The most beautiful natural beaches in Puglia
After spending several holidays in Puglia, I can now share with you my top picks for the most beautiful natural beaches in southern Italy! Rocks, transparent water and sunshine, I'm taking you to my favourite secret spots. Are you ready for a trip? Because I certainly am!
General advice
Before getting to the heart of the matter, there are a few things you need to know!
Firstly, almost all the natural beaches I recommend in this article are accessible free of charge. But free access also means lots of people. And as the vast majority of Italian businesses close in August, it's literally crazy. So a little friendly advice: if you want peace and quiet, get to the beaches very early in the morning (which means before 8am) or go in July. Of course, the best thing to do is to go out of season, when you'll be able to enjoy the experience 100%.
Next, don't expect white sand beaches everywhere! Natural sandy beaches are more predominant in the north and west of Puglia. In the south-east and south, on the other hand, there are rocky beaches. Although perhaps less comfortable, these beaches are, in my opinion, the most beautiful and the most typical of the Pugliese landscape. That's why, in this article, I'll be talking mainly about the rocky beaches of Salento.
Finally, if you want to go on a real expedition and visit all these beaches, the best thing to do is hire a boat. That way, you can sail along the coast and discover numerous bays, caves and breathtaking landscapes that you wouldn't imagine from the coast.
Puglia beaches: Marina di Sierra
This public beach is located on the rocks. Unfortunately, you won't be able to hire deckchairs, so plan ahead! Don't hesitate to bring umbrellas, folding chairs and towels to make yourself as comfortable as possible. This natural beach is perfect for a comfortable swim: the bay is extremely calm and the water is translucent. It's definitely worth a visit if you're passing through, but I wouldn't recommend spending the whole day there.
Beaches of Salento: Aqua Viva beach
This rocky cove is not to be missed! And it's no exception to the rule, as you need to arrive relatively early to be able to enjoy it. And yes, this natural beach is very busy in summer. And, as the name suggests, the water is very cold, unlike other similar coves. A little extra: you can hire deckchairs and enjoy a cocktail. A great bar, called Anam Terrace, with a breathtaking view of the sea, opens from 6pm to 1am with a small Spritz (€12) in hand. The sunset is unfortunately not visible from this side of the coast as it sets on the other side, but you can still admire a magnificent sky tinged with pink and orange and, with a bit of luck, a super orange moon, visible almost every full moon in summer.
Puglia natural beach: Baia del Mulino Acqua
Also in Salento, this natural beach in Puglia is 4 kilometres from the municipality of Otranto. It takes its name from an ancient mill located here and is surrounded by numerous caves. With its turquoise waters, this beach is definitely worth a visit! You can even visit the caves. The first is the closest to the beach. You can admire the chasm in the ceiling. The other three caves are linked by a tunnel that can be reached by swimming. Are you convinced?
Beaches in Puglia: Sant Andrea beach
Easily accessible, these famous cliffs are clearly a must-do in Puglia! To reach this natural beach, simply stop at the car park and continue on foot. Even though this place is clearly worth a visit, don't stay there all day, but do make a stop. I would still advise you to be careful, as this site has no tourist facilities, which means that you walk along the cliffs. There is no beach to speak of.
Puglia beaches: Grotta de la poesia
I've already mentioned it on the blog! This cave is surrounded by turquoise water, making it a magical place. In fact, it was named one of the 10 most beautiful natural pools in the world by National Geographic. Here you can admire what's going on under the surface of the water and meet the different underwater species that live there. I promise you an unforgettable swim.
Trip in Puglia: Baia dei Turchi natural beach
Compared to the beaches of the Caribbean, the Baia dei Turchi beach is a magnificent natural beach. But its beauty has made its reputation and this beach is very busy during the tourist season. So (not for nothing) I'd advise you to go early if you want to get a little space. For those who would like a refreshment, there is a small kiosk on the beach. But for the more adventurous among you, you can take a small path to picnic a little further away, away from the crowds.
Puglia natural beaches: Pescoluse beach
This is the only white-sand beach I'd recommend in this article. But as you might expect, it's best avoided at weekends and during the high season. It's known as the Maldives of the region, and this beach lives up to its nickname! You'll see white sand and translucent water as far as the eye can see. The landscape is therefore very different from the natural beaches I mentioned earlier.
Holidays in Puglia: Bagno Marino Archi natural beach
There's a charge for this beach, but it's definitely worth it! You'll have to pay €25 for two deckchairs and a parasol. If you spend the day here, there's also a great restaurant where you can stop for a meal while watching the sunset. Be careful, as the restaurant only opens at the end of the day and prices will be 15% higher if you decide to eat outside. But it's worth it! It would be a waste to eat indoors while this magnificent landscape awaits you outside ;)
I hope you've enjoyed this article and found my advice useful! If you're planning a trip to Puglia, I've written this very comprehensive article covering everything there is to see and do in this region of Italy. Don't hesitate to consult it to prepare your trip.
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