If you’re planning a beach holiday for mature travelers — couples and s mall groups — on the Liguria coast, Loano is the perfect blend of scenic coastline, relaxed atmosphere, and easy access for mature adults who want both comfort and authenticity. Its long stretches of sand and pebbles, framed by the gentle Ligurian Sea, make it a standout destination for those who appreciate beautiful landscapes without the crowds of the Italian Riviera’s most famous spots. Here’s what you need to know for a seamless, enjoyable seaside escape in Loano — whether you value a lively promenade, a quiet cove, or a well-equipped private beach club.
Best Hotels in Loano🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Villa Gio Loano
- 🏨 4-Star: Loano 2 Village
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Bellavista-Bilocale-Loano
- 💸 Cheap: Balcony And Garage — Beaches 5 Min Away
- 🏢 Apartment: Casa Di Leo Loano
- 👪 For Families: Appartamento Vacanze Mare Loano
- 🏩 For Couples: 5 Min Dal Mare — Luminoso Bilocale Con Terrazza
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Sandy Stretch — Loano 2 Village Beach
- 🪨 Pebble Retreat — Bagni Virginia Beach
- 👶 Family Oasis — Bagni Kursaal Beach
- 🌟 Local Favorite — Varesina Beach
- 🚣 Sporty Shores — Bagni Oasibeach
- 🌊 Wave Lover’s Spot — Finale Ligure Marina Beach
- 🏝️ Hidden Gem — Malpasso Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Lookout — Capo San Donato Beach
- 🌍 Bayside Bliss — Baia dei Saraceni Beach
- 🛶 Peaceful Cove — Varigotti Beach
1. Loano 2 Village Beach: The Heart of the Riviera
Feel the warmth of golden sand beneath your feet as you step onto Loano 2 Village Beach, the town’s vibrant centerpiece. The gentle curve of the bay creates calm, shallow waters — perfect for a leisurely swim. I loved watching families set up their umbrellas while local seniors strolled the promenade, stopping for gelato at Bar Lido. This beach is mostly sand, stretches nearly 2 km, and peaks in popularity from June to September, when the water temperature hovers around a comfortable 24°C.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Stroll the Lungomare Marconi for people-watching along the beach loano promenade, duck into the old town for artisan shops, and catch the sunset from the historic Doria Castle near Savona. For a local secret, the shaded benches near the Caravel Water Park are a quiet escape from midday sun on one of Loano’s beautiful beaches that public beaches and sandy beaches share with calm waters. Arrive before 10 AM to snag a prime spot near the water — the nearest bus stop is Loano Centro, just a 5-minute walk away, and this coastal attraction is easy to reach for any tourist seeking what Loano offers, including seasonal beach offers.
- Pro: Endless space for sunbathing and swimming, with lifeguards and clean facilities.
- Con: Can get crowded in July and August; arrive early for the best experience.
Best For: Couples and groups who want everything within easy reach — sand, sea, cafes, and culture.
Skip If: You seek total seclusion; try Malpasso Beach or Capo San Donato Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Loano 2 Village Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Loano 2 Village — A resort-style stay with multiple pools, gardens, and a seasonal shuttle to the beach.
- Gabriele Loano — Simple, tidy apartment option close to the old town and seaside promenade.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Rosa Loano — Central apartment a short walk from Loano Beach, with patio and reliable Wi‑Fi.
- Villa Toti Loano — Independent villa setting with garden area, suitable for relaxed longer stays.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Esclusivo Loano Centro Mare A 50 Mt + Wi‑Fi — Central apartment just 50 meters from the seaside promenade, with fast Wi‑Fi and self-catering setup.
2. Bagni Virginia Beach: Pebbles and Panoramas
The sound of smooth pebbles shifting underfoot greets you at Bagni Virginia, where the water is so clear you can see fish darting between rocks. I spent an afternoon here with a book, listening to the rhythmic crash of waves against the shore. This beach is compact, with a mix of pebbles and fine gravel, and is best visited in late spring or early autumn to avoid summer crowds.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Explore the nearby Church of San Giovanni Battista for a dose of baroque beauty, then grab seafood at Ristorante Virginia — a must-see stop on the Ligurian Riviera. Locals love the little kiosk at Bagni Lampara for its homemade lemon granita, a simple beach experience that rivals treats found between Alassio and Genoa. Parking is easiest at the Porto di Loano lot, and the beach is just a short walk from Loano’s train station.
- Pro: Crystal-clear water and a relaxed vibe, ideal for reading and snorkeling.
- Con: Pebbles can be tough on bare feet; bring water shoes.
Best For: Travelers who prefer peace, clear water, and a touch of local character.
Skip If: You need soft sand for children; head to Loano 2 Village Beach.
Best Hotels near Bagni Virginia Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- La Casa Al Mare Nel Centro Storico — Characterful historic-centre apartment, a short stroll from the waterfront.
- Loano Centro Storico Openspace — Open-plan studio in the medieval lanes, steps from cafés and the beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamento Vacanze Mare Loano — Well-rated holiday flat near the seaside, practical for budget-friendly breaks.
- 5 Min Dal Mare — Bilocale Con Terrazza — Bright one-bedroom with terrace, roughly five minutes’ walk to the waterfront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Balcony And Garage — Beaches 5 Min Away — Modern flat featuring a private garage and balcony, about five minutes from the beach.
3. Bagni Kursaal Beach: Family-Friendly Comfort
Bagni Kursaal offers a slice of Riviera luxury, with orderly rows of sunbeds and attentive staff. The shallow, sheltered waters are perfect for a stress-free swim, and there’s even a play area for kids. I remember joining a group of locals for a late afternoon aperitivo at the beach bar — the perfect way to wind down. The sand here is soft, the beach is about 150 meters long, and it’s especially pleasant from May to October.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Visit the indoor market in Piazza Italia for fresh fruit, then stroll along the seafront promenade on the Ligurian coast to discover small art galleries and a lively atmosphere. For a hidden gem, the rocky outcrop near Bagni Perelli is perfect for a quiet moment with a view to overlook the stunning sea that’s perfect for families. The nearest bus stop is Via Aurelia, and showers with basic wi-fi are available on-site.
- Pro: Top-notch facilities and calm waters, great for families and those who value comfort.
- Con: Slightly higher prices for sunbed rental in peak season.
Best For: Mature travelers seeking convenience and a bit of pampering.
Skip If: You prefer a more rugged, natural setting; try Bagni Virginia or Malpasso Beach.
Best Hotels near Bagni Kursaal Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Gio Loano — Bright, modern unit with balcony; easy access to the seafront and shops.
- Puntodivista — Cozy apartment near the coast, good for budget-friendly beach breaks.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Anselmo Loano — Simple, tidy base close to shops and the promenade.
- Attico Sweet Dreams — Top-floor stay with balcony space, handy for sunsets after the beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Quadri D’Oro — Beachside Escape — Bright, stylish apartment a short walk to Bagni Kursaal Beach, with balcony and contemporary decor.
4. Varesina Beach: The Local’s Secret
Varesina Beach is where Loano’s residents unwind — a quieter stretch with a mix of sand and fine pebbles, framed by lush Mediterranean greenery. I stumbled upon a group of local friends sharing focaccia under the shade of a pine tree. The beach is about 100 meters long, best enjoyed in June or September when the water is warm but the crowds are thinner.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Stop by the weekly market on Via Cavour for Ligurian specialties in the center of Loano, explore the narrow streets of the old town, and visit the Oratory of the Cappe Turchine for its gilded altarpiece. For a true insider spot, the tiny cove near Bagni Marina Piccola is perfect for a quiet swim if you prefer a specific beach over the busier beaches near the promenade, and there’s a small signed dog beach just beyond the rocks. The nearest bus stop is Varesina, and there are showers and changing cabins, with clear signage for parking in Loano a few blocks inland.
- Pro: Relaxed, authentic vibe with plenty of space between sunbeds.
- Con: Fewer food options directly on the beach; plan ahead.
Best For: Couples and friends who want to blend in with local life.
Skip If: You need lots of amenities; choose Bagni Kursaal or Loano 2 Village Beach.
Best Hotels near Varesina Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Loano Perla Ligure — Comfortable holiday flat with a practical kitchen, handy for longer stays.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Ghibli — Compact apartment near the centre, convenient for dining and beach access.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Decameron — Suite Mare 600m, Wi‑Fi & Netflix — Suite-style stay roughly 600 meters from the sea, with fast Wi‑Fi and streaming-ready TV.
5. Bagni Oasibeach: Sporty Shores
If you’re keen on staying active, Bagni Oasibeach is the spot for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. The energy here is contagious — I joined a pickup game and met travelers from across Europe. The sand is firm and golden, the beach stretches about 200 meters, and the best months for water sports are May through September.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk the Garibaldi Promenade for sunset views on the Italian Riviera, visit the nearby Marina di Loano — a modern marina with sleek yachts and restaurants and shops — for yacht-spotting, and sample local wine at Enoteca Molo 24. Locals swear by the hidden stretch past the marina for a peaceful swim where the seabed is clear and conditions vary depending on the season, even when the popular beaches are busy. Parking is available at the port, and the beach is a 10-minute walk from Loano’s center, making it a destination for families as well as couples.
- Pro: Ideal for sports lovers, with equipment rental and lessons available.
- Con: Can be noisy with activities; not the best for a quiet nap.
Best For: Active travelers and those who want to try something new.
Skip If: You prefer absolute tranquility; opt for Varesina or Capo San Donato.
Best Hotels near Bagni Oasibeach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Bellavista-Bilocale-Loano — Cute two-room unit just steps from the sea, good value for short stays.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Appartamento Turistico Nefeli Loano — Comfortable, well-equipped apartment base near shops and cafés, good for longer stays.
6. Finale Ligure Marina Beach: Surf & Sand
Just a short drive west, Finale Ligure Marina Beach is renowned for its surf-friendly waves and long sandy stretch. I spent a morning here watching surfers catch early breaks while the smell of salt and sunscreen filled the air. The beach is about 2 km long, best in late spring and early autumn, with water temperatures peaking in August.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Stroll the seafront avenue for gelato, explore the medieval istoric district, and visit the Natural Park of Punta Crena, a spot for vacationers that’s accessible for visitors and offers a gentle range of services. Locals love the rocky outcrop near Bagni San Pietro for quiet sunbathing that suits families with children on calmer days. The train station is a 5-minute walk, and parking is available along the shoreline, making it straightforward for day-trippers to reach without fuss.
- Pro: Great for surfing and people-watching, with a lively, cosmopolitan vibe.
- Con: Gets crowded in summer; arrive early for surf lessons.
Best For: Adventurous spirits and those who love a mix of sport and relaxation.
Skip If: You want to stay within walking distance of Loano; stick to Bagni Oasibeach.
Best Hotels near Finale Ligure Marina Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Attico Mutti — Functional apartment with kitchenette, suited to longer stays on a budget.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Maestrale By Ligooria — Fresh, modern interiors with balcony space and convenient access to the waterfront.
7. Malpasso Beach: Hidden Gem
Tucked between cliffs, Malpasso Beach is a secluded cove of pebbles and sand, perfect for escaping the crowds. I remember the sound of waves echoing off the rocks as I paddled in the clear, cool water. The beach is small, about 50 meters long, and is at its best in May, June, or September.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Walk the scenic path from Borghetto Santo Spirito for stunning coastal views that offers stunning sea views, visit the viewpoint above Baia dei Saraceni where nearby attractions include cliffside lookouts and quiet coves, and stop by the tiny bar at the cove entrance for a cold drink. There’s limited parking — arrive early or take a taxi from Loano Centro to ensure smooth access to the town.
- Pro: Privacy and natural beauty, with excellent snorkeling.
- Con: Access requires a short walk down a steep path.
Best For: Couples seeking romance and solitude.
Skip If: You need facilities or easy access; choose Loano 2 Village Beach.
Best Hotels near Malpasso Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Loano Home — Comfortable city-base apartment with easy reach to the beach and old town.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Bilocale Vacanze A Loano — Simple, good-value one-bedroom with kitchenette, close to the beach and promenade.
8. Capo San Donato Beach: Sunset Lookout
Capo San Donato is known for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic sunsets. The pebble beach is small but magical, with deep blue water and a view stretching to the horizon. I watched the sun dip behind the headland as locals fished from the rocks. The beach is best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Hike the trail to the Capo San Donato lighthouse for breathtaking views, explore the caves along the coast, and visit the tiny chapel above the beach, a vantage that loano is known for among coastal walkers. The nearest bus stop is San Donato, and parking is limited.
- Pro: Unbeatable sunset views and a peaceful, wild atmosphere.
- Con: Pebbles underfoot and limited facilities.
Best For: Photographers, hikers, and those who love a dramatic coastline.
Skip If: You prefer sandy shores; head to Loano 2 Village or Bagni Kursaal.
Best Hotels near Capo San Donato Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Casa Di Nonno Stefano — Homely stay on a calm street, walkable to the shoreline.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Maison Olga — Functional apartment accommodation with lift access, walkable to seaside strolls.
9. Baia dei Saraceni Beach: Bayside Bliss
Baia dei Saraceni is a picture-perfect bay of soft sand, sheltered by rocky headlands. The water here is calm and inviting, ideal for a lazy afternoon swim. I joined a group of locals for a game of cards under the shade of a tamarisk tree. The beach is about 300 meters long, best visited in June or September.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk to the viewpoint above the bay for a classic Ligurian photo, explore the Saracen Tower nearby, and try the seafood at Ristorante Baia dei Saraceni, where nearby attractions include cliff paths and coves that offer pauses with a glass of local wine. Parking is available in Borghetto Santo Spirito, just a promenade away, and the route is perfect for enjoying the coastal scenery.
- Pro: Gorgeous setting and calm, shallow water.
- Con: Can get busy in peak summer.
Best For: Families and groups who want natural beauty and easy swimming.
Skip If: You seek a lively, social scene; pick Loano 2 Village or Bagni Oasibeach.
Best Hotels near Baia dei Saraceni Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hostdomus Garibaldi Suite — Suite-style address along Via Garibaldi, near cafés and seaside strolls.
- Cà Du Riàn — Traditional-style lodging with convenient access to the marina and beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Corso Italia — Sea View By Babyaccommodation — Sea-view address on Corso Italia, ideal for evening promenade walks.
10. Varigotti Beach: Peaceful Cove
Varigotti Beach is renowned for its colorful houses and relaxed vibe. The sand is soft, the water is clear, and the village behind the beach is charming. I remember a quiet morning swim followed by coffee at Bar del Sole, watching fishing boats return to the harbor. The beach is about 1 km long, best from May to October.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Stroll the waterfront to admire the pastel houses, visit the Church of San Lorenzo, and hike the coastal trail to Borgio Verezzi, a route ideal for enjoying views and picnics while enjoying the Mediterranean breeze. Locals favor the little cove near Capo Noli for snorkeling when the sea is calm and visibility is high. The train station is a 10-minute walk, and parking is available in the village, making the walk effortless for those enjoying the Mediterranean coastline.
- Pro: Laid-back atmosphere, picturesque surroundings, and easy access.
- Con: The village can be crowded in July and August.
Best For: Mature travelers who appreciate a mix of relaxation and local color.
Skip If: You want sports or nightlife; choose Bagni Oasibeach or Finale Ligure Marina.
Best Hotels near Varigotti Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Oasi Casa Vacanze — Straightforward holiday home with kitchen facilities, close to everyday amenities.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Tua Vacanza Al Mare — Handy coastal base with practical amenities, suited to budget-friendly beach trips.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Loano?
Expect to spend about €15–30 per day for a sunbed and umbrella at private beaches, with meals, transport, and activities bringing the daily total to €60–100, depending on your preferences and the season.
Which beaches in Loano are best for families with young children?
Loano 2 Village Beach and Bagni Kursaal Beach are top choices, offering shallow water, play areas, and easy access to amenities.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Loano?
Bagni Oasibeach is best for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball, while Finale Ligure Marina Beach is the spot for surfing.
What is the best time of year to visit Loano’s beaches?
Late May to late September offers the warmest weather and calmest sea, with July and August being the busiest; June and September are ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
How can you easily get around Loano’s beaches?
Loano is compact and walkable, with a seafront promenade connecting most beaches; the train station (Loano Centro) is central, and buses run along Via Aurelia to Malpasso and Borghetto Santo Spirito.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Loano?
Malpasso Beach, Capo San Donato Beach, and the coves near Bagni Marina Piccola are quiet, scenic, and favored by locals seeking peace.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Loano’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for pebble beaches, arrive early in July and August for the best spots, and always check for Blue Flag status — a sign of cleanliness and safety.
