There’s much to see in this gorgeous area of Italy which juts into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Discover the 10 most beautiful beaches in Apulia!

From Gargano to Salento, Apulia is the perfect destination for everyone - from families seeking crystal-clear seas and a slower pace, to groups of friends who want to spend the day on the beach and nights out on the town, and couples desiring an unforgettable hiatus in an enchanting, romantic landscape.

Apulia abounds with fantastic beaches, extraordinary scenery, ancient monuments, art, local traditions, and delicious seafood (but also meat and vegetables). It offers a lively nightlife to those who want it, or the sweet song of cicadas for those who prefer a quieter holiday. The choice is yours!

The 10 most beautiful beaches in Apulia: Gargano

Gargano, the spur of Italy, is the first area you come across when reaching Apulia from the north, and famous for its beautiful ancient towns, mountainous inland area and fine sandy beaches like those in the Manfredonia Gulf. The coast is characterized by high, rugged cliffs with beautiful caves, ravines and picturesque coves, some accessible only by sea. Vieste, 

the most popular and fashionable destination in Gargano, is a medieval village made up ​​of narrow streets and white houses dominated by a 13th century castle.

Before arriving in Vieste, it’s worth stopping off at the famous Mattinata beach (1). Nicknamed “Gargano’s white butterfly”, it’s set against a small hill covered with olive groves and almond trees - like a white butterfly on a flower.

Don’t miss the beautiful Baia delle Zagare (2) with its famous faraglioni rock formations just a few meters from the shore. Along this stretch of coast, there are also many caves, such as the Grotta dei Sogni, Grotta dei Pipistrelli and Grotta dei Contrabbandieri.

A few miles off the Gargano coast are the wild Tremiti Islands and marine reserve. The inland area also deserves a mention for the lovely Gargano National Park.

The 10 most beautiful beaches in Apulia: Salento

Arriving at the heel of Italy, we come to the popular Salento area, where the beaches are named after precious stones. An impressive number of Blue Flags have been awarded to the beaches in recent years, a testament to their beauty and careful preservation.

From the Alto Salento area on the Ionian coast, we come to Porto Cesareo and the Punta Prosciutto dunes (3). Up to 8 meters high, they are covered with Mediterranean vegetation and flank miles of breathtaking beaches, most of which are free.

Also of note are the coastal towers, Torre Lapillo and Torre Chianca, bordering the beautiful Torre Lapillo beach (4) with its pure white sand.

Next, we reach Pescoluse beach (5) - the Maldives of Salento - characterised by fine white sand, shallow waters and small islands emerging from the sea where dunes are covered with acacia trees and white lilies. Then, Porto Selvaggio (6), a park with woodland and rocky inlets and untouched coves.

Before arriving at Apulia’s tip, Santa Maria di Leuca, you’ll come to beautiful Gallipoli and Baia Verde beach (7). Gallipoli is home to some of the most famous beach clubs in all of Salento, well-known for their vibrant nightlife and happy hours.

Heading northwards from the Adriatic coast, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Acquaviva Marittima where the cool temperature is owed to an underground spring, and then discover the magic of Porto Badisco beach (8). According to legend, Aeneas landed at the heavenly Baia dei Turchi (9) in Otranto, a strip of fine white sand bordered by Mediterranean vegetation. Head on to Torre dell’Orso and Due Sorelle beach (10) where two beautiful rock formations have been immortalised in countless postcards along with the 16th century coastal tower. This area is also popular for its Salento Reggae clubs.

Whichever beach you choose, there are magical farmhouses and ancient trulli just a few kilometers away. Nestled in the tranquility of the countryside, Apulia’s traditional agriturismi are surrounded by wheat fields, olive groves and vineyards that produce robust wines loved throughout Italy and beyond. Take advantage of special offers and last minute deals: you can’t go wrong.