5 Best Beaches in Ventotene, Italy 🇮🇹: Secluded Beaches and Scenic Cliffs on the Pontine Islands

If you’re searching for a guide to visit Island of Ventotene and discover its best beaches, you’re in expert hands—I’ve just returned from a research trip and these are the highlights for mature travelers, couples, and small groups who value atmosphere, local insight, and mobile-friendly advice. Ventotene, a small island in the Pontine Archipelago off the coast of Lazio, offers everything from secluded coves to dramatic cliffs, all wrapped in Mediterranean calm and history. Here’s your complete guide to Ventotene Island, including things to do, hidden gems, and practical tips for navigating this unique place.

Best Hotels on Ventotene Island 🔥

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Villa Iulia
• 🏨 4-Star: Calanave 10
• 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Isolabella
• 💸 Cheap: Casa di Arturo
• 🏢 Apartment: Casa Calanave 2
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Cala Dei Romani
• 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Agave e Ginestra

Quick Guide to Ventotene’s Shores 📃

• 🏖️ Welcoming Sands — Cala Nave
• 🛶 Hidden Hideaway — Parata Grande
• 🌅 Golden Hour — Spiaggia dei Mattoni
• 🐠 Snorkeler’s Spot — Cala Fonte d’Oliva
• 🌞 Sunny Solitude — Cala Rossano
• 🐚 Rugged Beauty — Punta dell’Arco

1. Cala Nave Beach: Accessible Serenity

Warm, dark sand cushions your feet as you step onto Cala Nave, a quiet cove where couples and small groups find calm away from the bustle of the main town. I watched locals play cards under the tamarisks near the small stone landing—a slice of life that showcases Ventotene’s small island character, just a short hydrofoil ride from Naples to Ventotene. This stretch, with its safe swimming and gentle waves, is ideal from May to September, framed by volcanic rocks that add to the scenic view in Ventotene.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Walk down Via Pozzillo, passing boutique shops and Villa Julia on your way to the shore. Nearby, you’ll see the Roman Cistern and the historic harbor of Ventotene, both worth a detour for anyone fascinated by daily life or ancient ruins. Locals love the hidden bench above the path, ideal for watching boats come and go from the ferry landing. The hydrofoil dock is just minutes away for an easy connection to the mainland and Naples—making this a perfect base for your visit to Ventotene.

• Pro: Peaceful, accessible, and family-friendly with safe swimming.
• Con: Limited shade—bring your umbrella in summer.

Best For: Couples and families seeking a quiet, easy spot close to all the action.
Skip If: You want lively bars and nightlife; head to I Pozzillo instead.

Best Hotels near Cala Nave Beach

💎 Luxury Hotels

• Hotel Villa Iulia — Perched above Cala Nave with sweeping sea views.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Hotel Isolabella — Modern rooms near the hydrofoil dock.
• Calanave 10 — Steps from Cala Nave with a one-bedroom layout, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette near the harbor.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

• Hotel Lo Smeraldo — Clean, convenient rooms steps from the shore.

2. Parata Grande Beach: Seclusion and Panorama

Parata Grande is a striking stretch of sand tucked beneath dramatic rocks, with open water stretching toward the horizon. I climbed the rocky ledge at one end and discovered a private spot, a favorite with islanders for privacy and views back to town. This inlet is about 150 meters long and best enjoyed from June to September, when the sea is warm and calm—a gentle place to experience Ventotene for those who love quiet.

Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Follow the coastal path from Piazza Castello, past small fishing boats and the ruins of Porto Romano, to reach Parata Grande—it’s one of the island’s best kept secrets, overlooked by most visitors on organized boat tours. The nearby kiosk, Da Zia Maria, is perfect for a post-swim snack. Arrive by 10am to beat the midday sun and enjoy this unique corner of the Pontine Archipelago in quiet simplicity.

• Pro: Secluded, scenic, and atmospheric.
• Con: Steep access—not ideal for those with mobility concerns.

Best For: Adventurous travelers, couples, and those after a peaceful view.

Skip If: You want amenities and easy access; try Cala Nave instead.

Best Hotels near Parata Grande Beach

💎 Luxury Hotels

• Hotel Agave e Ginestra — Quiet spot with gardens and sea views toward Santo Stefano.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Cala Dei Romani — Charming rooms in a convenient Ventotene location, with terraces and easy access to coastal paths.
• Casa Di Arturo Ventotene — Simple, self-catered stay near the harbor, offering a kitchenette and a practical base for exploring the island.

3. Punta Eolo Beach: Windswept Escape

Standing at the northern tip of Ventotene, this bay feels wild, with the breeze and seabirds wheeling overhead—a reminder that you’re on a tiny island shaped by nature. I found myself watching migratory birds from a rocky perch, far from the main areas—a place for those seeking tranquil time on Ventotene. This pebble bay is best visited in late spring or early fall, when the sea is warm and the winds are fresh.

On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
From the harbor, walk past the island’s quiet streets and follow signs to the lighthouse. The real secret here is a natural pool, a local favorite for a private swim. There’s no public transport, but renting a bike in town makes for a pleasant ride out—arrive by early evening for the best light and quiet that most visitors to this tiny island don’t experience.

• Pro: Unforgettable views, solitude, and a touch of the island’s wild side.
• Con: No facilities—bring everything you need.

Best For: Nature lovers and those who love a view with the sound of the waves.

Skip If: You want cafes and quick beach access; Il Pozzillo is more convenient.

Best Hotels near Punta Eolo Beach

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Hotel Isolabella — Seafront stay with panoramic terraces near Cala Rossano, ideal for relaxed coastal walks and sunset views.
• Cala Dei Romani — Comfortable rooms with island-style décor, convenient for reaching the beach and the harbor on foot.

4. Cala Rossano Beach: Light and Privacy

Cala Rossano is a tranquil bay with golden sand, clear water, and tamarisks that filter the light—a quiet spot for those who want to experience Ventotene at its most peaceful. I spent an afternoon here, watching fish swim close to shore—an intimate look at the island’s flora and fauna. This shoreline is small, about 100 meters, and best from June to early October, with pleasant temperatures.

Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
A short walk from the port, passing old stone walls and a small harbor, you’ll find the tiny kiosk Tartaruga, where locals stop for lemonade. For the quietest experience, come after 4pm when most day visitors head back to town—early evening is a lovely time to enjoy the beach on the island with a calm sea and golden light.

• Pro: Intimate, scenic, and ideal for a quiet swim.
• Con: Minimal shade and few services.

Best For: Peace-seekers, couples, and those who value solitude on a beautiful island.

Skip If: You want to be close to shops and restaurants; Il Pozzillo is more central.

Best Hotels near Cala Rossano Beach

💎 Luxury Hotels

• Hotel Isolabella — Steps from the cove with a gourmet restaurant.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Hotel Lo Smeraldo — Four-minute walk to the sand with modern amenities.

5. Punta dell’Arco Beach: Rocky and Untouched

Punta dell’Arco is a small, sheltered inlet framed by rugged rocks—a favorite spot for divers and those who love the wild side of Ventotene. I climbed down the steps and found a quiet patch for a morning swim, with only the sound of the sea and distant views toward the mainland. This shoreline is about 50 meters long, best in May, June, and September—a special place for those who love to explore the island’s hidden spots.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Walk past the old port of Ventotene and along the path for a scenic approach, with sweeping views toward the open sea. The inlet is a favorite for those who like to swim among the rocks, and there’s a tiny kiosk nearby for a refreshing lemon granita. Come in the late afternoon for soft light and solitude, especially after most visitors have left—a truly local way to experience Ventotene.

• Pro: Wild beauty, great for snorkeling, and peaceful.
• Con: Rocky and limited space for sunbathing.

Best For: Adventurous swimmers and those seeking an untouched, scenic bay.

Skip If: You want sand and easy swimming; Il Pozzillo is more welcoming.

Best Hotels near Punta dell’Arco Beach

💎 Luxury Hotels

• Hotel Borgo Cacciatori — Hilltop retreat with panoramic terraces, seasonal pool, and shuttle service for easy access to the beach and town.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

• Hotel Agave e Ginestra — Quiet, natural surroundings and easy walking access.

FAQ

What budget should you plan for a holiday in Ventotene?

Expect moderate prices for meals, drinks, and transport—costs rise in peak summer, but simple picnics and local cafes help stretch your euros.

Which areas are best for families with young children?

Il Pozzillo and Cala Nave offer gentle water and amenities, while more secluded shores are perfect for older children and confident swimmers.

Are there hidden or less-crowded stretches on Ventotene?

Many of the island’s coves, such as those near Scogliera di Levante and Spiaggia dei Mattoni, are quiet, authentic, and often overlooked by visitors in a rush—true local favorites off the main path.

How can you easily get around the island?

Walk or rent a bike from the center—most shores are a short stroll from the ferry dock, and buses connect the main spots for those who want a break from walking.

What is the best time of year to visit Ventotene?

Late June to early September brings warm water and sunshine, but May, June, and early October are quieter, with pleasant temperatures—ideal for those who want a more private visit to the beach on the island.

Are there practical tips for visiting Ventotene’s shores?

Bring water, snacks, and sun protection—many coves have little shade. Always check ferry schedules from Naples to Ventotene or Formia, and consider arriving early to secure a spot on the most popular stretches.

What should you know about visiting Ventotene’s beaches?

Ventotene is a tiny, unique island—worth visiting for those who appreciate history, calm, and the beauty of a less traveled place. Enjoy the peace, respect the local environment, and take time to pause—it’s a rare spot where the journey from Naples by ferry leads to another world.