The 10 Best Beaches in Salento, Italy

An area of Apulia between the Ionian and Adriatic seas until a few years ago was unknown to most people but that in recent periods has been invaded by millions of Italian and foreign tourists.

We are talking about Salento, or Salento Peninsula, a land of historical beauty, ancient olive groves, sublime cuisine, famous above all for its crystal clear sea. Among bays, inlets, coves, and beaches of sand, rock, or cliffs, here are the most beautiful beaches in Salento!

Porto Selvaggio

Porto Selvaggio is one of the most beautiful beaches of Salento, and you cannot miss a visit.
The beach can be reached with a twenty-minute walk through the pine forest of a park, and when you arrive, you will find in front of you a pebble beach, a fascinating cliff, turquoise waters, and a breathtaking view.
There are no equipped establishments, and you must have with you everything you need to spend a relaxing day at the beach.

Torre dell’Orso

A kilometer of fine beach and clear sea with dunes behind and a pine forest ideal for resting in the hottest moments.
Torre dell’Orso is dominated by the tower of the same name dating back to the 16th century, but it is also known for the “two sisters,” the two stacks that emerge in the sea a few meters the shore and give their name to the beach.

Punta Prosciutto Beach

Fine white sand, transparent water, beautiful dunes covered by the typical Mediterranean scrub: this is Punta Prosciutto, one of the most beautiful places of Salento near Porto Cesareo. Crystal-clear sea and shallow waters make it the ideal place for children and those who cannot swim. The beach has both free areas and equipped establishments, depending on what you want.

Torre Lapillo Beach

Bay of Torre Lapillo belongs to the municipality of Porto Cesareo and is one of the longest beaches of Salento.
In addition to the fine white sand here, the sea is characterized by the coral reef that makes this place ideal for diving and snorkeling.
Many establishments turn into clubs in the evening on the beach where you can sip an aperitif or dance until late.

Punta della Suina Beach

Also called the “Caribbean of Salento,” Punta della Suina is a beach that alternates a jagged coastline with sandy stretches and is ideal for those who want to relax in the sun and for those who love to dive from the cliffs. Behind the beach stretches a fresh and fragrant pine forest ideal for a bit of shade and refreshment. Here you can choose whether to occupy the free stretch of beach or rent the equipment in the only establishment available and late in the afternoon, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in Salento!

Acquaviva di Marittima

A small cove hidden on the eastern stretch of coast between Castro and Marina di Marittima is suitable for those who love solitary places. Acquaviva Marittima has rather simple access to the sea only in the initial stretch. Moving to the sides of the cove, to enter the water, you have to dive, but the clarity of the sea will repay you. Be careful, though. The water is crystal clear and transparent and freezing because of a spring that meets the sea right here: a pleasure though it’s 40° outside! There are no establishments but only a small bar.

Baia dei Turchi

Not far from Otranto, this paradise of white sand, ocher-colored rocks, and crystal clear waters are definitely worth visiting.
Baia dei Turchi belongs to the protected oasis of Alimini Lakes and is a horseshoe-shaped inlet that can be reached through a path surrounded by pine trees and Mediterranean scrub. Ideal for a bit of relaxation and swimming is also an equipped beach.

Torre Mozza Beach

Ideal for lovers of comfort and families with children, the beach of Torre Mozza is characterized by a long coastline of white sand, shallow water, clear water, and Mediterranean scrub.
In addition, here there are bars, establishments and everything you need if you have decided to spend a day of relaxation served and revered.

Pescoluse Beach

A beautiful beach of Salento surrounded by dunes and Mediterranean vegetation is Pescoluse, also known as the “Maldives of Salento.”
Characterized by 4 km of fine white sand that changes color depending on the sun, clear water, and wide spaces both equipped and free.
The suggestion is to enjoy it in the early morning and late afternoon when the many tourists leave this paradise!

Porto Badisco

More than a beach, it is a perfect inlet for those who love diving from the cliffs and discovering seabeds full of fish!
Porto Badisco, between Santa Maria di Leuca and Otranto, has little sand but a clear sea and high rock walls ideal for Olympic diving.
Those who venture here will discover caves and inlets that in summer are a real paradise for tourists.