You’re looking for unforgettable beautiful beaches along the Ionian coast of Salento, in the picturesque municipality of Ugento—soft sand, turquoise waters, and a seaside vibe that’s lively yet relaxed, just like the historic center of Ugento and the nearby village of Torre San Giovanni. As someone who just spent two weeks exploring every stretch of coastline around the town, I’ll tell you exactly where to go for the best experience in Salento. This guide is your complete guide to the beaches in Ugento and around, offering practical, honest advice for mature travelers and anyone planning a vacation in Salento.
Best Hotels in Ugento 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Parco dei Principi - Resort & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Jonico Hotel
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Salento Mirfran
- 💸 Cheap: Smart Hotel Ugento
- 🏢 Apartment: Monteforte Resort
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Vivosa Apulia Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: La Giara Resort
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Golden Sands & Family Fun — Torre San Giovanni Beach
- 🌊 Surf & Adventure Bay — Torre Mozza Beach
- 🌳 Nature Escape — Lido Il Molo Beach
- 🏝️ Secluded Cove — Fontanelle Beach
- ☀️ Easygoing Beach — Lido Playa Blanca Beach
- 🌴 Scenic & Quiet — Playa Del Sol Beach
- 🌿 Pine Tree Retreat — Lido Pineta Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Spot — Lido Marini Beach
- 🏄♂️ Sports & Waves — Torre Pali Beach
- 🧘♀️ Peaceful Hideaway — Baia del Pizzo Beach
1. Torre San Giovanni Beach: The Heartbeat of Ugento’s Coastline
Torre San Giovanni Beach is the headline act—a wide, sandy bay with calm, shallow waters. The sand warms underfoot, and you’ll see colorful umbrellas dotting the shore like confetti. I stumbled upon a local fisherman selling freshly caught sea urchins right on the beach—a true Salento moment. This is a sandy beach, about 2 km long, ideal from May to September when the water is a welcoming 24–28°C—perfect for swimming and safe for families.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Walk the promenade from Piazzale della Torre to the harbor, then explore the coastal path toward the Parco Naturale Regionale. Don’t miss the local favorite, Spiaggia Libera Nord—unfussy, uncrowded, and loved for its chilled-out vibe. For the best experience, arrive before 10 am or after 4 pm to avoid peak crowds; parking is available along Via del Mare. Torre San Giovanni Beach is a must for its lively atmosphere, shallow waters, and iconic tower—the symbol of the marina of Ugento.
- Pro: Endless stretch of fine sand, ideal for families and safe swimming.
- Con: Gets busy in peak season—go early or late for space.
Best For: Couples, families, and anyone who loves a classic seaside resort holiday.
Skip If: You want complete seclusion—try Fontanelle Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Torre San Giovanni Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Parco dei Principi - Resort & Spa — Beachfront luxury with private beach access, spa facilities, and stunning sea-view terraces overlooking the Ionian coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Salento Mirfran — Family-run property with excellent service, modern rooms with sea views, and just 500 meters from the beach with free shuttle service.
- Hotel Baia del Cigno — Beachfront location with comfortable accommodations, friendly atmosphere, and easy access to Torre San Giovanni’s promenade.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Smart Hotel Ugento — Clean, modern rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a convenient location just 300 meters from Torre San Giovanni Beach.
2. Torre Mozza Beach: Surf, Sand, and Wild Beauty
Torre Mozza Beach blends wide golden sands with a stretch of wilder dunes and natural scrub. The waves here are stronger, and you’ll hear the distant crash of surf even when the beach is calm. I watched kite-surfers dance across the water at sunset—pure coastal magic. This sandy beach is about 1.5 km long, best from June to September when the sea is warm and the breeze is steady.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Start at the parking area off SP358 and stroll to the iconic coastal tower. Nearby, the Sentiero dei Pini offers shaded walks through pine forests. Locals swear by the hidden coves near the dunes—perfect for a quiet picnic. The nearest bus stop is on Via Torre Mozza, but a bike ride from the marina is even better. Torre Mozza Beach is a gem for those who love a mix of water sports, natural beauty, and a less crowded vibe.
- Pro: Great surf, unspoiled dunes, and a wilder landscape.
- Con: Fewer facilities—bring your own shade and snacks.
Best For: Adventurers, surfers, and nature lovers.
Skip If: You need lots of amenities or calm water for kids—head to Torre San Giovanni Beach.
Best Hotels near Torre Mozza Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Antica Masseria Rottacapozza — Historic masseria with outdoor pool, wellness center, and beach shuttle service, set in authentic Pugliese countryside just 1 km from Torre Mozza.
- Terra d’Acqua Resort & SPA — Contemporary resort with spa, sauna, and a seafood restaurant near the Ugento coastline.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Giara Resort — Modern rooms with free Wi-Fi and bike rental, just 164 feet from Torre San Giovanni seafront with easy access to Torre Mozza.
- Salaqua Bed and Breakfast — Freshly renovated B&B about 100 meters from Torre Mozza Beach, known for excellent breakfasts and friendly service.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Residence Rivamare Ugento — Simple beachside apartments near Torre Mozza with kitchenettes and easy access to the sand.
3. Lido Il Molo Beach: Green Shade and Gentle Waves
Lido Il Molo Beach, nestled between the marina di Ugento and the lush countryside of Salento, is a family-friendly spot with soft sand and gentle, shallow waters—perfect for families with children seeking calm and safety. The scent of pine mingles with sea salt, and the beach bar is a local favorite for its fresh lemon granita. This sandy beach, about 300 meters long, is sheltered by the Mediterranean scrub and best enjoyed from late May to early October, when the clear water of the Ionian is at its most inviting.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Enter from the coastal road at Via Fontanelle, walk through macchia and pine forest, and you’ll find the small cove just east of the main lido—a quiet local favorite with essential services nearby. The nearest bus stop is Fontanelle, but strolling from the marina di Ugento is a scenic way to experience the Puglian coast. Lido Il Molo is your go-to for relaxation, gentle waves, and a slice of authentic local life, with views stretching toward the historic center of Ugento and beyond.
- Pro: Green surroundings, calm sea, and authentic vibe.
- Con: Smaller beach—can feel a bit tight in high season.
Best For: Families with young kids and anyone seeking a quiet morning.
Skip If: You want a wide, open sandy stretch—try Torre San Giovanni Beach.
Best Hotels near Lido Il Molo Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Diva Luxury Suite — Chic suites with elegant design, private terraces, and an upscale feel close to Ugento’s beaches.
⭐️ Best Value Hotels
- NC Boutique — Stylish boutique stay with modern rooms, attentive hosts, and easy access to the Ugento coastline.
- Nauticus — Contemporary rooms near the sea, offering a relaxed ambiance and convenient beachfront location.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Dimora Il Girasole — Comfortable guesthouse with friendly service and a peaceful setting a short drive from Torre Mozza.
4. Fontanelle Beach: Secluded Cliffs and Turquoise Waters
Fontanelle Beach, a hidden cove framed by low cliffs and untouched Mediterranean scrub, is a splash of turquoise water between the dunes and the macchia—one of the most pristine corners of the municipality di Ugento, less known to the tourist crowds. The seabed is dotted with colorful rocks, and the water is so translucent you’ll spot fish darting below before you even dip a toe in. I discovered a secret path to a viewpoint locals adore for sunset—a spot that captures the wild, unspoiled spirit of the coast, especially from June to September.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park near the coastal road at Via Fontanelle and walk down through the macchia to the hidden cove, beloved for its privacy and perfect for snorkeling. The best time to visit is mid-morning, when the sun lights up the cliffs and the water sparkles, rivaling even the famous waters and white sands of Pescoluse. The local bus stops nearby, but walking from the marina offers a glimpse of the region’s quiet beauty. Fontanelle Beach is a beautiful beach for those seeking seclusion, nature, and the rare chance to experience the Ionian coast of Salento as locals do.
- Pro: Stunning views, clear water, and a peaceful vibe.
- Con: Less sand, some rocky patches—bring water shoes.
Best For: Couples, photographers, and anyone seeking a scenic, quiet escape.
Skip If: You want lots of space for beach games—head to Torre San Giovanni Beach.
Best Hotels near Fontanelle Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- ROBINSON Apulia — Full-service beachfront resort with extensive pools, sports, and wellness facilities set in pine forests near Ugento’s dunes.
⭐️ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Club Astor — Resort-style stay with private beach area, large pool, and entertainment, offering strong value close to the Ionian coast.
- Eden Resort Country & Spa — Countryside retreat with spa, outdoor pool, and quiet gardens a short drive from Torre San Giovanni.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Riva di Ugento Campeggio Resort — Well-equipped beachfront camping village with direct beach access, great for active stays and families on a budget.
5. Lido Playa Blanca Beach: Easygoing and Accessible
Lido Playa Blanca Beach is a compact, well-equipped spot with fine sand, shallow waters, and a friendly, multicultural crowd, making it a favorite among tourists in Lower Salento. The sound of the sea mingles with lounge music, and the snack bars are always bustling. I enjoyed lunch at a nearby trattoria, watching the boat-filled harbor just like in the old town’s harbor. The beach, about 150 meters long, is ideal from June to September, when the clear sea is at its warmest.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park near the entrance on Via del Porto and walk past the lively beach clubs to the free stretch of sand. Locals love the small pier for its deep, clear water—a local secret for peaceful swimming. The nearest bus stop is Fontanelle, but mornings are the quietest time to visit, especially for those arriving by bike from the marina di Ugento. Lido Playa Blanca Beach is an accessible beachfront resort with all the essentials, minus the wilder dunes and Mediterranean scrub of other local beaches.
- Pro: Lots of facilities, easy access, and a friendly vibe.
- Con: Limited space in peak season—arrive early.
Best For: Groups, sunbathers, and those who want everything close at hand.
Skip If: You’re after wild, natural beauty—try Torre Mozza Beach.
Best Hotels near Lido Playa Blanca Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Costa Del Salento Village — Resort-style complex with pools, entertainment, and a private beach area close to the Ionian coastline.
⭐️ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Club Ravezzo — Beachfront stay with comfortable rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to sandy shores in Lido Marini.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Casa De Mare — Friendly B&B near the sea with clean rooms and a hearty breakfast.
- Lido Marini Apartments — Self-catering units steps from the beach, ideal for longer stays.
6. Playa Del Sol Beach: Scenic and Quiet
Playa Del Sol Beach is a quieter alternative, with golden sand and a relaxed, local crowd—a perfect spot for a vacation in Salento away from the bustle. The clear sea shines under the sun, and the beach is about 200 meters long, ideal from late May to early October. The occasional laughter of children building sandcastles and the gentle lapping of waves on the shore make it one of the most beautiful beaches for those seeking peace.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park along the coastal road and follow the shaded path through the dunes, past the tamarisk trees—a local favorite for those seeking solitude. The nearest bus stop is Fontanelle, but cycling from the marina is a scenic way to experience the landscape. Playa Del Sol Beach is perfect for couples, readers, and anyone who wants a peaceful sandy stretch with views toward the regional natural park and the distant Puglian hinterland.
- Pro: Quiet, scenic, and close to nature.
- Con: Fewer services—pack your own supplies.
Best For: Readers, sun-seekers, and anyone craving calm.
Skip If: You want action and nightlife—head to Torre San Giovanni Beach.
Best Hotels near Playa Del Sol Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Anchor House — Stylish coastal villa with refined interiors, spacious terraces, and a serene setting near Ugento’s beaches.
⭐️ Best Value Hotels
- Salaqua Bed and Breakfast — Welcoming B&B close to Torre Mozza with generous breakfasts and easy beach access.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Residence Rivamare Ugento — Simple seafront apartments with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays near Torre Mozza Beach.
7. Lido Pineta Beach: Pine Trees and Cool Shade
Lido Pineta Beach, nestled under a canopy of pine trees just steps from the Ionian Sea, is a rare Puglian find—offering cool shade even in the heart of summer. The scent of pine resin blends with the sea breeze, and the beach is about 250 meters long, best enjoyed from June to September. I discovered a picnic spot just beyond the main lido, popular with locals for its privacy and breezy comfort—perfect for families and anyone seeking shelter from the midday sun.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Enter from the coastal road and follow the shaded path to the shore, passing through macchia and pine forest. The secret spot is the small clearing between the pines, ideal for reading and relaxing—far from the tourist hub of the marina. The nearest bus stop is Fontanelle, but walking from Torre San Giovanni is pleasant, especially for those looking to reconnect with nature on the Ionian coast of Salento. Lido Pineta Beach is a top pick for anyone who values nature, shade, and a peaceful atmosphere near the sea.
- Pro: Natural shade, peaceful, and a unique setting.
- Con: Not the widest stretch of sand—can fill up.
Best For: Families, anyone seeking shelter from the sun, and nature lovers.
Skip If: You want wide-open spaces—try Torre San Giovanni Beach.
Best Hotels near Lido Pineta Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Vivosa Apulia Resort — Upscale eco-resort with a private pine-forest setting, extensive spa, and direct access to long sandy beaches.
- ROBINSON Apulia — Full-service beachfront resort with multiple pools, sports, and child-friendly facilities right on the Ionian coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Giardino dei Pini — Family-friendly accommodation surrounded by pine trees, offering a peaceful retreat with easy access to the shaded beach areas.
8. Lido Marini Beach: Sunset Views and Local Life
Lido Marini Beach is a long, sandy stretch backed by dunes and Mediterranean scrub—one of the most beautiful beaches for sunset views on the west coast of Puglia. The sky turns gold as groups linger at beach bars, and the local vibe is vibrant, especially from June to September. I joined a friendly game of beach volleyball—a splendid way to soak up the seaside atmosphere.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park along the main seafront road, stroll to the bars and lidos, and don’t miss the dune path at the far end—a local favorite for uninterrupted views toward the historic villages and hinterland of Lower Salento. The nearest bus stop is Lido Marini, but a sunset walk from Torre San Giovanni is a memorable way to end the day. Lido Marini Beach is ideal for those who love vibrant seaside life, spectacular sunsets, and the energy of a true seaside resort.
- Pro: Stunning sunsets, long shoreline, and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Con: Can be noisy in the evenings—not for solitude seekers.
Best For: Groups, sunset chasers, and those who love local nightlife.
Skip If: You want peace and quiet—try Fontanelle Beach.
Best Hotels near Lido Marini Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Terra d’Acqua Resort & SPA — Contemporary resort with a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and refined dining a short drive from Torre San Giovanni’s beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Luna Lido — Beachfront location with comfortable rooms and direct access to Lido Marini’s vibrant sunset scene and beach bars.
- Casa Acquamarina Lido Marini — Bright seaside apartment with terrace and kitchen, set near the sandy shores of Lido Marini.
9. Torre Pali Beach: Surf, Sand, and Solitude
Torre Pali Beach is a wilder stretch with golden sand and consistent waves, beloved by surfers and those wanting to experience the coast like Torre Mozza but with even more solitude. The water is clear, and the dunes back a landscape of Mediterranean scrub and stretches of low cliffs. I found a rustic shack selling fresh seafood—a local secret for visitors in search of authentic flavors and a peaceful day at the Ionian Sea.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park near the tower and walk south along the coast; the small cove behind the dunes is a local favorite for quiet moments and snorkeling. The nearest bus stop is Lido Marini, but cycling from Torre San Giovanni offers views of the Saracen-era countryside and unspoiled coastline. Torre Pali Beach is a must-visit for those who crave surf, solitude, and the scent of the Mediterranean scrub.
- Pro: Great waves, uncrowded, and authentic.
- Con: Few facilities—bring your own gear and snacks.
Best For: Surfers, thrill-seekers, and those who love untamed coasts.
Skip If: You need calm water for swimming—head to Torre San Giovanni Beach.
Best Hotels near Torre Pali Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Villa Bianca Torre Pali — Elegant seaside villa with panoramic terraces and modern interiors near Torre Pali’s sandy beaches.
⭐️ Best Value Hotels
- Sun Home — Cozy, well-equipped holiday home offering a quiet base within easy reach of Ugento’s coastline.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Apartment Mikao Torre Pali — Simple, clean apartment with kitchen and balcony, a short walk from the sea.
10. Baia del Pizzo Beach: Peace, Pebbles, and Panoramas
Baia del Pizzo Beach, nestled between low cliffs and Mediterranean maquis, is a mix of sand and smooth pebbles with clear, turquoise water—an idyllic spot for peace-seekers and snorkelers. The seabed is dotted with colorful rocks, and the beach is around 150 meters long, with a tranquil, local feel from June to September. I watched a heron fish in the shallows—a moment of pure tranquility, just a stone’s throw from the historic center of Ugento.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park near the coastal road and follow the path down to the hidden cove, a local favorite for swimming and admiring the coastline of northern Salento. The nearest bus stop is Baia del Pizzo, but walking from Fontanelle takes about 25 scenic minutes. Baia del Pizzo Beach is a pristine, picturesque spot for those seeking calm, panoramic views, and a glimpse of the region’s wild, Mediterranean beauty.
- Pro: Stunning clarity, peaceful, and lots of marine life.
- Con: Pebbly in spots—water shoes help.
Best For: Snorkelers, peace-seekers, and nature lovers.
Skip If: You want long, sandy stretches—try Torre San Giovanni Beach.
Best Hotels near Baia del Pizzo Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Villa Torre del Pizzo — Elegant villa with sea-view terraces and direct access to the coastal pinewoods near Baia del Pizzo.
⭐️ Best Value Hotels
- Corte Patitari — Comfortable seaside stay with bright rooms and a handy location for exploring Gallipoli and the Ionian coast.
- Masseria Macchiaforte — Affordable apartments with kitchenettes and parking, a short drive from sandy beaches and coves.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Ugento?
Expect to spend €15–30 per day for meals, beach amenities, and local transport, with higher prices in the summer season—especially in July and August—when Ugento and the villages along the coast welcome many tourists and offer essential services for visitors on vacation in Salento.
Which beaches in Ugento are best for families with young children?
Torre San Giovanni Beach and Lido Il Molo Beach have calm, shallow waters and plenty of facilities, making them ideal for families with children—safe, easy to reach, and surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Lower Salento.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Ugento?
Torre Mozza Beach and Torre Pali Beach offer surf and kite-surfing opportunities, while Fontanelle Beach is great for snorkeling, with clear sea and areas to explore among stretches of low cliffs and Mediterranean scrub.
What is the best time of year to visit Ugento’s beaches?
Late May to September offers warm sea temperatures, sunny days, and the lively atmosphere of the summer season—July and August are the most popular, but June and September are quieter and still splendid for a beach holiday in Salento.
How can you easily get around Ugento’s beaches?
Most beaches are accessible by car, bike, or on foot from the marina di Ugento and the village and marina of Torre San Giovanni, which have bus stops and coastal roads that make cycling easy—an ideal way to explore the Puglian coast, from the historic center to the most remote stretches of coastline.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Ugento?
Fontanelle Beach and Baia del Pizzo Beach are quieter alternatives, with pristine waters and panoramic views, while the hidden coves near Torre Mozza and Torre Pali are local secrets for those wanting to experience the coast away from the tourist crowds of the marina and main beaches.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Ugento’s beaches?
Arrive early to secure parking at these renowned beautiful beaches, bring water shoes for mixed sand and pebble stretches, and check wind conditions if you’re interested in surfing—local customs and essential services are tailored to make your vacation in Salento as comfortable and memorable as possible.
