Sulmona Beaches

Overview

Nestled in a mountain valley, Sulmona offers a unique holiday experience, combining the dramatic scenery of Abruzzo's national parks with easy access to the Adriatic Sea. While not a coastal town itself, it serves as an excellent base for day trips to the beach, with the nearest shores located about an hour's drive away. This positioning allows visitors to enjoy Italy's greenest landscapes and its beautiful coastline all in one trip, providing a vacation of incredible variety.

The coastline accessible from Sulmona presents a tale of two distinct shores. To the north, you'll find long, golden stretches of sand perfect for relaxing or family outings. Spiaggia di Pescara offers a lively city-beach atmosphere, while the wide, sandy expanse of Spiaggia di Vasto Marina is a classic choice for families. Heading south reveals the more rugged and wild Costa dei Trabocchi, a coastline defined by dramatic cliffs, pebble coves, and historic fishing platforms. Here, you can discover the scenic beauty of Spiaggia dei Ripari di Giobbe or experience the unique charm of Fossacesia Marina, the heart of the Trabocchi coast.

Among the region's many coastal jewels, the iconic Spiaggia di Punta Aderci stands out as a must-visit, set within a stunning nature reserve that showcases the wild heart of the Abruzzo coast. Whether you prefer the convenience of a fully-equipped lido or the adventure of a secluded cove, the beaches near Sulmona cater to every taste. For more inspiration and to find the perfect seaside escape, be sure to explore our complete guide to the area's best beaches.

FAQ

People Also Ask

How far is Sulmona from the nearest beach and how do I get there?

Sulmona is located in a mountain valley, not on the coast. The nearest beaches on the Adriatic Sea, like those in Pescara, are about 60-70 kilometers away. The drive typically takes 45 to 60 minutes via the A25/E80 autostrada. You can also take a direct train from Sulmona to Pescara Centrale, which takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, or a bus, which can be slightly quicker.

Is Sulmona a good base for a beach holiday?

Sulmona is an excellent base for exploring the mountains, national parks, and historic towns of inland Abruzzo. While it's possible to take day trips to the coast, it is not a traditional beach holiday destination. Travelers whose main priority is the beach often prefer to stay in a coastal town like Pescara, Silvi Marina, or Vasto and visit Sulmona as a day trip.

Do I need a car to visit the beaches from Sulmona?

While public transport (trains and buses) to the main coastal city of Pescara is available, a car is highly recommended for flexibility. A car allows you to explore the more scenic and less crowded parts of the coast, such as the coves of the Costa dei Trabocchi or quieter beaches away from the main resorts, which are difficult to reach via public transport.

Should I go to the sandy beaches near Pescara or the rocky Costa dei Trabocchi?

This depends on your preference. The coast north and south of Pescara offers long, wide, sandy beaches with many 'stabilimenti' (beach clubs) and family-friendly amenities. The Costa dei Trabocchi, south of Ortona, is more rugged and scenic, characterized by pebble beaches, rocky coves, and cliffs. It's ideal for those seeking more dramatic landscapes and quieter spots.

Is it better to stay in Sulmona and drive to the beach, or stay in a coastal town?

If you want a mix of mountains and sea and don't mind driving, staying in Sulmona offers an authentic Italian town experience. However, if your main goal is a relaxing beach vacation with easy access to the water, it is more convenient to stay in a coastal town like Pescara, Vasto, or one of the smaller resorts. Many travelers split their trip, spending a few nights in each location.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What are the 'trabocchi' and can you eat on them?

Trabocchi are historic wooden fishing platforms on stilts, unique to this stretch of the Adriatic coast. Many of these structures, particularly along the Costa dei Trabocchi, have been converted into unique and highly-regarded seafood restaurants, offering a memorable dining experience over the water. Reservations are usually essential.

Are beaches in Abruzzo free, or do I have to pay?

Like most of Italy, the Abruzzo coast has both free public beaches ('spiaggia libera') and private beach clubs ('stabilimenti' or 'lidi'). The clubs provide amenities like umbrellas, sunbeds, and food service for a daily fee. Most developed sandy beaches have sections of both, while more remote, pebbly coves are often entirely free.

What is the water like on the Abruzzo coast? Can you swim?

Yes, the Adriatic Sea here is excellent for swimming. The water is known for being very calm and clean, with many beaches earning Blue Flag status. On the sandy northern coast, the seabed slopes gently, making it very safe and shallow for a long way out. Along the Costa dei Trabocchi, the water can be deeper closer to the shore.

When is the best time to visit the beaches near Sulmona?

For warm swimming weather, June to September is best. July and August are the hottest and most crowded months, as many Italians take their holidays then. For a more peaceful experience with pleasant weather, consider visiting in June or September when the beaches are quieter, the water is still warm, and accommodation is often cheaper.

Which beaches are best for families with children?

The sandy beaches in resorts like Pineto, Tortoreto, and Montesilvano are ideal for families. They offer fine sand, clean and shallow waters that are safe for children, and are well-equipped with playgrounds, beach clubs offering amenities, and promenades with gelato shops and restaurants.

Are there quiet, hidden beaches to escape the crowds?

Yes, especially along the Costa dei Trabocchi and within nature reserves. The Punta Aderci Nature Reserve near Vasto has several wild and beautiful pebble or sand beaches like Punta Penna and Mottagrossa. Similarly, the coves at Ripari di Giobbe near Ortona are more secluded, though they often require a bit of walking to reach and have no facilities.

Spiaggia di Punta Aderci