Roccaraso Beaches

Overview

Many travelers are surprised to learn that Roccaraso is a famous mountain resort, not a coastal town. Nestled high in the Apennine Mountains, it is one of central Italy's premier ski destinations. However, the beautiful Adriatic Sea is just an hour-and-a-half drive away, making a day trip to the beach a very popular summer activity for visitors looking to combine the fresh mountain air with a dose of sun and sand.

The region’s coastline, known as the Costa dei Trabocchi, offers a remarkable variety of beaches. You can explore the protected nature reserve at Spiaggia di Punta Aderci or admire the stunning white cliffs at Spiaggia dei Ripari di Giobbe. For a classic resort experience with golden sand and plenty of amenities, Spiaggia di Vasto Marina is an excellent choice. Meanwhile, Spiaggia di San Vito Chietino provides the iconic view of the trabocchi, the coast's unique wooden fishing platforms.

Roccaraso is an ideal base for a holiday that blends mountain adventures with relaxing coastal excursions. While it isn't suited for those who wish to spend every day by the sea, it offers a perfect mix of hiking, local cuisine, and easy access to the water. For more options, from lively local favorites to quiet coves, see our complete guide to the best beaches within reach of Roccaraso.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches in Roccaraso?

No, Roccaraso is a well-known ski resort town located high in the Apennine Mountains and does not have any beaches. It is a popular destination for winter sports and summer hiking. The nearest coastline, the Adriatic Sea, is a significant drive away.

How far is Roccaraso from the sea?

Roccaraso is approximately 60-70 kilometers (about 37-43 miles) from the nearest beaches on the Adriatic coast. The drive typically takes around one hour to one hour and thirty minutes, depending on the specific beach destination and traffic.

What are the closest beaches to Roccaraso?

The closest beaches to Roccaraso are along the Costa dei Trabocchi in the province of Chieti. Popular options include the beaches at Fossacesia Marina, San Vito Chietino, and the wider sandy shores of Vasto Marina. These are all located on the Adriatic coast.

Spiaggia di Vasto Marina

Can you do a day trip to the beach from Roccaraso?

Yes, a day trip to the Adriatic coast is a popular summer activity for those staying in Roccaraso. With a drive of about an hour and a half, it's possible to spend a full day at beaches like those on the Costa dei Trabocchi and return to the cooler mountain air in the evening.

Are there hotels with pools in Roccaraso?

Yes, to compensate for the distance from the sea, many hotels and some vacation rentals in Roccaraso offer swimming pools. This allows visitors to enjoy swimming and relaxing in the water within the mountain setting, especially during the warm summer months.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is Roccaraso a good base for a beach holiday?

Roccaraso is an excellent base if you want to combine a mountain holiday with occasional beach trips. It is not ideal if you want to spend every day at the beach, due to the 60-90 minute drive to the coast. It's perfect for travelers who enjoy hiking, fresh mountain air, and local cuisine, with the beach as a day-trip option.

What is the Costa dei Trabocchi?

The Costa dei Trabocchi (Trabocchi Coast) is the name for the stretch of the Adriatic coastline in the Abruzzo region. It is famous for its unique wooden fishing platforms, called 'trabocchi,' built on stilts over the sea. Many of these have been converted into distinctive seafood restaurants. The coastline features a mix of pebble coves and sandy beaches.

Which is better for families: the beaches near Vasto or near Ortona?

For families with small children, Vasto Marina is often recommended as it features a wide, long, sandy beach with shallow water and many beach clubs (stabilimenti) offering amenities like umbrellas, chairs, and playgrounds. The beaches near Ortona, such as Ripari di Giobbe, are often pebble beaches in more dramatic, natural settings which might be preferred by those with older children or who want a quieter experience.

Spiaggia di Vasto Marina

Spiaggia dei Ripari di Giobbe

Can you combine skiing and a beach trip in the same holiday?

In the late spring, typically around April, it is sometimes possible to ski in Roccaraso in the morning and visit the coast in the afternoon on the same day. This unique 'ski and sea' experience is a special feature of the Abruzzo region, though it depends heavily on seasonal snow and weather conditions.

What is the water like for swimming on the coast near Roccaraso?

The Adriatic Sea on the coast accessible from Roccaraso is known for being very clean, with many beaches earning Blue Flag status. The water is generally calm and warm, especially in the summer months, with temperatures reaching comfortable levels for swimming from late spring to early autumn. Water depth can vary, with sandy beaches like Vasto Marina offering shallow entry, while pebble beaches can get deep more quickly.

Spiaggia di Vasto Marina

How do you get to the coast from Roccaraso without a car?

Traveling from Roccaraso to the coast without a car is challenging and time-consuming. It typically involves taking a bus or train from Roccaraso to a larger hub like Sulmona or Pescara, and then connecting to another bus or train service to reach coastal towns. Renting a car is by far the most convenient and common way to make the trip.

What is there to do in Roccaraso in the summer besides going to the beach?

Summer in Roccaraso is very active, even without the beach. The main attractions are hiking and mountain biking through the trails of the Majella National Park and the surrounding mountains. Other popular activities include horseback riding, visiting the adventure park (Parco Avventura), and exploring the historic neighboring towns of Pescocostanzo and Rivisondoli.