Curator’s statement
Puglia, the sun-drenched heel of Italy’s boot, is one of the country’s last true coastal gems — a place that holds a special magic for me. With its slower pace, whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves and miles of unspoiled coastline, Puglia offers a beach experience unlike the flashier Amalfi Coast. Here, you can linger over long seaside lunches, swim in quiet turquoise coves or simply watch local families gather at the beach just as they’ve done for generations. It’s a destination that invites you to slow down, sink into its rhythms and discover beauty that still feels untouched. Whether you’re looking to lounge at a chic beach club, swim in calm waters or explore rocky nature reserves, Puglia’s coastline — stretching between the Adriatic and Ionian seas — has something for every traveler.
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Where to stay in Puglia, Italy
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Things to do in Puglia, Italy
1. Polignano a Mare (Lama Monachile)
Location: Adriatic Coast, 30 minutes south of Bari
Why go: Famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and postcard-perfect pebble cove, this is one of the most photographed spots in Puglia. It’s not a lounging beach but a stunning place for a dip, cliff diving or just soaking up the view.
Beach clubs: None directly; nearby upscale dining at Grotta Palazzese or beach spots like Cala San Giovanni.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or at sunset for softer light and fewer crowds.
2. Monopoli (Cala Porto Rosso)
Location: Adriatic Coast, just south of Polignano
Why go: A small, sandy beach right next to Monopoli’s charming old town, perfect for combining a beach break with strolling historic streets and enjoying local seafood.
Beach clubs: Porto Rosso Beach Club — casual, friendly and walkable from town.
Tip: After your swim, grab an aperitivo at a seafront café and watch the sun dip over the Adriatic.
3. Torre dell’Orso
Location: Adriatic Coast, north of Otranto
Why go: A wide sandy bay with shallow water, great for families or couples. It’s known for the “Due Sorelle” (Two Sisters) sea stacks just offshore and has a lively local vibe in summer.
Beach clubs: Lido La Sorgente, Lido L’Orsetta — great for renting loungers and umbrellas.
Tip: Take the cliffside walk to get the best views of the sea stacks and coastline.
4. Baia dei Turchi
Location: Adriatic Coast, just north of Otranto, inside the Alimini nature reserve
Why go: One of the most beautiful, untouched beaches in Puglia — a secluded, sandy bay reached by walking through a fragrant pine forest. Perfect for nature lovers and couples wanting a peaceful escape.
Beach clubs: Small beach club near the entrance, minimal services.
Tip: Bring your own water and snacks; the walk in makes it feel wild but means limited amenities.
5. Punta Prosciutto
Location: Ionian Coast, north of Porto Cesareo, near Manduria
Why go: Famous for its crystal-clear, Caribbean-blue waters and long sandy stretches, this beach is ideal for full days of swimming, sunbathing and relaxing.
Beach clubs: Lido degli Angeli, Togo Bay — both offer loungers, drinks and casual dining.
Tip: Arrive early in peak season; the best spots fill up quickly, and parking can be tricky.
6. Torre Lapillo
Location: Ionian Coast, near Porto Cesareo
Why go: A family-friendly beach with soft sand and calm, shallow water — excellent for swimming and long beach days with kids.
Beach clubs: Lido La Pineta, Orange Sun Beach, Lido Max — plenty of choices for rentals and food.
Tip: Stay for sunset; the Ionian coast has some of Puglia’s most stunning golden-hour views.
7. Porto Selvaggio
Location: Ionian Coast, near Nardò
Why go: A wild, rocky cove inside a beautiful nature reserve, perfect for adventurers, hikers and snorkelers. The water is crystal-clear, and the setting feels wonderfully remote.
Beach clubs: None — this is a protected natural area; pack in everything you need.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the 20- to 30-minute walk through the pine forest; it’s worth the effort.
8. Pescoluse (“Maldives of Salento”)
Location: Southern Ionian Coast, near Salve
Why go: Nicknamed the “Maldives of Salento,” this beach boasts powdery white sand and shallow turquoise water, making it one of the most photogenic and popular spots in Puglia.
Beach clubs: Le Cinque Vele, Maldive del Salento — both well-known and offer full-service amenities.
Tip: Reserve loungers ahead if visiting in July or August — this beach draws crowds.
Need to know
How to get there
By air:
Bari Airport (BRI) is ideal for the northern Adriatic coast (Polignano, Monopoli, Ostuni).
Brindisi Airport (BDS) serves the southern Adriatic and Ionian coasts (Otranto, Porto Cesareo, Pescoluse).
By car:
Renting a car is the best way to explore Puglia’s beaches, as many are remote or lack easy public transport connections. Driving across the region (Adriatic to Ionian) usually takes one to two hours.
By train:
Convenient for main towns like Bari, Polignano, Monopoli and Lecce, but most beaches require a car or taxi from the nearest station.
By boat:
In summer, boat rentals and tours (especially from Polignano, Porto Cesareo, Santa Maria de Leuca or Gallipoli) let you access hidden coves and snorkel spots.
Best time to visit
June and September: The sweet spot — warm weather, fewer crowds and great swimming.
July and August: High summer energy with lively towns and full beach clubs, but expect crowds and heat.
May and October: Quieter months with mild temperatures, perfect for hiking or exploring, though the sea may be cooler.
Travel Advisor
Laura Zapata
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