Parghelia Beaches

Overview

Parghelia, nestled on Calabria's stunning Costa degli Dei, is an excellent destination for a memorable beach holiday. This charming area is known for its beautiful stretches of golden or white sand and exceptionally clear turquoise waters. The coastline is adorned with striking rock formations, offering a picturesque and often more tranquil retreat compared to bustling nearby Tropea.

Discover gems like Spiaggia Michelino, a true scenic paradise renowned for its breathtaking cliffs and crystal-clear sea. The main town beach, Spiaggia Parghelia, is easily reached and recognized by its iconic 'Pizzuta' rock. Nearby, the world-famous Tropea Beach beckons with its celebrated beauty, highlighting that Parghelia offers access to similarly stunning shores.

The waters around Parghelia are typically very clear, making them ideal for swimming and snorkeling near impressive rock features. Beyond these editor's picks, Parghelia's coast offers more coves and sandy stretches detailed in our longer list of beaches. Its location also makes Parghelia a superb starting point for exploring the entire Costa degli Dei.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What are the beaches in Parghelia like? Is the water clear?

Parghelia's beaches, part of the Costa degli Dei, are known for their beauty, often featuring golden or white sand, clear turquoise waters, and striking rock formations. The water is generally very clear, making it excellent for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery. Some famous spots include Michelino Beach and La Pizzuta.

Spiaggia Michelino

Is Parghelia a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Parghelia is considered an excellent destination for a beach holiday, offering beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a charming atmosphere. It's a modern tourist center with various accommodation options and is often seen as a slightly quieter alternative to nearby Tropea, while still providing access to the stunning Costa degli Dei.

How do Parghelia's beaches compare to Tropea's beaches?

Parghelia is very close to Tropea (about 2 km) and shares similarly beautiful sea and coastline characteristics. Tropea is generally more famous and can be busier. Parghelia offers a slightly more tranquil experience while still providing access to stunning beaches like Michelino, which is often compared favorably to Tropea's offerings.

Spiaggia Michelino

Tropea Beach

Are Parghelia's beaches suitable for families with children?

Some beaches in Parghelia, like Vardano, are well-suited for families due to their easier access, calmer waters, and amenities. However, other beaches, such as the renowned Michelino, require descending a significant number of stairs, which might be challenging for families with very young children or strollers. It's good to check the accessibility of specific beaches.

Spiaggia Michelino

Are there accommodations directly on the beach in Parghelia?

Parghelia offers various accommodations, including hotels and B&Bs, some of which are located very close to the sea or offer sea views and easy beach access. Some luxury hotels have private beach areas. It's best to check specific hotel locations and amenities.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is the best time of year to visit Parghelia for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Parghelia is typically from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water temperature is pleasant for swimming. July and August are the peak months and can be more crowded. For fewer crowds, consider June or September.

How do you get to Michelino Beach in Parghelia, and is there parking?

Michelino Beach is accessible via a stradina (small road) and then a staircase of about 210-240 steps. You can reach the top of the stairs by car or on foot from Parghelia town. Parking can be limited, especially in peak season, with some options along the main road or in the town itself. It's advisable to arrive early or be prepared to walk.

Spiaggia Michelino

Are there free public beaches in Parghelia, or are they all private lidos?

Parghelia offers a mix of free public beaches (spiagge libere) and private lidos where you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds. For example, the famous Michelino Beach is a free beach. Other beaches may have sections managed by lidos and free areas.

Spiaggia Michelino

People Also Ask

Can you swim and snorkel at Parghelia's beaches? What is the sea like?

Yes, the sea in Parghelia is excellent for swimming and snorkeling due to its clarity and the presence of rock formations that attract marine life. The water is typically calm, especially during the summer months, with beautiful shades of blue and turquoise.

Are there any hidden or less crowded beaches in Parghelia?

While Michelino is well-known, Parghelia has other coves and stretches like Vardano or La Grazia that might be less crowded, especially outside peak season. Exploring the coastline can reveal quieter spots. Some smaller coves might be accessible by boat or via less obvious paths.

Spiaggia Michelino

What kind of sand do Parghelia beaches have?

Most beaches in Parghelia feature fine, golden or white sand. Some areas might have a mix of sand and small pebbles, particularly at the water's edge. Michelino Beach, for instance, is known for its white sand.

Spiaggia Michelino

Is Parghelia a good base for exploring the Costa degli Dei?

Yes, Parghelia's location makes it a good base for exploring other towns and beaches along the Costa degli Dei, including Tropea, Capo Vaticano, and Zambrone. Its proximity to Tropea (just 2km) is particularly convenient.

What are the 'scogli' or rock formations like at Parghelia's beaches?

Parghelia's coastline is characterized by impressive granite rock formations, often called 'scogli'. Famous examples include 'La Pizzuta' with its granite pinnacles and the 'Scoglio del Palombaro'. These formations add to the scenic beauty and are great for snorkeling around.

Is it easy to get to Parghelia's beaches by public transport?

Parghelia has a train station that is conveniently located close to some of its main beaches, like Michelino, which is within walking distance (though it involves stairs). This makes accessing some beaches by train feasible. Buses also serve the area, connecting to nearby towns.

Spiaggia Michelino

Are there any specific local tips for visiting Parghelia's beaches?

For popular beaches like Michelino, especially in July and August, arrive early to find parking and a good spot. Wear comfortable shoes for accessing beaches with stairs or paths. Bring your own water and snacks for free beaches like Michelino, as facilities might be limited. Exploring by boat can also reveal more secluded coves.

Spiaggia Michelino