Otranto Beaches

Overview

Otranto is a gem on Puglia's Adriatic coast, celebrated for some of the most beautiful and clean waters in southern Italy. This charming town offers a perfect coastal escape, featuring a diverse shoreline that caters to every preference. Visitors will discover a stunning variety, from the long, white sandy beaches north of the city to the dramatic, rugged cliffs and hidden rocky coves that define the coastline to the south.

Among the must-visit shores, our editor's picks highlight the best of the region. The famous Baia dei Turchi is a breathtaking bay with fine sand and turquoise water, set against a pine forest. For convenience, Spiaggia dei Gradoni is the town's lovely main beach, perfect for a quick swim. Further afield, the expansive Spiaggia Alimini is a popular choice for its golden sands and family-friendly shallow waters, while Torre dell'Orso is an iconic escape known for its crescent-shaped bay and striking sea stacks. For a different experience, the small cove at Porto Badisco offers a charming and more intimate setting embraced by rocks.

Whether you are seeking a lively family beach day or a quiet spot on the rocks, Otranto's coastline provides an ideal backdrop. Its blend of accessible sandy stretches and secluded, scenic bays makes it a standout destination for couples and families alike. For those eager to find even more hidden treasures and tranquil spots, our complete guide offers a longer list of beaches waiting to be explored along this spectacular coast.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are the beaches in Otranto sandy or rocky?

Otranto offers a mix of both sandy and rocky coastlines. To the north of the town, you'll find long stretches of fine, white sandy beaches like Alimini and Baia dei Turchi, which are ideal for families. The coastline south of Otranto is characterized by more rugged, rocky cliffs and hidden coves, such as those at Porto Badisco and Baia delle Orte, which are perfect for snorkeling and exploring.

Spiaggia Alimini

Baia dei Turchi

Porto Badisco Beach

Is it better to stay in Otranto or Gallipoli for beaches?

Choosing between Otranto and Gallipoli depends on your preference. Otranto, on the Adriatic coast, is known for its stunning mix of sandy beaches and dramatic rocky coves with crystal-clear, aqua-blue water, often nicknamed the "Maldives of Italy". The coastline here is considered more rugged and scenic. Gallipoli, on the Ionian coast, is famous for its long stretches of sandy beaches and is known to have more of a party atmosphere.

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

The best time for a beach holiday in Otranto is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. For the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September. July and August are the peak tourist months, which means beaches are very crowded and accommodation prices are higher.

Can you swim in the sea in Otranto?

Yes, absolutely. The sea in Otranto is renowned for its exceptional clarity and beautiful turquoise color, making it ideal for swimming. The town itself has a lovely sandy beach right by the center with shallow water. Additionally, the surrounding area offers numerous bays and coves, both sandy and rocky, that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Are there family-friendly beaches near Otranto?

Yes, the area north of Otranto is particularly great for families. Beaches like Spiaggia Alimini are known for their long stretches of golden sand and shallow, clear waters, making them safe and enjoyable for children. Many of these areas have lidos (beach clubs) that offer amenities like umbrellas, sunbeds, and sometimes even play areas.

Spiaggia Alimini

Do you need a car to get to the beaches around Otranto?

While Otranto has its own beautiful town beach within walking distance of the historic center, a car is highly recommended to explore the most famous beaches like Baia dei Turchi and the Alimini coast. These beaches are located several kilometers outside the town. While some bus services exist, a car offers the most flexibility and convenience for reaching different spots along the coast.

Baia dei Turchi

Spiaggia Alimini

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

In Otranto, like the rest of Italy, you'll find both free public beaches ('spiaggia libera') and private beach clubs called 'lidos'. Free beaches are open to everyone at no cost, but you'll need to bring your own umbrella, towels, and other gear. Lidos are managed establishments where you pay for entry or rent sunbeds and umbrellas for the day. They typically offer amenities like changing rooms, toilets, showers, and a bar or restaurant.

How do you get to Baia dei Turchi?

Baia dei Turchi is located a few kilometers north of Otranto. The most common way to get there is by car. You'll need to park in one of the designated paid parking areas and then walk for about 10-15 minutes through a scenic pine forest path to reach the beach. Some parking lots may offer a shuttle service.

Baia dei Turchi

People Also Ask

Are there any hidden or less crowded beaches near Otranto?

Yes, for a quieter experience, you can explore the rocky coastline south of Otranto. Baia delle Orte is a beautiful, more secluded bay with a rugged coastline, perfect for escaping the crowds. Porto Badisco is another charming and less-frequented small cove. For a truly unique spot, Cala dell'Acquaviva, a small fjord-like inlet near Marittima, offers a refreshing swim away from the main tourist beaches.

Porto Badisco Beach

Cala dell'Acquaviva

Is Otranto a good destination for a couples' holiday?

Otranto is an excellent destination for couples. Its charming historic center, beautiful seafront promenade perfect for sunset strolls ('passeggiata'), and variety of stunning beaches create a romantic atmosphere. Couples can enjoy intimate dinners at waterfront restaurants, explore hidden coves by boat, and relax on some of Italy's most beautiful coastlines.

What are the beaches like right in Otranto town?

Otranto has a convenient and beautiful sandy beach located right next to the historic center, along the promenade. It's known as Spiaggia dei Gradoni or Madonna dell'Altomare beach. The water is typically calm and shallow, making it great for a quick swim. Locals also frequent the concrete platforms along the city walls for sunbathing and accessing the water.

Spiaggia dei Gradoni

Is parking difficult near the beaches in Otranto?

During the peak season of July and August, finding parking near popular beaches can be challenging, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to arrive early in the morning. Most beaches outside the town, like Alimini and Baia dei Turchi, have large paid parking lots, but they can fill up. In Otranto town, there are paid street parking and larger lots near the center.

Spiaggia Alimini

Baia dei Turchi