6 of the best beaches in Naples, Italy

06.01.2025 - 22:47 / lonelyplanet.com / Oscar Wilde

Jan 6, 2025 • 4 min read

Situated on the Gulf of Naples, on the western coast of southern Italy, Naples' history, culture, and cuisine are forever tied to the Mediterranean Sea.

Sailors from the Greek island of Rhodes were the first to establish a small commercial port here in the first millennium BCE, founding the city of Parthenope, renamed Neápolis in the sixth century BCE. Despite the city stretching along the Mediterranean, it is not typically considered a beach destination. However, there are plenty of places to enjoy a lovely day by the water in Naples, whether you're looking for a great swim or somewhere that's perfect for families with young children to splash about.

Here are our picks of the best beaches in Naples, Italy.

Best for snorkeling in a marine park

Spiaggia Della Gaiola, or Gaiola Beach, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Naples. Popular with locals during the summer months, entry is always free, and you'll want to arrive early to beat the crowds. Located along the Posillipo coast, on the northwestern edge of the Bay of Naples, the beach belongs to the Parco Sommerso Della Gaiola, a protected national marine park. Thanks to a ban on motorboats and fishing, the Mediterranean Sea is wonderfully clear and calm here, making it an ideal beach for snorkeling. Swim out to the two tiny, rocky islands in the near distance or snorkel the submerged ruins of a Roman-era villa. Bring a dive mask or swim goggles: plenty of colorful fish call this crystal blue corner of the Baby of Naples home.

Planning tip: The park is divided into two zones. Zone A is a protected nature preserve; Zone B is limited to 100 visitors a day. 

Best for families with young children

The private beach Bagno Elena boasts a splendid location in the Bay of Naples, adjacent to the 17th-century palace Palazzo Donn'Anna in Posillipo. Bathers have been catching rays and swimming the deep blue Mediterranean Sea here since it opened in 1840. Legend has it that Oscar Wilde once enjoyed whiling away summer days at the elegant Bagno Elena. The beach is divided into three main areas: the central pier is dotted with comfortable sunbeds for lounging under the Mezzogiorno sunshine, while the two side beaches are ideal for families thanks to shallow calm waters, plus plentiful umbrellas and sunbeds.

Planning tip: Enjoy an espresso at the beach bar or a lunch featuring regional seafood specialties at Il Ristorante, located on the pier.

Best for dining at a beachside restaurant

Steps away from Bagno Elena, on the other side of Palazzo Donn'Anna, Bagno Sirena is a smaller beach where you can relax on comfortable sunbeds and swim in the crystal clear sea minus the maddening crowds. Both Bagno Elena and Bagno Sirena boast incredible views of