Best Beaches in Naples, Italy
Situated on the Gulf of Naples, on the western coast of southern Italy, Naples’ history, culture, and cuisine are forever tied to the Mediterranean Sea. Sailors from the Greek island of Rhodes were the first to establish a small commercial port here in the first millennium BCE, founding the city of Parthenope, later renamed Neapolis in the sixth century BCE.
Although the city stretches along the Mediterranean Sea, it is not typically considered a resort destination. There are, however, a few spots where you can enjoy a lovely day on the beach, whether you’re looking for a great swim or somewhere that’s perfect for families with young children. Explore these top beaches in Naples, Italy.
Spiaggia della Gaiola: A Snorkeler’s Paradise
Spiaggia Della Gaiola, or Gaiola Beach, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Naples. Popular with locals during the summer months, entry is always free, and it’s advisable to arrive early to beat the crowds. Located along the Posillipo coast, on the northwestern edge of the Bay of Naples, the beach belongs to the Parco Sommerso Della Gaiola, a protected national marine park.
The park is divided into two zones: Zone A is a protected nature preserve, and Zone B is limited to 100 visitors a day. Thanks to a ban on motorboats and fishing, the Mediterranean Sea is wonderfully clear and calm here, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Swim out to the two tiny, rocky islands in the near distance or snorkel the submerged ruins of a Roman-era villa. Don’t forget your dive mask or swim goggles; plenty of colorful fish inhabit this crystal blue corner of the Bay of Naples.
Bagno Elena: Family-Friendly Beach
The private beach Bagno Elena boasts a splendid location in the Bay of Naples, adjacent to the 17th-century palace Palazzo Donn’Anna in Posillipo. Swimmers have been enjoying the deep blue Mediterranean Sea here since it opened in 1840. Legend has it that Oscar Wilde once spent his summer days at Bagno Elena.
The beach features three main areas: the central pier is dotted with comfortable sunbeds for lounging under the Mezzogiorno sunshine, while the two side beaches are ideal for families due to their shallow, calm waters, along with plentiful umbrellas. Enjoy an espresso at the Beach Bar or savor a lunch featuring regional seafood specialties at Il Ristorante, located on the pier.
Bagno Sirena: Enjoy Delicious Cuisine with a View
Located just steps away from Bagno Elena, on the other side of Palazzo Donn’Anna, Bagno Sirena is a smaller beach that allows you to relax on comfortable sunbeds and swim in clear, tranquil waters, away from the crowds. Both Bagno Elena and Bagno Sirena offer incredible views of Mt Vesuvius in the distance. The main highlight is the beachside restaurant, where you can indulge in top-notch Neapolitan cuisine, with the house specialty being impepate di cozze, fresh mussels prepared with tomatoes and white wine.
La Rotonda Diaz: Convenient and Relaxing
La Rotonda Diaz, also known as Mappatella Beach, is centrally located along the city’s waterfront. Since it’s close to Naples’ bustling port, the sand may not always be pristine, and the sea can be a bit turbid due to passing ships. However, it serves as the perfect beach for a brief escape to soak up the sun, take a quick swim to cool off from the summer heat, or enjoy a cold beer while dipping your toes into the sea.
Rocce Verdi: Unique Swimming Experience
When sunlight hits the submerged rocks at Rocce Verdi along the Posillipo coast, they take on a green hue, hence the name Green Rocks. Although you need to pay an entry fee, Rocce Verdi offers numerous benefits. Relax on a sunbed situated on the rocky coast, or climb to the top of the beach’s cliff to dive into one of the large saltwater pools overlooking the bay. Enjoy a cocktail or lunch at the restaurant situated on the upper edge of the rocky beach, where you can take in views of the island of Capri and the entire Sorrento peninsula. Kayak rentals are available for exploring the tranquil bay, and wellness activities like yoga and pilates are offered during summer months.
Scoglione in Marechiaro: A Hidden Gem for Swimmers
The Scaglione di Marechiaro (Marechiaro Cliffs) isn’t a fully serviced beach, but it’s one of the best spots to swim in Naples. This volcanic rock beach, found just off the coast in the Posillipo neighborhood, can only be accessed by boat, with boats operating around the clock from the Marechiaro Port. Significantly less crowded than other popular beaches, this location is ideal for swimmers seeking crystal-clear waters. A stand rents sunbeds, which can be set up along the rocky cliffs, offering enchanting views.
