Which part of Italy has the best beaches? Sun & seaside villas

From the Amalfi Coast to the tip of Sardinia, the Italian coastline offers the best beaches in Italy for families. Thanks to the calm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, soft sands, and nearby towns rich in Italian food and history, families can mix historical sites with beach time. Enjoy sun-soaked days, scenic views, and delicious cuisine along some of Europe’s most family-friendly shores — all while staying in one of our handpicked family villas in Italy, designed for comfort, privacy and memorable moments.

Find the best beach spots in Europe on family breaks in Italy 

The Italian coastline brims with safe, sandy beaches that are perfect for little ones. These family-friendly spots are also a great way to commune with locals, enjoying warm Italian hospitality, food, and seaside fun together. Read our helpful guide below, created by Villanovo's local experts. 

What part of Italy is best for families? The calm sea in Puglia 

Puglia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy for a family getaway.  A lovely day trip from Lecce, Torre dell'Orso boasts long sandy beaches and shallow waters that parents appreciate for young kids. Enjoy Baia dei Turchi's natural beauty, its white-sand beaches beautifully lined with a pine-tree forest. Near Otranto, pair your beach time with the town's cultural experiences and history. For those seeking tranquility, Punta Prosciutto, one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, has calm, clear waters.  

Our favourite villas in Puglia: Villa Fiorenza, Casa Essa,  Masseria Augustina

Tuscany: Nice sandy beaches and pine forests

The beaches in Tuscany offer plenty of family-friendly experiences, perfect for a relaxing seaside escape. Children of all ages will love the family beach clubs at Forte dei Marmi for a day of fun in the sun. This elegant, sprawling beach resort is also a short drive to Lucca, ideal for a day trip filled with historical sites and culture. For nature lovers, Cala Violina—accessible only by foot—is a serene cove with clear, turquoise waters. Lecciona Beach, wild and backed by dunes, offers a more rugged charm. Throughout Tuscany, you will also find mouthwatering food to enhance your memorable moments.

Our client's preferred villas in Tuscany : Villa Marco, Casa Pippo, Villa Maella

Sardinia: Wild coves and turquoise waters

The island of Sardinia is home to some of the best beaches in Italy for families that boast breathtaking scenery of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. Cala Brandinchi is a lively, picturesque beach with clear, shallow waters perfect for snorkelling. Cala Goloritzé stuns with dramatic cliffs and turquoise seas, ideal for adventurous swimmers. Porto Giunco enchants with its fine sand and scenic dunes. With its shallow, white sand and vibrant blue waters, La Pelosa is a favourite among snorkellers and divers. From here, take a ferry to Asinara National Park for an unforgettable day trip. 

Our choice of exceptional villas in Sardinia:  Villa Selvaggia,  Villa Cavallo,  Villa Bellavista Capo Boi

Sicily: The best Italian beach with volcanic backdrops

Sicily's beaches draw people from around the world for their natural beauty and cultural charm. The golden sand beach of Cefalù, close to the town centre, is one of the best Blue Flag beaches in Italy, offering easy access for children and families. Isola Bella, off the coast of chic Taormina, has pebble beaches and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Nature lovers will enjoy the untamed beauty of Riserva dello Zingaro, a nature reserve near the coral beaches of San Vito lo Capo. For dramatic scenery, Scala dei Turchi impresses with its iconic white cliffs rising above the sea. Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, Sicily offers the perfect coastal escape.

The best villas in Sicily for families: Villa Meraviglia, Villa Naxos, Villa Bacara

Amalfi Coast & Campania: Iconic coves with dramatic views

The Campania region and the trendy Amalfi Coast is a hotspot for tourists and a perfect day trip from Naples. The Italian coastline here features rocky shores and beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.  Just a few minutes from Atrani, Marina Grande has pebble beaches and a lively beachfront restaurant. Laurito is a secluded gem reached by staircase or sea. Your Villanovo concierge can book a private boat excursion for you. Arienzo, nestled into a cliffside, is worth the descent of many steps. Note that these beaches are less suited for families with toddlers due to steep access and limited sandy areas. For relaxation, visit the Island of Ischia and the thermal baths in Forio.

Our favourite villas on the Amalfi Coast and in the Campania region:  Villa Federica,  Palazzo Santa Croce, Villa Squisita

Villanovo in Italy: Exceptional stays and luxury concierge services

Our exclusive collection for your beach holidays in Italian seaside towns

Villanovo has a wide choice of luxury villas in Italy with private pools, lush gardens, tennis courts, sea views or direct beach access. Our large villas with multiple bedrooms are ideal for family gatherings. 

Find our villas in prime locations near the beaches in Sardinia, Tuscany, Sicily, Puglia, and the Amalfi Coast, as well as inland destinations like Umbria, the Italian Alps, and the famous Italian lakes.

A unique experience at the most beautiful beaches in Italy:

Staying in a Villanovo villa is much more than rental. it is a tailor-made experience for your holiday in Italy. Thanks to our luxury concierge service, you will benefit from personalised assistance before and during your trip. Our dedicated concierges take care of all the details: reserving restaurants with local specialties or a private chef, booking childcare and fun excursions for children, and sharing recommendations for good beaches for families. This exclusive service means you and your loved ones can focus on what is important: gathering together and enjoying your holiday in Italy.