Campania, Italy

Napoli Beaches

Overview

Naples is a city deeply connected to the sea, but it offers a different kind of beach holiday. Rather than a traditional resort town, it serves as a fantastic base for exploring a diverse coastline. The immediate area presents a mix of volcanic rock coves and small, sandy patches, providing varied experiences for those looking to swim. This unique setting allows visitors to combine world-class culture and history with refreshing dips in the Mediterranean.

The variety of coastal spots is one of Naples' greatest strengths. For a truly unique swim, you can visit Bagni della Regina Giovanna, a secluded pool surrounded by ancient Roman ruins. In the city's Posillipo neighborhood, the protected marine reserve of Spiaggia della Gaiola is a local favorite, offering clear waters perfect for snorkeling. For ultimate convenience, Mappatella Beach provides a central spot for a spontaneous swim. Many visitors also take a day trip to the iconic Positano Spiaggia for the quintessential Amalfi Coast view, while hikers can discover the pristine nature of Baia di Ieranto.

Beyond these highlights, the region is dotted with numerous other coastal gems, from free public shores to private beach clubs. For those craving long stretches of sand, beaches like Miseno are just a short journey from the city center. Whether you prefer a rocky cove with historical significance or a vibrant, classic beach scene, Naples provides a gateway to it all. Explore our full guide to discover the perfect Neapolitan beach for your trip.

FAQ

Is Naples a good destination for a beach holiday?

While Naples is a city on the sea, it's not a traditional beach resort destination. The city itself has very few sandy beaches directly within its limits. However, it serves as an excellent base for a beach holiday. There are several small beaches, rocky coves, and beach clubs in the Posillipo neighborhood, and more expansive sandy beaches are just a short train or bus ride away in areas like the Phlegraean Fields. For a classic beach experience, many visitors take day trips to the nearby islands of Ischia, Procida, or the famous Amalfi Coast.

Can you swim in the sea in Naples?

Yes, you can swim in the sea in and around Naples. In recent years, water quality has improved, and several city beaches have been declared suitable for swimming. Popular spots for a dip within the city include the rocky shores and clear waters of the Posillipo area, such as at the Gaiola Underwater Park and Marechiaro. The most central city beach, Mappatella Beach, is also an option for a quick swim, though the water may not be as clear as in other spots due to its proximity to the port.

Are there free public beaches in Naples?

Yes, there are free public beaches (spiagge libere) in and around Naples. In the city, the most central one is Mappatella Beach at the Rotonda Diaz. In the Posillipo area, you can find free access to rocky swimming spots like the Scoglione di Marechiaro and the protected Gaiola beach, though Gaiola requires a free online reservation to manage visitor numbers. Further out, the beaches at Miseno, Miliscola, and Lucrino also have free sections alongside private beach clubs.

What are the beaches in Naples like, sandy or rocky?

Naples offers a mix of both sandy and rocky beaches. Within the city, you'll find small sandy stretches like Mappatella Beach and those at Bagno Elena in Posillipo. However, many of the most beautiful and clean swimming spots in the city, like Marechiaro and Gaiola, are rocky coves or volcanic tuff platforms. For long, classic sandy beaches, you'll need to travel slightly outside the city center to places like Miseno and Miliscola in the Phlegraean Fields.

How do you get to the beaches in Posillipo from the city center?

To reach the beaches in the Posillipo neighborhood from Naples' historic center or central station, you can take public transport. A common route is to take bus 151 from Piazza Garibaldi and then change to bus 140 at Piazza Vittoria. Bus 140 runs along the coast towards Posillipo, with stops near key access points like Palazzo Donn'Anna (for Bagno Elena and Bagno Sirena) and the descent to Gaiola Park. Taxis are also a convenient, though more expensive, option.

Is it better to go to the Amalfi Coast or stay in Naples for beaches?

Choosing between Naples and the Amalfi Coast depends on your holiday style. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its picturesque, albeit often pebbly, beaches and charming seaside towns like Positano and Amalfi, making it ideal for a romantic or purely beach-focused trip. Naples offers a more urban experience with incredible history, food, and culture, serving as a convenient base to visit a variety of beaches, including sandy ones and those on the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida. Getting to the Amalfi Coast from Naples is straightforward via train and bus or by ferry.

Do I need to book to go to Gaiola beach?

Yes, access to the swimming area at Gaiola Beach is free but requires an online reservation. Because the beach is part of a protected marine park, visitor numbers are limited to preserve the environment. You must book a time slot (usually morning or afternoon) on the official website for the Gaiola Underwater Park. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, as spots fill up quickly.

What is the difference between a free beach and a 'lido'?

In Naples, like the rest of Italy, you'll find both free beaches ('spiaggia libera') and private beach clubs known as 'lidi' or 'stabilimenti balneari'. Free beaches are open to the public at no cost, but they typically have no facilities like sunbeds, umbrellas, changing rooms, or toilets. A lido is a private business where you pay an entrance fee, which usually includes the rental of a sunbed and umbrella, and gives you access to amenities like bars, restaurants, showers, and restrooms.

People Also Ask

Are the beaches near Naples family-friendly?

Yes, there are several family-friendly beaches near Naples. Bagno Elena in Posillipo is a popular choice due to its sandy shore and shallow, calm waters. The long sandy beaches of Miseno and Miliscola are also great for families, offering plenty of space to play. For a full-fledged family beach destination, the nearby island of Ischia is highly recommended, with large, sandy beaches like Spiaggia di Citara and Spiaggia della Chiaia that have gentle slopes into the sea.

When is the best time of year to swim in Naples?

The main swimming season in Naples runs from June to September, when the sea temperature is warmest and most pleasant. You can often swim comfortably in May and October as well, though the water will be cooler. July and August are the hottest and most crowded months. For a balance of warm water and fewer crowds, June and September are often considered the ideal months for a beach holiday in the Naples area.

What is Marechiaro and is it a good place for swimming?

Marechiaro is a small, historic fishing village within the Posillipo district of Naples, famous for its charm and clear waters. It's an excellent place for swimming, though it doesn't have a traditional sandy beach. The most popular spot is the 'Scoglione,' a large, flat rock platform that you reach via a short boat ride from the village. The water here is generally very clean, and it offers a more rugged, local swimming experience away from crowded beach clubs.

Are there beaches with a view of Mount Vesuvius?

Yes, many beaches and swimming spots in and around Naples offer spectacular views of Mount Vesuvius across the bay. The beaches in Posillipo, such as Bagno Elena and Bagno Sirena, provide beautiful views of the volcano. From the city's central waterfront and Mappatella Beach, you can also see Vesuvius looming in the distance. Further afield, the beaches along the coast towards Portici-Ercolano have direct and dramatic views.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Napoli: Weather Today

πŸ“… Sunday, July 27, 2025
It's a fine day to visit the beach in Napoli. The maximum air temperature will be 28.5 Β°C, perfect for enjoying the sun. The sea temperature is a comfortable 26.8 Β°C, and the waves are moderate. There's no rain expected, so you can leave your umbrella at home. The wind will be moderate, but occasional strong gusts are possible. With a UV index of 7.85, make sure to apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin. The sky will have some clouds, so you can expect a mix of sun and shade throughout the day.
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Air

Low / High21Β°C/28.5Β°C
Feels Like (High)29.6Β°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature26.8 Β°C
Wave Height0.9 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:54/20:23
Sunshine Hours12.9 hrs
UV Index7.85
Cloud Cover37%
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Wind

Speed16.9 km/h
Gusts41.8 km/h
DirectionW

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