Anacapri Beaches

Overview

Anacapri offers a distinctly different coastal experience from the rest of the island. Visitors should know that there are no sandy beaches here; instead, the shoreline is a dramatic landscape of rocky coves and sheer cliffs. This unique setting is perfect for those who prefer breathtaking scenery and swimming in deep, clear blue waters over traditional sandy shores. The experience involves sunbathing on rock platforms and accessing the sea via ladders, appealing to confident swimmers and adventurers.

The two primary areas for swimming in Anacapri are Punta Carena and Gradola. At Punta Carena, you will find the premier beach club, Lido del Faro, which offers a full-service experience and is one of the island's best spots to watch the sunset. Near the famous Blue Grotto is Gradola, a popular public area with rocky terraces for sunbathing. While Anacapri provides this rugged charm, those seeking pebble beaches can find them in Capri town at spots like the iconic Marina Piccola or the family-friendly Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio.

Ultimately, Anacapri is the ideal choice for a more tranquil and laid-back holiday, away from the bustling crowds of Capri town. It provides a serene environment for visitors who appreciate a more natural and rugged seaside setting. For those wanting to explore beyond the main swimming spots, our comprehensive guide details more locations, including hidden coves and other unique coastal points around the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are there any sandy beaches in Anacapri?

No, there are no sandy beaches in Anacapri. The coastline is characterized by rocky coves and cliffs. Swimming is done by diving off the rocks or using ladders to enter the deep water. The main swimming areas are near the Blue Grotto and at Punta Carena, home to a large lighthouse.

Can you swim for free in Anacapri?

Yes, there are free public areas for swimming in Anacapri. One of the most popular is Gradola, located near the Blue Grotto, which has rocky terraces for sunbathing. Another option is at Punta Carena, near the lighthouse, where you can lay a towel on the rocks. However, space at these free spots is limited.

What are the beach clubs in Anacapri like?

The beach clubs in Anacapri, such as Lido del Faro at Punta Carena and Il Riccio near the Blue Grotto, are built on rocky platforms. They offer amenities like sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, and sometimes saltwater pools. They provide a more comfortable, albeit pricier, way to enjoy the sea, with direct ladder access into the water.

Lido del Faro

Is Anacapri good for a family beach holiday?

Anacapri's beaches are generally not ideal for families with young children due to the rocky coastline and deep water. The beaches in Capri town, like Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, have pebbles and shallower water, making them more suitable for kids. Anacapri itself is considered family-friendly due to its quieter atmosphere and pedestrian areas.

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

How do you get to the beaches from Anacapri town?

To reach the swimming areas at Punta Carena (Faro) and the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) from the center of Anacapri, you can take a local bus. Each location is about a 10-15 minute ride on separate bus routes. Taxis are also available.

Which is better for beaches, Anacapri or Capri?

Capri town has the island's only traditional (though pebbly, not sandy) beaches, such as Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, which are better for families. Anacapri offers a different experience with its rocky coves and beach clubs built on cliffs, which are favored by those seeking dramatic scenery and deep-water swimming.

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

What is the best time of year to visit Anacapri's beaches?

The best months for a beach trip to Anacapri are May, June, and September. During this time, the weather is pleasant, the sea is warm enough for swimming, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak months of July and August. Many hotels and restaurants may be closed from late October to Easter.

Can you watch the sunset from the beaches in Anacapri?

Yes, the Punta Carena lighthouse area on the southwestern tip of the island is one of the best spots on Capri to watch the sunset. The sun sets directly over the sea here, and you can enjoy the view from the public rocks or one of the adjacent snack bars or beach clubs.

People Also Ask

Are the beaches in Anacapri crowded?

The free public swimming areas in Anacapri, like Gradola and the rocks at Punta Carena, can get very crowded, especially during the peak summer months of July and August, as space is limited. The private beach clubs offer a less crowded experience but come at a cost.

What is swimming at Gradola like?

Gradola, near the Blue Grotto, is not a beach but a rocky stretch of coast. You can sunbathe on the rocks and enter the deep, clean water via ladders. It's a popular spot for adults and strong swimmers and has been awarded a Blue Flag for its water quality. There are beach clubs and restaurants nearby.

Do I need to make reservations for the beach clubs in Anacapri?

Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations for beach clubs like Lido del Faro, especially during the high season. Some popular clubs require reservations that include both a sun lounger and a lunch booking. It's best to book in advance to secure a spot.

Lido del Faro

Is Anacapri a good destination for a relaxing beach holiday?

Anacapri is known for being quieter and more laid-back than the bustling Capri town, making it a good choice for a relaxing holiday. While it lacks sandy beaches, its scenic rocky coves and beach clubs offer a unique and often tranquil setting for sunbathing and swimming, away from the main tourist crowds.

What is the water like for swimming in Anacapri?

The water around Anacapri is known for being exceptionally clear, clean, and deep. Both the Punta Carena and Gradola areas have received the Blue Flag certification for water quality. Because the coast is rocky, the seabed is deep right from the shore, making it excellent for diving and swimming for confident swimmers.

Are there any hidden gem beaches in Anacapri?

While Anacapri's main swimming spots at the Blue Grotto and Punta Carena are well-known, the entire coastline offers a rugged beauty. Locals often find more secluded spots along the rocky shores. For a truly hidden experience, consider hiring a private boat to explore small, unnamed coves that are only accessible from the sea.

What should I bring for a beach day in Anacapri?

Since Anacapri's beaches are rocky, it's essential to bring water shoes for navigating the terrain. You'll also want a thick towel or a padded mat for comfort if you plan to sunbathe on the public rocks. As with any beach day, sunscreen, a hat, and water are must-haves. If you're not at a beach club, consider packing your own snacks and drinks.