You’re planning a beach-focused trip to Santa Margherita Ligure, a picturesque coastal town along the Italian Riviera in Liguria—smart choice. The best beaches in Santa Margherita Ligure offer a mix of pebble coves, lively waterfronts, and quiet hideaways, all within easy reach of the town’s palm-lined promenade and colorful harbor. This travel guide shows you how to soak up the Ligurian sun like a savvy traveler, with easy booking, great seafood restaurants, and excursions to nearby attractions like Portofino and Cinque Terre.
Best Hotels in Santa Margherita Ligure 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Grand Hotel Miramare
- ✨ 5-Star: Imperiale Palace Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Laurin
- 🛏 3-Star: Albergo Minerva
- 💸 Cheap: The Time -Home & Hotel-
- 🏢 Apartment: Santa Margherita Ligure Apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hotel Villa Anita
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Blu di Te
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Central Waterside — Spiaggia Libera
- 🌅 Sunrise Views — Spiaggia Minaglia
- 🏝️ Family-Friendly — Spiaggia Regina Elena
- 🚣 Marina Vibes — Giò e Rino Beach
- 🌊 Rocky Retreat — Punta Pedale Beach
- 🥂 Beach Club Scene — Bau Bau Beach
- 🏄 Water Sports Hub — Bagni Bosetti
- 🌿 Hidden Gem — Bagni Margherita
- 🌉 Scenic Escape — Spiaggia Travello
- 🐚 Local Favorite — Spiaggia di San Michele di Pagana
1. Spiaggia Libera Beach: Central Waterside Convenience
The pebbly beach underfoot at Spiaggia Libera is a hallmark of the Riviera di Levante, right in the center of this beautiful coastal town. I grabbed an espresso at Bar Centrale and watched fishing boats bob in the turquoise bay—pure Ligurian charm. This free, central stretch, popular throughout the season, is mostly pebble, about 300 meters long, and gets lively from June through September, with clear, calm waters ideal for a dip between sightseeing and tasting the region’s famous pesto.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll the Lungomare Marconi promenade past pastel buildings, detour to Piazza Martiri della Libertà for people-watching, and don’t miss the Friday market on Corso Matteotti for local crafts and fresh fish dishes. Locals love the rocky outcrop east of the beach for quiet sunbathing away from the crowd. The nearest bus stop is Santa Margherita Ligure train station, just a five-minute walk; arrive before 10am to claim a prime spot in summer. The beach’s location makes it a convenient base for excursions to Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and along the coastline.
- Pro: Superb location steps from cafés, seafood restaurants, and the harbor.
- Con: Can get crowded in peak season; bring water shoes for pebbles.
Best For: Travelers who want everything within walking distance and enjoy a lively, authentic Italian seaside vibe.
Skip If: You crave soft sand or total solitude—try Spiaggia Minaglia instead.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Libera Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Riviera Flavour Apartments I by Wonderful Italy — Stylish renovated apartments in an excellent central location near the seafront, with balconies or terraces and easy access to shops and dining.
- CasaViva – Central Trilo with Parking — Practical apartment a short walk from Santa Margherita Ligure Beach, featuring private parking and a convenient central base for exploring.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Holiday Home Santa Margherita Ligure — Comfortable holiday home option close to Santa Margherita Ligure Beach, offering space, privacy, and convenient self-catering amenities.
- Happy Haven al mare by Portofino — Compact, budget-friendly stay just steps from the waterfront with functional facilities for short seaside breaks.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- MA Hotel — Small, modern accommodations in the town center just yards from the sea, with helpful staff and clean, comfortable rooms.
2. Spiaggia Minaglia Beach: Sunrise Views & Local Character
Waking early, I followed the scent of salt and freshly baked focaccia—local specialty pesto nearby—to Spiaggia Minaglia, a little pebble beach tucked below the colorful houses of Corte, part of Liguria’s scenic coastline. The water here shimmers at sunrise, and you’ll often spot locals diving off the rocks. This intimate beach is about 100 meters long, best enjoyed May to October when the sea is warm and calm.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Climb Salita San Giacomo for panoramic harbor views, visit the Chiesa di San Giacomo di Corte, and grab a snack at Panificio San Biagio. The secret spot? The tiny rocky platform west of the beach—perfect for a peaceful read. The closest parking is on Via Minaglia; take the bus to Piazza Mazzini and walk five minutes downhill. Looking for a peaceful retreat, this spot is ideal for a morning swim before returning to town to visit the abbey of San Fruttuoso or take a ferry excursion.
- Pro: Authentic local atmosphere and stunning sunrise vistas.
- Con: Limited space and no sunbeds; bring your own mat.
Best For: Early risers and those seeking a quiet, local experience.
Skip If: You need facilities or sandy shores—head to Spiaggia Regina Elena.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Minaglia Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Best Western Regina Elena — Seafront property with panoramic terraces, seasonal beach club, and easy promenade access between Santa Margherita and Portofino.
- Santa Margherita Palace & Spa — Boutique 5-star design hotel with luxurious modern rooms, spa facilities, and prime location near the train station.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Regina Elena Dependance — Comfortable annex rooms with use of main hotel facilities, offering a smart price point near the waterfront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Monte di Portofino — Simple, friendly B&B on the Portofino hillside, good for walkers and nature lovers seeking a quiet base.
3. Spiaggia Regina Elena Beach: Family-Friendly Fun
Children’s laughter mixes with the clink of beach umbrellas at Spiaggia Regina Elena, a well-organized pebble beach on this stretch of coast, with gradual entry and lifeguards—classic Ligurian seaside for families. I watched families build sandcastles on the small sandy patches between the stones, savoring the atmosphere of the Italian Riviera. The beach is about 200 meters and busiest July and August, with calm waters and plenty of shade—perfect for a family trip to Italy.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Explore the nearby Giardini Vittorio Veneto, visit the historic Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, and stroll the Lungomare Rossetti, dotted with restaurants and shops. Locals recommend the gelato at Gelateria Centrale for a post-swim treat. The beach is a short walk from the train station; mornings are best for families, as it fills up by noon in summer. Genoa Airport is just a short transfer away, making it convenient for those planning a trip to Italy.
- Pro: Safe, shallow waters and good facilities for families.
- Con: Can feel crowded in high season; arrive early for the best spot.
Best For: Families with kids and anyone who values convenience and safety.
Skip If: You prefer wild, natural settings—try Punta Pedale Beach.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Regina Elena Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Grand Hotel Miramare — Premium beachfront resort with family-friendly amenities, kids’ activities, and direct beach access with tropical gardens.
- Mediterraneo Emotional Hotel & Spa — Renovated 19th-century building with spa facilities, modern amenities, and close proximity to family beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Villa Alberti Portofino Land — Family-friendly hotel with garden, private parking, and just a 4-minute walk to Santa Margherita Ligure Beach.
- The Time -Home & Hotel- — Modern accommodations with garden setting, 8-minute walk to the beach, and helpful reception staff.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Blu di Te — Charming property with vintage interiors, swimming pool, Turkish bath, and just 5 minutes from Santa Margherita Ligure beach.
4. Giò e Rino Beach: Marina Vibes & Lounge Culture
The clatter of sailboat rigging and the hum of conversation set the scene at Giò e Rino Beach, a pebble stretch by the marina, where maritime heritage meets modern Italian Riviera ease. I lounged here with a chilled Peroni, watching yachts glide into the harbor, right in the center of the town’s lively shoreline, a hub for tours and activities and places to eat. The beach is about 150 meters, best from June to September, with clear water and a social, coastal town atmosphere.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk along Via Marconi to the fish market, explore the harbor’s colorful gozze fishing boats, and enjoy aperitivo at Bar Stella Marina. The hidden gem? The small rocky cove just south of the beach club, where locals escape the sun for a quick swim. The nearest bus stop is Piazza Martiri della Libertà; evenings are ideal for a relaxed vibe, taking in the sights of the Italian Riviera along the waterfront.
- Pro: Great for people-watching and easy access to the marina.
- Con: Mostly pebble and can be noisy with boat traffic.
Best For: Social travelers who enjoy a lively waterfront scene.
Skip If: You seek peace and quiet—head to Bagni Margherita.
Best Hotels near Giò e Rino Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Laurin — Four-star property with rooftop pool deck, marina views, and on-site bar perfect for aperitivo culture.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Metropole — Seafront location at the beginning of the seaside promenade, overlooking the Ligurian Sea with excellent marina access.
- B&B Hotels Park Hotel Suisse — Modern hotel overlooking Gulf of Tigullio, 492 feet from harbor with seawater swimming pool.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- MA Hotel — Centrally located modern accommodations just yards from the sea and marina, with friendly staff and competitive rates.
5. Punta Pedale Beach: Rocky Retreat with a View
The sound of waves crashing against the rocks filled the air as I picked my way down to Punta Pedale Beach, a wild, pebble cove framed by jagged cliffs and promontories, overlooking the bay. I scrambled over boulders to find a perfect sunbathing spot, with panoramic views across the Gulf of Tigullio—a protected marine area known for its beauty. The beach is small, about 50 meters, and best in late spring or early autumn when the sea is calm, offering a tranquil escape along the Riviera di Levante.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Hike the scenic coastal trail towards Portofino for breathtaking vistas and views of the park of Portofino, visit the Faro (lighthouse) for a photo op, and stop by the tiny Bar della Marina for a coffee. The local secret? The rocky platform just east of the beach, where you can watch boats heading to Portofino and San Fruttuoso, or even further to the Cinque Terre. Parking is limited along Via dei Mille; arrive early or take the bus to Piazza Mazzini and walk 15 minutes.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery and a sense of escape from the crowds, thanks to its location on the wilder stretch of this stretch of coast.
- Con: Challenging access and no facilities; not ideal for small children.
Best For: Adventurous types and photographers seeking wild coastal beauty.
Skip If: You need easy access or sandy shores—visit Spiaggia Regina Elena instead.
Best Hotels near Punta Pedale Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Imperiale Palace Hotel — Elegant villa with terraced gardens, hiking trail access, and spectacular panoramic views perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Portofino Seaview Apartment — Spacious seaside apartment steps from the promenade, ideal for groups seeking comfort, privacy, and a prime beach location.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La casa dei Gabbiani by Portofino Homes — Bright, well-equipped apartment with balcony, a short stroll to the waterfront and convenient for dining and shopping.
- Lovely House — Simple, good-value stay in a quiet residential spot, offering easy access to beaches and the historic center.
6. Bau Bau Beach: Beach Club Scene
Sun loungers and striped umbrellas line Bau Bau Beach, a stylish pebble beach club with a relaxed, Euro-chic atmosphere, overlooking the Ligurian Sea. I sipped an Aperol Spritz here, soaking up the Riviera vibe as DJ beats drifted over the water—this is part of Liguria’s signature beach club culture, a highlight along the coastline. The beach is about 50 meters, busiest July and August, with music, cocktails, and a young, fashionable crowd.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Stroll the Lungomare Rossi, browse boutiques on Via Roma, and visit Villa Durazzo’s gardens for a quiet escape. The insider spot? The rocky outcrop west of the club, where locals sunbathe away from the scene. The nearest bus stop is Santa Margherita Ligure train station; afternoons are best for the full beach club experience, enjoying fresh fish dishes and high-end aperitivi overlooking the sea.
- Pro: Stylish ambiance, good facilities, and lively social scene.
- Con: Can be pricey in peak season and less peaceful.
Best For: Couples and groups who enjoy a vibrant, upscale beach club, part of the unforgettable coastal town experience.
Skip If: You prefer a natural, quiet setting—try Spiaggia di San Michele di Pagana.
Best Hotels near Bau Bau Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Grand Hotel Miramare — Premium beachfront resort with sophisticated pool area, tropical gardens, and upscale dining matching the beach club vibe.
- Santa Margherita Palace & Spa — Designer boutique hotel with contemporary luxury, spa services, and proximity to Villa Durazzo gardens.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Laurin — Stylish four-star hotel with panoramic terrace, pool, and modern amenities appealing to beach club enthusiasts.
- Hotel Metropole — Seafront property at the promenade’s start with sophisticated atmosphere and easy access to shopping on Via Roma.
7. Bagni Bosetti Beach: Water Sports Hub
The hum of paddleboards and the shout of diving instructors fill the air at Bagni Bosetti, a pebble beach known for its water sports, active atmosphere, and Italian Riviera fun. I tried snorkeling here, spotting colorful fish near the rocks, thanks to its location within a protected marine area. The beach is about 100 meters, ideal May to October, with equipment rentals and a friendly, active vibe—perfect for those who love excursions and boat trips.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Explore the nearby Piazza San Bernardo, visit the Oratorio di Sant’Erasmo, and walk the coastal path towards Rapallo. The local favorite is the small, secluded cove just east of the beach—perfect for a quiet swim. The nearest bus stop is Piazza Mazzini; mornings are best for calm water and fewer crowds, and you’ll find plenty of places to eat with fresh local seafood.
- Pro: Great for snorkeling, SUP, and meeting fellow travelers.
- Con: Limited sand and can get noisy with activities.
Best For: Active travelers and water sports enthusiasts exploring the sights of the Italian Riviera.
Skip If: You want a classic sunbathing experience—visit Spiaggia Libera.
Best Hotels near Bagni Bosetti Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Continental — Full-service resort with water sports facilities including snorkeling, diving, canoeing, and windsurfing equipment and instruction.
- Eight Hotel Paraggi — Boutique luxury on a rare sandy cove near Portofino, with private beach area and stylish rooms steps from the sea.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Argentina — Cozy inn atmosphere and welcoming staff, offering a serene base close to trails and a short ride to the waterfront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- L’Eremo – Rifugio Escursionistico — Simple hikers’ refuge inside the Portofino Park, ideal for nature lovers seeking peaceful surroundings and panoramic paths.
8. Bagni Margherita: Hidden Gem
A hidden set of steps leads down to Bagni Margherita, a tiny, pebble cove with a quiet, local feel, part of the Riviera di Levante’s lesser-known spots. I spent an afternoon here, listening to the splash of waves and the distant church bells from Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, overlooking the sea in serene peace. The beach is about 30 meters, best enjoyed in late spring or early autumn, with clear, calm water—a little beach beloved by locals.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Stroll the serene Via della Vittoria, explore the Parco del Flauto Magico, and visit the medieval Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure. The insider secret? The rocky ledge at the far end of the beach, where locals sunbathe in privacy, away from the main promenade and attractions. Walk from the town center, as parking is scarce; late afternoons are the most peaceful, offering a sense of the Italian fishing village heritage that still lingers along the coastline.
- Pro: Peaceful, uncrowded, and authentically local.
- Con: Very small, with no facilities or sunbeds.
Best For: Travelers seeking a quiet, hidden spot close to town, looking for a peaceful escape along the coast.
Skip If: You need space or amenities—try Spiaggia Regina Elena.
Best Hotels near Bagni Margherita
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Best Western Regina Elena — Seafront stay with panoramic terraces, seasonal beach club, and easy promenade access between Santa Margherita and Portofino.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Regina Elena Dependance — Comfortable annex rooms with use of main hotel facilities, offering a smart price near the waterfront.
- Mediterraneo Emotional Hotel & Spa — Renovated historic building with spa services and serene atmosphere for relaxation seekers.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Albergo Minerva — Peaceful hotel with well-kept garden, rooftop terrace, and quiet location ideal for those seeking hidden gems.
9. Spiaggia Travello Beach: Scenic Escape
The scent of pine mixes with salt air at Spiaggia Travello, a pebble beach nestled between green hills and the sea, part of the scenic coastline of Liguria. I walked here from the town center, passing olive groves and colorful villas, enjoying a serene escape from the busier coastal town center. The beach is about 100 meters, less crowded even in summer, with calm water and a relaxed, scenic vibe—ideal for those exploring the beautiful beaches of the Italian Riviera.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Walk the scenic Sentiero del Golfo, visit the Oratorio di San Rocco, and enjoy a picnic under the pines, overlooking the Ligurian Sea. The local favorite? The small rocky outcrop at the western end, with views towards Rapallo—perfect for a quiet moment away from the main stretch of coast. The nearest bus stop is Travello; arrive mid-morning for the best light and least crowds.
- Pro: Peaceful, beautiful, and surrounded by nature, with stunning coastal views.
- Con: A bit of a walk from the center, with few facilities.
Best For: Nature lovers and those seeking a quiet, scenic swim, away from the main tourist attractions.
Skip If: You want a lively beach with amenities—visit Bau Bau Beach.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Travello Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Continental — Resort with landscaped gardens, nature activities like hiking trails, and scenic coastal location.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa 1900 — Charming property with garden and quiet street views, perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty.
10. Spiaggia di San Michele di Pagana: Local Favorite with a View
The rustle of olive leaves and the chatter of local families filled the air at Spiaggia di San Michele di Pagana, a picturesque pebble cove beloved by residents, overlooking the bay. I joined locals here for a late lunch, enjoying fresh focaccia and the view across the Gulf of Tigullio, part of Liguria’s magic. The beach is about 80 meters, best in late spring and early autumn, with clear water and gently sloping entry—a hidden spot that feels like the soul of the Italian fishing village, yet is just a short ferry or drive from places in Italy like Genoa and Cinque Terre.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Visit the Chiesa di San Michele di Pagana, stroll the peaceful olive-lined lanes of Pagana, and stop by Trattoria dei Pescatori for fresh fish dishes, a must on a trip to Italy. The insider spot? The small rocky platform at the western end, where you can watch the sunset over the Gulf and plan your next excursion, whether it’s a boat trip to Portofino and San Fruttuoso or a scenic coastal walk. The nearest bus is San Michele; arrive early for parking or take a taxi from Santa Margherita Ligure.
- Pro: Authentic, peaceful, and favored by locals for its relaxed vibe, with beautiful views and access to excursions.
- Con: Limited amenities and a short walk from the main town.
Best For: Travelers wanting a local experience and great coastal views, for whom places like Cinque Terre or Paraggi Beach are just a short trip away.
Skip If: You need a central location or sandy shore—try Spiaggia Libera.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia di San Michele di Pagana
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Eight Hotel Paraggi — Boutique property overlooking a secluded cove with private beach area, shuttle service, and stunning sunset views.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Livin’ Portofino SEA — Modern accommodations with bar facilities, close to local beaches including San Michele di Pagana.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Santa Margherita Ligure?
Expect to spend €8–€25 per day for a beach club umbrella and sunbed, €15–€35 for a casual seafood lunch, and €2–€3 for a bus ticket—summer prices peak in July and August, especially along the high-end coastline of the Italian Riviera.
Which beaches in Santa Margherita Ligure are best for families with young children?
Spiaggia Regina Elena and Spiaggia Libera offer safe, shallow water, lifeguards, and easy access to amenities, making them ideal for families with kids, especially with Genoa Airport just a short transfer away for those planning a trip to Italy.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Santa Margherita Ligure?
Bagni Bosetti is the main hub for snorkeling and SUP, while Giò e Rino Beach is good for casual swimming and marina views—both part of the region’s rich maritime history and tours and activities along the Levante coast.
What is the best time of year to visit Santa Margherita Ligure’s beaches?
May through September offers the warmest sea and sun, but June and September are best for avoiding crowds, with water temperatures around 22–25°C along this stretch of coast.
How can you easily get around Santa Margherita Ligure’s beaches?
Most beaches are walkable from the town center, but buses run frequently along Viale Andrea Doria, and bikes are easy to rent for exploring further afield, from Santa Margherita to Portofino or to the picturesque harbor towns of the Ligurian Riviera.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Santa Margherita Ligure?
Bagni Margherita, Punta Pedale Beach, and Spiaggia di San Michele di Pagana are quieter, local-favorite spots along the coast, with peaceful coves and views away from the main tourist trails—tips for visiting include arriving early and bringing your own supplies.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Santa Margherita Ligure’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for the pebble beaches, arrive early in high season, and consider a beach club pass for comfort—most free beaches have limited shade and amenities, but this is part of the authentic Italian coastal town experience, with restaurants, shops, and places to eat within easy reach.
