Liguria, Italy

Sestri Levante Beaches

Overview

Sestri Levante is a cherished destination on the Ligurian coast, offering a relaxed alternative to the nearby Cinque Terre. What sets it apart are its beautiful sandy beaches, a relative rarity in a region known for rocky shores. The town is uniquely situated on a narrow peninsula that forms two distinct bays, the Bay of Fables and the Bay of Silence, giving it a special charm for a classic Italian beach holiday.

Among the town's treasures, the most iconic is Spiaggia Baia del Silenzio, a stunningly beautiful cove with a romantic backdrop of colorful historic houses. On the other side of the isthmus is the larger main beach, often called Sestri Levante but more specifically known as Baia delle Favole, which is ideal for those seeking lively beach clubs. For a change of pace, the spacious and laid-back Spiaggia Riva Trigoso is a favorite among locals. Sestri Levante also serves as a perfect base for exploring, with the famous beach at Monterosso in the Cinque Terre just a short and scenic train ride away.

With its calm, shallow waters and sandy shores, Sestri Levante is particularly well-suited for family holidays. The town's inviting atmosphere is perfect for leisurely days spent alternating between the sea and the charming historic center. While these beaches are the most celebrated, they are only the beginning of what the coastline has to offer. For a comprehensive look at all the seaside spots, be sure to explore the longer list of beaches in this guide.

FAQ

Which is the better beach in Sestri Levante: Baia del Silenzio or Baia delle Favole?

Choosing between Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence) and Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fables) depends on your preference. Baia del Silenzio is a small, picturesque sandy cove with calm, shallow waters and a romantic atmosphere, framed by colorful houses. It's mostly a free beach but gets very crowded in summer. Baia delle Favole is a much larger, livelier bay with a mix of sand and gravel. It features numerous private beach clubs (stabilimenti balneari) offering sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, as well as free sections. Its size and amenities make it a popular choice for families.

Are the beaches in Sestri Levante sandy?

Yes, Sestri Levante is known for having sandy beaches, which are relatively rare in Liguria. The famous Baia del Silenzio has soft, golden sand. The larger Baia delle Favole is mostly sandy, though it becomes more gravelly in some sections. Other nearby beaches like Riva Trigoso also offer sandy stretches.

Is Sestri Levante a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Absolutely. Sestri Levante is considered very family-friendly. The beaches, particularly Baia delle Favole, have shallow areas and calm waters suitable for children. The town offers numerous playgrounds, especially along the promenade of Baia delle Favole, and a pedestrian-friendly historic center. Many hotels and restaurants cater to families.

Can you swim in Sestri Levante and what is the water like?

Yes, swimming is very popular in Sestri Levante. The water in both main bays is generally calm and clear, especially in the protected Baia del Silenzio. The water temperature is most pleasant for swimming during the summer months, from June to September. The area is also popular for snorkeling, and some diving opportunities exist, including exploring a nearby shipwreck.

Are there hotels with private beach access in Sestri Levante?

Yes, several hotels in Sestri Levante offer private beach areas or are located directly on the beach. Hotels like the Hotel Miramare & Spa overlook the Bay of Silence with direct access. Along the Baia delle Favole, establishments like the Grande Albergo and Suite Hotel Nettuno have their own private beach clubs, offering guests exclusive access to reserved sunbeds and umbrellas.

Are there free public beaches in Sestri Levante, or do you have to pay?

Sestri Levante offers both free public beaches (spiaggia libera) and private beach clubs (stabilimenti balneari) where you pay for amenities. The iconic Baia del Silenzio is almost entirely a free beach. The larger Baia delle Favole has several free sections interspersed with private clubs where you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas for the day.

How crowded do the beaches in Sestri Levante get?

The beaches can get very crowded, especially Baia del Silenzio, during the peak summer months of July and August and on weekends. It is highly recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot, particularly on the free beaches. The shoulder seasons (May, June, and September) are generally less crowded.

Is Sestri Levante a good alternative to Cinque Terre for a beach holiday?

Yes, Sestri Levante is often recommended as a less crowded and more beach-focused alternative to the Cinque Terre. While the Cinque Terre villages are famous for their dramatic cliffside scenery, they have very few and mostly small, rocky beaches. Sestri Levante offers large, sandy beaches, a charming town feel, and is well-connected by train, making it an excellent base for exploring the region, including day trips to the Cinque Terre.

People Also Ask

What's the best time of year to visit Sestri Levante for the beaches?

The best time for a beach-focused holiday in Sestri Levante is from June to September when the weather is warm and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming. For a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September. July and August are the hottest and most popular months.

How do you get to the beaches from the Sestri Levante train station?

The beaches are within easy walking distance from the Sestri Levante train station. It's approximately a 10-15 minute walk to the historic center and the two bays. Simply head straight from the station towards the sea, and you will reach the isthmus where you can choose to go left for Baia del Silenzio or right for Baia delle Favole.

What is the 'Bay of Silence' and why is it so famous?

The 'Bay of Silence' (Baia del Silenzio) is one of Sestri Levante's two famous bays. It is renowned for its incredible beauty, featuring a crescent of golden sand, calm turquoise water, and a backdrop of historic, pastel-colored fishermen's houses. Its enclosed, amphitheater-like shape gives it a uniquely tranquil and romantic atmosphere. It was named by local poet Giovanni Descalzo in 1919 and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Italy.

Are there any beaches for dogs in Sestri Levante?

Yes, there are options for visitors with dogs. A specific dog-friendly beach area is typically set up along the larger Baia delle Favole. Additionally, nearby towns like Lavagna have dedicated dog beaches (bau beach). It's always best to check for the most current local regulations upon arrival.

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Sestri Levante Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Sestri Levante: Weather Today

πŸ“… Monday, June 30, 2025
Today is shaping up to be a beautiful day for the beach in Sestri Levante! Expect a warm day, with a high of 31.9 Β°C. The sea is inviting at 27.6 Β°C, perfect for a refreshing swim. Gentle breezes will keep you comfortable as you relax on the sand. The sun will be strong, so make sure to apply sunscreen; the UV index will reach 7.75. With only some clouds in the sky, it's an ideal day to soak up the sun and enjoy the calm sea with very small waves.
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Air

Low / High25.9Β°C/31.9Β°C
Feels Like (High)35.7Β°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature27.6 Β°C
Wave Height0.1 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:42/21:10
Sunshine Hours13.7 hrs
UV Index7.75
Cloud Cover35%
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Wind

Speed8.9 km/h
Gusts19.8 km/h
DirectionNW

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