Gargano, the jewel of the Adriatic coast, is famous for the variety and beauty of its beaches, characterised by fine sands, crystal-clear waters and unspoilt natural landscapes. Along the coast that stretches from Rodi Garganico to Vieste, passing through Peschici, you will find shallow, sandy seabeds, ideal for families with children. The coast stretching from Vieste to Mattinata presents a diverse landscape with beaches characterised by rocky seabeds, white cliffs and colourful pebbles. Although access to these beaches may require a little more effort, often via paths or steps, visitors are amply rewarded with breathtaking natural spectacles.
List of all Gargano beaches - Downloadable Guide Vieste Beaches - Peschici Beaches
Situated on an enchanting stretch between Cala Lunga and the bay of Gusmay, the picturesque Cala, whose name evokes sad memories of Turkish pirate raids along our shores, today presents itself as a haven of serenity and beauty. Once the scene of adventures and dangers, the Cala now offers an oasis of relaxation, a place to enjoy the warmth of the sun and bathe in crystal-clear waters, like many of the bays along our beautiful coastline.
The beach, which is completely free, is easily accessible by following a path from a side road of the coastal road S.P.52 that descends gently towards the sandy shore, offering visitors a breathtaking view along the way.
Framed by promontories jutting out into the sea along the Peschici/Vieste coast road, lies one of the hidden gems of our coastline. The beach is characterised by fine sand and a gently sloping sea. The exclusive and peaceful atmosphere is accentuated by the presence of ancient trabucchi, which, like works of art, frame this idyllic setting. The majestic watchtower, steeped in history, watches silently from above, adding an aura of mystery and charm to the bay.
The bay is reached by a convenient path that gently descends to the shore, allowing visitors to gradually immerse themselves in the beauty of this place. Offers a spectacular view of an interesting rock formation, crowned by a natural arch testifying to the creative force of nature. It has a free part and an equipped beach.
Known as the 'youth beach', this stretch of coastline experienced a vibrant past in the 1970s and 1980s when it attracted naturalists. Today, it remains a place of great importance and attraction, thanks to its scenic rocky peaks that embrace it. The environment is characterised by a striking cliff and the possibility of spectacular dives, using natural diving boards formed by the rocky conformation of the coastline. The beach is surrounded by a fine sand dune that slowly slopes into the sea, creating an atmosphere of peace and relaxation.
Access to the beach is easy, with detours from the main road S.P.52 leading directly to its unspoilt charm. Protected from the southerly winds, it provides shade in the afternoon hours, offering an ideal refuge for those who wish to enjoy the sea in a more reserved atmosphere.
Hidden between majestic rocks and pine trees, the Grotta dei Colombi beach is a sandy gem that offers an oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty. The sandy seabed slopes gently out to sea, creating a perfect environment for those who love to dive into calm, crystal-clear waters. The beach's name derives from the presence of the giant Grotta dei Colombi (Cave of the Pigeons), which not only offers a fascinating visual spectacle, but also provides natural shelter. The Grotta dei Colombi adds a suggestive touch to the environment, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. While enjoying the sun and the sea, you can't help but admire the majestic trebuchet that stands on the nearby cliff.
Access to the beach is quite easy from the S.P. 52 coastal road that runs along it, also offering good parking options, some of which are guarded. Its secluded location makes it particularly suitable for families with children, who can play safely on the sand.
Framed by the imposing 'Architiello', an admirable symbol of the Viestana coastline, and the cliff dominated by a 16th century watchtower, the Baia dell'Architiello reveals itself as a coastal jewel with two distinctive beaches. These beaches, 100 and 60 metres long respectively, are separated by a cliff of about a hundred metres. This place is worth a stop, not only to capture the enchanting panorama of pine-fringed Vieste, but also to explore the nearby 'Contrabbandieri' and 'Campana Piccola' caves. The location within a deep inlet provides almost total protection from the winds, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment.
San Felice Bay is considered an ideal retreat for families with children and is easily reached from the Vieste-Mattinata S.P. 53 coast road. It has a free part and an equipped beach.
The pebbly shore of the Baia di Campi forms a picturesque picture, protected to the south by the Scoglio di Campi rock and surrounded by olive groves and pine forests, creating an idyllic setting. This bay is a paradise for diving enthusiasts in search of unique images and hidden treasures. In its depths rests the wreck of an ancient Roman ship, sunk a good two thousand years ago. The bay is equipped with extra-hotel accommodation, bar, restaurant and beach facilities, guaranteeing comfort and recreation for visitors. Parking may be a little difficult, but the beauty of the place amply repays the effort.
Starting from the beach, it is possible to visit a series of fascinating sea caves by boat or canoe. These include the mysterious 'Grotta Dei Due Occhi', the beautiful 'Grotta Sfondata' and the unique 'Grotta Calda o Rossa', along with numerous smaller, unexplored ones. The Baia di Campi, like many beaches beyond the Testa del Gargano, is well sheltered from northern winds.
This small natural harbour hides a hidden treasure: a pebbly beach that slopes rapidly towards deeper waters. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean scrub, rich in intoxicating essences and aromas, Portogreco Bay offers an exclusive experience to those who decide to make the journey. It offers a breathtaking view of the Architiello di Portogreco, a natural monument that stands like a gateway in the blue sky. The surrounding caves, such as the stunning Grotta dei Marmi and the enthralling Grotta delle Viole, invite exploration and add a touch of mystery to the place. Looking up, one will find oneself contemplating the majestic Torre dell'Aglio, an imposing presence that evokes the history and robustness of ancient coastal towers. Well-protected from both northerly and southerly winds, it was a strategic refuge for sailors seeking shelter from rough seas.
Access to the bay can be slightly challenging, requiring a dirt road about 400 metres from the coastal road. However, the small sacrifice of reaching this hidden paradise is amply rewarded by the tranquillity and unparalleled beauty.
Only twenty metres in length, Cala della Pergola reveals itself to be a coastal jewel, with a bottom covered in small pebbles that slopes rapidly down to surprising depths, creating a paradise for underwater enthusiasts in search of evocative images. This corner of nature is surrounded by mysterious sea caves, including the splendid Grotta delle Due Stanze. Cala della Pergola is a haven reserved for romantic sunrise lovers. Here it is a magical experience, with the sun rising in an explosion of new colours from the deep sea, while the branches of the pines gently caress the azure waters. During this quiet moment, the only sound you hear is the scraping of pebbles under your feet and the melodious song of cicadas.
Easily accessible and with parking opportunities in the immediate vicinity.
Nestled between the Santa Tecla game reserve and the Monte Barone forest nature reserve, the Vignanotica beach is a coastal gem that boasts a white, high cliff beautifully embraced by the surrounding nature. This stretch of coastline, located between Vieste and Mattinata, is famous for its reefs rich in marine life and its suggestive sea caves, including the Grotta dei Colombi, the Grotta dei Sogni, the Arco Ricamato and the Grotta Campana Grande, the latter recalling Michelangelo's talent with its striking rock formations. The beach is sun-kissed from early dawn, but by mid-afternoon much of it is shaded by the majestic cliffs, offering moments of coolness and peace.
The beach, characterised by a pebbly bottom that slopes rapidly down to the depths of the sea, is served by a bathing establishment and offers all the necessary comforts for a relaxing day. Access is via a winding road from the Vieste-Mattinata Provincial Road, a road that winds for about 3 kilometres through unspoilt nature.
The Baia delle Zagare, also known as Baia dei Mergoli, stands as one of the iconic symbols of the Gargano, thanks to its spectacular white cliffs, two majestic limestone stacks shaped by the wind, green pines and white pebble beach. Its name comes from the fragrant flowers of the lemon trees (the orange blossoms) that grow nearby, adding a touch of sweetness and fragrance to the marine environment. This natural wonder offers incredible scenery, with the fusion of the white pebbles, the green vegetation and the blue sea. Located in the Mattinata area, about 30 km from Vieste, it actually consists of two beaches: to the north, towards Vieste, the Baia dei Faraglioni beach, and to the south, towards Mattinata, the Baia dei Mergoli beach.
To reach Baia delle Zagare from Vieste by car, you must drive south along the SP53, following a scenic road that offers breathtaking views of the Gargano coastline. This journey offers a preview of the natural beauty that awaits visitors. It is important to note that access to the Libera beach requires a nominal pass, issued by the Municipality of Mattinata. This approach helps to preserve the beauty and tranquillity of this paradisiacal corner.
For those who wish to venture across the mainland, there are old paths, although not always easy. One of these is the 'path of love', which connects Baia delle Zagare with the nearby beach of Vignanotica. These paths offer a unique opportunity to explore the unspoilt nature of the Gargano, immersing oneself in its wild and authentic beauty.
Scialmarino enchants visitors with its ancient series of dunes, fine golden sand and gently sloping sandy seabed, offering an unforgettable marine experience. Water sports enthusiasts find their realm on this beach, as its favourable wind exposure and renowned sailing, windsurfing and kite schools also make the area a paradise for lovers of sea activities. It is very easy to reach from the S.P.52 and is the location of numerous bars, equipped lidos and restaurants.
Nestled between two charming little peninsulas, Molinella beach, with its sandy dune, gently dips into the crystal-clear waters. Easily accessible via the Vieste-Peschici coastal road with a dedicated diversions, this location offers well-equipped lidos, guarded parking, restaurants and bars. Perfect for families with children, the bay has a sailing and surfing school, along with a playground, guaranteeing fun for all ages.
A short distance away, the suggestive Grottone with rock engravings dating back to the Palaeolithic period is worth a visit, as is the characteristic Trabucco located on the promontory to the left of the bay and the panoramic path connecting it to the Porticello Tower.
