Sea: beaches and seaside resorts

A mixture of surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding in the sand. It is Sandboarding, an extreme sport that has also reached Italy. In Italy, there are 2 spots that lend themselves well to this discipline: the coastal dunes of Porto Pino, south of Sardinia, and the slopes of the volcano Stromboli, in the Aeolian Islands. Two completely different landscapes, but perfect for acrobatic descents on the sand.

A necklace of precious pearls surrounds the entire peninsula of Italy, linked by transparent, astonishingly colourful water lapping dream-like beaches, sunshine and vivid traditions to be enjoyed to the full. If you are looking for complete detox and sheer beauty, then Italy's smaller islands are the perfect choice.

Wild beaches and pristine landscapes surrounded by the scents of Mediterranean vegetation, hidden coasts caressed by a turquoise sea that is just as good as any tropical paradise: from Liguria to Sardinia, from Veneto to Campania, Italy enshrines breathtaking beaches where you can enjoy the sea and feast your eyes with magnificent views. Here for you, fifteen of the most evocative beaches in Italy.

Go for a run in urban parks in the heart of the city. Hike with a sea view while breathing in the salt air and the fragrance of the Mediterranean. Stroll through watered oases or cycle on the beachside cycle paths of the Poetto promenade, off limits to cars. And then look out over the water, at a sea that convinced the great Luna Rossa to choose this as its home.

For travelers in search of the opportunity to relax by the sea - yet still partake in an active cultural and social scene - a trip to the lovely islands of the Bay of Naples is definitely one for the bucket list: we’re talking about Procida, Ischia and Capri. A long weekend is ideal for enjoying the beauties on display on these three islands and for living both nature and the sea to their fullest.

Enchanting places lapped by the sea, characterised by wild nature and 'shaken' by two active volcanoes, Stromboli and Vulcano. Referred to as the "seven pearls of the Mediterranean", these islands enchant all who visit.

The beautiful coast of the Province of Trapani is spaced in between enchanting bays and beaches that greet the transparent sea. At turns resounding with tones of green and deep blue, the waters run towards the spectacular panorama of the Egadi Islands. This setting, a dream-come-true, is perfect for every type of vacation, and most of all, it is absolutely magnificent every day of the year. Besides its astounding littoral makeup, the Coast is littered with charming little towns that you should know – Alcamo, Campobello Di Mazara, Castellammare del Golfo, Castelvetrano, Custonaci, Erice, Marsala, Mazara Del Vallo, Petrosino, San Vito lo Capo and Trapani – abuzz with life, sun, the sounds and smells and of the sea, and history and monuments.

Landing in an environmentally friendly marina is every sea lover's dream. There are two facilities in Sicily that not only offer the necessary services, from electricity to refuelling, but also operate in an environmentally sustainable manner: Capo d'Orlando Marina and Marina del Nettuno, in Messina. Both Blue Flag 2022, they boast the best waters on the entire Messina coast.

From the Roccelletta Archaeological Park in Borgia to Cape Colonna, this journey looks at the history of Calabria by travelling through its tourist destinations and along the charming coasts of the Ionian Sea in the Gulf of Squillace.

If that weren't enough, the boot of Italy is dotted with blue pearls, small and large lakes in the plains areas or high in the mountains that characterize our landscapes. Finding out what's under that delicate line separating water from sky is an impulse that encourages more and more people to have a go at diving. Many courses are available in Italy, even during a short stay, to get closer to this experience in many places where sea-beds are home to wonders. All designed by Mother Nature, of course, with the colours of gorgonian corals home to a rich variety of marine fauna, as well as homo sapiens over the centuries. Under the water, just off the coastlines, evident traces of human evolution emerge which, in Italy as in few other parts of the world, bear witness to an indissoluble bond with our past.

A few kilometers from Syracuse, you can immerse yourself in a truly all-Italian earthly paradise: the Plemmirio Marine Park, one of the most pristine protected marine areas in Italy, which extends for 12 kilometers around the Maddalena Peninsula. Between mountain bike excursions, walks and unforgettable snorkeling sessions you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily. Nestled between cliffs overlooking the sea, ready to be immortalized in breathtaking shots. If you are now intrigued, here is everything you should know about the Plemmirio Marine Park, its most beautiful beaches, the Maddalena trail and what to see and eat in the magnificent surroundings of beautiful Syracuse.

Many know it as the Riviera of Fun, given its expansive and well-maintained beaches and innumerable attractions the Adriatic Riviera (in Emilia Romagna) is one of Italy’s best-known beach resort localities, and no doubt that the Riviera of Fun is a definition that suits this coast very well.

A sinuous promontory designed by the winds that Mount Conero (after which this area in the Marches was named) encounters while overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Tens of beaches surrounded by rocks and luxuriant vegetation that can only be reached by boat or on paths, and numerous cities full of history and tradition: This is the Conero Riviera. A surprising green and occasionally wild nature, unforgettable crystal-clear sea and many beaches - some easier to access than others - characterize the Riviera. Among these is Due Sorelle beach (which can only be reached by boat), named this way due to two large stacks (precisely the due sorelle or two sisters), and Mezzavalle beach.

Many know it as the Riviera of Fun, given its expansive and well-maintained beaches and innumerable attractions the Adriatic Riviera (in Emilia Romagna) is one of Italy’s best-known beach resort localities, and no doubt that the Riviera of Fun is a definition that suits this coast very well.

Versilia, a zone both fun and cultured, is known to many for its gossip pages. Yet this stretch of land (in the Province of Lucca), that runs past the slopes of the Apuan Alps and the Park of San Rossore, is famous for its beaches. Lying between the cities of Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio, its long, fine-sand beaches and coastal dunes – particularly from Viareggio to Torre del Lago – are typical traits of the Versiliese littoral. The resort localities that dot the coastline include the exclusive Forte dei Marmi, sunny Viareggio, Marina di Pietrasanta and Lido di Camaiore.

The third largest island in the entire Mediterranean, and with a seemingly-infinite array of assets, Elba requires a generous amount of time to visit and enjoy all of it. It is made up of eight communes, all of them with their own particular attraction. Similarly, each of Elba's other “six sisters” distinguish themselves with their own unique traits and features; nonetheless, their largest common denominator is their fantastically wild nature and landscapes.

People travel to the Costa Smeralda because they are attracted by the high-society lifestyle of its jet-set habitués or because they want to get to know the coves and promontories of one of the most fascinating and characteristic parts of the island. The real discovery of these places goes far beyond simple stereotypes.

When one thinks of Sardinia, summer, the sea, celebrations and dream destinations oft-frequented by the international jet-set come to mind. But if we try to abandon this narrow image for just a moment, we can discover what the rest of Sardinia is truly about. The largest island in the Mediterranean, after Sicily, it is much more than just the Emerald Coast.

The largest nautical centre in Europe A hamlet of the municipality of Latisana, in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Aprilia Marittima is the largest nautical tourism centre in Europe. Directly overlooking the Marano Lagoon, an environment of extraordinary beauty, its location makes it an ideal strategic point for the arrival and departure of large and small boats, thanks to its calm and easily navigable waters. Equipped with three large docks - Central Dockyard, Cape North Marina Dockyard and Punta Gabbiani Marina Dockyard - this nautical centre is able to provide indispensable services for boaters, such as service, repair and storage yards, capable of adapting to any need or requirement. On the mainland, there are various proposals to ensure leisure and fun during your free time: access to swimming pools, tennis courts and golf courses provides unforgettable moments to enjoy with family or friends.

On the Island of San Pietro there is only one village, only one municipality: Carloforte, a place of sea, legends, contaminations and uniqueness. It has a particular history, this village: founded in 1738 following the concession of the island by King Charles Emmanuel III to a group of families originally from Liguria but living in Tunisia, Carloforte is a Genoese enclave that still preserves the Ligurian language and traditions. Even its main church has a history that is intertwined with legend and with the sea: it is the church of the Novelli Innocenti, built in memory of the shipwreck near its shores of two ships, a shipwreck that caused the death of some of those children who took part in the semi-legendary 'Crusade of the Children' in 1212. Finally, its traditions also have a seafaring soul, as demonstrated by the devotion to Saint Peter, patron saint of fishermen and of the island, to whom every year festivities are dedicated, in which a blessing is asked for the exploits of the sea, between ritual and spirituality.

It was the stone houses leaning against the rocks, the colours of the beaches or the solitary silhouette of the bell tower of the Church of the Annunziata (12th century) that fascinated Ernest Hemingway. The poet took refuge here, far from the roar of the Atlantic waves and immersed in absolute tranquillity. Today Acciaroli has become touristy, but it still retains that picturesque atmosphere of small seaside villages, with its small harbour where small, colourful boats dock and on which a Norman tower soars.

Amalfi, Queen of the Coast A landscape of outstanding beauty has made Amalfi famous throughout the world. The imposing mountains that surround it tumble into the turquoise sea, with a powerful scenic effect. This is the queen of the Amalfi Coast, which bears her name: the stretch of Tyrrhenian coastline recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Here, in addition to a fabulous sea, you will find treasured historical remains, a charming village, and enchanting nature. Choose your beach Amalfi offers relaxing days by the sea, always immersed in a splendid landscape. The most accessible beach is Marina Grande, in the town itself. It is made up of sand and pebbles, fully equipped and full of lidos, bars and restaurants. It is very convenient, and therefore often crowded in peak season. It is suitable for families and children, and also easily reachable for the elderly. In contrast, the Spiaggia del Duoglio is ideal for those who prefer more secluded situations. Reaching it is already an experience, taking a green path and a flight of 400 steps leading to a cove with perfect water. You can also reach this area on small boats departing from the pier in Amalfi, and if you want to go sunbathing, start early in the morning, because in the afternoon the cove is shaded. If you are travelling by boat, don't miss the Santa Croce Beach, which can only be reached by sea. A break in the greenery After relaxing by the sea, you can explore the inland by heading up into the mountains. The recommended itinerary is in the Valle delle Ferriere Nature Reserve, an easy walk that takes about three hours. You pass through woods and alongside streams, encountering the ruins of the ironworks that supplied the Maritime Republic of Amalfi with iron and that gives the valley its name. This is a peaceful spot, away from the crowds, among waterfalls and the ancient mills once used to manufacture the famous Amalfi paper. On this excursion, visit the sleepy town of Pogerola, on the Monte Falconello hill, and enjoy the view from up there. In the heart of the town Amalfi was a flourishing Maritime Republic from the 9th to the 11th century, a trade centre in the Tyrrhenian Sea towards eastern markets.Its history is told by the very structure of the town perched on the ridge, which will remind travellers very much of a souk. Houses are concentrated in clusters, very close to each other and connected by a maze of alleys and stairways. Explore the labyrinth, and then head for the main architectural wonder: the Cathedral of St Andrew the Apostle, the central cathedral dominating Piazza Duomo with its imposing staircase. Romanesque in layout and rebuilt several times over the centuries, today it is impressive for its neo-Moorish or Arab-Sicilian style façade, of which it is a superb example. The interior leads to the Cloister of Paradise, a peaceful place surrounded by a portico of decorated arches, also of Moorish influence. Some people even get married here Because of its unrivalled location and fairytale setting, Amalfi attracts more and more couples, also from abroad, who choose it for their wedding celebration. The Town Hall provides 3 locations for civil ceremonies. The Salone Morelli located in the Casa Comunale, the Arsenale della Repubblica with its majestic mediaeval structure, and the former Capuchin Convent. Non-residents are also allowed to celebrate the rite in the Cathedral of St Andrew the Apostle. Elegant hotels, gardens and excellent food provide the perfect finishing touches to a memorable reception. 5 experiences in Amalfi amidst views and flavours The Emerald Grotto can be reached either by lift or on small boats. The karstic cavity has stalactites and stalagmites, but it is the colour of the sea that steals the show: an emerald that plays on the reflections of the rays filtering through the entrance crevice, in a thousand shades. On the seabed is an underwater nativity scene, which divers pay homage to on major religious festivals. In the evening, once the day is over, climb up to the highest point of the town of Amalfi, coinciding with the Cemetery. You can only get there on foot by walking up the steps and through the alleys of the old town. The panorama of lights, reflections of the sea and old houses is truly incomparable. When the Marina Grande beach empties out at sunset, indulge in an aperitif on the terraces of the bars, delightful lounges right by the sea. Sfusato Amalfinato is the typical Amalfi lemon, with its tapered shape and juicy, fragrant flesh. Have a limoncello at the end of a meal, sample one of the many pastry delights of which it is the basic ingredient, and a lemon and chocolate ice cream from one of the street kiosks. A plate of pasta is the best way to appreciate the flavours of Amalfi: Scialatielli ai frutti di mare, Paccheri al limone or a simple Scarpariello, because tomato and basil have a unique taste here.

A village overlooking the sea Talamone is a coastal town perched on a cliff side, an unmissable stop on a trip along the Grosseto coast. Rising above the Argentario sea, offering unforgettable experiences to those who love snorkelling (surface swimming) and water sports, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. At the rear of the town, inhabited since Etruscan times, lies Maremma Natural Park. Don't miss the chance to visit the historical centre, reaching Aldobrandesca at the top of the village. Here, you can marvel at the spectacular view of Argentario and the island of Giglio, and on a clear day you might even see as far as Elba and Corsica. At the foot of the Fortress is the Bagno delle Donne bathing establishment, built right on the cliff. Be captivated by Cannone beach, with its beautiful seabed. Talamone is home to the Orbetello Lagoon Aquarium, which tells the story of the lagoon ecosystem, delighting young and old alike. An Etruscan temple from the 4th century BC is preserved on the Talamonaccio hill, in an ideal panoramic spot to enjoy the view of the sunset. Also of interest is the Roman villa, dating from 100 AD, at Santa Francesca.

The imposing cathedral, the Swabian Castle of Frederick II, the Borgo Vecchio perched on a promontory overlooking the sea, this is what the visitor discovers of Termoli immediately on arrival. But it takes little to realise that here the real heart of everything is the sea. Termoli is the only port in Molise and fishing has always been the soul of the local economy. Witnesses to its most remote history are the splendid trabucchi, ancient fishing machines that tell endless stories of the sea and of life. Not to be missed is the spectacular event that best narrates the town's seafaring soul: the San Basso festival. Every year, on 4 August, the statue of the town's patron saint is carried in procession on boats and fishing boats, in an evocative ritual of sea and faith, as old as the singing of the waves.

If that weren't enough, the boot of Italy is dotted with blue pearls, small and large lakes in the plains areas or high in the mountains that characterize our landscapes. Finding out what's under that delicate line separating water from sky is an impulse that encourages more and more people to have a go at diving. Many courses are available in Italy, even during a short stay, to get closer to this experience in many places where sea-beds are home to wonders. All designed by Mother Nature, of course, with the colours of gorgonian corals home to a rich variety of marine fauna, as well as homo sapiens over the centuries. Under the water, just off the coastlines, evident traces of human evolution emerge which, in Italy as in few other parts of the world, bear witness to an indissoluble bond with our past.

Lake Maggiore is one of the most beautiful Italian lakes and has enchanted the great Italian and foreign artists who have stayed here. It is believed to be the largest of the pre-Alpine lakes, hence the name "Maggiore", it is of glacial origin and its banks are in Lombardy, Piedmont and Switzerland. Surrounded by mountains and hills that shelter it from the cold northern winds, the lake has the Ticino River among its tributaries, a historic water route connecting the Po Valley to Central Europe.

The historic international regatta, the Barcolana in Trieste, is back for its 54th edition. As tradition dictates, it is held on the second Sunday in October, but spans an entire week with a rich calendar of events, including those specially tailored for children. Here is what to do in Trieste with children from 29th September to 8th October 2023, to enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Trieste and feel like the real stars of the Barcolana.

Spring holidays such as Easter are the time of the year when it’s permissible to escape the ritually laid tables and family gatherings. If you are fearless at heart, you could treat yourself to an out of the ordinary, alternative holiday full of adventure, and vivacious fun. Challenge yourself with outdoor experiences and exploring landscapes, with histories and traditions that will take your breath away. Here are 6 exciting destinations to spend an Easter weekend full of open-air fun, starting in southern Italy.

With over 8,000 kilometres of coastline, Italy is a favourite destination for surfers from all over the world. From the coasts of Sardinia to the varied shoreline of Liguria via the Tyrrhenian ridge, there are many incredible places that provide waves and dream locations, and are more or less suitable depending on the time of year. If you're planning a surfing holiday in Italy, here are the unmissable surf spots in summer and winter, home to the most famous surf schools in Italy. Are you ready to go?

Standing on a board and holding a paddle in your hands: if you too are a Stand Up Paddle enthusiast, which has been sweeping the beaches in recent years along with the more traditional surfing, check this out. Have you ever thought that this water sport can also be enjoyed with great satisfaction in a lake? The crystal clear waters of Trentino, surrounded by forests, are perfect. Here is a map to help you find your way around.