The 13 Best Beaches in Monopoli, Puglia
Looking for the best beaches in Monopoli Puglia? Here are the best beaches near Monopoli from a Puglia expat.
Monopoli’s coastline is one of the most stunning in Puglia, with a mix of golden sandy beaches (spiaggia), hidden rocky coves (cala), and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach with sunbeds and a lido or a secluded spot where you can dive straight into the Adriatic, there’s something for every kind of beachgoer here.
As a Puglia local, these are the 13 beaches I always seek out when heading up to Monopoli for a beach day ( I personally think the beaches in Monopoli are better than the beaches on the Ostuni coast). Some are hidden gems mostly frequented by locals, while others are better known and attract more tourists—but all of them offer something special.
In general, the further you get from town, the quieter and more pristine the beaches become, making them ideal for escaping the summer crowds.
Throughout this guide, I’ll share my personal favorite beaches, the best times to visit, and local tips like where to park, how to access the harder-to-reach coves, and even where to grab a bite to eat nearby. If you’re planning a trip to Monopoli and want to experience its coastline like a local, this expert guide is for you.
For the full guide to Monopoli town, read: A Guide to Monopoli Puglia | A Blissful Day by the Sea.
When to Visit Monopoli’s Beaches
Beach season in Puglia typically kicks off around the end of May, but exactly when depends entirely on the weather that year. At the end of May 2022, it was already a scorching 30°C, and I was fully embracing the start of summer.
The following year, however, was a completely different story—early 20s, cloudy, and raining. It just goes to show that Puglia’s seasons, and today’s weather, have a mind of their own.
On the other end, beach season can last well into mid-October, sometimes even longer. I took a swim in November last year, but I won’t lie—it was on the chilly side, definitely more of a bracing dip than a leisurely soak but it’s still doable.
If you’re visiting in July or August—especially August—be prepared for packed beaches. This is peak Italian holiday season, and Monopoli’s beaches fill up fast.
If you’re planning to visit a lido (a private beach club), book your sunbed well in advance. And if you’re heading to a free beach (all the ones in this guide are), plan to arrive before 9 a.m. if you want a decent spot.
After 10 a.m., it’s already towel-to-towel crowds, and by midday, you’ll be lucky to squeeze in even a corner of sand and you’ll need to set up on the rocks.
15 Best Beaches in Monopoli
Best Beaches in Monopoli Town (Or Walkable from it)
Cala Porta Vecchia
Cala Porta Vecchia is Monopoli’s most iconic beach, a small crescent of sand sitting right at the foot of the historic old town. With its shallow turquoise waters and backdrop of ancient fortified walls, it’s a picture-perfect spot, and its central location makes it one of the most popular beaches in the area.
It’s also one of the easiest to reach—no car needed, just a short stroll from Monopoli’s charming streets. In peak summer, it’s packed with both locals and tourists and while it’s a lovely place for a quick dip, it’s not the most spacious beach if you’re looking to lounge for hours – be prepared that you might need to seek a spot on the rocks.
For me, this is a fantastic beach for photos and possibly a quick dip when in Monopoli town on a hot day, but I wouldn’t come here for a beach day.
One thing to note about Cala Porta Vecchia—something most other guides won’t tell you—is that outside of peak summer, it’s often heavily covered in seaweed. Local authorities clear it completely early in the summer, but exactly when varies each year.
If you’re visiting Monopoli in May or even early June, this beach might not be the best choice for a beach day, and you may need to head further south to find clearer shores.
Spiaggia di Cala Cozze
A short walk south from Cala Porta Vecchia, just past one of Monopoli’s main parking lots, you’ll find Spiaggia di Cala Cozze—a small, rocky cove that offers a more low-key alternative to the busier beaches in town.
It’s not a sandy beach, but rather a mix of flat rocks and pebbles, making it a great spot for those who don’t mind skipping the sunbed for a more natural setting.
The water here is crystal-clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and because it’s slightly off the main tourist trail, it tends to be less crowded than Cala Porta Vecchia. That said, it’s still a local favorite, so expect to see groups of Monopolitani sunbathing on the rocks and taking their afternoon dip.
Top Tip: If you’re heading here for a beach day, make sure to stop by La Portavecchia Bakery beforehand to pick up some of the best focaccia Barese in Monopoli, along with other beach snacks—you’ll thank me later.
Porto Bianco
Continuing south along Monopoli’s coastline, you’ll come across Porto Bianco, another small, picturesque cove that feels a little more tucked away compared to the more central beaches.
Unlike Cala Cozze, Porto Bianco has a bit more sand, though it’s still a mix of sand and rocks, so bringing a beach mat or water shoes isn’t a bad idea. The water here is typically calm and shallow, making it a great spot for a relaxed swim, and it’s far less crowded than the beaches closer to the old town (outside July and August).
Since it’s a more local spot, you won’t find any beach clubs or amenities, so come prepared with your own towel, snacks, and drinks.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to unwind by the sea without the chaos of Monopoli’s busiest beaches, Porto Bianco is a solid choice—especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is golden, and the atmosphere is at its most peaceful.
Porto Rosso
Just a little further south of Porto Bianco and a 15-minute walk from Monopoli’s Porto Antico, Porto Rosso is one of my favorite beaches in Monopoli. There’s something about its setting—a small, sandy cove framed by rocky cliffs and historic whitewashed buildings—that makes it feel effortlessly charming.
The water here is shallow and clear, perfect for swimming, and there’s usually a mix of locals and visitors enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of those beaches that manages to feel central yet slightly tucked away, offering a good balance between convenience and tranquility.
For those with a car, you can park anywhere there’s a space on Via Procaccia or use the paid lot here.
Top Tip: If you’re planning a beach day at Porto Rosso or Porto Bianco, book a table for lunch at Porto Rosso – Bar Ristorante, which sits on the headland separating the two beaches.
This spot has one of the best terraces in Monopoli for a leisurely seafood lunch with breathtaking views over the Adriatic and the town’s coastline. It’s the perfect way to break up a sun-soaked beach day with some seriously good food.
Best Beaches South of Monopoli
If you have a rental car, I’d highly encourage you to hop in and head south—this is where you’ll find Monopoli’s best beaches, with hidden coves, soft sand, and some of the cleanest, clearest water in the region.
While the town’s central beaches are lovely, the real gems are scattered along the coastline further down, where the Adriatic feels wilder and untouched. Many of these spots are more local and less crowded, especially outside of peak season, making them ideal for a peaceful beach day away from the hustle of the old town.
Just keep in mind that parking can be limited in some areas, so it’s best to head out early to secure a spot. Whether you’re looking for rocky inlets perfect for snorkeling or long stretches of golden sand, the beaches south of Monopoli are where you’ll find the real magic.
Spiaggia di Porto Ghiacciolo
This is my absolute favorite on this stretch of the Puglian Adriatic coast—Spiaggia di Porto Ghiacciolo – easily the best beach in Monopoli. Just a five-minute drive south of Monopoli, this small yet stunning beach feels like a secret escape, with its golden sand and mesmerizingly clear water.
In the summer months, much of the beach is taken up by a lido, where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, but there’s still a small stretch of free sand for those who arrive early enough. If you can’t snag a spot, you’ll need to spill out onto the rocky headlands, which actually isn’t a bad alternative if you’re comfortable sunbathing on flatter rocks.
What really makes Porto Ghiacciolo special, though, is the Castello di Santo Stefano, the imposing medieval fortress that sits right on the beach. This ancient structure adds an almost cinematic quality to the setting—imagine swimming in bright turquoise waters with a centuries-old castle towering beside you.
It’s the kind of place that feels uniquely Puglian, blending history and nature in a way few beaches do.
Parking tip: There’s an official parking lot for this beach, and during the summer, this is where you’ll need to park. You’ll find it just before the beach entrance, and it costs €5 for the day—a small price to pay for one of the best beach experiences near Monopoli.
Spiaggia di Porto Marzano
Spiaggia di Porto Marzano is one of those beaches that feels like a little slice of paradise—if you catch it at the right time. A short drive south of Monopoli, this beach is known for its golden sand, shallow waters, and a mix of free beach and lido areas. It’s a great choice for families.
The water here is absolutely stunning—clear, calm, and perfect for swimming—but I have to admit, Porto Marzano can be a bit hit or miss depending on the season and the crowds.
I’ve been here on quiet mornings in early summer when it felt like the perfect escape, with just a handful of people and the Adriatic shimmering under the sun. But I’ve also seen it completely packed in August, with sunbeds lined up in every direction and barely a patch of sand left uncovered – all a bit too much for me. If you’re visiting in high season, it’s definitely worth arriving early to claim a good spot.
Spiaggia di Porto Verde
Spiaggia di Porto Verde is one of those tiny, picture-perfect coves that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret spot along the Monopoli coastline. Tucked between rocky cliffs and lush Mediterranean greenery, this small beach has an intimate, almost hidden feel to it. The water is unbelievably clear, with that dreamy shade of turquoise that makes you want to dive in immediately.
What I love about Porto Verde is that it’s not as well-known as some of the other Monopoli beaches, so even in the height of summer, it never feels unbearably crowded. Sure, you’ll get locals who know about it, but that’s part of the charm—it’s not overrun with sunbeds or tourist crowds.
The beach itself is a mix of sand and rocks, with flat limestone ledges that are perfect for sunbathing if you don’t mind skipping the towel-on-the-sand experience.
For Porto Verde park in the paid parking lot here or along Via Procaccia. Remember, blue lines mean paid parking in Puglia, while white lines are free.
Cala Tre Buchi
Cala Tre Buchi is one of Monopoli’s most breathtaking hidden coves, perfect for those who love wild, untouched beaches. There’s no sand here—just limestone cliffs, smooth rock platforms, and three natural inlets filled with stunning turquoise water. It’s an incredible spot for swimming and snorkeling, with deep, refreshing water and natural shade from the cliffs.
This isn’t a beach for sunbathers—there are no sunbeds, no facilities, and no easy access. You’ll need to park here and walk down a rugged path to reach it, but the effort is worth it. Even in peak summer, it stays relatively quiet, mostly visited by locals who know about it.
If you don’t mind rocky terrain and a bit of a trek, Cala Tre Buchi is one of Monopoli’s most spectacular swimming spots. Just bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure.
Cala Sottile
Just south of Porto Ghiacciolo, you’ll find another stunning hidden gem—Cala Sottile. This small cove is nothing short of breathtaking, with incredibly turquoise, crystal-clear water that looks almost surreal on a sunny day.
It’s a more rugged, natural beach, without the lidos or amenities you’ll find at some of the other spots, making it feel a bit more off-the-radar. This is the place if you’re after an unspoiled swimming spot where the water is as clear as a swimming pool.
That said, parking can be tricky. The best place to park is actually at San Stefano Campground, which is the most convenient option, though you may still need to walk a little to reach the beach. Otherwise, you can try finding a space along Contrada Santo Stefano, but it’s limited.
I have to admit, I’ve never been to Cala Sottile in high season, so I can’t say firsthand how busy it gets- I love this cove in September or June. But if the rest of Monopoli’s coastline is anything to go by, I’d guess it fills up quickly, so getting here early is probably a good idea.
Cala Verde
Cala Verde is the Monopoli coastline’s best-kept secret and this is one of my favorite beaches in the Monopoli area. Tucked between rocky cliffs and surrounded by Mediterranean greenery, this tiny cove boasts some of the clearest, most mesmerizing water in the area.
The mix of a small sandy beach and low, flat rocks makes it perfect for both sunbathing and swimming, and the secluded setting adds to its charm.
Unlike other beaches in Monopoli, Cala Verde stays relatively quiet, even in August, and when it does get visitors, they’re mostly locals who know about this hidden gem.
The reason it stays this way? It’s not the easiest beach to reach. You’ll need to park around San Stefano Campground and then walk down to the cove. The short trek helps keep the crowds away, making Cala Verde one of the last truly peaceful spots along this stretch of coastline.
If you’re willing to put in a little extra effort, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful swimming spots in Monopoli.
Top Tip: When visiting the beaches of Monopoli or anywhere in Puglia, do not leave any valuables in your car. In the summer months, thieves operate in the beach parking lots, copy your car’s key, and empty the contents of your car. It’s best to leave your car empty when going to the beach.
Best Beaches North of Monopoli
While the beaches south of Monopoli are more picturesque and pristine, if you are heading north to Bari or Polignano a Mare for a day and want to stop at some beaches along the way, there are a few gems.
The northern coastline tends to be rockier, with dramatic cliffs, pebbly shores, and deep, crystal-clear water—ideal for those who love swimming and snorkeling rather than sandy lounging.
Cala Monaci
The first great beach you reach on Via Marina del Mondo, heading out of Monopoli to the north, is Cala Monaci. This small, rocky cove has incredibly clear water, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Unlike the sandy beaches further south, Cala Monaci has a mix of flat rocks and pebbles, so it’s more suited for those who don’t mind sunbathing on the stone or perching on the cliffs before diving in.
One of the best things about this beach is its easy access on foot from Monopoli. You can reach it by walking along the coastal road, making it a great option if you’re staying in town and want a quick escape to the sea without needing a car.
It’s a popular spot with locals, but it doesn’t get overwhelmingly crowded, especially outside of peak summer. If you’re looking for a simple, scenic swimming spot just outside Monopoli, Cala Monaci is a solid choice.
Spiaggia di Cala Corvino
Spiaggia di Cala Corvino is one of the most well-known beaches north of Monopoli, thanks to its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and secluded feel. It’s a small, sandy cove tucked between limestone walls, creating a stunning natural amphitheater that makes it feel hidden away, even though it’s relatively easy to reach. The beach itself has both free areas and a lido (with a pool), so you can choose between renting a sunbed or simply laying out a towel on the sand.
What makes Cala Corvino special is the water clarity and the rugged scenery. The deep blue sea against the golden cliffs makes for an incredible contrast, and the water is usually calm, perfect for swimming. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling, with plenty of marine life hiding among the rocks.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider swimming or walking north of Cala Corvino, where you’ll find a series of fascinating sea caves, including Grotta della Draga and Grotta della Sirena. These natural rock formations are incredible to explore, with hidden pools, underwater tunnels, and dramatic limestone formations that make for a truly unique experience.
Cala Incine
Lying about halfway between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, is Cala Incine. Cala Incine is one of the most fascinating and off-the-beaten-path beaches north of Monopoli. More of a natural inlet than a traditional beach, this cove is surrounded by rocky cliffs and has an almost fjord-like feel.
The water here is incredibly clear, with shades of deep blue and turquoise, making it a fantastic spot for swimming and snorkeling.
There’s no real sandy area, just one for pebbles and the lack of facilities and tricky access keep it much quieter than other beaches in the area. You’ll need to park near the road and walk down a rocky path to reach the cove, but the effort is well worth it for the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery.
If you’re exploring the northern coast of Monopoli and looking for a wild, untouched swimming spot, Cala Incine is a must-visit. Just be sure to bring water shoes, if you have them, and anything else you might need, as there are no services nearby.
For more on the beaches around Polignano a Mare just north, read Polignano a Mare Beaches: Uncovering the Resort Town’s Top Beaches.
For all the best restaurant recommendations as well as things to do, beaches in Monopoli and beyond, etc, make sure to download my curated, The Puglia Map– the best resource online for travel in Puglia.
Ready to plan your time visiting the best beaches in Monopoli Italy? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.
Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favorite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!
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