Chiaia di Luna Beach is a renowned destination situated on the island of Ponza, Italy. This beach is characterized by its unique semi-circular shape, reminiscent of a half moon, from which it derives its name, Chiaia di Luna. The beach is further distinguished by its stunningly high cliffs of white tuff rock that reach up to 100 meters, providing a dramatic backdrop to the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Historically, Chiaia di Luna Beach was frequented by the Greeks and Romans due to its natural harbor, protected from the winds. The Romans even constructed a tunnel that connected the beach to the inland areas. However, the beach has been closed since 2001 because of safety concerns related to landslides caused by the fragile tuff rock. There have been at least two more landslides since the initial closure, one in 2015 and another in 2018, which have further endangered the beach and the access tunnel.
Despite the closure, Chiaia di Luna Beach continues to be a popular site for locals and tourists alike. The beach can be admired from a distance for its fragile beauty, particularly at sunset when the setting sun casts a golden glow over the landscape. A popular activity is to walk to an ascending hill that plateaus to a small piazza overlooking the beach and the teal glass waters. This provides an exciting aerial perspective of the beach.
Access to Chiaia di Luna Beach is currently limited. Traditionally, it could be reached either by sailing to it by boat or by accessing it via land through the Roman-built tunnel. However, access to the beach is now prohibited, and boats are required to keep a distance of at least 200 meters. The only way to reach the beach now is by private boat or by joining one of the boat tours that circumnavigate the island.
Ponza Island faces challenges with limited connections to the mainland and inadequate transportation services on the island. These challenges may impact tourism on the island, including visits to Chiaia di Luna Beach. Efforts are underway to address these issues, with the local government working with experts to find a solution to reopen the beach while ensuring the highest level of safety and decorum in the accessible bathing areas.
