Itri Beaches

Overview

For travelers seeking an authentic Italian holiday, Itri offers a unique alternative to a typical seaside resort. This charming hill town provides a peaceful, historic base just a short drive from the famed beaches of the Riviera di Ulisse. Rather than waking up to bustling beach crowds, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of a medieval village, all while having the celebrated coastlines of Gaeta and Sperlonga within easy reach. This combination allows for a holiday that blends cultural immersion with classic sun and sand relaxation.

The nearby coastline is renowned for its beautiful, sandy beaches and exceptionally clear waters. A short journey brings you to the iconic Spiaggia di Sperlonga, where the picturesque white town cascades down to the sea. In the larger historic city of Gaeta, Serapo Beach is the main, family-friendly hub, offering convenience and ample space. For a more dramatic and photogenic experience, the cliffside descent to Beach 300 Steps rewards visitors with stunningly clear water, making it a social media favorite.

Beyond these popular spots, the region offers even more to discover. An unforgettable day trip can be made to the island of Ponza to witness the spectacular cliff-backed bay of Chiaia di Luna Beach. These highlights are just a starting point, as the coast between Gaeta and Sperlonga is dotted with numerous other coves and stretches of sand. For more ideas, be sure to explore our longer list of the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Itri a good base for a beach holiday?

Itri is an excellent base for a beach holiday if you prefer staying in a historic, authentic Italian hill town rather than a bustling seaside resort. The town itself is not on the coast, but it's a short 15-20 minute drive to the famous beaches of Sperlonga and Gaeta. Many travelers choose Itri for its charm, tranquility, and often more affordable accommodation, using it as a strategic point to explore the entire Riviera di Ulisse.

Sperlonga Beach

How do you get to the beaches from Itri?

The easiest way to get to the beaches is by car, with a drive of about 15-20 minutes to either Sperlonga or Gaeta. Public transport is also an option; you can take a COTRAL bus. For Sperlonga, you may need to take a bus to Fondi and then another to Sperlonga. For Gaeta, there are more direct bus routes. The nearest major train stations with better bus connections are Formia-Gaeta and Fondi-Sperlonga.

Which is better for beaches, Sperlonga or Gaeta?

Both towns boast stunning Blue Flag beaches with fine sand and clear water, so the choice depends on your preferred atmosphere. Sperlonga is a picturesque, whitewashed village perched on a hill, offering a classic resort-town vibe directly overlooking its beaches. Gaeta is a larger, historic port city with a wider variety of beaches, from the expansive and popular Serapo beach near the town center to more secluded coves.

Serapo Beach

Are the beaches near Itri free, or do you have to pay?

You'll find both free public beaches (spiaggia libera) and private beach clubs (lidi). The lidi offer amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and access to facilities for a daily fee, which can be around €20-€30. While there are free sections, they can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during July and August. Arriving early is key to securing a spot on a free beach in peak season.

What is the water like for swimming?

The seawater at the nearby beaches of Sperlonga and Gaeta is renowned for being exceptionally clean, clear, and calm, consistently earning the prestigious Blue Flag award. The water is generally warm enough for comfortable swimming from June through the autumn months. The seabed shelves gently, making it pleasant for wading and swimming.

Sperlonga Beach

What's the best time of year for a beach trip?

The prime season for a beach holiday near Itri is from late June to late August, when the weather is hottest and the water is warmest. For fewer crowds and pleasant weather, consider visiting in May, June, or September. During these shoulder months, the sea is still swimmable, and you'll have a more relaxed experience.

Is it better to stay in Itri or right on the coast in Sperlonga or Gaeta?

This depends on your holiday style and budget. Staying in Itri offers a more authentic, peaceful experience in a historic town, often with better value for money on accommodation. Staying in Sperlonga or Gaeta puts you directly on the coast with immediate beach access and a livelier evening atmosphere, but it is typically more expensive and crowded during peak season.

What is the '300 Steps Beach' and is it worth it?

The 'Spiaggia dei 300 Gradini' (300 Steps Beach), also known as Arenauta, is a famous beach in Gaeta. It's named for the long staircase you must descend to reach its beautiful golden sand and clear turquoise water. It is absolutely worth the effort for the stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere. Part of the beach is managed by a private club, while other sections are free. Note that a portion of this beach is also known to be naturist-friendly.

Beach 300 Steps