best beaches & Coves of
Puglia, Italy
Puglia, a region located in the southern part of Italy, is renowned for its picturesque coastline that stretches along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. With crystal clear waters, golden sand, and dramatic cliffs, Puglia's beaches and coves are a haven for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot to unwind or a vibrant beach to socialise, Puglia has something for everyone.
The Best Beaches In Puglia
Marina Di Pescoluse, Salento
Marina di Pescoluse, located in Salento, Puglia, is a stunning 4km long beach that boasts fine white granulometry sand and clear blue waters. The sea bed is gently sloped, making it safe for young or inexperienced swimmers to enjoy the water. Visitors can enjoy the soothing sound of the waves while lounging on the soft white sand.
The beach offers a variety of facilities, including beach umbrellas, sun loungers, and showers, to ensure maximum comfort for visitors. The clear waters are perfect for swimming, and visitors can take a refreshing dip in the sea while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
Cala Porto, Polignano a Mare
Cala Porto is a small but picturesque beach situated in the beautiful town of Polignano a Mare in Puglia. The beach is surrounded by lush cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop for visitors to enjoy while lounging on the small pebble beach. The beach is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling, with crystal-clear waters that offer excellent visibility for underwater exploration.
The beach at Cala Porto leads to rocks that are perfect for sunbathing or exploring, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea from the beach. The surrounding cafes, shops, and restaurants offer visitors plenty of options for dining and entertainment, making Cala Porto a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Baia Dei Turchi, Lecce
Baia Dei Turchi is a breathtaking beach located just 7 km north of Otranto, in the province of Lecce, Puglia. The beach is situated in the protected area of Alimini Lakes, which adds to its natural charm and beauty. The surrounding landscape is dominated by a cliff covered in Mediterranean scrub, which provides a stunning backdrop.
Baia Dei Turchi is also a Blue Flag beach, which is a prestigious certification that is awarded to beaches that meet strict environmental standards. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, the beach offers a range of facilities for visitors, including beach umbrellas, sun loungers, and showers.
Baia Delle Zagare, Foggia
Baia Delle Zagare, also known as Zagare Bay, is a true gem located in the province of Foggia in Puglia. The beach has crystal clear water, wonderful nature, relaxation, and tranquillity, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque beach experience. The beach belongs to the Comune Of Mattinata, which is located 16 km away.
Baia Delle Zagare is distinguished by its high white cliffs that add to the stunning scenery. The beach is also known as Baia dei Mergoli due to the blackbirds that nest in the surrounding cliffs. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature while sunbathing on the soft white sand or exploring the area's limestone stacks, which are sculpted by the wind.
Spiaggia Borraco, Manduria
Spiaggiadi Borraco is a pristine beach located in Puglia, known for its crystal blue waters, golden sand, and unspoiled natural beauty. The beach is free for all, with no amenities, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with warm and clean waters that are ideal for a refreshing dip.
The seabed at Spiaggia Borraco is 30 metres high, making it an ideal spot for diving and snorkelling. Visitors can explore the stunning underwater landscape while enjoying the warm and ultra-translucent waters. The seabed is home to a diverse array of marine life, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and underwater photographers.
The Best Coves In Puglia
Grotta Della Poesia (Cave Of Poetry), Salento
Grotta della Poesia, which translates to Cave of Poetry, is a stunning cove located in the natural pool of Salento in Puglia. The cove is situated next to castle wall ruins from a 16th-century watchtower, adding to its historical charm and beauty. The cove is also known for the Messapian inscriptions rediscovered by archeologists, which add to its cultural significance and allure.
The name "Posia" translates to water source, and it is said that the cove was once used as a water supply during the Messapian era. Today, Grotta della Poesia is a popular spot for visitors looking to cool off in the clear blue waters of the natural pool. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim or take a 5-metre dive into the water, making it a popular destination for thrill-seekers.
Grotta Zinzulusa, Castro
Grotta Zinzulusa is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Puglian coastline. This little cave is located next to a deep blue sea, and its cool temperature inside provides a welcome respite from the summer heat. The cave is a dramatic seafront cave system hung with colourful rock formations, making it a stunning sight to behold.
Grotta Zinzulusa is full of marine wildlife, and visitors can witness a diverse range of marine species while exploring the cave. The cave is the most famous along the Puglian coastline, and it is a karst cave, which is formed by the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the cave's unique geology and history.
The cave was discovered in 1793 by the Bishop of Castro, and it has since become a popular tourist destination. With its Mediterranean climate and temperatures of up to 25°C in the summer, Grotta Zinzulusa offers visitors the perfect opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Puglian coastline while escaping the heat.
Cala Dell’ Acquaviva, Lecce
Cala dell'Acquaviva is a stunning cove located in the province of Lecce in Puglia. The cove is easily accessible, located just 0.6km from the Marinadi Marittima settlement. Nestled in the mountains you can be sure of picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Cala dell'Acquaviva is a great snorkelling spot with clear blue waters that are perfect for underwater exploration. Visitors can witness a diverse range of marine species while enjoying the stunning scenery of the cove. It’s also an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing, with soft sand and calm waters that are perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
Porto Rosso, Monopoli
Porto Rosso is a beautiful small sandy cove located on the south side of Monopoli. The cove was recently featured in the Disney film 'Luca', which has drawn attention to this stunning destination. The cove is covered in fine sand, and the shallow seabed is perfect for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear water.
During the summer, Porto Rosso is also a popular venue for concerts, adding to its vibrant atmosphere and allure. Visitors can enjoy live music while taking in the stunning scenery of the cove. The beach is also perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, with plenty of space for visitors to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape.