Hidden beaches in Italy - holidays away from the crowds

Italy is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. Its beaches are world-famous, from Rimini to the Amalfi Coast, from the sandy bays of Calabria to the rugged coasts of Sardinia. But this is exactly what is becoming a problem for many people on holiday: too many people on the beach, noisy tourists, not enough parking spaces and beach loungers all close together. So, more and more travellers are looking for other options. They are looking for quiet places - beaches where you can hear the sea again. Places that aren't in the catalogue but are worth visiting. In this article, we will introduce you to some great places to visit. Italy's hidden beaches: what makes them special and how you can stay there without giving up comfort.

Why ‘secret’ is the new standard for holidaymakers seeking peace and quiet

Tourism has changed the look of many Italian cities and towns and made a big impact on the beaches. Many people don't like overcrowded beaches, the high cost of sunbeds and umbrellas, the background music and the shortage of parking spaces. This means that many travellers are looking for other places to go. They find what they're looking for because Italy's best coastal spots are away from the tourist crowds. They're tucked away in small bays, behind hills, or you can only get to them on foot. These places don't have cocktail bars, but they do have hammocks between two pine trees. They don't have a promenade, but there is a narrow path leading through the sweet-smelling maquis.

The most beautiful secret beaches in Italy - region by region

Cala Goloritzé – a stunning natural beauty spot in Sardinia.

On the Gulf of Orosei lies one of the most spectacular bays in Italy. You can only get to Cala Goloritzé on foot or by boat. From the Su Golgo plateau, a steep path leads down to the bay in about 1.5 hours. This is a great place for hikers and nature lovers. You will see turquoise blue water, white pebbles and the famous rock Aguglia, which is 148 metres tall.

Living tip: In Santa Maria Navarrese, you will find modern holiday homes with a view of the sea. They are the perfect base for day trips into the unspoilt nature of the Supramonte.

Spiaggia di Guvano - A quieter Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre are no longer a secret, but the Spiaggia di Guvano is still a hidden gem. This former nudist beach is between Corniglia and Vernazza. You can only get there via an old railway tunnel or a narrow path. Even though it is in one of Italy's most popular holiday areas, it is often empty. Here, you're more likely to meet people who are relaxed and easy-going than tourists who are there to swim.

Tip for accommodation: In Corniglia, you will find lovely flats with a view of the Ligurian coast. These are away from the other villages, where there are lots of tourists.

Torre Salsa: protecting nature in Sicily.

The Torre Salsa WWF reserve is located between the towns of Sciacca and Agrigento. There are lots of miles of beaches that are still wild and untouched, with soft sand and dunes that go right into the middle of the country. Flamingos, turtles and rare plants make this place a paradise for people who love nature. In the busy season, there are more seagulls here than people.

Tip for accommodation: Sustainable villas or agriturismi near Siculiana or Eraclea Minoa offer peace and comfort and often include local specialities in the breakfast.

Cala del Gesso - the hidden pearl of Tuscany

Monte Argentario, a peninsula on the southern coast of Tuscany, is known for its rugged cliffs and hidden coves. Cala del Gesso is one of them - it's small and secluded, and the sea is like the Caribbean. The path goes down a steep hill, and it's rocky, but the view of the bay makes it worth the effort.

Living tip: The best place to stay if you want to visit the wild Tuscan coast is a holiday home in Porto Santo Stefano.

Spiaggia dei Francesi - Apulian insider tip

This small, semi-circular bay is in the Gargano National Park, surrounded by white rocks and lush green vegetation. You can only get to the beach by walking along a path or by boat. Here, you can swim with a view of the Adriatic Sea, which is a beautiful blue colour.

Living tip: If you're looking for a trullo with a garden near Mattinata or a designer villa above the cliffs, both offer authenticity with style.

More secret bays for explorers

Cala Bianca, Campania

You can only get to Cala Bianca by boat or on a difficult walk. It is located south of Marina di Camerota. The bay is small, surrounded by rocks and full of bright white pebbles. A place that even many Italians don't know about.

Punta Aderci, Abruzzo

A beach near Vasto that has a beautiful sunset. If you cross the Punta Aderci Nature Park, you will reach a long beach where the sky and the sea seem to meet.

Cala Violina, Tuscany

There is a story that the sand in this cove sounds like a violin when you walk on it. You can only hear it on very quiet days, but the place is magical. Only 700 visitors can go there each day. Come early to avoid the crowds!

Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle - Marche

This 'two-sister bay' near Sirolo is a perfect place. There is white gravel and clear water, and famous rock formations that rise from the sea. You can only get there by boat or on a steep hiking trail.

Capo Vaticano - Calabria

This is where dramatic cliffs meet turquoise-coloured water – a southern paradise. You can only get to some of the bays by walking along old paths used by shepherds. Great for people who like to drift along.

Top tips for travellers: Here's how to get ready:

Many of these beaches need to be prepared for. Here are the most important tips:

• Start early, especially in summer. It's best to start in the morning to avoid the heat.
• Show respect for nature and culture. Stay on the paths, take your rubbish with you and be considerate of local customs.
• Be aware of the weather: Some beaches are only safe in strong winds or swell.
• Book trips on a boat: In many places, there are local companies that offer tours to the beach.
• Go offline: In remote areas, the mobile phone network can be weak. This is where apps with offline maps can help.

Holiday homes: the perfect choice

If you want to go to these beaches, you're not looking for a package holiday, but individuality. A holiday home gives you exactly what you want: often with a private kitchen so you can cook for yourself, and close to nature and your own space. There are no crowds at breakfast, and you don't have to worry about time. A holiday home is a great place for children, family or friends to spend time together.

Conclusion: Time is the new destination.

Hidden beaches give you time to enjoy nature. Make time for yourself, relax and try new things that you can't find on social media. If you really want to feel Italy, you won't find it on the main road. You'll find it around a bend, at the end of a path or after a boat trip. When the water is clear, the sun shines warmer, and everything slows down a bit.

Italica Rentals knows these places and has the perfect place for your seaside getaway.