Porto Selvaggio, in the west of Salento, has been a protected marine area since 1980. Rocky landscapes kissed by an azure sea and perfumed with pinewoods beckon. The Torre dell'Alto and Torre Uluzzo lookout towers stand at either end, looking out over this unspoilt setting ideal for snorkelling.
Framed by beautiful cliffs, this picturesque white sandy bay near Santa Cesarea Terme is sheltered from the wind and ideal for snorkelling.
Bordered by wild dunes, Campomarino di Maruggio is a sumptuous beach surrounded by heavenly turquoise waters.
The beach of Punta Prosciutto, in the heart of Salento, is regularly ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Puglia. High sand dunes line this stretch of coastline, which is bathed in clear water as far as the eye can see.
Torre dell'Orso is a splendid bay of about one kilometre with very fine sand, dunes and pinewoods. The sea in this area is perfectly clear thanks to the currents of the Otranto channel.
Salina dei Monaci is a nature reserve that draws a great many pink flamingos. Take a walk along the footbridge to marvel at this natural spectacle before basking on the beach with its dunes and turquoise waters.
A heavenly white sandy beach, nestled at the foot of a cliff, and infused with the scent of the Mediterranean maquis. Located in the Otranto region, the Baia dei Turchi (Bay of Turks) is part of the protected oasis of the Alimini Lakes.
This beautiful beach is part of the Geomarine National Park of La Maddalena, part of the archipelago of the same name, located in the north of Sardinia. It is one of the most scenic beaches in Sardinia, with pink sand rendering it a truly unique experience.
In the north of Sardinia, along the famous Costa Paradiso, lies Cala Li Cossi. Its emerald waters, soft sand and pink cliffs are a real picture postcard setting.
Located along the Baunei coast, this cove is one of the most famous and photographed sites in Italy. It is recognizable by its white pebble beach, and iconic rock formations, such as the stone arch and the famous needle of Monte Caroddi.
Head to Capo San Marco, near the archaeological site of Thanos and the beach of San Giovanni. Located on the Penisola del Sinis, this wild area is a perfect place for nature and history lovers.
In the south-west of Sardinia, this immense desert shaped by strong winds runs along the Costa Verde. These dunes of greenery and golden sand are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you travel through these lands, you will come across a magnificent landscape and a long stretch of fine sand that offers a striking contrast to the deep blue of the sea.
This crescent-shaped bay is located in the south-east of the island, in Villasimius. It is a small sandy beach with transparent waters, ideal for diving and snorkelling.
Opposite the island of Mortorio, this white sandy beach is tucked between granite rocks, pine trees and olive groves. Its shallow waters are ideal for your children to play in the sea. With its many fish, it is also an excellent spot for snorkelling!
Lying on the west coast of Sardinia, this oasis is made up of 5 small coves in a park of unspoilt nature. Its white sand contrasts wondefully with the green of the pine forests and the turquoise blue of the sea.
Halfway between the sea and the mountains, these creeks are full of surprises. Along the half-moon coast you will discover several secret coves. The waters are perfect for snorkelling and swimming. The village of Cala Gonone is home to the most picturesque sites, such as Cala Fuili and the caves of Bue Marino.
With its fine sand and deep blue waters, this beach in the north-east of the island is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. On the horizon you will see the famous islet of Torre della Pelosa, an Aragonese tower that dominates the view.
To the west of Palermo you will find the charming seaside resort of Santo Vito Lo Capo and its clear turquoise waters. Head towards Macari to reach Bue Marino Beach, a series of small, beautiful limestone coves.
Located in the Agrigento region, the Scala dei Turchi is one of the most exceptional sites in Sicily. This cliff of glistening white rock, descending in steps into the sea, is highly photogenic.
This nature reserve is home to superb beaches but is also worth a visit for its hiking opportunities. A mixture of turquoise and green, the water in this reserve is sublime.
Dominated by a high cliff, the spiaggia Valle i Muria is a pebble beach with dark colours that contrast beautifully with the transparency of the water. Little frequented, it is a good spot to relax away from the more popular sites.
Located on the island of Lampedusa, this little-used beach is the perfect picture postcard. With its white sand and exceptionally clear waters, it is reminiscent of a Caribbean landscape.
The premier beach on the Amalfi Coast is Nerano. Here you can enjoy crystal clear waters and an idyllic setting from sunrise to sunset.
Appearing on many postcards of the Amalfi Coast, from the trendy Marina Grande to the remote villages of Laurito and Arienzo, Positano's beaches are almost as famous as the village itself.
The only beach on the Amalfi Coast that enjoys sunlight all day long is located in Praiano, a small picturesque town nestled between the sea and the mountains. Not far from Praiano is the Furore Fjord, one of the most beautiful spots in the region.
In the centre of the Amalfi Coast are both some of the most fashionable and the most tranquil beaches in the region, from the bustling Spiaggia Grande to the secluded beaches of Duoglio and Castiglione.
Erchie, Maiori and Minori are the largest and most family-friendly beaches on the Amalfi Coast. They are bordered by numerous bathing facilities, bars and restaurants.
A pretty little fishing village with picture-postcard beaches. The ideal choice for an unforgettable day by the sea, culminating in a meal at one of Cetara's seafront restaurants.
Vietri sul Mare also has some of the largest beaches on the entire Amalfi Coast. An excellent choice for families with young children.