serving local specialties. The peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by the absence of large commercial developments.
Best Hotels Near San Pietro Bevagna
- Borgo Bevagna Relais: A charming property offering modern amenities in a serene setting. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a beautiful outdoor pool, and easy access to nearby attractions.
- Petra Solis by Jdvacanze: Located just 200 meters from the beach, this hotel offers cozy rooms and studios with top-rated Italian breakfasts. Its close proximity to the center of San Pietro in Bevagna makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing seaside getaway.
- A Casa Noscia B&B: This family-run bed and breakfast provides a warm, inviting atmosphere with personalized service. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, homemade breakfasts, and a convenient location near local beaches.
3. 🌅 Spiaggia di Posto Vecchio – Romantic Escape
Unspoiled charm: Spiaggia di Posto Vecchio offers a beautiful combination of sandy shores and rocky coves, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways.
Diverse shoreline: This beach is characterized by its varied landscape, featuring both sandy stretches and picturesque rocky formations. The crystal-clear waters and natural surroundings make it a tranquil haven.
Water activities: The diverse marine environment provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. The waters are particularly calm during morning hours, making it perfect for peaceful swimming sessions.
Local flavors: Small beach bars dot the coastline, offering refreshments and local specialties in a romantic setting. The area is especially popular during sunset hours when the sky creates a spectacular display of colors.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia di Posto Vecchio
- Mansarda Canarina: Located just 400 meters from the beach, this cozy apartment offers a private terrace and is perfect for couples or small families. Its proximity to Marina di Pescoluse makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing seaside stay.
- Villa Maldive Pescoluse: Offering spacious accommodations with a private garden and terrace, this villa is perfect for families or groups. It provides a peaceful retreat near the famous “Maldive del Salento” beaches, ideal for enjoying the sun and sea.
- Villa Maldive Pescoluse: This modern villa features outdoor dining areas, a barbecue, and a tranquil location close to the stunning beaches of Pescoluse. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay with easy access to the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.
4. 🚤 Marina di Pulsano – Sailing Paradise
Unspoiled charm: Marina di Pulsano, located in the region of Puglia, is renowned for its Caribbean-like waters and sandy beaches. The area has developed from a fishing village into a prominent tourist destination while maintaining its authentic charm.
Diverse shoreline: The coastline stretches for 8 kilometers, featuring various bays and coves formed by small rocky peninsulas known as the “Seven Points.” The shallow seabeds make it particularly safe for families and swimmers of all levels.
Water activities: The beach offers numerous activities including swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Modern facilities include lifeguards on duty, public restrooms, and showers, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.
Local flavors: The area comes alive during summer with numerous restaurants, bars, and beach clubs offering local specialties. The historic bazaar and various dining options provide visitors with authentic Pugliese gastronomy experiences.
Best Hotels Near Marina di Pulsano
- Da Zia Lucia: A budget-friendly option offering cozy accommodations in Pulsano. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay with easy access to local attractions and beaches, perfect for those looking for an affordable getaway.
- Le Suite Pulsano: This charming property offers spacious suites with modern amenities, ideal for couples or small families. Located close to the beach, it provides a relaxing environment with a touch of luxury.
- Villa Indipendente - 500m dal Mare: A beautiful villa located just 500 meters from the beach, offering two bedrooms and a private garden. Ideal for families or groups, it provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to the sea and local attractions.
5. 🏝️ Lido Bruno – A Serene Coastal Haven
Unspoiled charm: Lido Bruno beach, located 7.2 km from the center of Taranto, is a collection of intimate coves that offer a peaceful retreat along the Ionian coast. The beach is part of the San Vito settlement and has maintained its pristine beauty despite being in an urban area.
Diverse shoreline: The beach is characterized by a series of small, tranquil coves surrounded by Mediterranean scrub. The sandy seabeds are rich with marine life, including sea urchins and various fish species. Its well-maintained and clean environment creates a perfect atmosphere for those seeking relaxation.
Water activities: The crystal-clear waters provide excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Beach clubs along the coastline offer equipment rentals including catamarans and jet skis, while lifeguards ensure safety during the season.
Local flavors: The beach facilities include coffee bars and refreshment stands, offering visitors convenient access to snacks and beverages while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of the location.
Best Hotels Near Lido Bruno
- Villa Lina Bed & Breakfast: Located just 6 km from the center of Taranto, this cozy B&B offers comfortable rooms and a refreshing outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy cycling and bike rentals, making it a perfect spot for exploring the surrounding area.
- Villa Gianna Taranto: A charming apartment located in a peaceful area of Taranto, offering spacious accommodations with modern amenities. Its proximity to local beaches makes it an ideal choice for a relaxing seaside holiday.
- B&B Villa Venere: Situated just 7 km from the center of Taranto, this B&B offers a private beach area and a variety of activities such as live music and cultural tours. The property is perfect for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and local experiences.
6. 🐠 Spiaggia Libera Lido Gandoli – Snorkeler’s Paradise
Unspoiled charm: Located in Leporano Marina within the province of Taranto, this picturesque beach is nestled between the distinctive Blandamura cliff and Spiaggia di Saturo. Its unique crescent shape adds to its natural charm.
Diverse shoreline: The beach boasts fine-grained light sand and crystal-clear waters, with shallow, gradually sloping seabeds perfect for families with children. The cliffs flanking the shore create ideal conditions for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Water activities: The beach offers various recreational options including beach volleyball and beach tennis. The clear waters near the cliffs provide excellent opportunities for exploring marine life.
Local flavors: While part of the beach is managed by beach establishments, offering various amenities, there’s also a free beach section for those seeking a more natural experience.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia Libera Lido Gandoli
- Casa Vacanze Nonna Titina: A charming holiday home offering a cozy atmosphere with modern amenities. Located in Leporano, it provides easy access to local beaches and is ideal for families or small groups looking for a peaceful retreat.
- Bluesun Leporano Marina: Situated just steps away from the beach, this property offers comfortable accommodations with sea views. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay with access to nearby attractions and water activities.
- Villa La Perla Sul Mare: A luxurious villa located only 150 meters from the beach, featuring a private pool, hot tub, and stunning sea views. Perfect for families or groups, it offers a serene environment with top-rated breakfast options and various outdoor activities like hiking and tennis.
7. 🌿 Salina dei Monaci – Natural Wonder
Unspoiled charm: Part of the R.O. Natural Reserves of the Eastern Tarantino Coastline since 2002, Salina dei Monaci represents a perfect harmony between nature and history. This protected area showcases the rich biodiversity of Puglia’s coastline.
Diverse shoreline: The reserve extends along a narrow strip separating the lagoon from the open sea, creating diverse habitats for numerous species. The area features fine sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, complemented by Mediterranean scrub vegetation.
Wildlife spectacle: The reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, with pink flamingos being one of the main attractions. Other species include herons, egrets, and black-winged stilts, making it a prime location for nature observation.
Natural beauty: The area features a varied zonation of plant life, from shoreline species to evergreen shrubs like juniper, lentisk, myrtle, and holm oak, creating a unique coastal ecosystem.
Best Hotels Near Salina dei Monaci
- Villa Salina Monaci: Located just 100 meters from the beach, this family-friendly villa offers spacious accommodations with options for up to 7 guests. The property features outdoor activities like hiking, windsurfing, and horseback riding, making it perfect for an active family vacation.
- Appartamento a 300m dal Mare del Salento: A comfortable apartment located just 300 meters from the beach in San Pietro in Bevagna. With its proximity to the sea and local attractions, it’s ideal for families or groups looking for a relaxing seaside escape.
- B&B Miramare: Situated just 50 meters from the beach, this B&B offers cozy accommodations with options for Italian, vegetarian, and vegan breakfasts. Guests can enjoy activities such as cycling, canoeing, and massages, making it a great choice for a peaceful beachfront getaway.
8. 🏖️ Castellaneta Marina – Resort Paradise
Unspoiled charm: This renowned seaside resort along the Ionian coast transformed from a swampy area in the 1960s into a popular tourist destination. Its nearly 5-kilometer coastline has earned the prestigious Blue Flag recognition.
Diverse shoreline: The area features about twenty beaches, combining free and equipped lidos. Notable establishments include Lido Estea, Lido Valentino, Lido Paradiso, and several others, all offering modern amenities.
Activities and amenities: The resort provides comprehensive facilities including sunbed and umbrella rentals, pedal boats, bathrooms, showers, and restaurants. During summer, the area comes alive with events, markets, concerts, and film festivals.
Accessibility: Well-connected by road and rail, with intensified bus services during summer months, making it easily accessible from major cities like Taranto, Martina Franca, and Ostuni.
Best Hotels Near Castellaneta Marina
- Ticho's Greenblu Hotel: A beachfront hotel offering modern rooms, a private beach area, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy live music, themed dinners, and a variety of beach activities, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a relaxing seaside escape.
- Sole e Mare: Located just steps from the beach, this property offers spacious apartments with balconies and terraces. It’s perfect for families or groups looking for a comfortable stay near the sea, with easy access to local attractions.
- Pinea B&B: A highly-rated bed and breakfast featuring a private beach area, spa facilities, and a hot tub. Guests can enjoy various activities such as cycling, windsurfing, and themed dinners, making it a great option for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the beaches of Taranto?
The best time to visit the beaches of Taranto is during the summer months, from June to September. This period offers warm weather ideal for swimming and sunbathing, making it perfect for holidays in Puglia. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or early October.
Are there free beaches in Taranto?
Yes, Taranto has several free beaches, including Spiaggia di San Pietro and parts of Lido Bruno. These beaches offer beautiful sandy areas and crystal-clear waters without any entry fees, making them accessible for everyone.
What activities can I enjoy at Taranto’s beaches?
Taranto’s beaches offer a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, beach volleyball, and sunbathing. Many beach clubs provide equipment rentals for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, ensuring a fun-filled day by the sea.
Is public transport available to reach the beaches near Taranto?
Yes, public transport options are available to reach the beaches near Taranto. The Amat bus service operates routes that connect the city center with various beach locations along the Taranto coast, making it convenient for visitors without a car.
Are the beaches of Taranto suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! Many of Taranto’s beaches are ideal for families with children due to their gentle slopes and shallow waters. Beaches like Spiaggia di San Pietro feature long stretches of soft sand, providing a safe environment for kids to play and bathe.
What amenities can I find at the beaches of Taranto?
Most well-equipped beaches in Taranto offer amenities such as changing rooms, toilets, sunbeds, umbrellas for rent, and food stalls or restaurants nearby. Popular beach clubs also provide additional services like lifeguards on duty for added safety.
Is it safe to swim at all beaches in Taranto?
Generally, it is safe to swim at most beaches in Taranto. However, it’s important to pay attention to local conditions and any warning signs posted at specific locations. Beaches with lifeguards will have safety measures in place to ensure a secure swimming experience.
What should I bring when visiting the beaches of Taranto?
Essentials include sunscreen, water, beach towels, hats, and sunglasses. If you plan to spend a full day at the beach, consider bringing snacks or a picnic lunch. Some beaches may have rental options for umbrellas and sunbeds during peak season.
