15 Most Beautiful Beaches in Salento, Puglia

If you’re looking for the best beaches in Salento, Puglia, Italy you’re in the right place. Read on for all my local recommendations as a Puglia local.

I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to assemble this guide. After more than two years of living in Puglia, scouring the coastline for the dreamiest swimming spots, and spending every summer plotting my way around the crowds, I finally feel like I have enough intel to do this justice.

If your Puglia itinerary features beaches (and trust me, it should if visiting in summer), then the Salento area needs to be at the very top of your list.

Salento, Italy for those unfamiliar, is the sun-drenched region that stretches from Lecce down to the very tip of Puglia at Santa Maria di Leuca. It’s no secret that this is where you’ll find the best beaches in the region—turquoise waters that rival the Maldives, limestone cliffs carved by the wind, and long stretches of soft golden sand.

Whether you’re after secluded rocky coves, family-friendly beaches, or lidos with the perfect aperitivo setup, this guide has you covered.

For those looking for beaches further north, stay tuned—I’ll be putting together a separate guide soon. In the meantime, you can check out my best beaches in Ostuni guide, as well as my best beaches in Monopoli and best beaches in Polignano a Mare guides for those exploring the Valle d’Itria coastline. But for now, let’s dive into Salento’s most spectacular beach spots.

In this guide, you’ll find all my favorite coves, swimming spots, lidos, and beaches in Salento as well as all my top tips for how to visit, where to park, and everything you need to know to plan your trip, all from a travel expert and Puglia local.

*This ‘beaches Salento’ piece may contain affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

Know Before You Visit Salento’s Beaches

↠ Adriatic vs. Ionian – Salento is flanked by two coastlines, and each offers a completely different beach experience. The Adriatic side (east) is more rugged, with dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden rocky coves, and a few larger sandy beaches scattered along the coast.

The Ionian side (west), on the other hand, is where you’ll find long, soft, sandy beaches with shallow, calm waters—ideal for those with small children. It’s worth considering which kind of beach experience you prefer before heading out for the day.

↠ Check the Wind Before You Go – One thing locals always do before a beach day? Check the wind direction. The wind can completely change the conditions of the sea, from calm and glassy to choppy and rough. As a general rule:

• If the wind is coming from the north or east, head to the Ionian coast for calmer seas.
• If the wind is blowing from the south or west, the Adriatic coast will likely be the better choice.

↠ Parking can be a challenge at some of the more popular Salento, Italy beaches and hidden coves—especially in peak season. Some spots have designated parking lots (often paid), while others require a bit of a walk or even a short hike. I’ll flag parking situations as we go along, but for the most sought-after beaches, it’s always best to arrive early in summer to secure a spot.

↠ Free Beach vs. Lido – In Salento, you’ll find two kinds of beach experiences:

• Free beaches (spiagge libere) – No sunbeds or umbrellas, just nature at its best. Great for those who want a more wild, independent experience. You’ll need to bring everything in.
• Lidos (stabilimenti balneari/lido) – Private beach clubs with sunbeds, umbrellas, food, drinks, and often music. Perfect if you prefer a bit more comfort and amenities.
  Both have their pros and cons and in this guide, I’ll highlight the best lidos as well as the most beautiful free beaches in Salento.

15 Best Beaches in Salento, Puglia

Narrowing down my personal list of favorite beaches in Salento to just 15 is no easy task. After years of exploring every cove, stretch of sand, and rocky outcrop along this coastline, I’ve built up quite the collection of go-to swim spots. But if I had to pick the very best—the ones I return to again and again—these would be them.

1. Cala dell’Acquaviva

Cala dell’Acquaviva is one of those tiny, hidden coves that feels like a secret—until you realize the locals have known about it forever.

Tucked into a narrow inlet on the Adriatic side, just south of Castro, this little rocky cala is pure magic – one of my favorite swimming spots in Salento. The water here is an almost unreal shade of turquoise, fed by freshwater springs that make it noticeably cooler than other swimming spots.

It’s the kind of place where you brace yourself before diving in, but once you do, you won’t want to get out.

The cove itself is small, framed by rugged cliffs and lush Mediterranean vegetation. There’s no sand—just flat rocks and a small pebble beach at the very end of the inlet—but that’s part of the charm. Most just sit and gather on the rocks, so if you’re looking for a wide, sandy beach, this spot isn’t to.

Find a rock to spread your towel on, dip in and out of the water all day, and soak up the almost fjord-like atmosphere.

Local Tip: If you head around the rocks on the northern side of the cove you’ll get a gorgeous view of Castro.

2. Bagno Marino Archi

This spot is what a Salento beach day is all about—crystal-clear water, a laid-back lido, and a front-row seat to the endless blue of the Adriatic. Located just outside Santa Cesarea Terme, Bagno Marino Archi isn’t your typical sandy beach.

Instead, it’s a stylish lido built into the rocky coastline, with sunbeds set up on wooden platforms and direct access to some of the clearest, bluest water you’ll ever see.

What I love about this place is that it offers the best of both worlds—you get that wild, natural Adriatic beauty, but with the comfort of a lido setup. There’s a restaurant and bar serving fresh seafood and chilled spritzes, so you can easily spend an entire day here, swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the stunning sea views.

The water is deep and perfect for snorkeling, and if you’re a fan of cliff diving, there are a few good spots nearby to take the plunge.

If you’re not interested in a lido, there’s a free part to the cove as well. Just head over the viaduct structure and down the stairs to the next section of the rocky coastline, where you can find plenty spots to relax without the lido facilities. Watershoes really go a long way here since you’ll likely need to walk over rocks, which can be slippery.

Since it’s a lido, there’s a fee for sunbeds and umbrellas, but it’s well worth it for a comfortable day by the sea. Reservations are recommended in peak summer, especially if you want a spot in the front row.

3. Porto Miggiano

Not far from Bagno Marino Archi, Porto Miggiano is one of those spots that feels almost too beautiful to be real. A small, golden-sand cove framed by towering limestone cliffs, it’s the kind of beach that looks straight out of a postcard.

The contrast of the honey-colored rock against the deep turquoise water is breathtaking, and on a calm day, the sea is as clear as a swimming pool.

Getting down to the beach requires a bit of effort—there’s a set of steep, sometimes uneven stairs carved into the cliffside. It’s manageable, but something to keep in mind if you’re carrying a lot of stuff. The beach itself is small, and in summer, it fills up quickly, so arriving early is key if you want to claim a good spot.

For those who prefer deep-water swims over sandy beaches, the rocky platforms above the cove are just as dreamy. Many locals skip the descent entirely and just set up towels on the flat rocks, diving straight into the sea from there. If you go this route, watershoes help, as the rocks can be rough and slippery.

There’s also a second part to Port Miggiano, the headland of the actual port. Many locals also use the port for swimming in and the rocky headland is another good base for swimming.

There are no facilities here—just a small bar, La Baia Dei Venti on the port side —so bring everything you need for the day. But for those who love wild, dramatic landscapes and crystal-clear water, Porto Miggiano is absolutely worth it.

4. Casto Marina

You might not think that a Salento town’s marina would make for a great swim spot, but Castro Marina (the Port Vecchio part) proves otherwise. The area around the marina has some of the most turquoise, unbelievably clear water in all of Salento, making it a complete vibe when summer rolls around.

It’s a scene—families, groups of friends, and locals who’ve been coming here for years all gathering along the rocky edges, diving straight into the deep, cool sea.

Unlike some of Salento’s more remote coves, here you have the convenience of town right behind you. You can easily break up your swim with a coffee or gelato from one of the waterfront cafés, or settle in for a long seafood lunch at one of Castro’s excellent restaurants.

The marina itself is small but buzzing in summer, with boats coming and going and a lively, old-school Italian coastal atmosphere.

There’s no sandy beach here—it’s all about diving from the rocks or using the metal ladders to ease yourself in. If you love deep-water swimming and that classic, sun-drenched Italian seaside energy, Castro Marina is absolutely worth a stop.

5. Porto Badisco (Secondary Bay)

If I had to pick just one place to go in Salento during the summer, it would be Porto Badisco. This little stretch of coastline, just south of Otranto, is the kind of spot that keeps you coming back year after year. It has everything—a gorgeous, natural swimming cove, a laid-back local vibe, and one of the best casual lunch spots in the area.

The main draw, of course, is the water. The Porto Badisco cove is an incredible place to swim, but my favorite part is actually the ‘secondary cove‘, just off to the side. It’s a beautiful, sheltered spot where you can perch on the rocks, dive straight into the cool, impossibly clear water, and spend the afternoon soaking up the sun.

In peak summer, it does get busy, but there’s an easy escape—just follow the hiking path around the headland, and you’ll find your way to Porto Russo, another stunning, lesser-known swimming spot.

And then there’s Bar da Carlo, an absolute institution. No trip to Porto Badisco is complete without stopping here for a casual seafood lunch or a panino filled with local delicacies. It’s the perfect place to fuel up before (or after) a long swim, preferably with an ice-cold beer or a glass of local white wine.

For me, Porto Badisco is pure summer in Salento—low-key, beautiful, and the kind of place that makes you want to linger all day and even stay the night.

6. Baia dei Turchi

Baia dei Turchi is one of Salento’s most stunning beaches—a long, golden stretch of sand framed by pine forests and lapped by that classic, crystal-clear Adriatic water. It’s the kind of beach that feels wild and untouched, even in the height of summer, thanks to the protected nature reserve that surrounds it.

What makes Baia dei Turchi special is the sheer beauty of the setting. The soft sand, shallow waters, and natural dunes make it one of the most picturesque spots in Salento, perfect for long swims and lazy afternoons under the sun.

Unlike many of the region’s rocky coves, this is a place where you can actually walk straight into the water—ideal if you prefer a classic sandy beach over clambering over rocks.

Access does require a short walk through the pine forest from the designated parking areas, but it’s an easy stroll and well worth it for the view that greets you at the end. It’s one of the best choices for a long, relaxed beach day in Salento, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly swim spot or just a beautiful place to spend a few hours.

Get there early in summer—this is one of the more popular beaches near Otranto, and it fills up fast.

7. Torre Sant’Andrea

Torre Sant’Andrea is one of the most unique spots on the Adriatic coast, famous for its dramatic rock stack formations that rise from the impossibly blue sea.

The limestone cliffs here have been sculpted by wind and waves into arches, caves, and towering sea stacks, creating a landscape that looks like something out of a postcard.

While it’s not the easiest place for a swim—you’ll need to clamber down and back up the rocks—it’s absolutely worth the effort. The water is deep, clear, and perfect for diving, making it more of a quick swim-and-sightsee spot rather than an all-day beach hangout.

The spot however is massively dependent on wind- if the waves are strong it’s not the best spot to be, so check the weather reports before heading here. On a calm day, it’s lovely.

If you’re exploring the coast around Otranto, it’s the perfect place to stop for a refreshing dip and take in some of the most spectacular natural scenery in Salento.

As a Puglia local, I’ve spent years living in and exploring the area. For all of my local recommendations (too many for this post), check out the Puglia Map here for all the best insider recommendations at your fingertips. It’s the only guide you’ll need for Puglia, and it saves right to your phone.

8. Lido della Staffa

Just north of Otranto, Lido della Staffa is one of those little secret spots I love escaping to when the town’s beaches get too crowded in summer. It’s small but not tiny, a perfect mix of rocky and sandy areas, with plenty of space to spread out and easy access to the water.

Even in peak season, it never feels overly packed. The beach has a relaxed, local feel, with clear, shallow waters that make it ideal for both swimming and just floating in the calm sea. Unlike some of Salento’s wilder coves, you don’t have to scramble over rocks to get in—just a smooth, easy entry into the turquoise Adriatic.

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Otranto’s more well-known beaches, Lido della Staffa is a gem—secluded enough to feel special, but close enough to town for an easy afternoon escape.

9. Il Ciolo

The drive from Castro down to Il Ciolo is one of the most scenic coastal routes in Puglia, a winding road that hugs the cliffs with endless views of the deep blue Adriatic. It’s the kind of drive where you’ll want to stop at every curve just to take in the view. And then, just when you think the scenery couldn’t get any better, you arrive at Il Ciolo.

More of a dramatic rocky gorge than a traditional beach, Il Ciolo is one of Salento’s most breathtaking swim spots. The cove is tucked between towering limestone cliffs, with crystal-clear, deep water that’s perfect for snorkeling and cliff diving.

There’s no sand here—just rock formations and the iconic bridge that arches over the inlet, a popular spot for daring cliff jumpers. If you’re not up for the jump, there’s a small rocky area where you can climb down and ease into the water.

Beyond swimming, Il Ciolo is also a great spot for hiking, with several scenic trails in the area that wind through the rugged coastal landscape- try Sentiero delle Cipolliane which goes up to Grotte Cipolliane and Marina di Novalgie.

If you’re road-tripping down the Adriatic coast, this is an unforgettable place to stop for a swim, a short hike, or just to admire one of Salento’s most dramatic natural landscapes.

10. Spiaggia di Pescoluse

Nicknamed the “Maldives of Salento,” Spiaggia di Pescoluse more than lives up to its name. With soft, golden sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see, it’s easily one of the most stunning beaches in Salento.

The sea here is a dreamy shade of turquoise, calm and warm in summer, making it an ideal spot for families, sun-seekers, and anyone looking for a classic beach day.

Unlike many of Salento’s rocky coves, this is a true sandy paradise, with both free beach areas and lidos offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside drinks. In peak summer, it gets very busy, so arriving early is key if you want a prime spot.

But even with the crowds, there’s something undeniably special about Pescoluse—it’s the kind of place where you could easily spend the whole day swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up that unmistakable Mediterranean summer vibe.

11. Spiaggia di Punta della Suina

Spiaggia di Punta della Suina feels like a wild, Mediterranean escape, yet it’s just a short drive south from Gallipoli. This beach is a mix of golden sand and rocky outcrops, with shallow, transparent waters that make it perfect for swimming and wading.

The contrast between the pine forest backdrop and the turquoise Ionian Sea gives it a dreamy, almost tropical feel.

There’s a laid-back beach club here Spiagga G, making it a great place to spend a relaxed day by the water with a spritz in hand. But if you prefer a more natural vibe, you can easily find a quiet stretch of sand or a rocky spot to set up for the day.

It does get popular in summer, but the setting is so beautiful that it’s always worth it. If you’re looking for that classic Salento beach experience with a little bit of everything—soft sand, crystal-clear sea, and a touch of atmosphere—Punta della Suina is a great choice, especially for those staying in or near Gallipoli.

12. Porto Selvaggio Beach

Porto Selvaggio Beach is one of Salento’s most untouched and naturally beautiful swimming spots, but getting there requires a bit of effort. It’s located within the Porto Selvaggio Natural Park, this small, rocky beach is only accessible by foot, meaning you’ll need to walk through the forest for about 20-30 minutes before reaching the sea.

But once you arrive, it’s all worth it.

The setting is pristine—clear, cool waters framed by rugged cliffs and dense Mediterranean pine forest. The lack of easy access keeps it from feeling overcrowded, even in summer, making it the perfect place for a refreshing swim away from the more developed Salento, Puglia beaches.

Since there are no facilities, it’s best to bring whatever you need for the day, but if you love wild, scenic swim spots, Porto Selvaggio is one of the most rewarding places to take a dip in Salento.

13. Spiaggia di Punta Prosciutto

I might be going a little too far north, but I just can’t not add Punta Prosciutto to any Salento beach list. This stretch of powdery white sand and unbelievably clear, shallow water looks straight out of the Caribbean, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Salento.

It’s part of the protected Porto Cesareo marine area, which keeps the landscape unspoiled and the sea in its most stunning shades of blue.

The water here stays shallow for a long way out, making it perfect for families or anyone who just wants to float in calm, warm seas all day. There are both free beach areas and lidos, so you can choose between bringing your own setup or renting sunbeds and umbrellas.

In summer, it does get busy- this is one of the most popular Salento beaches, but if you arrive early, you can still grab a great spot.

If you’re planning a beach day in northern Salento or not too far from the Valle d’Itria area, Punta Prosciutto is as dreamy as it gets—the kind of place where you’ll want to stay until the sun goes down.

14. Lido Le Dune

The calm bay between Gallipoli and Santa Maria al Bagno has some of the most beautiful water in Salento, and the beaches here are gorgeous. The bay is packed with various lidos, but for me, Lido Le Dune is one of the best.

This lido strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and stylish, offering comfortable sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beach bar that serves up great seafood, cocktails, and classic Italian summer vibes. The sand is soft and golden, and the shallow, crystal-clear waters make it an amazing spot for swimming or just floating in the sea.

It’s got a bit of everything—a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere, a great beachside restaurant, and some of the best water in the region. If you’re looking for a classic Salento lido experience in one of the most stunning bays on the Ionian coast, Lido Le Dune is a solid choice.

Just be sure to book ahead in high season—it’s popular for a reason.

15. Spiaggia di Tricase Porto

I may have possibly left my favorite until last, but there’s something about Tricase Porto I just can’t get enough of, every time I come here. It’s not the biggest or most famous beach in Salento, but the setting, the atmosphere, and the way the sea shimmers here make it one of those places I keep coming back to.

The beach itself is perfect for a morning relax session, with its clear, calm waters and peaceful vibe. The beach itself is small but there are many concrete decks around that locals hang out on. The best part is that you’re just steps away from Taverna del Porto, one of my absolute favorite seafood restaurants in Puglia—ideal for a long, lazy lunch of freshly grilled fish and chilled white wine.

If you’re staying into the evening, which I recommend Caffè d’Oltremare is a great spot for sunset drinks, while Menamè Tricase Porto offers another fantastic aperitivo facing the sea.

If the beach is too busy in summer, just walk south past the port and Taverna del Porto, where you’ll find wooden decks by the sea—perfect for lounging in the sun. A little further on, there’s a fantastic natural pool, an enclosed, crystal-clear swimming spot that’s ideal for a dip.

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Which best Salento beaches will you be visiting? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.

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