Puglia is home to some of the Italy’s most spectacular coastline. With its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and soft sandy stretches, it is the perfect corner of Italy for those seeking to combine gastronomy and cultural attractions with some relaxation on the beach. Whether you’re searching for a secluded cove or a lively beach with golden sands, Puglia offers an idyllic escape for every type of visitor to the region. Find out some of our favourite beaches in Puglia below.
BAHIA PORTO CESAREO
An exclusive beach club on Salento’s Ionian coast, Bahia Porto Cesareo combines the best of the region’s beaches with an indulgent slice of luxury. The beach’s calm and shallow waters make it ideal for families and snorkellers, while the surrounding protected marina area offers idyllic explorations by boat. Equipped with a bar and restaurant, days spent at Bahia Porto Cesareo are only enhanced by bottles of chilled Champagne, breakfasts on the sand, and even a visit to the resident sushi chef.
TORRE DELL’ORSO
A short drive from both Lecce and Otranto, Torre dell’Orso is an excellent option for those looking to combine glorious towns with glistening Mediterranean waters. With its long stretch of golden sands fringed by verdant pine trees, the ambience captures the best of Puglia’s dazzling coast. Torre dell’Orso is not just a haven for sun worshippers, but watersports fanatics alike. Kayaking, paddleboarding and even surfing are all exciting ways to take to the waves here.
BAIA DEI TURCHI
Translating to “Bay of the Turks”, the Baia dei Turchi is named after the Ottoman invaders who landed here in 1480. Today, the beach is a resoundingly more peaceful, with barely a building in sight and surrounded by peaceful pine forests. Treks into the forest offer an insight into the region’s plant life and biodiversity, while golden sands await those simply seeking to unwind. Baia dei Turchi’s crystal-clear waters also make it a great choice for swimming and snorkelling. Should you wish to explore the coast further, boat excursions from the beach allow guests to marvel at Puglia’s beautifully secluded coves and hidden caves.
TORRE GUACETO
A protected nature reserve and marine area, Torre Guaceto showcases the best of coastal Puglia’s unspoiled beauty. The reserve is in fact so remote, the only evidence of civilisation here is the historic sighting tower built by Charles V in the 16th century. As a result, the area is teeming with birdlife and marine life, making leisurely coastal walks and snorkelling adventures imperative. Backdropped by ancient olive trees, sprawling wetlands and sandy dunes, few beaches in Puglia offer a more blissfully natural setting to unwind.
SPIAGGIA SALINA DEI MONACI
Another of Puglia’s nature reserve-based beaches, Spiaggia Salina dei Monaci offers powder soft sands and turquoise waters with a view of the region’s stretching salt pans. The beach’s name derives from the Benedictine monks who started a salt factory here in the year 1000. Perhaps the biggest benefit of its proximity to the salina is the presence of birdlife, who make use of the pans to roost and forage. Nature lovers will be keen to spot the cranes, heron, and even pink flamingos who commonly reside here. With smaller crowds than many of the region's other shores, Spiaggia Salina dei Monaci is undoubtedly one of the most serene beaches in Puglia.
PORTO MIGGIANO
Also known as the beach of 100 steps, Porto Miggiano is accessed via steep, stone stairs and surrounded by dramatic, white cliffs. As such, it is totally secluded, and during the months of May and September is especially quiet. This makes it a great time to relish the striking scenery by swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding in the azure waters. The area is also brimming with fascinating relics, from the 16th century defence tower to its prehistoric caves.
While renowned for it's stunning beaches, Puglia is more than just its coastline. Make sure to read our guide on the best things to do in Puglia for more inspiration.