Chiavari is the ideal Italian coastal town for travelers who want a mix of sandy relaxation, pebbly coves, and easy access to the vibrant life of the Italian Riviera. If you’re searching for the best beaches in Chiavari, Italy, this guide is your insider map—curated for mature travelers, couples, and small groups who value authentic atmosphere, quick scannable advice, and a local touch. Chiavari’s long esplanade, gentle sea, and proximity to Ligurian gems like Sestri Levante and Portofino make it a standout for a beach holiday in Liguria.
Best Hotels in Chiavari🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Grand Hotel Torre Fara
- ✨ 5-Star: Gli Scogli Luxury Residence Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Monte Rosa
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Stella Del Mare
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Santa Maria
- 🏢 Apartment: Appartamento via Giorgio Canale
- 👪 For Families: Casa Del Lord - Chiavari Centro
- 🏩 For Couples: Chiavari Centro Apartment
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Family-Friendly Sands — Chiavari Town Beach
- 🌿 Tranquil Hideaway — Naturista Chiavari Beach
- 🚲 Coastal Promenade Stroll — Lungomare di Chiavari
- ⛰️ Scenic Cliffside Escape — Zoagli Beach
- 🏊 Shallow Waters Playground — Lavagna Beach
- 🏝️ Secret Local Cove — Bagni Nino Beach
- 🌊 Blue Flag Excellence — Bagni Lido Beach
- 🍦 Gelato & Evening Lights — Bagni Giardini Beach
- 🛶 Estuary Adventures — Mouth of the Entella River Beach
- 🌅 Sunset & Viewpoints — Onda Blu Beach Bar Cove
1. Chiavari Town Beach: Classic Riviera Bliss
Slip off your shoes and feel the fine, warm pebbles underfoot—Chiavari Town Beach is the heart of the action on the Ligurian coast, a long stretch with both sand and shingle, lapped by calm, clear waters that make this spiaggia a beautiful beach for relaxed swims. I loved wandering from the marina past the beach clubs, where you can rent sunbeds or find a quiet spot on the free sections along the coastline. This mostly pebble beach runs 2 km, best from May to September, and fits easily into a seaside itinerary. Stroll Corso Garibaldi to Piazza Mazzini for coffee, then return via the promenade for gelato before the evening passeggiata.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll from the Columbus Monument at Largo Mario Ravenna, past Marina di Chiavari, and along the broad Lungomare di Chiavari as the sun dips behind Mount Portofino, with Rapallo and Genoa both appealing for a day-trip attraction. The green space behind Bagni Giardini is a local secret for a shaded picnic away from the midday heat on this family-friendly spiaggia. For fewer crowds, visit in June or early September; parking is easiest at Piazzale della Libertà, just off the main road, and plan your itinerary to include a sunset stroll along the coastline.
- Pro: Long, lively, and full of character—the quintessential Ligurian beach experience.
- Con: Can get busy in July and August—arrive early for a prime spot.
Best For: Everyone—especially families and sunseekers who want convenience and variety.
Skip If: You prefer solitude—for quiet, try the naturist beach or Zoagli.
Best Hotels near Chiavari Town Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Stella Del Mare — Friendly hotel near the seaside with rooftop breakfast space and easy walk to Chiavari Beach and the old town.
- Gli Scogli Luxury Residence Hotel — Stylish beachfront residence with spa access and sea-view terraces close to the promenade.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Piccolo Borgo — Central guest house 7 minutes from Chiavari Beach, with comfortable rooms and an inviting terrace lounge.
- Hotel Dell'Orto — Good-value city stay near shops and cafés, convenient for the train station and waterfront strolls.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Chiavari Centro — Simple, well-located studio in the heart of the center, a short stroll from the promenade and cafés.
2. Naturista Chiavari Beach: Secluded Serenity
Hear the waves break softly on the rocks, and breathe in the salty air—this free, nudist-friendly stretch at the eastern end of town is a peaceful retreat that suits an Italy beach holiday in Chiavari when you want a truly charming beach without crowds. I found it empty even in summer, with locals coming for a quiet swim away from families and beach clubs, a reminder that this beach offers calm water and a slower pace if you plan to visit Chiavari for restful afternoons. This rocky, 300-meter beach is best in June and September, ideal for quiet swims away from the crowds.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Bring a mat for the pebbles, and enjoy the wild shrubs that line the quieter stretches—locals treasure this spot for its solitude and natural feel that Chiavari offers when the main promenade is busy. The nearest bus stop is at Via Entella, but walking from the center is a pleasant 15-minute stroll that works well if you visit Chiavari with a flexible plan. For a mid-morning swim, the sun hits this beach just right, and you’ll have it almost to yourself, which fits neatly into a relaxed holiday in Chiavari with itinerary that leaves evenings free.
- Pro: Quiet, natural, and uncommercialized—real local vibes.
- Con: Rocky underfoot and minimal facilities—pack everything you need.
Best For: Nature lovers, couples seeking privacy, and anyone craving a break from crowds.
Skip If: You need sand or amenities—head to the main town beach instead.
Best Hotels near Naturista Chiavari Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Grand Hotel Torre Fara — Iconic seafront landmark with private beach area, panoramic pool, and elegant rooms overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamento via Giorgio Canale — Bright penthouse apartment with a spacious terrace, a short walk from the promenade.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Mignon Sara Home - 200m From Sea — Compact apartment 2 minutes from the waterfront, ideal for easy beach days and evening passeggiata.
3. Lungomare di Chiavari: The Esplanade Experience
The palm-lined Lungomare di Chiavari is more than a walkway—it’s the pulse of the town, stretching 2 km with constant sea views and easy access to every beach, making it a perfect base if you plan to stay in Chiavari for a relaxed coastal loop. I spent mornings here watching locals sip espresso at Bar Centrale and evenings admiring the pastel houses as the sun set over Mount Portofino, a rhythm that turns ordinary time on the beach into memorable nights in Chiavari. The promenade links free and equipped beaches, from family-friendly sand to quiet pebble coves, with calm seas protected by rock barriers.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Start your walk at Piazza Mario Ravenna, pass the marina, and continue to the end of the promenade for a full coastal immersion that suits a relaxed holiday plan without a rigid itinerary. The hidden corner behind Bagni Nino is where locals escape the midday bustle—grab a panino at Antica Focacceria S. Francesco and picnic there, then linger for golden-hour views if your getaway in Chiavari includes unhurried evenings. The train station is a short walk away, but for sunset, just wander until you find your perfect bench to round off your time on the beach.
- Pro: Effortless access, endless people-watching, and the best views in town.
- Con: Not a traditional ‘beach’—best for strolls and dip-and-go swims.
Best For: Active travelers, photographers, and anyone who loves a good promenade.
Skip If: You want a classic sunbathing beach—try the main town stretch instead.
Best Hotels near Lungomare di Chiavari
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Monte Rosa — Long-running 4-star with pool and wellness facilities, set a short stroll from the promenade.
- Maison Hublot — Modern, renovated apartment option within walking distance of Chiavari Beach and Lungomare di Chiavari.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamento Colombo — Practical apartment base close to Lungomare and the seaside paths.
- Vista Sul Carruggio - Centro Storico — Characterful flat overlooking the arcaded lane, an easy stroll to Lungomare di Chiavari and the promenade.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Camera Est — Cozy private room with spa tub, near shops and restaurants for a relaxed city break.
4. Zoagli Beach: Dramatic Cliffs & Deep Blue
Clamber down the steps to Zoagli Beach—a small, pebbly cove hugged by cliffs and lapped by deep, clear water, about 15 minutes from Chiavari by train. I cooled off here after a hot Ligurian afternoon, struck by the contrast between the turquoise sea and the green hills. The beach is narrow, maybe 200 meters at low tide, and is best in late spring and early autumn when the water is still warm but the crowds are thin. Walk up to the Church of San Pietro or the tiny harbor for a coffee with a view. Locals love the hidden rock platform just west of the main beach—bring snorkel gear and explore the clear waters.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Arrive early to claim a spot on the pebbles, and don’t miss the sunset from the viewpoint above the harbor, which many consider the best time to visit Chiavari during a beach vacation experience in Chiavari. The train station at Zoagli is right above the beach, but the stairs can be steep—pack light if you plan to get to Chiavari and pair this cove with Paraggi Beach for a contrast to sandy beaches elsewhere along the coast. For a post-swim treat, visit Pasticceria Maglio for the best focaccia in the area, a simple pleasure to see in Chiavari and one of the sweetest ways to end a day in this town in Liguria while you decide the best way to visit next.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery, excellent snorkeling, and a true Italian Riviera vibe.
- Con: Limited space and pebbles underfoot—bring water shoes.
Best For: Adventurers, couples, and anyone craving a scenic swim.
Skip If: You need sand or facilities—Lavagna is a better family choice.
Best Hotels near Zoagli Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Ca Du Rè — Peaceful holiday home with garden setting and easy access to coastal paths.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- San Pietro Chiavari — Simple, well-kept rooms in a handy location for both old town lanes and the beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Del Lord - Centro, 500m From Sea — Modern, quiet apartment in the old town porticoes, about 500 meters from the beach.
5. Lavagna Beach: Shallow Playground
Just east of Chiavari, Lavagna Beach is a vast stretch of golden sand, ideal for families and anyone who loves shallow, safe waters. I watched kids build sandcastles while parents relaxed under bright umbrellas—this is the classic Italian beach holiday, lively but never rowdy. The beach runs for several kilometers, best from June to September when the sea is warm and calm. Stroll the promenade to Piazza Marconi for ice cream, or visit the weekly market at Piazza Roma. The small rocky outcrop at the eastern end is a local favorite for a quiet swim away from the main crowds.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Parking is plentiful at Lungomare Atlantici, and the Lavagna train station is a 5-minute walk, which makes this easy-to-reach public beach a smooth add-on when exploring a seaside town on the Riviera. For a local secret, try the tiny cove near the port—bring a picnic and watch the fishing boats while the fine pebbles of Chiavari Beach give way to brown fine pebbles and the deep blue waters of Chiavari across the bay. Arrive in the morning for calm waters, then hop to Sestri Levante or Santa Margherita Ligure for a change of scene and good dining.
- Pro: Long, sandy, and perfect for families—plenty of space and amenities.
- Con: Can feel a bit busy in peak season—walk east for more peace.
Best For: Families, swimmers, and anyone who loves classic beach fun.
Skip If: You prefer wild nature—try the naturist beach or Zoagli.
Best Hotels near Lavagna Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Da Jo Chiavari 2 — Spacious apartment stay suited to longer trips, with quick reach to the seafront.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa Tigullio — Peaceful apartment with balcony and parking, suited to longer stays near the coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Elegante Casa Centrale — Stylish central flat with tasteful décor and easy access to Lavagna Beach and the seafront.
6. Bagni Nino Beach: Hidden Gem for Families
Tucked behind the marina, Bagni Nino is a small, well-equipped beach with a gentle slope and shallow waters—perfect for young children. I appreciated the accessible facilities, including lifts for strollers and wheelchairs, making it a stress-free choice for all. The beach has a mix of sand and fine pebbles, about 150 meters long, best in summer when the water is calm. The playground nearby is a hit with local kids, and the green space behind the beach is ideal for a shaded break. For a local twist, grab a slice of farinata from La Casa del Farinata and eat it on the grass.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Come mid-morning when the beach is quietest, and take advantage of the easy access from the parking lot at Piazzale della Libertà, then wander the streets of Chiavari to feel the everyday culture of Chiavari before returning for another dip. The secret spot here is the rocky jetty at the far end—great for a quiet swim and some solitude on the brown fine pebbles of Chiavari, a simple pleasure that caps a splendid seaside escapade in Italy or a relaxed day of your beach vacation before a short ride to the town of Sestri Levante or the town of Santa Margherita Ligure for dinner at some of the best restaurants and bars.
- Pro: Safe, accessible, and family-focused—ideal for young kids and anyone needing facilities.
- Con: Small and can fill up quickly—arrive early for the best spot.
Best For: Families with young children and travelers needing accessibility.
Skip If: You want a wild, natural beach—opt for the naturist stretch instead.
Best Hotels near Bagni Nino Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Relais Rantegosa - Holiday Home — Relaxed retreat with seasonal outdoor pool and garden, about a 13-minute walk from Bagni Nino Beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Bed & Breakfast 4U — Contemporary apartment stay with clean design, walkable to the seafront and cafés.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- AMP Garden — Ground-floor apartment with a small outdoor space, convenient for walks to the marina.
7. Bagni Lido Beach: Family-Friendly, Sporty Fun
Walk onto spacious sands mixed with fine pebbles—Bagni Lido Beach is a full-service spot where families and active travelers feel right at home. I spent a morning here watching kids splash in the pools while adults tried beach volleyball or relaxed in the shade of palm trees. The beach stretches about 200 meters, with calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming from late May to September. The adjacent fitness area and play zone make it a local favorite for those who want more than just sunbathing. For a break, grab a coffee at the bar or explore the small marina just steps away.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll from Viale Tito Groppo past the colorful cabanas to the waterfront, where you’ll find two pools (one for kids, one for adults), a fitness zone, and courts for beach soccer and volleyball. The green lawn behind the beach is perfect for a picnic away from the crowds—locals love it for weekend gatherings. Parking is easy at Piazzale della Libertà, and the Chiavari train station is a short walk. For the best atmosphere, visit on weekday mornings when it’s lively but not packed.
- Pro: Excellent facilities, sports activities, and shallow water—ideal for families and active travelers.
- Con: Can feel busy in peak season—arrive early or visit in June/September for more space.
Best For: Families, sports lovers, and anyone who likes a mix of relaxation and activity.
Skip If: You seek wild, natural beaches—opt for the eastern naturist stretch instead.
Best Hotels near Bagni Lido Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Le Stanze Sopra I Portici — Rooms above Chiavari’s historic arcades, steps from restaurants and the evening passeggiata.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Perla Chiavari — Bright studio option near the historic arcades, handy for markets and beach time.
8. Bagni Giardini Beach: Lively, Social, and Pet-Friendly
Feel the buzz of Italian beach life at Bagni Giardini Beach—a vibrant, well-equipped lido with a playground, sports courts, and even a dedicated area for dogs. I joined locals for a game of bocce and enjoyed sunset aperitivi at the beach bar. The mix of sand and pebbles covers about 150 meters, with calm waters from June through August. The highlight here is the social vibe—expect laughter, live music some evenings, and the smell of focaccia drifting from the snack bar. The small cove near the jetty is a hidden local gem, perfect for a quiet swim.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Enter from Viale Tito Groppo, where you’ll find ping-pong tables, a children’s playground, and plenty of shaded spots with beach chairs that set the tone for an easy trip to Chiavari. The dog beach is a hit with local pet owners—bring your four-legged friend for a day in the sun at this pebbly beach that feels like a pocket beach resort compared with many beaches in Italy. For a local treat, try the farinata at the snack bar, a simple place to see in Chiavari that adds flavor to an amazing beach getaway in Chiavari.
- Pro: Vibrant, social, and pet-friendly—great for groups and animal lovers.
- Con: Noisy at peak times—not the place for absolute peace and quiet.
Best For: Social butterflies, pet owners, and anyone who loves Italian beach culture.
Skip If: You crave solitude—try the naturist beach or Zoagli for quieter vibes.
Best Hotels near Bagni Giardini Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Appartamento Porzione di villa — Independent villa portion with private garden, a short drive from the seafront.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Blue Seagull Guest House — Air-conditioned guest house with private bathrooms, some sea views, and easy access to Bagni Giardini Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Emma Chiavari — Comfortable apartment with modern fittings, walkable to the station and waterfront.
9. Mouth of the Entella River Beach: Adventure & Nature
Hear the surf mix with river currents at the Mouth of the Entella River Beach—a unique spot where the sea meets freshwater, creating a dynamic environment for water sports and birdwatching. I watched windsurfers glide across the waves and spotted herons in the reeds at sunrise. The beach here is narrow, with coarse sand and pebbles, about 100 meters long. It’s best for surfing and kitesurfing in spring and autumn, when the winds pick up, though swimming is calm in summer. The nearby Parco delle Mura offers shady walks and panoramic views over the estuary.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Access the beach from Via Entella or the coastal cycle path—look for the small parking area near the river mouth, where proximity to the beach makes it easy to linger as the beach offers breathtaking estuary views. The local secret is the wooden platform west of the beach, where fishermen cast their lines at dawn and swap tales, giving this a beach with stories to tell that speaks to how Chiavari is located at a natural meeting of river and sea. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars for the migratory season, and remember that Chiavari has its own train for smooth connections to any nearby town in Cinque Terre if you want to extend the day.
- Pro: Prime spot for surfing, kitesurfing, and nature lovers—off the tourist track.
- Con: Limited facilities and rocky underfoot—pack your own supplies.
Best For: Adventurers, surfers, and nature enthusiasts.
Skip If: You want classic sunbathing or family amenities—head to Bagni Nino or Lavagna instead.
Best Hotels near Mouth of the Entella River Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa Botafogo — Comfortable apartment option with modern amenities, well located for exploring the center and waterfront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Lungomare - Porto Turistico — Marina-front apartment with balcony, perfect for sunset strolls along Entella River Beach.
10. Onda Blu Beach Bar Cove: Sunset Drinks & Local Vibe
Smell the sea salt and hear glasses clink as the sun dips behind Mount Portofino—Onda Blu Beach Bar Cove is the place for an aperitivo with a view. I joined locals at rustic wooden tables, sipping spritzes and sharing plates of fried seafood while the waves lapped the shore. This small, pebbly cove is about 50 meters long, with calm waters in summer and a lively bar serving snacks and drinks until late. The promenade here is dotted with benches and palm trees, perfect for an evening stroll. The real local favorite is the rocky outcrop just east of the bar—great for a quiet swim away from the crowd.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Find the cove along Corso Valparaiso, a short walk from the Columbus Monument, and savor this beautiful beach paradise on an unhurried stroll around Chiavari as the beach is renowned for golden-hour glow. The bar is open from morning until late, but the magic happens at sunset, when the whole area glows and you can raise Italy with a toast to a fantastic day of your beach. There’s no dedicated parking—best to arrive on foot or by bike if you want to feel Chiavari beach alone before the evening crowd. For a memorable evening, sip a drink as fishing boats return, then enjoy the 700-meter stroll along the promenade back to the station.
- Pro: Unbeatable sunset views, lively bar scene, and a true local hangout.
- Con: Small and can get crowded at happy hour—come early to snag a table.
Best For: Couples, small groups, and anyone who loves a good beach bar with a view.
Skip If: You need sand or space for kids to play—try Lavagna or Bagni Nino instead.
Best Hotels near Onda Blu Beach Bar Cove
💎 Luxury hotels
- Exclusive Apartment With Jacuzzi — Contemporary apartment with hot tub, well positioned for day trips between Portofino and Cinque Terre.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Valparaiso — Beachfront one-bedroom in prime location, a few steps from the promenade, with A/C, shared lounge, and convenient parking option.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casetta Indipendente - 3km From Sea — Peaceful detached cottage with garden, a short drive from the beach and coastal trails.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Chiavari?
Expect to pay mid-range prices for meals, drinks, and sunbed rentals, with free beach options available along the promenade and costs rising slightly in July and August, so plan a coastal holiday in Italy that leaves room for snacks and a sunset drink to end a fantastic day of your beach.
Which beaches in Chiavari are best for families with young children?
Chiavari Town Beach, Bagni Nino, and Lavagna Beach all offer shallow, safe waters and nearby playgrounds, making them ideal for families and perfect for families who enjoy swimming or sunbathing close to facilities.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Chiavari?
The Mouth of the Entella River Beach is best for surfing and kitesurfing, especially in spring and autumn, while the main town beaches are calmer for swimming and paddleboarding if you want the waters of Chiavari and create easy sessions near shore.
What is the best time of year to visit Chiavari’s beaches?
Late May to early September offers the warmest sea and sunniest weather, with fewer crowds in June and September—July and August are busiest but full of local events that make an encounter with Chiavari lively by day and relaxing by evening.
How can you easily get around Chiavari’s beaches?
The Lungomare di Chiavari promenade connects all major beaches on foot or by bike, the train station is central, and local buses run along the coast—parking is available but limited in peak season, so many visitors turn it into a retreat in Chiavari without a car.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Chiavari?
Naturista Chiavari Beach at the eastern edge and the rocky coves near Onda Blu Beach Bar are local favorites for peace and quiet, away from the main crowds, and a relaxing spiaggia nudista Chiavari option exists for those seeking solitude.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Chiavari’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for pebble beaches, arrive early for the best spots in summer, and check for Blue Flag status for water quality—local buses and trains make exploring easy, and most beaches have bars and snack options nearby so your beach vacation in Italy ends each day smoothly.
