Lana Beaches

Overview

Perched on dramatic limestone cliffs along the Adriatic coast, Polignano a Mare is one of Puglia's most picturesque seaside towns. It is famous for its stunning coastline, characterized by rocky coves and crystal-clear turquoise water rather than long, sandy shores. Most of the town's beaches are charming pebble bays, known locally as 'calas', tucked between towering rock walls, offering a unique and breathtaking swimming experience.

The town's most iconic beach is undoubtedly Lama Monachile, the stunning cove that has become a postcard image for the entire region. For a more local atmosphere, Cala Paura offers a series of rocky inlets and platforms just a short walk from the center. Families often seek out the small sandy patch at Spiaggia di Porto Cavallo, one of the few sandy options right near town. Nearby, the historic town of Monopoli also offers a beautiful sandy beach, Cala Porta Vecchia, set against its ancient defensive walls.

While Polignano's in-town beaches are mostly pebbly, those dreaming of expansive white sand can find their paradise with a short drive. Punta Prosciutto is a celebrated destination, often compared to the Caribbean for its fine sand and shallow, clear waters. For a quieter day, the beach near the abbey in the small hamlet of San Vito offers a more tranquil setting. These are just a few highlights, and our complete guide explores many more coves and shores waiting to be discovered along this magnificent stretch of the Puglian coast.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are the beaches in Polignano a Mare sandy or pebbly?

Most beaches in and immediately around Polignano a Mare, including the famous Lama Monachile, are pebble or rocky beaches. These small coves, known locally as 'calas', are characteristic of the area's dramatic cliff-lined coast. If you are looking for sandy beaches, you will need to travel a short distance, with some small sandy spots available at Porto Cavallo and San Vito, or more extensive sandy stretches further south towards Monopoli and the Capitolo area.

Lama Monachile

Spiaggia di Porto Cavallo

Spiaggia San Vito

Can you swim in Polignano a Mare and what is the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim in Polignano a Mare. The water is known for being crystal-clear and clean, earning the area a Blue Flag distinction. The sea is generally warm and pleasant for swimming during the summer months, typically from June to September. Water temperatures in summer can reach up to 29°C (84°F), making it ideal for swimming and water sports. The seabed is often rocky, so some swimmers prefer to wear water shoes.

Is the main beach, Lama Monachile, free to access?

Yes, Lama Monachile (also known as Cala Porto), the iconic beach in the center of Polignano a Mare, is a public beach with free access. However, it is quite small and can get extremely crowded, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. It is recommended to arrive very early in the morning to secure a spot for your towel.

Lama Monachile

What are the best beach alternatives to the crowded Lama Monachile?

If you find Lama Monachile too crowded, there are several other coves and beaches to explore. A short walk or drive away is the small fishing hamlet of San Vito, which has a quieter beach near its abbey. Other nearby options include the small sandy coves of Porto Cavallo and Porto Contessa. For a different experience, Cala Paura offers rocky inlets and wooden platforms popular with locals for sunbathing and diving.

Lama Monachile

Spiaggia San Vito

Spiaggia di Porto Cavallo

Lido Cala Paura

Are there hotels with direct beach access in Polignano a Mare?

Due to the town's cliff-top geography, very few hotels have direct, private beach access in the way a traditional resort might. The town is built on high cliffs above small coves. However, many hotels are located just a short walk from the public beaches. Some high-end resorts outside the main town, particularly along the coast towards Savelletri, have their own private beach clubs for guests.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is Polignano a Mare suitable for a family beach holiday?

Polignano a Mare can be a good destination for families, but it has some challenges. While the town itself is charming, the main beaches are pebbly and access to some, like Lama Monachile, involves steep steps, which can be difficult with strollers. For families with small children seeking sand and easier access, it is often recommended to drive to the nearby sandy beaches in the Capitolo area, south of Monopoli, or the small sandy cove of Porto Cavallo.

Lama Monachile

Spiaggia di Porto Cavallo

How do the beaches in Polignano a Mare compare to Monopoli?

Polignano a Mare is famous for its dramatic, picturesque pebble coves set between high cliffs, like Lama Monachile. Monopoli, just a short train ride away, offers a wider variety of more accessible and extensive sandy beaches, such as Cala Porta Vecchia right by its old town. While Polignano offers breathtaking views, Monopoli is often considered better for a more traditional beach day with more space and sand.

Lama Monachile

Cala Porta Vecchia

Do you need a car to get to the beaches?

You do not need a car to access the main beaches within Polignano a Mare's town center, such as Lama Monachile and Cala Paura, which are easily reachable on foot from the historic center. However, to explore the less crowded sandy beaches or the coastline towards Monopoli and Capitolo, renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and convenience.

Lama Monachile

Lido Cala Paura

People Also Ask

What is a 'lido' and do I have to pay for one?

A 'lido' is an Italian private beach club where you pay an entrance fee to get access to amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, changing rooms, showers, and often a bar or restaurant. While many of Polignano's coves are free public beaches, the larger sandy areas further down the coast towards Monopoli and Savelletri have numerous lidos. Prices can vary significantly, but they offer a more comfortable and serviced beach experience.

When is the best time to visit for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Polignano a Mare is from June to September when the weather is hot and the sea is warm. July and August are the peak months with the warmest water but also the largest crowds and highest prices. For a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer people, consider visiting in June or September.

Is Polignano a Mare a better beach destination than the Amalfi Coast?

Choosing between Polignano a Mare and the Amalfi Coast depends on your preferences. Polignano a Mare offers a more authentic, and often more affordable, Italian beach experience with its charming pebble coves and vibrant town life. The Amalfi Coast is known for its dramatic, vertical landscapes and luxurious atmosphere, but its beaches are also typically small, pebbly, and can be even more crowded and expensive. Puglia is generally considered to have better options for those seeking more spacious, sandy beaches, especially if you explore beyond Polignano itself.