Lombardy, Italy

San Felice del Benaco Beaches

Overview

San Felice del Benaco is a delightful haven on the western shores of Lake Garda, offering a serene and relaxing holiday for families and couples. It provides a quieter alternative to the lake's more bustling towns, with a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. The beaches here are characterized by pebbles and gravel, not sand, and the clear, clean water is wonderful for swimming. This corner of Lombardy is defined by its laid-back charm, making it an excellent choice for a lakeside escape.

The area's coastline features some of Lake Garda's most beautiful spots. For picture-perfect scenery, Baia del Vento is famous for its stunning views of the lake and mountains. Nearby, Spiaggia Pisenze offers a wilder, more natural setting for those looking to escape into nature. For a quieter moment, the sheltered cove at Spiaggia Porto provides a peaceful retreat. A worthwhile boat trip away is the iconic Jamaica Beach in Sirmione, known for its unique underwater rock slabs that create a truly memorable swimming experience.

Beyond these highlights, other charming spots like Spiaggia Gardiola are often favored by families for their calm waters. While the historic town center sits peacefully on a hill, a pleasant walk brings you down to these beautiful lakeside shores. With its mix of tranquil coves and scenic vistas, San Felice del Benaco is a perfect base for relaxation and for exploring the many other beaches detailed in our guide.

FAQ

Is San Felice del Benaco a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, San Felice del Benaco is an excellent choice for a relaxing beach holiday, particularly for families and couples. It offers several public pebble beaches with clear water and beautiful scenery, providing a quieter alternative to the more crowded towns on Lake Garda.

Are the beaches in San Felice sandy or pebbly?

The vast majority of beaches in and around San Felice del Benaco are pebble or gravel beaches, not sandy. It is highly recommended to bring water shoes for comfort, both for walking on the shore and for entering the lake.

Can you swim in the lake at San Felice del Benaco?

Absolutely. The water at the beaches of San Felice is known for being very clean and clear, making it ideal for swimming. The water temperature is most comfortable for swimming from June to early September.

Which is the best beach for families in San Felice?

Spiaggia Porto San Felice and Spiaggia Gardiola are often recommended for families. They are easily accessible, have calm waters, and offer amenities like pedal boat rentals and nearby cafes. Baia del Vento is another great option with more space and facilities, including a pizzeria.

Are there hotels or campsites with direct beach access in San Felice?

Yes, San Felice has several accommodation options located directly on the lake. There are campsites like Camping Fornella and Camping Europa Silvella that have their own private beach areas, as well as some hotels and residences offering direct access to the shore.

Are the beaches in San Felice del Benaco free to access?

Yes, the main beaches like Spiaggia Gardiola, Porto San Felice, and Baia del Vento are public and free to enter. You will, however, have to pay for optional services like renting sun loungers and umbrellas.

How does San Felice compare to SalΓ² for a holiday?

San Felice is generally considered quieter and more relaxed, with a small-town, family-friendly feel. SalΓ² is a larger, more elegant town with a long promenade, more shopping, and a livelier evening atmosphere. Your choice depends on whether you prefer tranquility or a more bustling environment.

Is it easy to find parking near the beaches?

Parking can be a challenge, especially during the peak season of July and August. Most beaches have paid parking areas, but they can fill up quickly. It is advisable to arrive early in the day or consider walking or cycling from your accommodation.

People Also Ask

What is the vibe like in San Felice? Is it a party town?

San Felice del Benaco has a relaxed, quiet, and family-friendly atmosphere. It is not a party town. The evenings are peaceful, centered around local restaurants and lakeside strolls rather than late-night clubs.

Can I visit the beach on Isola del Garda?

No, you cannot freely access the beaches on Isola del Garda. The island is privately owned, and access is only possible through pre-booked guided tours that focus on the villa and its gardens, not on beach activities. You can admire its beauty from the water on a boat trip.

How do you get to the beaches from the town center of San Felice?

The main beaches are not located in the historic town center, which sits on a hill. Reaching the port areas (Porto San Felice, Porto Portese) and their beaches requires a 15-30 minute walk downhill. In summer, a tourist train sometimes operates to connect the hilltop town with the lakeside.

Which beach is better, Baia del Vento or Spiaggia Gardiola?

Baia del Vento is larger and offers more services, including a pizzeria and a windsurfing school, with a fantastic view up the lake. Spiaggia Gardiola is a smaller, more sheltered cove with very calm water, often preferred by families with younger children.

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in San Felice del Benaco?

Regulations can vary by beach and season. While dogs are often restricted on the main bathing beaches during summer, there is a specific dog-friendly section at Porto Portese beach. It is always best to check the local signage at the beach entrance for the most current rules.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

San Felice del Benaco: Weather Today

πŸ“… Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today might not be ideal for the beach in San Felice del Benaco. There's a high chance of rain showers. The maximum air temperature will be 24.6 Β°C. The wind will be light. With a UV index of 6.7, be sure to apply sunscreen if the sun peeks through the clouds.
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Air

Low / High19.6Β°C/24.6Β°C
Feels Like (High)25.5Β°C
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Rain

Rain Chance90%
Rainfall0.4 mm
Rain Duration2 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:55/20:53
Sunshine Hours9.2 hrs
UV Index6.7
Cloud Cover90%
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Wind

Speed10.1 km/h
Gusts16.6 km/h
DirectionNW

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