Best beaches in Italy

 

As the sweltering Italian summer continues to heat up, locals and tourists alike flock to beaches around the country in search of sunshine solace. Soon these peaceful weekends away will turn into long vacations throughout the month of August, when many families depart from their central city life for one of dazzling shorelines, exquisite seafood and rich ocean air. The country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world; so what better a time to "live like a local" and embark upon your own seaside getaway? Here is our top 10 picks.

 

 

It's almost impossible to choose from the myriad of magical beaches in Puglia, but the Pescoluse (dubbed the "Maldives of Puglia") arguably wins the title as the Southern region's most premier beach destination. With a 5km stretch of fresh white sand, breathtaking azure waves and divine weather, this heavenly sight is one of pure tranquillity. The stunning shoreline is perfect for romantic walks at sunrise or sunset, or for those seeking their fitness kick, jogs with an epic view.

 

 

 

 

Picturesque and bustling, the Spiaggia Grande is the hub of town life in Positano. Perfect postcard material, this enchanting beach is perhaps the most vibrant on the Amalfi Coast, with regular and exciting entertainment along the lively pier creating a charming atmosphere day to day. Visit for the rolling crystal waves, stay for the mouth­watering seafood and unmissable social life.

 

 

Based in the province of Livorno, Castliglioncello has the best of both worlds: fresh and natural forest like parks and glamorous, shimmering beaches. A sophisticated town, it has become known as the hotspot for the rich and famous, with stars such as Marcello Mastroianni (of La Dolce Vita) summering here in the 60s. On first visit, you can see why. Stretches of white beaches, reefs carved from the wind and reams of Mediterranean trees make you feel like you have stepped onto a movie set. Combine that with the impeccable and brightly coloured houses cascading down flower covered mountainsides and you know you've hit the jackpot.

 

 

 

It's a place of simplicity and serenity: come and enjoy the blissful atmosphere of Mosterosso in Cinque Terre. The only sand covered beach in the area, this long stretch is dotted with ranks of colourful beach chairs and lined with sparkling green waves gently tumbling across the shoreline boulders. The town itself hosts a diverse atmosphere of hikers, those seeking natural landscapes and curious types exploring the colourful village streets and houses that have now become famous around the world. All come together to experience a place of peace down on the sand where a soft breeze makes even the hottest of climates more than pleasant.