Best Puglia Beaches: Where to Swim, Sun & Unwind
Puglia’s coastline is incredibly diverse: Adriatic cliffs and coves, Ionian sandy bays, lively beach clubs, and wild dunes perfect for slow days by the sea.
Below you’ll find our curated selection focused on the Adriatic stretch from Polignano a Mare to Ostuni (closest to most of our villas), plus a short list from the Ionian side.
BOOK YOUR LUXURY VILLA IN PUGLIA
Map
How to Choose the Right Beach (Quick Guide)
Families & easy access: look for sandy beaches with shallow water and facilities.
Snorkeling & dramatic views: rocky coves and platforms on the Adriatic.
Chilled vibes & sunsets: Ionian side (wider sandy bays).
Dog-friendly: best dog-friendly beach clubs in Puglia
Wind tip: on breezy days, switch coast if possible—Tramontana/Maestrale (N–NW) often makes the Adriatic choppier; Scirocco (SE) can affect the Ionian. Check local forecasts the night before.
Best Beaches in Capitolo – Monopoli (Adriatic)
South of Monopoli, Capitolo is a string of sandy bays with well-equipped beach clubs, crystal-clear water, and easy access/parking—perfect for a full beach day.
Lido Sabbiadoro
Wide sandy shoreline with shallow entry—great for families. Sunbeds & umbrellas, showers, and a bar/restaurant for leisurely lunches. Reserve in peak season.
Lido Le Palme
An elegant, well-kept beach club known for comfort and privacy. Loungers, parasols, changing facilities, and attentive service—ideal for couples or a relaxed day by the sea.
Lido Kulto
Contemporary vibe with stylish setups and a focus on sunset aperitivo. Rocky-sand mix with easy access to the water, a bar/kitchen for light bites, and a social atmosphere for friends and couples.
Lido Bamboo
Laid-back, boho-chic ambience among dunes and palms. Comfortable loungers, lounge areas, and a kitchen/cocktail bar—come early to secure front-row spots.
Best Beaches Near Monopoli (Adriatic)
Monopoli’s southern coast is a mosaic of picture-perfect coves, limestone platforms, and Mediterranean scrub. If you can, cove-hop on foot for swims all day long.
Cala Paradiso
A small sandy bay with umbrellas and sports courts. Bar/restaurant on site; lively in high season—great for a young crowd.
Calamarena
Rocky, wild-feeling shoreline with sunbeds and a simple bar serving local dishes. For those who love nature and simplicity (no sand).
Cala Cerasa
Terraced rock platform with crystalline water and an alternative/vintage setup. Popular with locals in their 30s; occasional live music evenings.
Lido Marzà
Exclusive, tranquil setting facing a protected cove—lawns with loungers, refined restaurant, ideal for a relaxed day.
Porto Ghiacciolo
A scenic cove beside the Abbazia di Santo Stefano. Water is famously clear (and cool!) thanks to currents. Family-friendly bar/restaurant.
Cala Diavolo
Mixed sand & rock, shallow entry, upbeat music and drinks—good for social beach days.
Best Beaches Near Polignano a Mare (Adriatic)
Polignano is dramatic and mostly rocky. The famous Lama Monachile is iconic but very crowded in peak season; consider these alternatives:
Cala San Giovanni Beach Club
Blue Flag sandy cove sheltered by cliffs, near San Vito Abbey and boat tour docks. Family-friendly with restaurants nearby.
Coco Beach Club
Exclusive platform access (no sand) with full services, events, and private functions—great for a stylish day by the sea.
Best Beaches Near Ostuni (Adriatic)
From Torre Canne to Ostuni, the coast shifts from rocky to sandy. Skip the busiest early stretch; head towards the Parco Naturale delle Dune Costiere for wild dunes and clearer water.
Lido Bosco Verde
Local favorite: wide sandy beach, dune backdrop, clear shallows, and a beloved fish restaurant. Music nights in summer.
Lullabay
A chic, boho-inspired beach space tucked among dunes. Tropical-meets-vintage style, curated events—perfect for a design-forward day.
Viar
Full-service family hub: beautiful beach, pool, wellness area, and courts (beach volley, five-a-side, tennis). Great with kids.
Guna
Exclusive club amid ancient dunes and macchia. Lawns, gazebos, lounge areas under the trees, wellness pavilion, light sport options, and easy walks toward Torre Guaceto.
DISCOVER OUR VILLAS NEAR OSTUNI
Ionian Highlights (Day Trips)
Wide beaches, golden sand, and gentle entries—a favorite for families and long, lazy swims.
Cohiba 59 (Marina di Pulsano)
Soft sand, clear water, comfortable loungers, and activities (baby club, beach volley, spinning). Full food options: restaurant, bar, pizzeria, gelato.
Bahia del Sol (Marina di Lizzano)
One of the best-equipped clubs on the Ionian. Mix of sport, music, and relaxation under the umbrella—ideal for families.
Lido Posto 9 (Campomarino)
Immersed in Mediterranean scrub and dunes; elegant total-white setup. Terrace bar and excellent seafood with views of the turquoise sea.
Practical Tips
Reserve ahead in July–August (clubs sell out).
Parking: bring coins or use local apps; arrive before 10:00 for the best spots.
Footwear: rock coves benefit from water shoes.
Shade: wild beaches have little cover—bring a sun umbrella.
Respect dunes & wildlife: stick to marked paths.
BOOK YOUR LUXURY VILLA IN PUGLIA
FAQs: Beaches in Puglia
Which coast should I choose—Adriatic or Ionian?
Adriatic = rocky coves, cliff views, snorkeling. Ionian = wider sandy bays, calmer vibe, great for families.
Where can I find sandy beaches near Ostuni?
From Pilone onwards into the Dune Costiere area (e.g., Bosco Verde, Guna, VIAR) you’ll find long sandy stretches and dunes.
Is Polignano good with children?
Yes—choose sandy inlets or beach clubs like Cala San Giovanni; avoid peak times at Lama Monachile.
How do winds affect beach choice?
If it’s Tramontana/Maestrale (N–NW), the Adriatic can be choppy; Scirocco (SE) can lift waves on the Ionian. Check local forecasts and switch coast when possible.
Dog-friendly options?
Yes—see our guide best dog-friendly beach clubs in Puglia and confirm seasonal rules.
