Puglia, Italy

Taranto Beaches

Overview

Taranto is an excellent destination for a beach holiday, set along Italy's stunning Ionian coast. While known for its ancient history, the province boasts a shoreline famed for its long stretches of soft, golden sand. The sea here is exceptionally clear and calm, with shallow turquoise waters that make it perfect for swimming and relaxing, often drawing comparisons to a natural swimming pool.

The coastline offers a remarkable variety of beaches. Among the most celebrated is Spiaggia di San Pietro in Bevagna, known for its endless sands and pristine waters. For a truly scenic escape, Campomarino of Maruggio Beach captivates with its beautiful white dunes. Many visitors find the iconic Punta Prosciutto Beach well worth the day trip for its famous Caribbean-like shores, while Spiaggia di Torre Colimena provides a wilder, more tranquil setting for those seeking a quiet day by the sea.

The beaches near Taranto offer a quality that rivals the more famous destinations in Salento, presenting a similar idyllic experience but often with a more relaxed, local atmosphere. Visitors will find a mix of free public areas and private beach clubs, offering flexibility for any style of beach day. For more inspiration, explore our complete guide to discover even more coastal gems waiting for you in the Taranto province.

FAQ

Is Taranto a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Taranto is an excellent destination for a beach holiday. The city is located on the Ionian Sea and its coastline features long stretches of soft, golden sand and clear, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and families. The area offers a mix of free public beaches and well-equipped private beach clubs (lidos) with amenities. While the city itself has a notable history and a large naval port, the surrounding coast is renowned for its beautiful beaches.

What is the sea like in Taranto for swimming?

The sea along the Taranto coast is known for being exceptionally clear, clean, and calm, often compared to a swimming pool. The water is typically transparent with turquoise hues, and the seabeds are mostly sandy and shallow for a good distance from the shore, which is perfect for families and leisurely swimming. Many beaches in the area have been awarded the Blue Flag for their high water quality and cleanliness.

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

The best months for a beach holiday in Taranto are July and August, when the weather is hottest and the sea is warmest. However, these are also the busiest months. For a great experience with fewer crowds and pleasant weather, consider visiting in June or September. In June, the sea is slightly cooler but still pleasant for swimming. In September, the water remains warm from the summer heat.

Are the beaches near Taranto mostly free or do you have to pay?

The coastline near Taranto offers a mix of both free public beaches (spiagge libere) and private beach clubs (lidos). You can freely access many beautiful stretches of sand and lay down your own towel. Alternatively, you can pay for a spot at a lido, which provides amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, changing rooms, bars, and restaurants. This gives visitors the flexibility to choose based on their budget and desired comfort level.

Where is the best area to stay for a beach holiday in Taranto?

For a holiday focused purely on beaches, it's best to stay in one of the coastal towns outside of Taranto city, such as Pulsano, Marina di Lizzano, or Castellaneta Marina. These towns offer hotels, B&Bs, and holiday apartments within walking distance or a short drive from the sea. Staying in Taranto city is better for those who want to combine history and city life with beach day trips.

How do you get to the best beaches from Taranto city?

The most beautiful beaches are not in the city center but are located along the coast, primarily to the south and east. The easiest way to reach them is by car, with most popular spots like Marina di Pulsano, San Pietro in Bevagna, and Campomarino di Maruggio being a 20 to 45-minute drive away. Public transport options may be available but are generally less convenient for accessing more secluded beaches.

Are the beaches near Taranto suitable for families with children?

Yes, the beaches along the Taranto coast are very family-friendly. Most feature long stretches of soft sand and shallow, calm waters, which are safe for children to play and swim in. Many areas, like Ginosa Marina and Castellaneta Marina, are particularly well-suited for families, offering both free areas and equipped lidos with amenities like play areas and restaurants.

How do Taranto's beaches compare to the rest of Salento?

Taranto's beaches are on the Ionian coast of the Salento peninsula and share the same highly-praised characteristics: fine sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. While destinations like Gallipoli or Porto Cesareo might be more famous internationally, the beaches near Taranto (like those in Pulsano, Lizzano, and Maruggio) offer a similar Caribbean-like experience, sometimes with a more local, less crowded atmosphere, especially outside of peak season.

People Also Ask

What are some of the best beaches to visit near Taranto?

Some of the most highly recommended beaches near Taranto include Marina di Pulsano, known for its series of beautiful coves; San Pietro in Bevagna, famous for its long, unspoiled sandy shoreline; and Campomarino di Maruggio, which features stunning dunes. For a unique experience, Torre Colimena offers a nature reserve with salt pans and flamingos alongside its beach.

Are there any hidden or less crowded beaches near Taranto?

Yes, while the main beaches can get busy in summer, there are quieter spots to be found. Piri-Piri Beach in the Campomarino area is often cited as a hidden gem. Additionally, exploring the coast around Marina di Lizzano or seeking out the smaller coves (calette) between the main lidos in Pulsano can lead you to more secluded spots favored by locals.

Is the water clean near the port of Taranto?

While Taranto is a major industrial and naval port, the most celebrated swimming and recreational beaches are located several kilometers outside the city along the Ionian coast, such as in the areas of Pulsano, Lizzano, and Castellaneta Marina. These beaches are renowned for their pristine, crystal-clear water and have received awards for their cleanliness. It is generally recommended to travel a short distance away from the immediate port area for the best beach experience.

What is the vibe of the beaches? Are they party beaches or more for relaxing?

The atmosphere on Taranto's beaches varies. You can find lively beach clubs (lidos), especially around Marina di Pulsano or Castellaneta Marina, that have music, bars, and a vibrant social scene, particularly in July and August. However, the area is also rich with long stretches of free beach and quieter coves perfect for relaxation, reading, and family time. Overall, the vibe is generally more relaxed and family-oriented compared to major international party destinations.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Taranto: Weather Today

๐Ÿ“… Saturday, July 26, 2025
It's shaping up to be a very warm day at the beach. The air temperature will reach a high of 36.7 ยฐC. The sea is inviting, with a temperature of 28.3 ยฐC and very small waves. Expect a bit of a breeze at times. The sun will be strong, with a UV index of 8.05, so make sure to apply sunscreen regularly. There will be some clouds in the sky.
๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ

Air

Low / High24.9ยฐC/36.7ยฐC
Feels Like (High)41.6ยฐC
๐ŸŒŠ

Sea

Sea Temperature28.3 ยฐC
Wave Height0.2 m
๐ŸŒง๏ธ

Rain

Rain Chance8%
Rainfall0.1 mm
Rain Duration1 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:42/20:12
Sunshine Hours12.2 hrs
UV Index8.05
Cloud Cover46%
๐Ÿ’จ

Wind

Speed11.5 km/h
Gusts26.6 km/h
DirectionNE

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