Summary
From Cattolica to Trieste on the Adriatic, and from Ameglia all the way to Ventimiglia on the Ligurian Sea, there are scores of Blue Flag beaches in Northern Italy, a designation awarded to beaches worldwide by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), based on water quality, cleanliness, and safety, among other factors. The province of Liguria alone boasts 27 Blue Flags.
With more than 400 miles (nearly 600 km) of coastline on the Adriatic and Ligurian seas, Northern Italy is a treasure trove of beaches and beach resorts, and many have received the Blue Flag award.
During summer, particularly in the first two weeks of August, many Italian beaches tend to be crowded, especially those near tourist-centric areas. Most beaches are dominated by stabilimenti, private establishments that rent umbrellas and lounge chairs arranged in neat rows. These stabilimenti often provide showers, changing rooms, bars, and simple restaurants, with some even featuring pools, playgrounds, and babysitting services.
Consequently, as there is an abundance of fantastic beaches in Northern Italy, the featured locations proudly wave a Blue Flag, and each has a unique vibe ranging from family-friendly to fashionable to funky.
01. Levanto (Liguria)
Behind you are elegant art nouveau villas, flowering Mediterranean shrubbery, and a charming town dating to the 11th century. Before you are the crashing waves of the Ligurian Sea, interrupted by frequent breakwaters that create tranquil swimming areas. A long stretch of greyish-golden sand provides ample space for everyone, even during the bustling months of July and August.
As the northern gateway to the Cinque Terre (the Five Lands), known for its breathtaking coastal hikes and colorful seaside villages, Levanto is a popular starting or ending point of a Cinque Terre journey.
This area draws Italian families for their annual vacations to il mare, while still maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. When the winds are favorable, typically when a storm approaches, surfers test their skills on waves reaching heights of up to 10 feet (3 meters).
The vibe: Low-key family fun, with a sprinkle of surfer culture.
02. Santa Margherita Ligure (Liguria)
Nestled between Rapallo and Portofino on the Gulf of Tigullio, Santa Margherita Ligure exudes a less pretentious ambiance. Nonetheless, you will find luxury offerings like its Liberty-style villas with Trompe-l’œil facades in varying shades of yellow, cream, and salmon, along with four Blue Flag beaches.
On the beaches closest to town, you can expect rows of lounge chairs and umbrellas at private stabilimenti, and during the peak season, space may be limited. For those in search of quintessential Italian Riviera allure, this location delivers.
For a quieter experience, head 5 miles south to Paraggi, a picturesque cove with a few hotels and restaurants.
The vibe: Old money, perhaps just a touch less than a century ago.
03. Finale Ligure (Liguria)
Finale Ligure boasts one of the longest stretches of sandy beach along the Riviera di Ponente (“the coast of the setting sun”), offering an unusual combination of affordability and a relatively uncrowded beach experience along the Ligurian Sea.
The town features four Blue Flag beaches that are flat and sandy, with calm waters and a backdrop of historic towns, especially at Finalborga, complemented by modern apartments and clifftop hotels.
Visit to enjoy stunning landscapes without the high prices typical of the Riviera. Activities such as mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing are also favored pastimes here.
The vibe: Locals in-the-know, outdoor enthusiasts, and middle-class families.
04. Bordighera (Liguria)
Though it may not rival the South of France, you can glimpse France from one of the two Blue Flag beaches at Bordighera. This tiny haven on the westernmost Italian Riviera has frequent train connections to Cannes, Nice, and Monaco.
Historical figures have graced this area; Monet captured its beauty, while the Queen Mother enjoyed playful beach days here in her youth, and Mussolini and Franco once plotted in its walls. Bordighera maintains an exclusive ambiance, and vacationing here can be quite pricey.
The beaches here are comprised of pebbles and stones, making lounge chairs a necessity (and costly). Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a glamorous atmosphere, this spot delivers that classic Riviera experience.
The vibe: Classy, cultured, and embodying the idle rich.
05. Rimini (Emilia-Romagna)
Italian beach vacations reach their zenith in Rimini. This resort town on the Adriatic Sea is particularly favored by families due to its 9 miles (15 km) of expansive, sandy beaches and calm, shallow waters.
Moreover, it offers every conceivable diversion from theme parks—such as Italy in Miniature featuring over 270 detailed scale replicas of the country’s major cities and landmarks—to marine zoos and pop-up concerts. At night, large open-air discos pulse with energy until the early hours, while party-goers recuperate the next day under their reserved beach umbrellas.
Rimini stands out as one of Italy’s most affordable beach destinations, featuring numerous budget hotels, B&Bs, and campgrounds. However, be ready to navigate crowds, including young families and groups of seniors during the day, alongside lively young Italians after dark.
While Rimini’s city beaches do not carry a Blue Flag, several are found throughout the province, from Cattolica moving north to Bellaria.
The vibe: Imagine Atlantic City’s boardwalk, albeit with less gambling.
