12 Breathtaking Beaches in Calabria to Visit

Have you ever dreamed of having a pristine beach all to yourself? And not just on some remote island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, but in Italy?? Well get this… not only is this possible in the region of Calabria, it also just so happens to be one of the cheapest destinations in all of Italy to travel to…whaaaat??! That’s right, you heard me… If you’re looking for long stretches of sand, stunning coves to explore and an unwavering sense of peace at budget price, the beaches in Calabria are 100% the way to go.

Calabrian Coast– is it worth it?

So, where is this magical land of Calabria that boasts such blissful shores and is it worth visiting?

Found in southern Italy, Calabria is located on what you might call the “toe” of the Italian boot, right across the island of Sicily. As such, the region acts like a true peninsula with the Tyrrhenian Sea on the west coast and the Ionian Sea on the east coast. Translated, this means there are roughly 800 kilometers of heavenly coastal shores!

…So, What’s the Catch?

There isn’t one! But because most of the coastline still to this day remains unequipped for ‘easy’ and ‘fast’ tourism, most people have come to think of the beaches in Calabria as a poor choice. The region’s unspoken remoteness has led to so many preconceived ideas that it has caused Calabria to quite literally fall off the radar… even to most Italians!

So I’m here to put Calabria back on the map! In Italy I have never experienced such coastal diversity and beach exclusivity as I did in this the region. There are beaches in Calabria for all tastes; wild, unexplored, sandy, rocky, accessible, perfect for snorkeling/diving, and yes… there are even beaches equipped with restaurants and other amenities. And wait for it…. there are even resorts… gasp!

So, if you’re ready to experience those fifty shades of turquoise, keep on reading to scope out all the best beaches in Calabria!

How to get to Calabria

Getting to Calabria is quite straightforward.

If you’re arriving via airplane, the best airport to arrive in is hands down Lamezia International Airport. The airport has several daily flights from many major European cities (and even a direct flight from Toronto during summer!). If instead you want to catch a train to Calabria, there are daily high-speed trains from Rome or Naples into many coastal towns.

Train-time from Rome to Lamezia takes just over 4 hours.

Before proceeding to the next section, please familiarize yourself with the following vocabulary so as to understand when a beach in Italy includes facilities or not:

12 Best Beaches in Calabria to Visit

So, let’s get to it! Here are the 12 best beaches in Calabria that you absolutely can’t miss when traveling through southern Italy.

I’ve divided the post in sections according to location. First you’ll find all the beaches on the western coast (Tyrrhenian Sea) and then subsequently, the beaches on the eastern coast (Ionian Sea). I personally prefer the western coast as I find the scenery to be more dramatic. However, the beaches on the western coast tend to be a bit more rugged and impractical for travelers looking for comfort and ease of access.

*Please Note*: Take into consideration the location of the beaches while planning out your itinerary; some beaches are quite farther than others (see map below). For more info on where to base yourself while traveling in Calabria you can skip to the section ‘Where to Stay in Calabria.’

Beaches in Calabria on the Western Coast

Here are the 7 beaches you can’t miss while on the western coast of Calabria!

1. Marinella di Zambrone Beach, Paradiso del Sub

Starting with my FAVORITE beach in Calabria, Marinella di Zambrone is paradise on earth! From the first glimpse that unfolds atop the descending staircase, the view is DRAMATIC.

Imposing boulders nestled in glistening pearly white sand all set against a backdrop of a rainbow of blues– are we for real?????

Unsurprisingly known as ‘Diver’s Paradise,’ this beach is a snorkeler’s haven! With its crystalline water and abundant sea life, I guarantee you will be struggling to leave the water. I came here in late May when the water was still quite cold, but nevertheless couldn’t pull myself to shore until my fingers and toes were well passed their pruney limit!

The mix of sand and rocks on the sea bottom at this beach allows for a diverse and exciting scenery. While the white sand allows for the most brilliant of reflections, the rocky bottom attracts a myriad of critters and fish to explore! *(Remember, although rocks are uncomfortable to walk on, they usually call for clearer waters as sand is what usually causes turbidity).*

Tips for visiting Marinella di Zambrone

Because this beach has no facilities, it is important you bring your own water, umbrella and picnic/snacks for lunch.

If you’re worried about too much sun exposure, the cliff does provide the beach with a bit of shade starting in the afternoon (however most spots in the shade get occupied early in the morning). If you’re lucky, you might be able to snag a spot next to one of the boulders on the beach which are great for shade or propping up against for some light reading.

Also, don’t forget to venture around and behind the boulders. Here, there are several other stretches of sand and beach where less people tend to go!

How to get to Marinella di Zambrone

Because getting to this beach can be confusing,  I’ve added a couple directions/waypoints to help guide you.

Look out for the Zambrone train station. Pass underneath the train station overpass and then almost immediately to your right, you’ll find a little dirt road that dead ends. From here you can park for free on the side of the road.

Towards the dead-end side of the road, you’ll find a narrow dirt path that leads to the beach. You should see a laminated sign right at the start of the path indicating the name of the beach – Marinella). The walk takes about 10 minutes and towards the end gets a little steep. It is doable in flip-flops although not ideal– I descended directly in my water shoes.

Because parking is very limited,  I highly recommend getting here early during peak season (July & August). If you don’t like crowds, consider visiting this beach in early June/late September!

2. Arcomagno Beach – San Nicola Arcella

UPDATE! This beach is now only accessible from 9AM to 7PM for a maximum transit time of 30 minutes. A small entry fee is required (even if coming in via boat).

Although further away from most beaches mentioned in this post, visiting Arcomagno is well worth the drive!

As if it were the door to the horizon itself, the stunning archway at Arcomagno opens up onto a stunning spectrum of aquamarines. Each day, the sun sets beautifully right behind the arch, unveiling the most exquisite panorama. As light slowly creeps into the cove, turquoise waters leave room to fiery golds in a spectacle so captivating you’ll never want to leave!

The sand at this beach is dark and coarse, but don’t fret! Although not as soft as fine sand, coarse sand is actually a lot easier to get off– you definitely won’t be getting any stuck in “unpleasant” places!

As mentioned above, the water is a sparkling aqua-marine color but keep in mind that it is a lot colder than most other beaches in Calabria. There are several mountain streams that flow directly into the sea at this beach causing the water to be much chillier than surrounding beaches.

Tips for visiting Arcomagno Beach

Like Marinella, Arcomagno has no facilities— if you plan on eating or staying a while, it is crucial you bring your own water, snacks, and umbrella. There are no bins, so remember to bring a bag to pack your waste. And don’t forget your water shoes!

As for sun exposure, this beach has a massive grotto that keeps the beach in complete shade in the morning. If you’re lucky (AND arrive early) you might find a nice spot in the shade. I still suggest you bring an umbrella just in case.

The beaches at Arcomagno are rather small and fill up fast in peak season. Get here early, especially for parking and to beat all the boaters that will be coming into the bay during the afternoon. (In late May, we were the only people there!)

How to get to Arcomagno Beach

To get to Arcomagno beach you will want to drive to Pamela Beach in San Nicola Arcella. Once there, the street is rather narrow (*watch out – it’s a two-way street!) and dead ends at a parking lot. During peak season, you have to pay to park while in shoulder season, parking is free. There are several lots here— park anywhere you can find but not directly under the cliffs as rocks can fall and damage the cars below (yikes!).

Once you’ve parked, head towards the shore (literally onto the sand) and go as far right as you can where you finally reach a staircase that leads up and over to the other side. The path has quite a bit of steps and footing can be complicated.

The staircase first ascends and then descends. At one point you’ll actually find yourself walking ON the arch, with the sea below on both sides! The pathway then turns and heads downward towards the beach(es)… one on the right and one on the left. I suggest going to both beaches as they get different perspectives of the surrounding scenery.

CAUTION!!! The arch and surrounding grounds have problems with erosion. The footpath sometimes closes due to unstable terrain and collapsing rocks. If fenced off, please respect the rules and stay away for your safety! If open, know that the area is susceptible to collapse. For your safety, swimming or passing under the arch is strictly prohibited in any way. Visiting the area comes at your own risk .

3. Tropea Beach & Grotta del Palombaro

On to Tropea, Calabria’s most famous village! And besides its quaint alleys, beautiful churches and gourmet restaurants, Tropea also happens to have some of the most pristine waters in all of Calabria!

And I’ve got good news… no hiking is necessary to enjoy this beach! With access directly from the street, and with many a restaurant and bar to choose from nearby, Tropea will bring much reprieve to those that are tired of packing a lunch.

So, while most people come here because of the soaring promontory that just so happens to accommodate the most stunning sanctuary (Santa Maria dell’Isola), I just recently discovered the REAL icing on the cake. After maybe ten times of having been to this beach in the past five years, I never knew there was a huge grotto BEHIND the ridged cliff. It is not visible from the shore and you can only reach it via water (so by boat or swimming), so most people don’t know of its existence!

I swam to the Grotta del Palombaro (it takes about 15 minutes) and was floored at the hidden gem I discovered. I mean, it is huuuuge– it even has its own little secluded beach! So, you can literally swim up to the beach inside the massive grotto and just chill right in the middle of the sea– I mean whattttt??

Tips for visiting Tropea Beach & Grotta del Palombaro

If you have a floating waterproof dry bag, you can easily swim out with your towel and personal items (all safely sealed in your bag)– that’s what I did! You can also always rent a paddle-boat if you don’t wish to swim.

There weren’t many people there when we swam out in July at midday, but if you want a private experience head out early in the morning!

If you’re not interested in seeing the Grotta del Palombaro, don’t fret! There is a lengthy stretch of sand back on shore that offers a mix of both ‘free access beaches’ (unequipped) and equipped beach clubs (that have sunbed and umbrella rental). The free beach area lies right at the base of the promontory (Spiaggia Mare Piccolo) while the beach clubs start a bit further out (Spiaggia della Rotonda).

CAUTION!!! The soaring promontory under which the grotto sits has significant problems with erosion. Parts of the cliff HAVE collapsed in various areas and as a result have caused the entire surrounding area to close at times. If fenced off, please be smart and respect the rules – stay away for your safety! If not fenced off, know that the area is susceptible to collapse; visiting the area comes at your own risk **(This includes any beach located close to the cliff like Spiaggia Mare Piccolo!**

4. Riaci Beach

Just a 10-minute drive south from Tropea, you will encounter yet another gem, much more low-profile than bustling downtown Tropea.

Perfect for those trying to escape the crowds, this beach is a serious contender for the best snorkeling in Calabria. Characterized by its massive Scoglio Grande, this beach has a series of large rock conformations that stretch right into the water. Strap on your water shoes and walk right onto the reefs to explore!

As you climb around the rocks you’ll soon discover a world of hidden coves and inlets sublime for snorkeling. Brimming with sea-life, this is the perfect area to spend hours exploring! Don’t forget your water shoes!

Tips for visiting Riaci Beach

Riaci beach has both a portion of ‘free-access‘ beach and beach-club if you’re looking to rent a sunbed. There is also a restaurant right on the beach and for those looking to have some fun, kayak and paddle boat rental is available. This makes Riaci the perfect combination for both kids and adults– a total win for families!

For those that are certified divers and are looking for a little more adrenalin, not far from the shore at about 25 meter’s depth you can explore the U Vapuri wreckage. The ship sunk during WWII and is a fantastic place to observe abundant sea-life.  All along the coast there are several diving points and regular diving excursions that take place May-October. Mondo-blu Diving is a great company to look into.

How to get to Riaci Beach

Getting to Riaci beach is very simple and parking is right on the street.

Just head down ‘Contrada Riaci‘ and snag a parking spot where you can. The earlier you get there the easier it will be to find parking. In shoulder season parking availability is ample.

5. Capo Vaticano (Grotticelle Beach)

One of our last stops along the Costa degli Dei (Coast of the Gods) portion of Calabria is Capo Vaticano. One of the more high-profile areas of Calabria, Capo Vaticano is the epitome of beach perfection.

Several beaches in this area are only accessible via boat (which I talk about in the next section); however, for those of you looking for easier access, Grotticelle Beach has a parking lot right on the beach!

Packed with grottos to explore, (Grotticelle in fact means ‘little grottos‘ in Italian), you could spend days at this beach snorkeling and exploring the various reefs. Since the grottos aren’t visible from shore, most people that visit don’t even know of their existence! No one, not even locals, mentioned these grottos; thus it came as such a surprise when we casually stumbled upon a hidden world of gorges, slots, and canyons just behind the rocks to the left! Who knew?!!!

Because we weren’t prepared for such scenery, we didn’t have our amazing action-camera with us. The many inlets reminded us of a compact version of the Kleftiko Coves in the Greek Islands… only that these grottos were accessible with a quick 2-minute swim as opposed to a one-hour boat ride! Next year we will definitely go back with our entire supply of photography gear!

Tips for visiting Grotticelle Beach

Grotticelle Beach is actually a cove that comprises 3 different stretches of sand. You’ll find the grottos swimming out behind the rocks on the far-left beach. (Remember to wear your water shoes for climbing up on the rocks and cliffs!)

There are several restaurants (and resorts) right on the shore, so you don’t have to worry about bringing food or umbrellas. If you don’t want to pay or prefer lounging a bit more removed from others, there are also a few ‘free access‘ areas.

You’ll get shade at the foot of the cliff on the beach to the far left.

How to get to Grotticelle Beach

Getting to this beach is super easy.

If you’re staying in one of the nearby resorts you will most likely walk or even have some sort of golf-cart shuttle service take you down to the beach. If you’re coming by car, just type into your navigator “Parcheggio Grotticelle” and you’ll be led right to the beachfront parking.

If the parking lot is full, you can park along the side of the road leading up to the lot. *Parking here is for a fee and on an hourly basis*

Capo Vaticano Faro and Panorama Point

Before ending your day in Capo Vaticano, I highly recommend venturing up to the Panorama Point and Faro for sunset.

From this absolutely stunning aerial view of the bay below, you’ll get a full understanding as to why this area is called Coast of the Gods! As you stare at the coastline below, you’ll find a water so clear the boats seem to fly rather than float! Will you have to drive?– Yes… but I promise you won’t regret it!

How to get to the Capo Vaticano Panorama Point

To get here you’re going to want to type into Google Maps, ‘Faro di Capo Vaticano‘. The road dead ends here and you can park anywhere you find right on the side of the road. Once you park, you’ll turn left before reaching the lighthouse (which is not visitable) and head down a slightly inclined stairway. To make sure you’re in the right place, you should see the Bier Garten on your left.

The staircase ends at a beautiful terrace overlooking the bay. From here, a dirt footpath leads down to the beaches below. I ventured a bit down to get a better view as there are some marvelous cacti on the pathway. Just bear in mind that the vegetation along the footpath is quite dense and the area is known to have snakes. Although most are just your average garden snakes, I still strongly recommend you stay on the path!

6. Praia I Focu Beach

Our last stop along this portion of the coast is Spiaggia Praia I Focu– a beach solely accessible via sea!

I mean we couldn’t end this list of Calabria’s best beaches without including a little boat excursion/tour right?

Praia i Focu is actually a series of three coves. The captain of your boat tour will most likely drop you off in one or two of the inlets and let you swim or walk to the others. These beaches are as remote as it gets in Calabria and perfect if you’re looking for that ‘stranded on an island’ feel.

Known as the Quattro Stagioni Beach (Four Seasons Beach), the water temperature here is warm and calm all year round. Because the beach is encircled by rocks, the little bays allow for a very protected environment.

Truly some of the most crystalline waters, this beach is in my top 10 beaches in Italy!

Can you get to Praia i Focu by foot?

No, don’t be fooled by google maps! Upon seeing an indicated path on maps, I ventured to ‘Parco Belvedere‘ to make my hike down to the beach. Unfortunately, all feasible footpaths are private and are accessible only to resort guests. The surrounding land is quite unstable so getting down via foot is impossible! Plus, there are snakes– I’ve encountered several (yikes!)

However, all is not lost as you really do get an astounding view of the coves below at the Parco Belvedere Capo Vaticano. A little park with picnic tables, it’s the perfect spot for a sunset outlook!

7. Scilla Beach

Leaving the Coast of the Gods to our north and entering the Costa Viola (Purple Coast) further south, we reach the splendid beach of Scilla, where at sunset the sea strikes the most magnificent violet!

Dominated by Castello Ruffo, the backdrop of Scilla beach is nothing short of a fairytale– a wonderful turquoise tapestry overlooked by a towering castle and lighthouse.

Specifically called Marina Grande, the beach in Scilla is quite long at almost a kilometer’s stretch. There is plenty of space for sunbathing and numerous options for those that want to head to a beach club. Right on the beach there are many restaurants and cafés to choose from.

The sand here is pebbly so not the most comfortable if you have no water shoes, but with no fine sand to cloud the waters, the sea is absolutely crystalline! Note that the water level at this beach descends rather quickly– don’t expect small/shallow areas for small kids to play.

Eastern Coast Beaches in Calabria– Costa degli Aranci

Moving on to the eastern side of Calabria, where the Ionian sea meets the Orange Coast, we move to a more frequented area of the region. Perhaps because beach accessibility is much easier or because most beaches are equipped with numerous facilities, the Costa degli Aranci is a popular choice amongst both families with small kids and young adults/teenagers. The scenery is a little less diverse, but the water nonetheless remains absolutely spectacular.

8. Caminia Beach

Our first stop on the Costa degli Aranci is at none other than renowned Caminia Beach. Nestled in between two cliffs in the Gulf of Squillace, this beach has calm waters almost year-round thanks to the encircling rocks— a huge plus for those families that have small kids!

For those more active beachgoers, Caminia does have a fine grotto to explore just around the north side of the beach. To get to the Grotta di San Gregorio Taumaturgo (not visible from the shore), it’s a brief swim out and around the rocks on the left. The grotto even has its own little beach! If you don’t want to swim, you can always rent a pedalò (paddle boat) from the beach and peddle your way there!

Tips for visiting Caminia Beach

Although a mix of fine and coarse sand characterizes the beach, you will find portions of gravel and quite a few rocks and pebbles when entering the water. Because of this I highly suggest bringing your water shoes with you.

The beach has both areas of ‘free access’ for those looking to travel on a budget AND areas equipped as beach clubs for those seeking the comfort of sun-beds. Prices for renting umbrellas and lounge chairs get quite steep in high season (30+ euro at the minimum per day depending on the beach club) and run out rather quickly in the morning.

During peak season, plan to arrive no later than 9am! Parking here in high season (July & August) is virtually impossible and furthermore expensive. Also beware that parking tickets are widely issued here!

In terms of facilities and dining, there are a few restaurants and cafés to choose from right on the beach. However, don’t rely on showering at the end of the day as there are no showers on the premises.

9. Pietragrande Beach

Proceeding along our Calabrian east coast tour, immediately south of Caminia we reach Pietragrande Beach, a favorite amongst cliff divers. The beach is in fact dominated by a pietra grande, a towering boulder just a few meters out. Teenagers just love climbing and diving off of it.

Thanks to the mainly rocky seafloor, you won’t find a single speck of sand clouding the water. The water at this beach is some of the most limpid you will find in all of Calabria.

The beach is quite small however and because it is mostly pebbles, is not the most kid-friendly option. There are only two equipped beaches and a very small area of free access— this translates into crowds in high season. A couple cafés are present on the beach if you don’t want to worry about packing a lunch.

For those interested in nightlife, the Scogliera di Pietragrande restaurant right on the beach turns into a full-fledged dance club at night!

10. Montepaone Beach

Moving further south, we finally reach a beach where crowds aren’t an issue. With miles of golden sand, the beaches in Montepaone are just about the only beaches where you actually have enough space to play some sports. In fact, you will find tournament after tournament along the shores– from volleyball to beach soccer. Water sports are also popular with numerous kiosks offering lessons or options for gear rental.

The lovely promenade that borders the beach parallels the town which offers countless dining options. Parking is also right along the beach, so you won’t have to stress about lugging things back and forth. If you’re looking to just relax and not have to worry about your kids, this is one of the easiest beaches in Calabria to visit.

11. Soverato Beach

Our last stop along the Orange Coast is the liveliest and most popular beach amongst young adults and teenagers in Calabria. With a vibrant night club scene, Soverato is no stranger to deejays, beach happy hours, and clubbing.

But don’t get the wrong idea, Soverato is also a family favorite! Packed with recreational activities and entertainment for both adults and children, this beach has something going on for everyone.

The beach’s white powdery sand and shallow waters make it both a safe environment for little ones and a dream come true for adults. The sparkling blues in juxtaposition to the glistening white sand will steal your heart. Choose between free access beaches or an endless series of beach clubs.

12. Le Castella Beach

Last but not least, we venture to a beach where instead of marveling at the sea, you’ll find a legitimate castle staring back at you from the horizon. That’s right, not a sandcastle but a full-blown CASTLE seemingly floating in the sea!… only in Italy, right?!

The Aragonese Fortress, perched on an islet connected to the mainland, has a massive history (its foundations date back to 400 B.C!) Mainly used as a citadel, soldiers regularly used the stronghold as refuge against the many attacks via sea. From the Romans, to the Arabs, to the Bourbons, the fortress has passed through many hands. Completely renovated, today you can visit the Castle for free! (Just remember to check their opening hours)!

Tips for visiting Le Castella Beach

The sea off the coast of Capo Rizzuto is part of a Marine Protected Area– aside from the rich flora and fauna, there are various underwater archeological sites of interest.

If you’re a diver, book an underwater tour where you can venture out to see the sunken Roman columns or the many shipwrecked ships. If you prefer to observe from the comfort of your seat, there are many glass-bottomed boat tours in the area where you get the chance to see many different species of fish.

Because the beach is exclusively pebble, water shoes are essential– getting into the water will prove most difficult barefoot.

The beach is a mix of beach clubs and free access, but is quite small and narrow so definitely not recommended during peak season.

Where to Stay in Calabria?

Where you plan to book your accommodation will depend on what beach town(s) you plan on basing yourself out of while in Calabria. In the FAQ section, I offer a few recommendations of the best towns to consider.

Here below I mention a couple accommodations. Although I haven’t personally stayed in them (we had a long-term apartment rental), I only recommend hotels that I have extensively researched and would stay in myself!

Low-Range – B&B Casa Angelieri

Located in the Seaside town of Pizzo 

An adorable guesthouse with the most stunning sea views (right from your own terrace), B&B Casa Angelieri is right in downtown Pizzo! An exquisite morning buffet is served every day by the friendliest of hosts.

Mid-Range – B&B Laudato Sii Tropea

Located in Tropea

Right next door to a Franciscan Convent, this beautifully white-washed stone B&B is just a 5-minute walk to the beach! Serving daily breakfast and sunset cocktails right from their very own outstanding terrace, this hotel has some of the most stunning views in all of Tropea. The structure also provides free parking which is a huge plus in Calabria!

High-Range – Midenza Suites and Residence

Located in Capo Vaticano

Complete with heated pool and farm to table restaurant, this small luxury boutique hotel is relaxation at its finest. The suites are all brand new and Tono and Grotticelle Beach are just a stone’s throw away. The structure offers daily yoga sessions and two stellar kid-friendly areas if you are traveling as a family.

Calabria Beaches Map

Here below I have inserted a detailed map that pinpoints exactly where to find all of the hotels, panorama points, and beaches discussed in this post. Tap on the map to zoom in!

FAQ – Visiting the Beaches of Calabria

Any last minute questions? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions:

What are the best months for visiting the beaches in Calabria?

To escape the crowds (although they are nowhere near as bad as you would find in nearby Puglia or Sicily), June and September are the perfect months for visiting Calabria. Late May is also a great period to travel to Calabria, however the water temperature is still rather cold at about 18 degrees Celsius (65F). I’ve been to Calabria in all of these months and in May, depending on the beach, the water can get uncomfortably cold. It is doable however if you’re not sensitive!

In October and November, you will find many locals still heading to the beach as the water is still usually warm. However, these months have a much higher chance of rain–I don’t recommend risking it! Plus, many things are seasonal and close in autumn.

Are the beaches in Calabria family friendly?

Yes! Although some beaches are quite a hike to get down (Zambrone, Arcomagno), there are many beaches that are easy to access (Tropea, Scilla, Grotticelle, etc). See my guide above to see which beaches are sandy (and not rocky) and have facilities on site!

Are there jellyfish in Calabria?

There could be. I’ve spent entire summers in Calabria and have only encountered jellyfish twice. Generally speaking, if you ask around on the beach (or if there is a lifeguard), they’ll tell you whether there has been a sighting that day or in previous days. Jellyfish in Italian is medusa, pronounced meh-doo-suh.

What are the best beach towns in Calabria to stay in?

It depends on which beaches you are most interested in visiting. If you plan on staying most of the time on the western coast I recommend the towns of Tropea, Pizzo, or Capo Vaticano.

If you plan on spending most of your time on the eastern side, than I suggest finding accommodations in Soverato. Alternatively, if you want to get a taste for both seas (Tyrrhenian and Ionain), you can book  accommodations on both coasts.

Do you need a car to get to most of the beaches in Calabria?

100% YES! Unfortunately, traveling around Calabria via public transportation is absolutely impossible. Public transportation is still heavily lacking between most towns in Calabria so it is highly impractical to rely on it.

The good news is that renting a car is quite simple! You can pick up your car right at Lamezia airport (if you’re arriving via train then stop off at Lamezia Train Station and a shuttle service is usually provided by the rental company that takes you to the airport).

So, there it is guys, my guide to the best beaches in Calabria! I hope I’ve inspired you to explore this uncrowded and budget-friendly hidden gem in the South of Italy. To this day, Calabria remains my go-to Italian region for all things vitamin sea! I guarantee this Mediterranean jewel will steal your heart as well!

Please have your way in the comments if you have any questions or further recommendations to add!

Don’t forget to follow along on my adventures at @ladolcefitvita…

Buon Viaggio!

Need more inspiration for your holiday in Italy? Check out these other helpful guides:

• The Best Beaches and Towns in Puglia!
• Exploring Pizzo – Calabria’s famous ice cream town
• Touring Diamante – Calabria’s City of Breathtaking Murals!
• Island Escape to Ponza – a mere 2 hours from Rome!
• Tropea – Discovering Caribbean-like beaches in Calabria Italy
• Discovering Tuscany’s most beautiful countryside locations
• Matera – Exploring Italy’s astounding cave city
• 20 Unique Places to Propose in Italy!

This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.