18 Must Visit Stunning Beaches in Puglia

The southern Italy region of Puglia has made its way onto the map. It is no longer a summer destination for just Italians but now attracts travellers and sun seekers from all over the world. Puglia’s mesmerising coastal landscape has naturally produced one of the most beautiful locations for the ultimate beach holiday.

The top beaches in Puglia are frankly really tough to rank as there is an unbelievable amount of marvellous options. From chic beach clubs and miles of fine sand to tranquil secluded coves, Puglia and the Salento peninsula are ready to welcome any type of beachgoer. 

Although we’ve spent a good amount of time in Puglia, it’s one of those hypnotising places we’ll continue coming back to. In this guide, you’ll find our curated and extensive list of the best beaches in Puglia and how to visit them.

When to Visit Puglia for Its Beaches

For a proper Italy beach holiday, a trip to Puglia is unsurprisingly most enjoyable in the summer time. June through August are traditionally the best months to visit the beaches in Puglia and bask under the hot sun. August is the warmest month of the year, and it’s not abnormal for temperatures to reach a peak high of 90°F / 32°C.

For swimming and keeping cool in the refreshing sea, the summer climate in Puglia is absolutely ideal. Lido beach clubs, restaurants, shops, and coastal towns are in their prime, which completes the overall energy of an Italian summer vacation.

Naturally, these peak months are also the busiest, and avoiding crowds becomes challenging. It’s a bittersweet thing but Puglia’s popularity is only increasing. Do not underestimate how many other visitors you’ll be among during the summer. Unfortunately, it’s not realistic to visit the best beaches in Puglia during winter as it’s not a year-round beach destination.

Luckily, visiting Puglia and Salento during the shoulder months is a solid solution for escaping the tourists of summer. Spring in Puglia is typically warm enough but potentially risky because of too much rainfall. September and early October are the best key months to visit Puglia for beaches. The sea is still pleasantly warm enough for swimming, and you won’t be shoulder to shoulder with fellow bathers on the beach.

Visiting Puglia during off and shoulder seasons has its many benefits but is only suitable for those who don’t mind the peace and quiet. Popular towns and beaches in Salento are distinctly seasonal, which means businesses are too. It’s not uncommon for a majority of restaurants, cafes, and even attractions to close down completely after September.

Which Side of Puglia Has Better Beaches?

The region of Puglia technically begins just north of Foggia and stretches south. Foggia is nearly four hours (360 km / 223 mi) from the southernmost town on the Salento peninsula, Santa Maria di Leuca. Given its size, it’s reasonable to look at Puglia on a map and feel overwhelmed or indecisive on where to actually go.

📍 Read More: Where to Stay in Puglia

Most people (including Italians) will insist that the heart of Puglia sits below Bari. This is where you’ll find the most number of notable towns, natural wonders, and the best beaches in Puglia. Once you’ve narrowed this part down, you may now wonder whether the east or west coast of Puglia is the better choice for visiting beaches. Although there are several breathtaking beaches near Monopoli or Bari, the beaches of southern Salento are unmatched. 

It should also be known that there really isn’t a bad part of Puglia to stay in and explore. Although different areas vary in landscape, each corner of Salento is purely gorgeous. When it comes to choosing the “best” side, it’s dependent on what you prefer more. With Otranto as a base, you’ll have easier access to beach coves, natural pools, and charming ports to swim in. The east coast of Puglia is noticeably more whimsical than the west coast.

On the other side and near Gallipoli, you’ll find an abundance of larger sandy beaches with shallow entrances and an extensive number of beach umbrellas. From our own personal experience, the west coast of Puglia is the better choice for families with kids. The east coast of Puglia has a wider option of beaches that are less ideal for young children and are best enjoyed by couples or groups of friends.

Does Puglia Have Sandy Beaches?

Yes! The beaches of Puglia are an excellent mix of rocky, pebble, and even fine sand beaches. In fact, you may find all three types at one beach. Near Otranto and along the east side, Salento beaches are more diverse. There are countless beautiful bays, which are primarily rocky but still have a small stretch of sand.

On the west coast of Puglia, you’ll effortlessly come across a sandy beach in every direction. For families with children, staying in Puglia near Gallipoli, Baia Verde, Porto Cesareo, and Marina di Pescoluse is highly recommended. These are the most convenient locations for easy beach access with fine sand, calm water, and many options.

Complete List: Beautiful Beaches in Puglia

Salento Peninsula

• Baia di Portulignu
• Spiaggia Bastioni
• Spiaggia di Tricase Porto
• Spiaggia e Piscina Naturale di Marina Serra
• Felloniche Spiaggia
• Spiaggia Calette Di Salve
• Spiaggia di Torre San Giovanni
• Spiaggia di Pescoluse
• Spiaggia della Purità
• Spiaggia di Punta Pizzo
• Spiaggia di Torre Lapillo
• Spiaggia di Torre Chianca (Porto Cesareo)
• Grotta della Poesia
• Spiaggia di Porto Miggiano
• Cala dell’Acquaviva
• Spiaggia di Porto Badisco

Province of Bari

• Spiaggia La Scaletta
  • Cala Copacabana and Grotta della Cala Tre Buchi
• Calette di Torre Cintola
• Cala Verde
• Lama Monachile

Map of the Best Beaches in Puglia

Top Beaches in Salento

1. Baia di Portulignu

Location: Just outside of Roca Vecchia (Archaeological Area) and a 5 minute walk from the famed Grotta della Poesia. It is a 30 minute from from both Otranto and Lecce.

Type of Beach: Situated in the shadows of The Cave of Poetry, this is a beach that’s overlooked while visitors flock to one of Puglia’s most popular attractions. Frankly, we like it this way! The beach is often quiet and mostly frequented by locals. There is a small beachhead with super fine sand and rocky ledges to dive from. Based on the time of day, the small cliff behind the beach also provides natural shade. It is completely free to enjoy.

Accessibility & Parking: There is free street parking right above the beach. If it is full, you can find additional free parking further as you head into Roca town. A very short set of stone stairs leads you directly from street level to the beach.

Where to Stay Near Baia di Portulignu

💰 Residence Tre Palme – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Villa Maestrale – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Terecate Experimental Relais – Book with Booking.com

2. Spiaggia Bastioni

Location: 45 km from Lecce and in the town of Otranto. This beach is located below Otranto’s castle, near the port and within a stone’s throw of the historic centre.

Type of Beach: An entirely public beach with no umbrellas for rent. There is fine sand, an easy entrance, and clear water. Most people will choose to spend their beach day on the other side of town where it is much busier. With its discreet location, Spiaggia Bastioni is one of the best secret beaches in Puglia that’s located in plain sight.

There are many restaurants nearby, in addition to the limitless options of Otranto’s old town centre just steps away. As it’s situated beneath the tower (Torre Matta), there is natural shade over the beach during certain times of the day.

Accessibility & Parking: Paid street parking is available just moments from the beach along Via del Porto. If it is full, there are a couple of large parking lots within a 5 minute walk.

Where to Stay Near Spiaggia Bastioni

💰 Baia Dei Micenei – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Tenuta Sofia – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Masseria L’Uliveto Agri Resort – Book with Booking.com

3. Spiaggia di Tricase Porto

Location: In Tricase Porto, the port just minutes from the main town of Tricase. It is 53 km south of Lecce.

Type of Beach: A public beach tucked behind the boat port. There is a small beachhead which is composed of soft sand and pristine clear water. Along the edge of the port is a wide walkway which serves as a popular place to lie out and jump from. There are no umbrellas for rent and the beach is typically visited by local families and Italian tourists. Many restaurants, bars, and even a small supermarket are within close proximity to the beach.

Accessibility & Parking: There are a few residential streets above the beach where you’ll find free street parking. Additionally, there is a free parking lot here which will lead you to the walkway part of the beach. Or, there is a paid parking lot at the beginning of the port here. There is a ramp and a staircase to access the beach from street level.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Spiaggia di Tricase Porto

💰 Corte Piri – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Casa La Quercia – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Villa Metrangolo – Book with Booking.com

4. Spiaggia e Piscina Naturale di Marina Serra

Location: In the small hillside neighbourhood of Marina Serra, just 5 minutes from Tricase and 12 km south of Castro. 

Type of Beach: There are two natural pools carved into the rocky coastline below the town of Marina Serra. The north swimming hole is accessible by a ramp which is half submerged into the water and easy for children to use. On the south end, you’ll find Piscina Scavata which has a stone stairway entrance and is surrounded by flat areas to sit on. Piscina Scavata is less suitable for young children and therefore a bit quieter. Piscina Naturale di Marina Serra has very shallow water, a small cave to explore and a small beach bar. Both locations are completely sand free and do not have gradual entrance like you’d find at a classic beach.

Accessibility & Parking: There is a large parking lot located here by Ristorante Grotta Matrona which is free. Along the main road (Via Carlo Mirabello), there are also paid parking spots. Marina Serra is not a huge area so getting from your car to the natural pools is quick. 

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Marina Serra

💰 Hotel Il Vascello – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Gabbiano Terra – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Lu Purpu di Casa Camilla Journey – Book with Booking.com

5. Felloniche Spiaggia

Location: Felloniche Spiaggia sits north of the small town of Marina di Felloniche and is 4 km from Punta Ristola Leuca, the southernmost point of Italy’s “heel”. The beach is 43 km south of Gallipoli and one hour from Otranto.

Type of Beach: A half crescent beach that’s on the larger end of the spectrum. What sets this beach apart is that it’s not overtaken by a lido and a majority of it is public and free to use. There is just a small section near one side where you can rent loungers and umbrellas. The fine sand is of a golden hue and the water remains reliably calm as the bay is well sheltered. Directly on the beach, you’ll find a couple of modest places to grab a bite or drink after a day out in the sun. The sea is exquisitely blue and it’s honestly a wonder why this spot remains comparatively untouched to other Salento beaches nearby.

Accessibility & Parking: There is paid street parking which sits just steps behind the beach. Towards the far ends of the coastal road, you’ll find unmarked spots to park in for free.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Felloniche Spiaggia

💰 Two Hearts and a Flat San Gregorio – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Villa Vanissia – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Casa Baia Tramonto – Book with Booking.com

6. Spiaggia Calette Di Salve

Location: Situated on the coast between the towns of Marini and Torre Pali. It is a 38 km drive from Gallipoli and 30 minutes from Tricase.

Type of Beach: This may very well be one of the best secret beaches in Puglia. It is wild, with zero facilities or infrastructure and incredibly beautiful oasis among the packed beach clubs nearby. There is fine sand with shallow waters which makes it a great location for children. Surrounding the calm bay are rock formations which make it an exciting place to snorkel. If you visit in the summer, you’ll still likely share the beach with a handful of other families which tend to keep their distance. Still, for high season in Puglia, you can’t ask for much better! 

Accessibility & Parking: The beach is accessible by a dirt road (starts here) which lasts about 500 meters. We saw many regular cars successfully conquer this path so it is doable without a 4×4 as long as you drive slowly. By continuing on the road that runs directly along the coast, you can park right on the beach.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Spiaggia Calette Di Salve

💰 Apartment Mikao – Torre Pali – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Casa Bianca & BLU – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 case di piero – Book with Booking.com

7. Spiaggia di Torre San Giovanni

Location: Located near the western town of Torre San Giovanni and north of Marini. It is 27 km south of Gallipoli and one hour west of Otranto.

Type of Beach: Beginning at the port of Torre San Giovanni and extending south to Torre Mozza is a long stretch of idyllic beach. The sand is a light colour and the crystal-clear bay is extraordinarily shallow. If you happen to visit on a calm day, it’s truly one of the most paradise-like beaches in Puglia.

A handful of resorts are situated just behind the beach, which means a majority of the area is filled with paid lidos. However, there are still more than enough dedicated sections that are free to the public. With its large size, your chances of finding a secluded spot are high. 

Accessibility & Parking: Although there are many parking lots located within close proximity of the beaches, they are all paid and monitored during the summer. The average cost to leave your car at one of these dirt lots is around €3 for the entire day.

If you’re looking for a secret beach spot with easy “drive up” access, you can enter the dirt road here which will take you along the perimeter of the water reserve. The ending point of this dirt path will leave you here which is immensely more peaceful in comparison to the areas with beach clubs.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Torre San Giovanni

💰 B&B IL Comandante – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 NC Boutique B&B – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Liberty – Book with Booking.com

8. Spiaggia di Pescoluse

Location: Between the towns of Marina di Pescoluse and Torre Pali on the west side of the Salento peninsula. Located only 13 km from the southernmost point of Puglia and 41 km from the popular town of Gallipoli.

Type of Beach: Often known as Maldive del Salento (or the Maldives of Salento), the beaches of Pescoluse are dreamy. The pristine coastline is around 5 km long and is composed of both paid lidos and free public areas. As its nickname implies, the golden sand is soft and the water is crystal clear. With the many beach clubs available just off shore, there is no shortage of places to eat and drink while out at the beach. Since the bay is mostly clear of rocks, it’s unfortunately not the most interesting beach for snorkelling. 

🏖 Read More: The Best Beaches in Marina di Pescoluse

Accessibility & Parking: As you drive along the main road of SP91, you’ll notice one sign after another which advertise paid parking and umbrellas. The average rate for the bundled package which many lidos are promoting is €15, which includes parking and umbrellas/loungers for the day. If you’re like us and tend to bring your own beach gear, it’s best to park in free lots like this one. Overall, finding free parking in Marina di Pescoluse is challenging since so much of the coastline is manned by the lido owners.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Marina di Pescoluse

💰 Appartamento Il Ginepro – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Mare Villas Pescoluse – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Antico Trullo Salentino – Book with Booking.com

9. Spiaggia della Purità

Location: Tucked away on the edge of Gallipoli’s historic centre and island. Gallipoli is 40 km from the big city of Lecce.

Type of Beach: Being a city beach, Spiaggia della Purità is a pleasant surprise and the ideal way to cool off after exploring the historic town centre of Gallipoli. The half crescent bay is sandy, shallow, and boasts clean water with beautiful blue hues. For young children in particular, it’s an ideal beach if you plan on staying in Gallipoli during your Puglia trip. It is a completely free beach where everyone will bring their own chairs, towels, and umbrellas. Fortunately, the street just above is conveniently filled with restaurants and bars.

Accessibility & Parking: It is not possible to drive and park directly at the beach. Expect at least a five-minute walk from where you end up finding parking. The historic island of Gallipoli only has one big parking lot, which is located here. We utilized it a few times and were able to find parking each time, even if we had to wait a few minutes for a spot. A kind local also told us that you do not need to pay for parking until 3pm, which turned out to be accurate. Otherwise, parking is a fair price of around €1.50 per hour. If this lot is full, park before the bridge and walk across.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Gallipoli

💰 Rimalusa B&B – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Palazzo Salapolis – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Popula – The Lifestyle Hotel – Book with Booking.com

10. Spiaggia di Punta Pizzo

Location: The west side of the Salento peninsula. Situated on the south end of the large bay just below Gallipoli, 14 km south of the main town.

Type of Beach: Punta Pizzo Beach is primarily operated by Lido Pizzo and their coverage of rental umbrellas, loungers, and even gazebos is impressive. To fully enjoy this beach, it’s recommended to visit in early June before the tourist season fully hits the area. There is a section of the public beach which remains free throughout the season. A lovely backdrop of lush green trees sits behind the beach, making it a unique and naturally stunning place to spend the day. The beach club serves seafood in addition to coffee, ice cream, and drinks. Spiaggia di Punta Pizzo is entirely sandy with light blue water.

Accessibility & Parking: There is a large dirt parking lot just before the entrance of the beach path. From your car to the beach, it is an easy 2 minute walk through the trees. We parked in this lot multiple times throughout June and never paid but it is possible that it is not free during July and August. If you do not wish to pay for parking, it’s possible to park slightly before the lot here and walk a little further.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Punta Pizzo

💰 Trullo Contrada Specchi – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Dimora Le Site – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Casadamarepg Gallipoli – Book with Booking.com

11. Spiaggia di Torre Lapillo & Spiaggia di Torre Chianca (Porto Cesareo)

Location: Among the towns of Torre Lapillo and Porto Cesareo is where you’ll find a handful of impeccable beaches like Spiaggia di Torre Lapillo & Spiaggia di Torre Chianca. Porto Cesareo is located under 30 km from Lecce.

Type of Beach: The area of Porto Cesareo is home to a cluster of extraordinary beaches, all of which are half crescent shaped. Frankly, it’s hard to identify which beach is the best as they’re all equally appealing. You’ll find light-colored soft sand and tranquil shallow water at any of the beaches you land on in the area.

Spiaggia di Torre Lapillo is the largest stretch of beach, where you’ll have the biggest chance of finding a private spot. If you don’t mind being around others, Spiaggia di Torre Chianca is smaller but the most sheltered. Therefore, it’s the most paradise-like beach with minimal waves and a picturesque setting.

🏖 Read More: The Best Beaches in Porto Cesareo

Accessibility & Parking: There aren’t too many decsignated parking lots for the beaches in Porto Cesareo. Most of the parking you’ll come across is paid street parking in the towns behind the beaches. If you do want to park in a lot, your best bet is to leave your car at the ports/marinas. During the summer, these beaches get crowded so if you are driving, it’s recommended you arrive early.

🤫 Two of the best secret beaches in Puglia are located between Torre Castiglione and Torre Lapillo. The first one is located here and the second one is situated here. Both are free, heavenly, lack crowds and have parking.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Porto Cesareo

💰 B&b Terra e Mare a Porto Cesareo – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Silvia Casa Vacanze – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 La Palazzina Bed & Breakfast – Book with Booking.com

12. Grotta della Poesia (The Cave of Poetry)

Location: Within the archaeological site of Roca Vecchia, just beneath the modern town of Roca. Roca is 30 minutes east of Lecce and 30 minutes north of Otranto.

Type of Beach: Grotta della Poesia is a natural swimming pool created by a cave which once collapsed. There is no sand, no gradual entrance and no guardrails which means it’s not the safest option for young children. You can access the swimming hole by a set of stairs carved into the side of the cave. Or, have some fun and jump right in!

There are no facilities nearby as the Cave of Poetry is technically part of the archaeological area and it’s a paid attraction. Expect a swarm of people if you visit during peak season but nonetheless, this destination is undeniably worth seeing. The water is reliably calm as it’s separated from the wild sea but still connected by a small tunnel which you can swim through.

🌊 Read More: How to Visit The Cave of Poetry

Accessibility & Parking: A large parking lot is located just 5 minutes down the road from the cave. It is paid and costs under €2/hour. Or, you can park in the town of Roca for free and walk just a tad more.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Grotta della POesia

💰 Appartamenti Eneide – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Casa Vacanza Fiorella – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Masseria Rauccio – Book with Booking.com

13. Spiaggia di Porto Miggiano

Location: Along the east side of the Salento peninsula and near the town of Santa Cesarea Terme. It is located 50 km south of Lecce.

Type of Beach: Although it’s one of the most stunning beaches in Puglia, the actual beach section is rather small. During the summer, the petite sandy area will be full by 10am. Luckily, Italians are traditionally very keen on laying on rocks or flat ground instead. Along the side of the cove, there are many ideal places to hang out and jump into the water.

Spiaggia di Porto Miggiano is popular, but it still remains wild, which means there are no ftop acilities, bars, or umbrellas for rent. It’s one of the most perfect beaches in Puglia for snorkeling as it’s situated under a cliff with small caves beneath and plenty of rock formations. It’s a bit difficult to pitch an umbrella for shade on the concrete areas so expect to be in the sun for the better part of the day.

🏖 Read More: How to Visit Porto Miggiano

Accessibility & Parking: To reach Spiaggia di Porto Miggiano, you’ll need to prepare yourself for a steep stair descend from the top of the cliff. It’s a distance of about 20 meters so do not pack too much unless you’re prepared to trek back up with many things. At the top of the stairs, there is a large parking lot that is free to use.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Spiaggia di Porto Miggiano

💰 Christian casa vacanze Salento – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Terrazza Del Salento – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Est hotel – Book with Booking.com

14. Cala dell’Acquaviva

Location: Nestled along the eastern coastline just below the town of Castro. Cala dell’Acquaviva is 30 minutes south of Otranto and 50 km from Lecce.

Type of Beach: Although there is no soft sand at this beach, it remains one of the most frequented swim spots in Puglia due to its charming landscape. A majority of the beachhead is composed of concrete platforms made for sitting. Along the perimeter of the cove are additional flat sections carved into the rocky cliff which are also ideal spots for diving into the water.

There is a casual bar in addition to a restaurant on site, as well as public bathrooms and showers (paid). This is one Salento beach that you’ll definitely want to bring your snorkelling gear to!

Accessibility & Parking: A designated parking lot is located at the top of the stairs which reach the beach. It is not free and costs under €2 per hour. During peak season, this is enforced and you’ll see many cars with tickets on their windshield so don’t forget to pay. If you visit in shoulder months, the parking lot is free. A short yet steep set of stairs will lead you to the beach from the parking lot.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Cala dell’Acquaviva

💰 La Casa di Marina – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Locazione Turistica Sun & Sea – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Marenea Suite Hotel – Book with Booking.com

Top Beaches in the Province of Bari

1. Spiaggia La Scaletta, Cala Copacabana & Cala Tre Buchi

Location: Located just 2 km from Monopoli’s town centre and on the east coast of Puglia. 

Type of Beach: There are three beaches which share the same area of water: Spiaggia La Scaletta, Cala Copacabana, and Cala Tre Buchi. They are merely separated by a couple of caves and rock barriers but are within close proximity to one another. Each one is exceptionally beautiful and free to visit.

Cala Copacabana is the largest of the three with the most space for sunbathers. Cala Tre Buchi and Spiaggia La Scaletta are equivalent in size, crystal clear waters and kid-friendly sandy entrances. None of the three beaches are serviced, which means you’ll need to bring your own gear and plenty of water. Compared to Lido Colonia and other full-service beaches near Monopoli, these three gems are some of the best beaches in Puglia thanks to their private location.

🤿 Read More: Best Beaches Near Monopoli

Accessibility & Parking: It is not possible to drive and park precisely at any of the three beaches. Prepare for a 5-10 minute walk to the beach once you park your car near the main road. There are two access points to the beaches, one here and one here. Luckily, there is a paid parking lot and plenty of street parking on both ends.

It’s very easy to visit all three beaches during one visit and there is even a dirt path which connects them. Very minimal climbing around rocks is required but it should be noted in case you’re travelling with young children.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Monopoli

💰 Domina Apartments – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Casa Levante – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 VILLA AL MARE – Book with Booking.com

2. Calette di Torre Cintola

Location: Situated just 7 km south of Monopoli and 23 km east of Alberobello.

Type of Beach: Leave it to Italy if you want to literally swim in an ancient ruin and throughout history. Calette di Torre Cintola is without a doubt one of the coolest places to take a dip in Puglia. The site is composed of ruins from the 16th century which has created a cluster of small water inlets, perfect for cooling off and staying sheltered from the wild sea. Calette di Torre Cintola has small pockets of sandy beaches which make it equally suitable and enjoyable for young kids and adults. On one end of the site, there is even a larger natural pool called Piscine Romane.

Accessibility & Parking: Along the main road, there is free street parking which is just steps away from the ancient ruins. You’ll also find two dirt parking lots on the north and south end, both near restaurants. There is a small set of stairs to reach the actual water area from street level. Some of the rock surfaces are slippery which is really the only thing you’ll need to look out for in terms of accessibility when navigating the water pools.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Calette di Torre Cintola

💰 A casa di Flò – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Casa del mare – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Casa Damare Capitolo – Book with Booking.com

3. Cala Verde

Location: Cala Verde is located just 15 minutes south of Monopoli and and 20 minutes east of Fasano.

Type of Beach: Although a bit more known, we’d still consider it one of the most beautiful secret beaches in Puglia. It is tucked away between a rocky plain and cliff coastline. It is delightfully untouched with zero infrastructure, facilities or bars.

For those who don’t wish to sit on the beach all day, a couple of caves sit in the bay and make for some exciting snorkelling. The beach is sandy but not quite super fine which conveniently means it won’t stick to you as much.

Accessibility & Parking: Spiaggia di Cala Verde is a little off the beaten path and can even be accessed by off-roading if you have the right vehicle. For those travelling in a regular car, it’s best to park here and walk the short distance (5 minutes). The ground is not even and fairly rocky so take precautions if visiting with children or if you’re carrying a lot of gear.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Cala Verde

💰 A casa di Flò – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 WePuglia – Dimora Capitolo – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 Tropical Palm Villa – Book with Booking.com

4. Lama Monachile

Location: Directly in the town center of Polignano a Mare. Polignano a Mare is 35 km south of Bari and only 8 km north of Monopoli.

Type of Beach: The beach area is made up of small pebbles and not fine sand. From the beach, it’s possible to access Grotta Piana and pop out into the open sea after walking through a short tunnel. Along the left side of the cove, you’ll find it’s a popular place for diving into the water. As expected, the beach gets mighty crowded during peak season, but luckily the seating area stretches pretty far back, and you’ll find a place to lay out. To avoid other bathers, get here as early as 8 am to claim a prime spot upfront.

In comparison to the other best beaches in Puglia, Lama Monachile isn’t high on the list in terms of the actual beach. However, it is a breathtaking sight thanks to its captivating scenery. With the old town perched on the cliff just above it, Lama Monachile definitely deserves the title of the most photogenic beach in Puglia.

📸 Looking for the best view of Lama Monachile? Check out both sides of the beach for the top photo opportunities. There is one viewpoint here and another one here.

Accessibility & Parking: Parking in Polignano a Mare is quite challenging and it’s recommended you have a parking area picked out ahead of time instead of circling around.

There are a couple of larger paid parking lots set behind the town center and are a 10 minute walk from the beach. The further you head away from the center, the more parking lots you will find. Expect to pay around €1.50 per hour at a monitored lot. Alternatively, you can park in this nearby dirt parking lot for free. 

WHERE TO STAY NEAR Lama Monachile

💰 Casa a stare – Book with Booking.com

💰💰 Vilu Suite Centro – Book with Booking.com

💰💰💰 White Coast – Book with Booking.com

Travel Resources for Visiting Puglia Beaches

TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Agoda

CAR RENTALS: Rentalcars.com or Discover Cars

TRAINS, BUSES, FERRIES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Hostelworld or Trivago

ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo

TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator

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