Italy – Puglia

This beach is known as Italy’s answer to the Maldives. Glittering Ionian waters and silky white sands are a beach-lover’s dream. Shallow waters make it ideal for family beach holidays, or those who avoid aquatic challenges.

Only two of the three Tremiti Islands are inhabited, but you can reach all of them by boat from the mainland at Termoli, or at several other smaller towns in the Gargano region. San Domino and San Nicola are the largest islands and offer more facilities and accommodations. There are stunning snorkeling and diving spots with beautiful sandy beaches, hidden coves, and wild nature.

Protected marine area and nature reserve. Vivid coral reefs and seagrass provide hours of easily accessible snorkelling fun. There is also a 16th-century tower and visitor centre with a museum if the afternoon heat gets too intense.

It’s most striking feature is the ‘two sisters’ – twin rock stacks that stand side-by-side close to the beach. It is also surrounded by rock cliffs full of interesting caves and is backed by a lush pine forest.

This protected beach in Maruggio is usually deserted. Bask in the luxury and peace of just you, azure sea and white sand dunes. If you prefer a bit of civilization on your holiday in Italy, there are parts of the beach that are serviced too, so you can enjoy the peace from a comfy lounger and have cool drinks within easy reach.

For total seclusion, discover the sand dune beach of Campomarino. If you’re looking for peace to connect with nature and enjoy the crystal water – this is the place.

Baia Delle Zagare is in the Gargano subregion between Vieste and Mattinata. It is named after a local flower, indigenous to the area. The soft white beach is 1km long and surrounded by a national park. There are two distinctive white rock formations near the shore, which are one of the most recognizable sights of the destination.

This huge bay provides a sandy pathway between the Torre Lapillo and Torre Chianca lighthouse towers. It has rolling sand dunes, pretty seaside houses to admire and crystalline shallow water – perfect to while away an afternoon on a family holiday in Italy.

It’s a peaceful haven of white sand and turquoise water in a sheltered cove, reached on foot through a pine forest.

According to myth, this is a magical beach. It is said that Aeneas, son of the goddess Venus, landed here, as told by Virgil, the ancient Roman poet. This pebble beach provides beautiful views and shady spots perfect for picnics.