Your stay ↗A guide to beaches, coves and rocky shores along the Salento coast.
Sand beneath your feet or rocks meeting the blue. Seven places to note, from the coast near Poggiardo to the beaches around Otranto.
7 places to explore
Pale sand, pine woodland and clear water: take your time over a day between sea and nature.
Sand · a walk towards the bayAllow for the walk from the car park and bring water and sun protection.
A broad sandy beach backed by dunes and pine woodland. For anyone who enjoys combining a long walk with a beach day.
Sand · public stretches and beach clubsChoose your stretch of beach in advance and check parking, any shuttle service and beach-club facilities.
A small inlet among rocks and Mediterranean scrub, with a little beach at the head of the bay.
Small beach · rocks on either sideSpace on the sand is limited. The water becomes deeper away from shore: choose where to enter according to your swimming experience.
A sheltered cove between rocky walls, cooled by freshwater springs. For travellers who enjoy exploring with a snorkel mask.
Pebbles and rocks · spring waterBring water shoes; the surfaces are uneven and there is limited space for lying down.
The sea at the foot of Castro: rocky shores, deep shades of blue and the village to explore after a swim.
Rocks · access from the marinaUse permitted swimming access points outside harbour areas and boat routes. Expect deep water and consider water shoes.
A natural pool set into the rock, on a stretch of coastline to combine with a scenic walk.
Rock · natural poolAccess points and rocky surfaces can be slippery. Bring water shoes and choose a day with calm seas.
Cliffs, deep water and a seafront to explore slowly. By day, choose a permitted swimming access point; in the evening, watch the changing light along the coast and in the sky.
Rocky coast · deep waterThe water becomes deep quickly. Choose open, signposted access points or an equipped beach facility; check sea conditions, openings and local rules. The photograph shows the coast at night.