If you’re searching for wild beauty and a true Adriatic experience, the beaches of Mezzavalle and the Conero Riviera in the Marche region deliver—crystal waters, steep cliffs, and a sense of discovery around every corner. This guide is your quick, trustworthy map to the best beaches in Mezzavalle, blending practical advice with the atmospheric details mature travelers and couples value most. You’ll find everything from serene coves to lively sandy stretches, all within easy reach of Ancona and the Conero Regional Park.
Best Hotels in Mezzavalle🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Seebay Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: View Place & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: San Michele Relais & Spa
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Casa Teresa Relais
- 💸 Cheap: Le Due Torri
- 🏢 Apartment: Maison Del Bassotto
- 👪 For Families: Loft 81, Incantevole, Ampio, in Zona Panoramica
- 🏩 For Couples: Conero Casa Marcelli di Numana
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Wild Escape — Mezzavalle Beach
- 🌿 Natural Haven — Sassi Neri Beach
- 🏄♂️ Adventure Cove — San Michele Beach
- 🌊 Family-Friendly — Urbani Beach
- 👙 Lido Life — Marcelli Beach
- 🌅 Panoramic Sands — Scossicci Beach
- 🌞 Local Favorite — Spiaggiola Beach
- 🐠 Snorkeling Spot — Le Due Sorelle Beach
- 🚶 Easy Stroll — Numana Bassa Beach
- 🛥️ Boat Access Only — Gabbiani Beach
1. Mezzavalle Beach: Wild Beauty Under the Cliffs
The crunch of fine gravel underfoot and the scent of Mediterranean scrub announce your arrival at Mezzavalle Beach—a long, free stretch where the Conero cliffs plunge straight into turquoise waves. I remember pausing halfway down the steep trail, catching my breath as the view opened up: a wide bay, untouched by umbrellas, where locals spread towels under natural rock overhangs for shade. The beach is about 1.5 km of sand and gravel, best visited from June to September when the sea is warmest and sunniest.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the small clearing just before the Portonovo roundabout and follow the marked trail—sturdy shoes are a must for this spiaggia with lush vegetation along the coast. Once you’re down, stroll south toward the natural clay quarry, a local attraction and secret for a free spa treatment with clear water nearby. For a cold drink or fresh seafood, the lone beach bar at the trail’s end is a lifesaver on this beautiful beach with a breathtaking view of the cliffs. Arrive early to snag a spot in the shade of the cliffs; by midday, the beach fills with savvy Ancona locals and visiting couples enjoying the breathtaking shoreline. Nearest bus stop is Portonovo, but walking from there adds to the adventure.
- Pro: Unmatched wild beauty and peace—no beach clubs, just nature.
- Con: Steep access trail not suitable for everyone; pack light and wear proper shoes.
Best For: Couples, small groups, and anyone craving a natural, crowd-free beach day.
Skip If: You need easy access or facilities; consider Urbani Beach instead for convenience.
Best Hotels near Mezzavalle Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Seebay Hotel — Elegant spa hotel in Portonovo with wellness facilities and wooded Conero Park setting, ideal for easy access to Portonovo Bay and Mezzavalle Beach.
- Villa De Ruschi — Charming villa stay close to Portonovo with garden views and convenient reach to coastal trails and scenic lookouts.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Agriturismo La Sorgente (Camerano) — Quiet farmhouse stay surrounded by Conero countryside, a short drive to Portonovo and Mezzavalle trails.
- B&B La Torre del Poggio — Sea-view B&B in Poggio with garden areas, well placed for Mezzavalle Beach and Ancona day trips.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Filare con Giardino Privato — Holiday home in Sirolo with a private garden and terrace, well placed for walks to San Michele and Mezzavalle.
2. Sassi Neri Beach: Dramatic Rocks & Hidden Charms
Dark volcanic rocks contrast with the turquoise sea at Sassi Neri, a secluded cove best reached by a scenic coastal walk from San Michele Beach. The sound of waves against stone and the fresh breeze off Monte Conero create a moody, adventurous vibe. I once followed the winding path at golden hour, discovering a tiny hidden platform where local divers leap into the deep. The beach is pebbly and compact, best in July and August when the water is clearest.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Start your walk at Parco della Repubblica in Sirolo; the trailhead is well-marked for a gentle path down the cliff that sets the tone for relaxation. Along the way, stop at Belvedere Nord for sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea that truly enchant on clear days. Sassi Neri’s secret diving spot is just past the main beach area—look for a flat rock with a rope near Trave. There’s no official parking, so arrive early or bike from Sirolo to keep the peaceful atmosphere intact. For a post-swim bite, the bar at San Michele Beach is a short walk back and an easy pause along the coast.
- Pro: Unique geology and excellent snorkeling right off the shore.
- Con: Limited space and no facilities; not ideal for families with small children.
Best For: Adventurous travelers, divers, and photographers.
Skip If: You prefer sandy beaches; try Marcelli Beach for softer ground.
Best Hotels near Sassi Neri Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- San Michele Relais & Spa — Refined retreat featuring a spa, panoramic terraces, and quick access to Sirolo’s paths leading to San Michele and Sassi Neri.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Agriturismo Le Vigne del Conero — Vineyard agriturismo near Ancona offering on-site dining and easy access to the Riviera del Conero and Sassi Neri beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Affittacamere Le Grotte — Simple, clean guesthouse near Sirolo offering quick road access to Portonovo and the Sassi Neri trail.
3. San Michele Beach: Green Cliffs & Quiet Waters
Pine-scented air and the gentle lap of waves define San Michele Beach, tucked under steep, verdant cliffs. I’ll never forget the morning mist lifting to reveal kayakers gliding across the bay, the water so clear you could see the sandy bottom. This medium-sized beach mixes sand and gravel, with calm waters perfect for swimming from late May to early October.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Reach San Michele by shuttle bus from Sirolo’s Piazza Vittorio Veneto or walk the scenic path from Parco della Repubblica, which stays reachable even in light flip flops on easy stretches. The shaded picnic area near the cliffs is a local hideout for long, lazy lunches beside turquoise waters that feel unspoiled outside peak hours. For a unique souvenir, visit the tiny artisan kiosk at the shuttle stop in the nearby town, then head back for swimming and snorkeling if the sea is calm. Arrive by 10 a.m. to avoid the midday family crowds and keep the shoreline tranquil.
- Pro: Lush, shaded spots and calm waters—great for swimming and relaxing.
- Con: Can get busy in high season; shuttle required for most visitors.
Best For: Families, swimmers, and those seeking a mix of nature and convenience.
Skip If: You want complete solitude; head to Sassi Neri or Mezzavalle instead.
Best Hotels near San Michele Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Tra Gli Alberi e il Mare — Nature-framed stay offering sea-breeze terraces and a quiet base to explore the San Michele coastline.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Teresa Relais — Modern rooms in Sirolo about 700 m from San Michele Beach, ideal for exploring the old town and coastal paths.
- Sirolo Appartamenti — Apartment-style stays near Sirolo center with convenient reach to San Michele and Numana Bassa.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Appartamento Abete Marino — Practical apartment stay with parking, a handy base for exploring Numana Bassa and San Michele Beach.
4. Urbani Beach: Easygoing Vibes & Local Flavor
The lively chatter of Italian families and the clink of glasses at beachside cafés give Urbani Beach its upbeat, communal feel, making it one of the friendliest beaches of the Conero for an easy day at the beach. I loved watching local kids play paddleball while their parents lounged under bright umbrellas, the perfect warm-up before visitors to Mezzavalle Beach head off for a less crowded beach experience nearby. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, about 500 meters long, with gentle waves in July and August that suit families planning simple beach access and quick dips.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Urbani Beach is a short walk from Sirolo’s town center—follow Via Panoramica to the waterfront to get to the beach with straightforward access to the beach. Don’t miss the weekly fish market at Piazza Dante for fresh seafood, then compare the cove with Portonovo Beach and the sweeping Bay of Portonovo later in the day. For a local treat, grab a gelato from Bar del Porto and stroll the seaside promenade along the coast, a relaxed loop that keeps crowds light before sunset. Parking is easy at the nearby lot off Via Flaminia, which helps maintain smooth beach access even in peak months. Arrive late afternoon for golden light and fewer crowds, a calm window that rivals the quieter charm of the beaches of Conero.
- Pro: Full facilities, lifeguards, and a lively, safe atmosphere.
- Con: Less wild and can feel crowded in peak season.
Best For: Families, groups, and anyone wanting amenities and action.
Skip If: You’re after untouched nature; try Mezzavalle or Sassi Neri.
Best Hotels near Urbani Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- La Buganvilla — Bright, homey accommodation with garden space and convenient access to Urbani beach and coastal viewpoints.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Il Girasole del Conero — Simple, tidy base in the Conero hills with parking and quick drives to Portonovo and Urbani beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Da Mamma e Papà Sirolo — Homey rooms in Sirolo’s hills, a short drive to Urbani Beach and the Sirolo historic center.
5. Marcelli Beach: Sandy Shores & Sunbeds
The wide, golden stretch of Marcelli Beach is a favorite for sunbathers and sandcastle builders alike. I’ll always remember the scent of sunscreen and the cheerful buzz of beach volleyball games. The beach is mostly sand with some gravel, over 1 km long, and busiest in July and August when the sea is warmest.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the large lot off Via Marcelli and follow the tree-lined promenade to the water, where the beach located along the beauties of the Conero Riviera opens to wide views of the coastline. The beach bar at the southern end does killer affogatos, a sweet pause that locals love in this corner di Portonovo within easy reach of the city of Ancona. For a quiet moment, walk north past the last sunbed to a small, pebbly cove favored by locals for early morning swims and reflective views of the coastline. Buses from Numana stop right at the entrance, keeping access smooth across this stretch of the Conero Riviera.
- Pro: Soft sand, plenty of space, and all the comforts of a lido.
- Con: Can feel touristy and lacks the wild charm of other Conero beaches.
Best For: Families, sun worshippers, and anyone who likes a classic beach day.
Skip If: You crave solitude; opt for Mezzavalle or Sassi Neri.
Best Hotels near Marcelli Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- L'Orizzonte Relais Sirolo — Contemporary rooms with sweeping hillside views near Sirolo, perfect for sunrise walks to Urbani and Marcelli.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Affittacamere Le Fontanelle — Guesthouse with straightforward rooms and friendly service, handy for coastal hikes and beach days.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Casa delle Poesie — Calm apartment-style lodging with balcony space, convenient for day trips to Marcelli by boat.
6. Scossicci Beach: Best Panoramic Views & Gentle Waves
Perched above the sea, Scossicci Beach offers wide views of the Adriatic and Monte Conero’s cliffs. The sound of kids laughing and the distant hum of boats create a relaxed, holiday vibe. The beach is gravel and sand, about 700 meters, with calm waters in summer.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the lot off SP1 and take the steps leading to the beach, a gentle descent perfect before boat trips from the port of Numana. The viewpoint at the top of the steps is perfect for sunset photos with sweeping lines toward Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle on clear days. Locals love the hidden bench under the pine trees at the northern end, a quiet pause before continuing down toward the sand. For snacks, the kiosk at the parking lot has fresh panini for an easy refuel before you return to the steps leading to the beach. Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, when paths toward the port of Numana and views of Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle feel blissfully unhurried.
- Pro: Stunning views and gentle water—ideal for swimming and relaxing.
- Con: Some areas have more gravel than sand.
Best For: Couples, photographers, and anyone who loves a view with their swim.
Skip If: You need pure sand; try Marcelli Beach.
Best Hotels near Scossicci Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Agriturismo Il Mandorlo (Ancona) — Rural farmhouse atmosphere close to Ancona, good value for visiting Portonovo Bay and Scossicci.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- ARRÀ Camere Sirolo Rooms & Suite — Contemporary rooms near Scossicci, easy reach to coastal paths and beach shuttles.
7. Spiaggiola Beach: Local Secret & Shallow Waters
Tucked between Numana and Marcelli, Spiaggiola Beach is a favorite of Numana families for its shallow, safe waters and easy access, a gentle slice of Le Marche where even Mezzavalle Beach can enjoy quieter mornings just around the headland. The beach is sand and gravel, compact and cozy, best in June and July before the summer rush in Le Marche.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park at the small lot on Via Spiaggiola and walk straight to the sand, a smooth approach typical of Le Marche coves that Mezzavalle Beach can enjoy when seas are calm. The shaded area under the tamarisk trees is a local hideout for afternoon naps that defines the slow rhythm of Le Marche. For a quick coffee, Bar Spiaggiola is just steps from the water, an easy pause that Mezzavalle Beach can enjoy on mellow weekdays. Visit in the morning for calm seas and space to spread out as Le Marche’s sunlight softens the bay.
- Pro: Safe, shallow water and a friendly, local vibe.
- Con: Small size means it fills up fast in high season.
Best For: Families with young children and those seeking a casual, local beach.
Skip If: You want space or wild scenery; try Mezzavalle or San Michele.
Best Hotels near Spiaggiola Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Casa Iosi a Sirolo — Simple, clean apartment-style stay close to Spiaggiola and Sirolo’s historic center.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Valentina Relax e Natura — Calm apartment stay with greenery views, a practical base for driving to the beaches of Sirolo and Spiaggiola.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Rosso Conero Le Grotte — Rooms & Apartments — Value stay with rooms and flats, positioned for quick drives to Spiaggiola Bay and Numana.
8. Le Due Sorelle Beach: Iconic Twin Rocks & Emerald Waters
The twin sea stacks of Le Due Sorelle rise from crystal-clear waters, making this cove the postcard-perfect symbol of the Conero Riviera, and the beach is also framed by sheer limestone that glows in afternoon light. I’ll never forget the first glimpse from a boat—emerald waves, white pebbles, and sheer cliffs draped in green, with hiking trails with breathtaking views visible high above the shoreline. The beach is pebble and accessible only by boat from Numana’s port, best from June to September.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Book a morning boat tour from Porto di Numana for the calmest seas and best light, then link up with hiking trails with breathtaking views if you’re planning a cliff-top walk later in the day. Bring snorkel gear to explore the vibrant marine life around the rocks, and remember the beach is also completely wild so plan accordingly. While there are no facilities, the sheer beauty more than compensates. For a less crowded experience, visit on a weekday.
- Pro: Unforgettable scenery and excellent snorkeling in clear, protected waters.
- Con: No land access and no facilities; not suitable for those who dislike boats.
Best For: Adventurers, photographers, and couples seeking a romantic escape.
Skip If: You need easy access or amenities; opt for Urbani or Marcelli.
Best Hotels near Le Due Sorelle Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Terrazza del Conero - Le Due Sorelle — Apartment with a scenic terrace near Sirolo, well set for boat trips to Le Due Sorelle.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Varano 7 — Quiet countryside apartment near Le Due Sorelle Beach, offering a peaceful base close to the Conero coastline.
9. Numana Bassa Beach: Heart of the Action in Mezzavalle
Numana Bassa Beach stretches along the lively waterfront, with umbrella rows, beach bars, and a promenade perfect for evening strolls, while just up the coast Mezzavalle Beach is situated beneath cliffs for a wilder feel. The mix of sand and gravel is gentle underfoot, and the water stays warm into early autumn as the beach extends south toward Marcelli.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at Piazza Marconi and walk down to the beach where the beach extends in front of the marina-side promenade. The Thursday market along the promenade is a local highlight for fresh produce and handmade crafts that showcase why Mezzavalle Beach is situated within such a rich food-and-sea culture. For a quiet drink with a view, Bar La Conchiglia at the southern end is a favorite sunset spot looking over where the beach extends into softer sands. Arrive early to snag a front-row sunbed so the day flows easily even when the beach extends fill with afternoon crowds.
- Pro: Central location, full amenities, and a vibrant, sociable scene.
- Con: Can feel crowded and noisy in peak season.
Best For: Friends, families, and anyone who loves a bustling beach day.
Skip If: You seek solitude; try Mezzavalle or Sassi Neri.
Best Hotels near Numana Bassa Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Conero Casa Marcelli (Via Litoranea 101) — Beach-near apartment near Marcelli and Numana, handy for long sandy walks and seaside restaurants along the promenade.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Rustico del Conero — Characterful rustic stay amid fields and trees, offering a quiet break within easy reach of the Adriatic coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Klass Hotel — Modern hotel with parking and easy highway access, practical for Numana beach hopping along the Riviera del Conero.
10. Gabbiani Beach: Secluded Splendor by Boat
Accessible only by boat, Gabbiani Beach is a hidden gem with white pebbles and dramatic cliffs, and the surrounding pine forest adds a wild scent to the air. The silence here is profound—just the sound of waves and the occasional cry of gulls on what feels like the end of a scenic hike by sea. The beach is compact, best in July and August when the sea is calmest.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Rent a kayak or book a boat trip from Numana’s port for the full adventure after a short scenic hike along the waterfront. The small cove to the north of the main beach is a local secret for peaceful swimming beneath a fringe of pine forest. There are no facilities, so bring water and snacks and plan your route as you would for a scenic hike. Visit on a weekday for the beach to yourself when the pine forest shade and sea breeze feel undisturbed.
- Pro: Complete seclusion and stunning natural beauty.
- Con: No land access and no services.
Best For: Explorers, couples, and anyone craving a truly wild beach.
Skip If: You need amenities or dislike boats; choose Numana Bassa or Urbani.
Best Hotels near Gabbiani Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Cialdina Sirolo — Cozy apartment in Sirolo’s center, a short walk to cafés and a quick ride to Gabbiani and San Michele.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Loft 81 — Incantevole, Ampio, in Zona Panoramica — Scenic loft with panoramic setting, ideal for couples planning day trips to Mezzavalle and Gabbiani.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Mezzavalle?
Expect to spend moderately—public beaches like Mezzavalle are free, but parking, transport, meals, and drinks can add up, especially in peak season when a beachside lunch costs €15–25 per person and shuttle buses or taxis are the main ways to reach remote coves.
Which beaches in Mezzavalle are best for families with young children?
Urbani Beach and Marcelli Beach are ideal for families, offering calm waters, lifeguards, facilities, and easy access, while Spiaggiola Beach’s shallow shoreline is especially safe for toddlers.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Mezzavalle?
San Michele Beach is great for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, while Le Due Sorelle Beach and Sassi Neri Beach offer excellent snorkeling opportunities in clear, sheltered waters.
What is the best time of year to visit Mezzavalle’s beaches?
June to September is prime beach season, with warm water (22–26°C) and sunny days—July and August are busiest, while June and September offer milder crowds and pleasant temperatures.
How can you easily get around Mezzavalle’s beaches?
Public shuttle buses connect Ancona, Sirolo, and Numana to most beaches, while walking trails lead to wild coves like Mezzavalle and Sassi Neri; for Le Due Sorelle and Gabbiani, boat tours from Numana’s port are essential.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Mezzavalle?
Mezzavalle Beach, Sassi Neri Beach, and Gabbiani Beach are the least crowded, especially on weekdays or outside July–August, offering a peaceful alternative to the more popular lidos.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Mezzavalle’s beaches?
Wear sturdy shoes for steep trails, bring water and snacks for wild beaches, arrive early to secure parking and shade, and check for Blue Flag status at equipped beaches for water quality and safety.
