Best Beaches in Apulia

This scenic region boasts hundreds of tiny coves framed by rocky promontories and fragrant pine forests.

The best beaches in the region, include …

Marina di Pescoluse

Pick your own spot to sunbathe on this 8km-long white-sand beach that nestles between sand dunes and clear and shallow turquoise waters perfectly suited to children and inexperienced swimmers.

After the tide recedes, a wide sandbar is revealed that appears as if to be tiny islands, hence giving the beach its nickname – Le Maldive del Salento.

Facilities include umbrellas, sun beds and sections for beach volleyball, tennis and football.

Marina di Pescoluse is located on the southwest coast of the Salentine Peninsula, around 114km south of Brindisi.

Porto Badisco

Arrive here early to snag your spot on this pocket of golden sand that shelves into an idyllic cove of shimmering turquoise water.

Swim in the sheltered inlet, snorkel beneath the surrounding low cliff face and picnic in the shade of pine trees on the northern headland.

When you tire of lazing around, head over to nearby Grotta dei Cervi (Cave of the Deer), which is home to cave paintings of deer in guano (excrement from birds, seals or bats) and red ochre that date back 4000 years to the Neolithic era.

Facilities include sun umbrellas and little else, so you’ll need to take along your own food and drinks.

Porto Badisco is located on the southeast coast of the Salentine Peninsula, around 95km south of Brindisi.

Marina di Ostuni

With more than 20km of beach to choose from, you can pick your own spot to sunbathe and swim in crystal clear water at this popular beach resort.

Facilities include umbrellas, sun loungers and a range of cafes, restaurants and discos in summer.

Inland at the small town of Ostuni, walk through winding stone-paved streets lined with picturesque whitewashed Greek-style houses. The town is a short distance from the beach and is surrounded by olive groves.

Marina di Ostuni offers a variety of accommodation including the 4-star Grand Hotel Santa Lucia, a tastefully refurbished ancient fortified farm with its own private beach, just 25km north of Brindisi.

Tremiti Islands

Experience the natural beauty of this unspoiled region, located in the north of Apulia, which is renowned for clear waters, outstanding scuba diving and the pristine Gargano National Park.