Lascimmia
Where They Are and How to Reach Them
Liguria with over 300 km of coastline, is one of the favorite destinations for Italian and foreign tourists for summer holidays. This region, overlooking the Ligurian Sea, offers a wide range of beaches, from wide sandy expanses to intimate coves hidden among the rocks. In this article we will explore the most beautiful beaches in Liguria, divided between the Riviera di Levante and the Riviera di Ponente, passing through iconic locations such as the Golfo dei Poeti and the Riviera delle Palme. We will also provide advice on how to reach them, whether by train, car, or other means of transport.
Riviera di Levante
The Riviera di Levante is known for its breathtaking landscapes and its beaches nestled between cliffs and picturesque villages. Here are some of the most beautiful beaches in Liguria in this area and how to get there:
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Fegina Beach, Monterosso al Mare
Located in the heart of the Cinque Terre, Fegina beach is the only real sandy beach in the area, perfect for those seeking comfort and relaxation. This stretch of coast offers spectacular views of the turquoise sea and the colorful village of Monterosso, making it a must-see for those visiting the Riviera di Levante.
How to get there:
- By train: Monterosso is easily reached by regional trains connecting La Spezia to Genoa. The station is just a few steps from Fegina beach.
- By car: The closest motorway exit is Carrodano-Levanto on the A12 motorway. However, parking in Monterosso can be difficult, so it is advisable to use the train.
- By boat: During the summer season, Monterosso is connected to the other Cinque Terre and to La Spezia by a boat service. Check the boat schedules.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Paraggi Beach, Portofino
A few kilometers from the famous village of Portofino, there is Paraggi beach, a small bay with crystal clear emerald waters. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation, this beach is ideal for those who love snorkeling thanks to its seabed rich in marine fauna.
Visit the Portofino Natural Park website for more information
How to get there:
- By train: The closest station is Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino. From there, you can reach Paraggi by bus towards Portofino or with a pleasant walk along the coast.
- By car: From the A12 motorway, exit at Rapallo and follow the signs for Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. Here too, parking is limited, especially in high season.
- By boat: There are sea connections from Genoa, Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure. Find out about the boat schedules.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: San Fruttuoso Beach, Camogli
Reachable only by sea or via a hiking trail, San Fruttuoso beach is a hidden gem in Liguria. Located within the Portofino Nature Reserve, this cove is at the foot of the ancient Benedictine abbey of San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte, creating a unique and evocative atmosphere.
Learn more about visiting the Portofino Nature Reserve
How to get there:
- By train: The nearest train station is Camogli-San Fruttuoso. From here, you can take a boat to reach the beach or take a scenic trail through the Portofino Nature Park.
- By boat: San Fruttuoso can only be reached by sea from Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino and Genoa. Check the boat schedules.
- On foot: For hikers, there are several panoramic paths that connect San Fruttuoso to Portofino, Camogli and Santa Margherita Ligure. Discover the paths of the Portofino Natural Park.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Baia del Silenzio, Sestri Levante
The Baia del Silenzio is one of the most precious gems of Liguria, a place where time seems to have stopped. Located in the heart of Sestri Levante, this enchanting bay is framed by pastel-colored houses that overlook the beach, creating a picturesque and suggestive atmosphere. The golden sand and the crystalline waters, calm and transparent, invite you to long swims or moments of relaxation lulled by the sweet sound of the waves.
The Baia del Silenzio owes its name to the peace and tranquility that can be felt there, especially in the early morning or at sunset, when the golden reflections of the sun illuminate the bay in a spectacular way. It is a place loved by both tourists and locals, a corner of paradise perfect for those seeking an escape from the daily frenzy. In addition to its natural beauty, the Bay of Silence is surrounded by a lively village, with cobbled streets, boutiques, cafes and restaurants offering Ligurian specialties.
Despite being one of the most popular beaches in the region, Baia del Silenzio manages to maintain an intimate and cozy atmosphere, making it a must-see destination for those visiting the Riviera di Levante.
How to get there:
- By train: Sestri Levante station is well connected by regional and intercity trains along the Genoa-La Spezia line. Baia del Silenzio is a short walk from the station.
- By car: Exit Sestri Levante on the A12 motorway. Baia del Silenzio is in the historic center, where parking can be limited. So we always prefer to go there by train.
Lerici Beach in the Gulf of Poets
Lerici beach is one of the pearls of the Gulf of Poets, a place that has enchanted artists and poets for centuries thanks to its timeless beauty. Located at the foot of the majestic Lerici Castle, which dominates the bay from the top of a cliff, this beach offers a perfect mix of nature, history and relaxation. The waters of the gulf are calm and transparent, with shades ranging from emerald green to deep blue, ideal for swimming and water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling.
The main beach of Lerici is made up of a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for those looking for comfort and services. Here, well-equipped beach resorts offer sun loungers, umbrellas and restaurants by the sea, allowing you to spend the whole day in the sun in complete relaxation. The proximity to the historic center of Lerici also allows you to explore its characteristic streets, where you can find shops, ice cream parlors and restaurants offering typical Ligurian dishes, such as focaccia, fresh seafood and pesto.
Not far from the main beach, Lerici also boasts several beaches, such as the beach of San Terenzo, equally charming and less crowded, ideal for those who prefer a more intimate and quiet atmosphere. One of the most evocative experiences is to walk along the seafront of Lerici at sunset, when the sun reflects in the sea and the sky is tinged with warm colors, offering an unforgettable view of the Gulf of Poets.
Explore the Gulf of Poets and its beaches
How to get there:
- By train: The nearest train station is La Spezia Centrale. From there, you can take a bus to Lerici. During the summer, there are also boats that connect La Spezia and Lerici. Bus timetables | Boat timetables
- By car: From the A12 motorway, exit at Sarzana and follow the signs for Lerici. Parking may also be limited, especially during high season.
- By boat: Lerici is connected by sea to La Spezia and other towns in the Gulf of Poets. Check the boat schedules.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Fiascherino Bay, Tellaro
Fiascherino Bay is one of the hidden gems of the Gulf of Poets, located between the villages of Lerici and Tellaro. This enchanting bay is characterized by two small beaches of fine golden sand, framed by lush Mediterranean vegetation and protected by high cliffs that plunge into the sea. The waters of the bay are crystal clear and calm, with shades ranging from emerald green to cobalt blue, making it an ideal place for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing in the sun.
Fiascherino Bay is particularly loved for its quiet and intimate atmosphere, far from the crowds and mass tourism. Its small size and hidden location make it a perfect refuge for those seeking direct contact with nature and an authentic seaside experience. Around the bay, the landscape is dominated by maritime pines, olive trees and rocky cliffs, creating a suggestive and wild environment that recalls the most exclusive coasts of the Mediterranean.
In the bay, you can find some small beach resorts that offer essential services such as sunbeds, umbrellas and restaurants. However, the beach maintains a wild and uncontaminated character, with large areas of free beach where you can lay out your towel and enjoy the beauty of the place in total freedom.
Fiascherino Bay is also an ideal starting point for exploring the surroundings, including the picturesque villages of Lerici and Tellaro, both easily reachable on foot or by boat. Tellaro, in particular, is often included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, with its pastel-colored houses overlooking the sea and its narrow cobbled streets that lead to spectacular panoramic points.
Learn more about the visit to Tellaro and Fiascherino
How to get there:
- By train: As for Lerici, the closest station is La Spezia Centrale. From there, a bus takes you to Tellaro, from which you can reach and Fiascherino Bay on foot. Bus timetable
- By car: Exit the A12 motorway at Sarzana, then follow the signs for Lerici and Tellaro. There is limited parking near the bay, so it is advisable to arrive early.
- By boat: During the summer, there are boats connecting La Spezia, Lerici and Tellaro. Boat timetable.
Riviera di Ponente
The Riviera di Ponente, which extends from Genoa to the border with France, is famous for its wide sandy beaches and trendy seaside resorts. Let’s discover together the most beautiful beaches of Liguria in this area and how to reach them:
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Spiaggia dei Balzi Rossi, Ventimiglia
Located on the border with France, the beach of Balzi Rossi is one of the most fascinating of the Riviera di Ponente. This pebble beach, surrounded by high limestone cliffs, is known for its crystal-clear waters and prehistoric caves overlooking the sea.
Learn more about Balzi Rossi
How to get there:
- By train: The nearest train station is Ventimiglia, from where you can take a bus or taxi to the beach.
- By car: From the A10 motorway, exit at Ventimiglia and follow the signs for Balzi Rossi. Parking is available nearby, but may be limited during the summer season.
Alassio Beach, Baia del Sole
Alassio Beach, located in the splendid Baia del Sole, is one of the most famous seaside destinations on the Riviera di Ponente. This long coastline of fine, golden sand extends for about four kilometres, offering plenty of space to relax in the sun and enjoy the sea. The calm and transparent waters are particularly suitable for families with children and those looking for safe and pleasant bathing.
Alassio is also famous for its numerous beach resorts, which offer all the comforts for a day at the beach, including sun loungers, umbrellas, bars and restaurants directly on the beach. Many resorts organize sports and recreational activities, such as beach volleyball and sailing courses, making the beach of Alassio an ideal choice for those who want to combine relaxation and fun.
In addition to the sea, Alassio is known for its historic center, a lively maze of narrow streets (the famous “budelli”) dotted with shops, fashion boutiques and outdoor cafes. The Muretto di Alassio, decorated with tiles signed by famous people, is an iconic attraction that is worth a visit. In the evening, the town comes alive with clubs and restaurants offering the best of Ligurian cuisine, with dishes based on fresh fish, pesto and the famous focaccia
How to get there:
- By train: Alassio has its own train station, well connected on the Genoa-Ventimiglia line. The beach is a short walk from the station.
- By car: From the A10 motorway, exit at Albenga or Andora and follow the signs for Alassio. Paid parking is available near the beach.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Laigueglia Beach
Laigueglia is a picturesque seaside village located on the Riviera di Ponente, known for its long beach of fine, golden sand. This beach, which extends for several kilometres, is characterised by calm and shallow waters, making it an ideal destination for families with children and for those seeking quiet bathing. The atmosphere in Laigueglia is relaxed and informal, with a touch of authenticity that recalls times gone by.
The beach of Laigueglia is bordered by a promenade full of restaurants, bars and ice cream parlors, where you can taste typical Ligurian dishes and sip a drink overlooking the sea. Despite its popularity, Laigueglia has managed to preserve its charm of an ancient fishing village, with narrow cobbled streets and pastel-colored houses that overlook the sea.
Laigueglia also offers numerous activities for sports lovers, including windsurfing, sailing and beach volleyball, thanks to the equipped facilities along the beach.
Find out more about Laigueglia
How to get there:
- By train: Laigueglia station is on the Genoa-Ventimiglia line. The beach is a short walk from the station.
- By car: Andora exit on the A10 motorway, then follow the signs for Laigueglia. Parking is limited, especially in high season.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Bergeggi Beach
Bergeggi beach is one of the most spectacular corners of the Riviera delle Palme, characterized by uncontaminated natural beauty and an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Located at the foot of a green promontory, the beach is made up of a mix of sand and pebbles oli and is bathed by incredibly clear and turquoise waters, which make it a favorite destination for lovers of crystal clear sea and snorkeling.
One of the most fascinating elements of this location is the Island of Bergeggi, a small rocky island located a few meters from the coast, which is part of a Regional Nature Reserve. This islet, covered with Mediterranean scrub and populated by numerous species of sea birds, can be reached by boat or by swimming for the more adventurous. The waters surrounding the island are ideal for diving and snorkeling, thanks to the seabed rich in marine fauna and suggestive underwater caves.
Bergeggi Beach is mostly free, although there is no shortage of small beach resorts that offer essential services such as sun loungers and umbrellas. The atmosphere is quiet, far from the chaos of the most crowded tourist resorts, making it perfect for those seeking a refuge of peace and nature. It is also a beach particularly appreciated by hiking enthusiasts, thanks to the numerous paths that wind along the promontory, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Ligurian coast.
Visit Bergeggi and discover the nature reserve
How to get there:
- By train: The nearest train station is Savona. From there, you can take a bus to Bergeggi.
- By car: Exit Spotorno on the A10 motorway, then follow the signs for Bergeggi. Parking is available, but can be crowded in the summer.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Liguria: Baia dei Saraceni, Varigotti
The Baia dei Saraceni, located in Varigotti, is one of the most evocative and photographed beaches in Liguria. This white pebble beach is nestled between high cliffs that plunge into the sea, creating a wild and uncontaminated landscape that seems to come out of a postcard. The waters of the bay are clear and deep blue, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, thanks to the seabed rich in marine life.
Varigotti is an ancient fishing village, known for its colorful houses directly overlooking the beach, which give the place a unique and charming atmosphere. Baia dei Saraceni, with its natural charm and tranquility, is ideal for those looking for a day at the beach away from the crowds, in a context of rare beauty. It is advisable to bring everything you need for the day, as the beach has no bathing establishments, thus maintaining its authenticity and uncontaminated nature.
Varigotti also offers the opportunity to explore the paths that wind along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the bay below. The path to Punta Crena, a rocky promontory that juts out into the sea, is particularly popular with hikers and offers spectacular views of Baia dei Saraceni.
How to get there:
By train: The nearest train station is Finale Ligure. From here, you can take a bus to Varigotti and then walk to the bay.
By car: From the A10 motorway, exit at Finale Ligure and follow the signs for Varigotti. Parking is limited, so it is advisable to arrive early.
Liguria is a region full of extraordinary beaches, each with its own unique charm. From the Riviera di Levante with its hidden coves and breathtaking landscapes, to the Riviera di Ponente with its wide sandy expanses and seaside villages, there is a beach for every type of traveler. Thanks to the numerous rail, road and sea connections, these wonderful places are easily accessible, making every corner of Liguria an ideal holiday destination.
