Diano Marina Beaches

Overview

Diano Marina is a standout destination on the Italian Riviera, celebrated for its extensive coastline of fine, golden sand. Unlike many rocky Ligurian shores, its beaches feature a gently sloping seabed, creating calm, shallow waters perfect for relaxed swimming and family holidays. This welcoming environment, combined with the clear, Blue Flag-awarded sea, makes it a top choice for visitors seeking a classic and comfortable beach experience.

The shoreline offers something for every type of beachgoer. For families seeking a safe and tranquil environment, Bagni Lido is an excellent choice with its protected, sandy shores. For those seeking a memorable day trip, the iconic cove of Baia dei Saraceni is famed for its crystal-clear water and stunning natural scenery. A truly unique experience awaits at Balzi Rossi, where you can swim at the base of cliffs that house prehistoric caves near the French border.

Beyond these highlights, the main beach of Diano Marina itself stretches for over three kilometers, presenting a vibrant mix of private beach clubs and free public areas. This ensures that whether you prefer the full-service comfort of a rented sunbed or the simple freedom of laying your own towel on the sand, you can find your ideal spot. For a complete look at all the coves and shores awaiting you, explore our full guide to the best beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are the beaches in Diano Marina sandy or pebbly?

Diano Marina is well-known for its long stretch of fine, golden sandy beaches. The coastline extends for over 3.5 kilometers and the seabed has a gentle slope, which is different from many other Ligurian beaches that can be rocky or drop off steeply. This makes the water relatively shallow and calm near the shore.

Is Diano Marina good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Diano Marina is considered an excellent destination for families. The beaches have fine sand and shallow, calm waters, making them safe for children. Many beach clubs (bagni) and hotels offer family-focused amenities, including play areas, entertainment, and kid-friendly menus. The town itself has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with a pleasant promenade for strolling.

Are there free public beaches in Diano Marina, or do you have to pay?

Diano Marina has a mix of private beach clubs (stabilimenti balneari or bagni) where you pay to rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and a few free public beaches (spiagge libere). While the majority of the coastline is managed by private establishments, there are designated free sections. Some of these free beaches also offer the option to rent equipment (spiagge libere attrezzate).

How does Diano Marina's beach compare to Alassio's?

Both Diano Marina and Alassio are famous for their sandy beaches, a relative rarity in Liguria. Diano Marina's beach is known for being wide with a very gently sloping seabed, making it feel spacious and particularly good for small children. Alassio also has a beautiful sandy beach that is directly integrated with its lively town and famous 'budello' (narrow shopping street), but some find the beach itself to be narrower.

Alassio

Are there hotels right on the beach in Diano Marina?

Yes, Diano Marina has numerous hotels located directly on the seafront, offering private beach access to their guests. Many of these hotels include the price of a sunbed and umbrella at their private beach area in the room rate. There are also many other hotels and apartments just a short walk from the main promenade and beaches.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Can you swim in the sea at Diano Marina and what is the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim in the sea at Diano Marina. The water is known for being clear and calm, especially during the summer months, and has been awarded the Blue Flag for its excellent quality. The seabed slopes very gently, so the water remains shallow for a good distance from the shore, which is ideal for relaxed swimming and for families.

What's the best time of year for a beach holiday in Diano Marina?

The best time for a beach-focused holiday in Diano Marina is from June to September. During these months, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming. July and August are the peak months with the most visitors and the highest temperatures. For a quieter experience with pleasant weather, consider visiting in June or early September.

How do you get to the beaches if your hotel isn't in the center?

Getting around Diano Marina is relatively easy. The town is quite walkable, and the main beach is parallel to the central promenade. For those staying further out, particularly in the hills, some hotels and campsites offer free shuttle bus services to the beach and town center. Local buses also connect the surrounding areas and nearby towns.