You’re planning a beach getaway in Ortona, Abruzzo, and wondering which stretch of coast is right for you. You want crystal-clear waters, real local flavor, and easy access—no endless scrolling or guesswork. I’ve just spent two weeks exploring every cove, sandy bay, and pebble beach from Ortona down the Trabocchi Coast. This guide cuts straight to what matters, matching each spot to your travel style, with every detail checked and every tip road-tested.
Best Hotels in Ortona🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Le Dimore di Giò
- 🏨 4-Star: DOMORA BEDROOMS
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Borgo del Marchese
- 💸 Cheap: Casetta 1870
- 🏢 Apartment: Bella Vista Ortona
- 👪 For Families: Casa Vacanza Giovanna - Ortona
- 🏩 For Couples: La Mansarda del Sole - Ortona
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Golden Sands & Shade — Spiaggia del Foro di Ortona Beach
- 🌊 Wild & Secluded — Ripari di Giobbe Beach
- 🌄 Cliffside Drama — Punta Acquabella Beach
- 🌞 Easy City Access — Lido Saraceni Beach
- 🏄 Windsurfing Hotspot — Punta Ferruccio Beach
- 🕶️ Local Hangout — Spiaggia di Lido Riccio Beach
- 🌳 Green Escape — Spiaggia Ritorna Beach
- 🏖️ Family Friendly — Spiaggia Marina di Ortona Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Stroll — Spiaggia della Foce Beach
- 🚶 Coastal Walk — Spiaggia dei Trabocchi Beach
1. Spiaggia del Foro di Ortona Beach: Wide Sandy Bay With Calm Waters
Golden sand spreads for over a kilometer here, with the Adriatic’s famously clear, gentle waters ideal for swimming and wading in the Abruzzo region near Chieti and Pescara. The dunes behind the beach rustle with sea grasses, a rare sight along this built-up coast and a reminder of a beautiful beach that locals love on the Adriatic. I arrived at sunrise, when the light turns the waves gold and the beach is quiet—just a few dog walkers and joggers enjoying the cool morning air on this free beach. This sandy, shallow beach is safe for summer dips from May to September, with water around 23–25°C — ideal for families.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk north to where the Fiume Foro meets the sea—an overlooked viewpoint where birds gather at dusk and where you can spot the curve toward Pescara Abruzzo on clear days. The nearby coastal promenade, Lungomare Ortona, is lined with gelato stands and casual seafood spots, and you’ll find locals at Bar Delle Rose, a no-frills café tucked behind the dunes after mornings at spiaggia di punta ferruccio. Arrive by 9 a.m. to snag free parking on Via Torre del Foro; after 10, it’s full, and you’ll need to use the paid lot near Lido Riccio along this beautiful beach corridor.
- Pro: Endless space, soft sand, and gentle waters—a family dream.
- Con: No natural shade—bring your own umbrella in peak season.
Best For: Families, swimmers, and anyone who wants classic beach relaxation.
Skip If: You crave seclusion or dramatic scenery. Try Ripari di Giobbe instead.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia del Foro di Ortona Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Torre della Loggia — Dimora Storica — Historic townhouse B&B with garden terrace and buffet breakfast, ideal for a character stay close to Ortona’s centro storico.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Bella Vista Ortona — Sea-view apartment with balcony and a well-equipped kitchen, set near the port for easy seaside walks and dining.
- DOMORA BEDROOMS — Modern rooms with sleek design and convenient access to central Ortona and the coastal promenade.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casetta 1870 — Ortona — Charming historic apartment with a cozy living area and kitchenette, set near the old town for easy access to cafés and the seaside promenade.
2. Ripari di Giobbe Beach: Rocky Cove With Dramatic Cliffs
This hidden bay, flanked by limestone cliffs, feels like a secret even in high season—the water is startlingly blue, and the beach pebbles clatter underfoot along a quiet shore where the beach located beneath the cliffs stays cool and shaded. I scrambled down 150 steps to find peace, sunlight bouncing off the rocks and the faintest hint of salt in the air while visiting Ortona on a calm afternoon. This medium pebble beach is best from June to August when seas are calm; not ideal for kids, but great for confident swimmers. Wear sturdy shoes and arrive early for the small free lot on the Costa dei Trabocchi.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Leave your phone behind—the signal fades, and that’s the point for anyone visiting Ortona in search of quiet. Adventurous locals sneak in for sunset swims, when the cliffs glow pink and the shore settles into a hush that feels unforgettable. Walk north along the coastal path for a glimpse of Trabocco Pesce Palombo, one of the region’s iconic fishing platforms on the Costa dei Trabocchi in Abruzzo, and continue toward the overlook above spiaggia dei ripari di giobbe for cliff-top views. For a true taste, stop at Trattoria del Porto near Ortona’s old town, then loop back along the promenade.
- Pro: Absolute tranquility, dramatic scenery, and no crowds.
- Con: Steep access, few facilities—pack water and snacks.
Best For: Adventurous travelers, divers, and those seeking solitude.
Skip If: Mobility is an issue. Lido Riccio is easier.
Best Hotels near Ripari di Giobbe Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- B&B Villa Eden — Quiet, greenery-framed B&B featuring airy rooms and included breakfast, a practical base for exploring the Abruzzo shoreline.
- Casa Vacanze Punta Ferruccio — Self-catering holiday home near Punta Ferruccio with multiple bedrooms and a terrace, great for beach days and scenic walks along the Trabocchi Coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- OrizzonteMare — Friendly, family-run stay with terraces or balconies, free bikes, and a garden, ideal for exploring Ortona’s beaches.
- Borgo del Marchese — Charming B&B-style accommodation offering spacious rooms and a calm setting within a short drive of Ripari di Giobbe Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Regina Ortona — Air-conditioned two-bedroom apartment with family-friendly layout, conveniently placed for quick trips to Ripari di Giobbe and vineyards around Ortona.
3. Punta Acquabella Beach: Dramatic Rock Formations & Vivid Waters
Tucked below olive groves, this tiny cove is all about drama—craggy rocks, vivid crystal clear water, and a sense of wildness within the municipality of Ortona. The waves here have a special sound, crashing against the stones in a rhythm that drowns out everything else and makes even a brief swim feel unforgettable. On my visit, I watched local kids leap from the rocks while older couples picnicked under the twisted pines, noting that it’s not especially suitable for families with children unless the sea is calm. This pebble-and-rock beach is under 200 meters, best for swimming in July and August when the sea is calm; on peak weekends, a small free equipped area sometimes appears.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park uphill among the olive trees for shade, then follow the signed path down past a viewpoint toward spiaggia di ripari bardella for a quick look before returning here. Look for the hidden bench near the tunnel—a local favorite for sunset—then join the cycle path that links Lido Riccio and Ripari di Giobbe along the shore so you can compare coves without moving the car. Bring water and sandals; there’s a food truck some weekends, but no regular services, and the public bus from Ortona stops on the main road—from there, it’s a 10-minute walk down, which is manageable even when visiting Ortona at midday heat.
- Pro: Stunning scenery, excellent snorkeling, and a true escape.
- Con: Limited space, rocky underfoot—not for strollers or flip-flops.
Best For: Adventurous souls and photographers.
Skip If: You need facilities or sand between your toes. Head to Spiaggia del Foro.
Best Hotels near Punta Acquabella Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Suite Vittoria — Ortona — Stylish suites in a central location, with modern decor and easy reach to waterfront promenades and dining.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Mansarda del Sole — Ortona — Top-floor apartment with views and a full kitchen, a comfortable base close to shops and cafes.
- La Casa di Mario — Via del Giglio 52 — Quiet apartment on a small historic lane, featuring a living area and kitchenette for easy longer stays.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Gigì — Ortona — Spacious two-bedroom, two-bath apartment with city views, air-conditioning, and a modern kitchen, well located for easy access to Ortona’s centro storico and coastal promenades.
4. Lido Saraceni Beach: Central, Convenient, Lively
This city beach is lined with sunbeds, umbrellas, and lively cafés—it’s where Ortona comes to play and a clean beach atmosphere makes lingering easy. The hum of espresso machines and laughter mixes with the lapping waves along the shore of a beach located in Ortona. I joined the morning yoga class on the sand, then lingered over a fresh seafood lunch at one of the beach clubs beside the small Ortona lighthouse and the cycle path. The beach is sand with some small pebbles, about 500 meters long, bustling from late May to early September, and sections operate as a free equipped beach when the season peaks. Water sports rentals are easy to find near the pier.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
For a local secret, stroll past the main stretch to the unmarked rocky point—great for a sunset aperitivo with views toward the Ortona Lighthouse and the cycle route. The Ortona Lighthouse is a short walk away, and the weekly fish market in Piazza Municipio is a cultural highlight that’s easy to reach by following the Ortona lighthouse and the cycle connection from the waterfront. Parking is tight—try Parcheggio Porto or take the local bus to Lido Saraceni stop, then continue on foot toward the pier if you want quiet corners. Early birds get the best spots, but it’s lively all day along this clean beach.
- Pro: All amenities, vibrant atmosphere, easy access.
- Con: Can get crowded, especially on weekends.
Best For: Groups, families, and those who want convenience.
Skip If: You seek peace and quiet. Try Ritorna or Ripari di Giobbe.
Best Hotels near Lido Saraceni Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Le Dimore di Giò — Contemporary apartments with balconies and kitchens, offering a practical setup for families and small groups.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Vacanza Giovanna — Ortona — Comfortable apartment with terrace and parking, offering straightforward access to beaches and the historic center.
5. Punta Ferruccio Beach: Windsurfing & Wide Skies
This open bay catches the breeze, making it a windsurfer’s favorite—the flags snap, and the water shimmers in the sun while you feel surrounded by nature and the area’s natural beauty. I watched the local surf school in action, then settled on a quiet stretch of sand with a book at this corner of paradise located along the coast between Pescara and Chieti. The beach is a mix of sand and pebble, about 300 meters long, with safe swimming in calm weather, and it’s easy to cool off by renting an umbrella when the sun is high.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk north to the small fishing harbor, where locals gather for evening drinks and a breezy pause that feels like a hidden corner of paradise. The coastal path connects to Ritorna Beach, and there’s a bike rental stand nearby if you want to continue toward spiaggia della ritorna or on to viewpoints associated with punta piolala and the S.Vito, both located along scenic stretches between Pescara and Chieti. For a quick lunch, try Fratelli La Bufala on Via Roma, then return for an afternoon under shade after renting an umbrella; there’s a decent-sized parking lot, but it fills by noon.
- Pro: Great for water sports, plenty of space, easy parking.
- Con: Exposed to wind—bring a windbreaker in spring and autumn.
Best For: Surfers, kite-boarders, and active travelers.
Skip If: You dislike wind. Lido Saraceni is calmer.
Best Hotels near Punta Ferruccio Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Gianna’s House — Ortona — Well-equipped apartment stay with kitchen and balcony, offering comfort and value near Ortona’s main services.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Le Paperelle — Comfortable apartment with modern finishes and a handy location for reaching Ortona’s seaside and old town on foot.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Casetta di Rò — Ortona — Quiet one-bedroom home with kitchenette and smart layout, well located for exploring Ortona on foot.
6. Spiaggia di Lido Riccio Beach: Local Hangout With Character
A broad stretch of golden sand, bright umbrellas, and a relaxed vibe—Lido Riccio has it all, and on clear days the water is crystal clear at what many consider one of the most beautiful family beaches in the area. I joined the locals at the beach bar for a midday coffee and watched kids build sandcastles while their parents played volleyball as the beach offers shallow entry and lifeguards on days when crowds are frequent. The sea here is shallow and safe for kids, especially in high summer, and a small beach section stays calm even when breezes rise.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Look for the red lighthouse at the north end—a favorite selfie spot that ties into Ortona’s history and culture along the waterfront. The promenade is lined with family-run trattorias and gelato shops; try La Barca for a laidback lunch before cycling the cycle path that runs along the seafront. Free parking is available early; otherwise, there’s a large paid lot that fills on frequent summer weekends, so arrive before 9 a.m. The local bus from Ortona stops right at the entrance, making it one of the most beautiful and convenient beach approaches when the sun is high.
- Pro: Lively family scene, good food, and easy parking.
- Con: Can get busy on weekends and holidays.
Best For: Families, groups, and those who want a real Italian beach day.
Skip If: You prefer a wilder or quieter scene. Try Ritorna or Ripari di Giobbe.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia di Lido Riccio Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Marina Gardens Boutique & Suites — Design-forward suites with garden setting and secure parking in Francavilla al Mare, a short drive up the coast from Ortona’s beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Sweet Home Annalisa — Homely one-bedroom setup with smart layout and a short drive to the Lido Riccio shoreline.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Casetta del 1930 — Vintage-style apartment in a historic building, featuring original details and a convenient position near shops and bakeries.
7. Spiaggia Ritorna Beach: Green Retreat Near the Pinewoods
A quieter, greener alternative to the main beaches, Ritorna is backed by fragrant pine woods, offering natural shade on hot days along this quieter stretch of the Adriatic coast. The sound of cicadas and rustling leaves replaces the usual beach bustle, and the beach is either free or lightly serviced depending on the day. On my visit, I found locals picnicking in the shade and joggers cooling off in the sea near the presence of the Feltre stream, which keeps the shallows cool. The beach is a mix of sand and small pebbles, about 400 meters long, best enjoyed from late June to early September when basic amenities may be available on the beach.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The coastal path leads north to Punta Ferruccio and south toward the port—a pleasant walk at any time of day that loosely follows the course of the Feltre stream and the Cinzioni as they near the sea. The pine grove itself is a local favorite for weekend barbecues, especially at dawn, and you might spot the stream and the Cinzioni ditch trickling through reeds after rain. There’s limited parking near Via Lido Riccio, but it’s walkable from Ortona Centro if you want to skip traffic, and seasonal showers or kiosks can be available on the beach during peak weeks. Bus 1 stops nearby.
- Pro: Shady and quiet, perfect for long walks and picnics.
- Con: Fewer services and restaurants.
Best For: Nature lovers and those seeking peace.
Skip If: You want amenities and activities. Head to Lido Riccio or Saraceni.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Ritorna Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Dreaming Ortona — Bright, minimalist apartment with balcony and quick access to the marina and coastal cycle path.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Pietra Marina - Casa Vacanza — Fresh, well-equipped holiday home designed for cyclists and beachgoers, close to the coastal path and local coves.
8. Spiaggia Marina di Ortona Beach: Urban & Spacious
This long, sandy stretch is popular with joggers, cyclists, and families looking for space and easy access, and the beach with shallow entry makes it an ideal choice for relaxed swims. The morning sun sparkles on the water, and the wide promenade makes strolling a pleasure along the coastline where pebbly patches appear after storms. The beach is fully equipped, about 1 km long, and busy from June to August as new bathing establishments expand services along the beach.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The bike path runs the length of the beach, perfect for a sunset ride and a slow way to explore local sights tied to the Cathedral of San Tommaso. The nearby Piazza Municipio hosts a lively market on Saturdays, adding a dash of history and culture without leaving the seafront. Parking is easiest in the lot off Via Lido Riccio, and bus 1 serves the area, so it’s simple to continue along the coastline after a morning dip. For a casual snack, try La Vecchia Piazza in the center before looping back along the beach toward the quieter south end.
- Pro: Plenty of space, lots of amenities, and easy to reach.
- Con: Lacks the wild charm of smaller coves.
Best For: Active travelers and families needing space and convenience.
Skip If: You want a remote experience. Try Ripari di Giobbe or Punta Acquabella.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Marina di Ortona Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Palazzo Bruni — Relais — Elegant historic relais with refined rooms and concierge service, suitable for travelers who prefer boutique charm near the coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Sole & Luna — Simple, good-value apartment featuring a functional kitchen and easy parking, convenient for day trips along the Trabocchi Coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Piccola Dimora — Ortona — Compact, good-value apartment with a practical kitchen and walkable access to the centro storico and waterfront.
9. Spiaggia della Foce Beach: Sunset Spot by the River Mouth
Where the river meets the sea, this small, sandy beach is known for its sunsets and birdwatching, and the beach is easily accessible for a quiet pause before dinner. The water here is calm and shallow, ideal for a quiet swim with space for drinks and food at the kiosk when open. The beach is about 200 meters long, peaceful after 5 p.m. when most bathers head home, though Sunday tourists who come for a stroll beyond the historic lido can make it livelier around the May Day holiday.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
The riverside walk from Ortona Centro is a favorite local stroll, ending at the bar on the beach for a cold drink where tourists who come to eat fried seafood linger at sunset. The coastal path leads north to Fortino Beach, a tiny, sandy spot loved by fishermen in the ripari di bardella district, and you’ll sometimes hear chatter about those who come to eat frozen fish at the pier-side stands. There’s limited parking, but bus 1 stops at the entrance, and arriving in the evening for the best light and fewer people works well if you want to wander beyond the historic lido.
- Pro: Iconic sunsets, peaceful vibe, and good for birdwatching.
- Con: Small, and parking is tricky at peak times.
Best For: Couples and photographers.
Skip If: You need lots of space or facilities. Lido Riccio is better for that.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia della Foce Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Magnificat Hotel & Resort — Country-style resort in the Ortona hinterland featuring spacious rooms and on-site dining, convenient for beach and vineyard day trips.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Casa del Palombaro — Restful countryside stay in historic stone buildings, offering serene garden areas within driving distance of Ortona’s beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casale Bavi — Tranquil countryside stay with rustic charm and garden space, an easy drive to Ortona’s beaches and wineries.
10. Spiaggia dei Trabocchi Beach: Iconic & Authentic
The Trabocchi Coast is legendary—here, the old fishing platforms stand on stilts over the water, and the scenery is a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffs where old and new coexist as a destination known for its clean waters. Each beach along this stretch has its own character, but all share clear waters and dramatic views on a route that runs along the entire shoreline. The mixed terrain and deep waters make swimming and snorkeling a treat, best from June to September, and within a few years some structures that are not removed may become part of the familiar landscape at this popular beach.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk south toward San Vito Chietino for the most iconic trabocchi views and take time to enjoy hidden coves where local residents during the week find quiet. Locals love the hidden coves near Calata Turchino, where the water is a dazzling blue-green and enjoying the beautiful light feels effortless even for locals from the hinterland. Parking is best at the Lido Riccio lot; no direct buses, but the coastal cycle path connects all the beaches, and seasonal facilities are removed even in winter. For an authentic seafood meal, trek to Ristorante Miramare in San Vito and linger until sunset for the best time to enjoy the silhouettes of the trabocchi.
- Pro: Unique scenery, great snorkeling, and endless coastal walks.
- Con: Not all beaches are easy to access—some require a scramble.
Best For: Explorers, photographers, and those who want a true coastal experience.
Skip If: You have mobility issues. Lido Riccio and Lido Saraceni are easier.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia dei Trabocchi Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Rustica House — Cozy rustic-style apartment with a functional kitchen and private entrance, set in a quiet area with easy driving access to Ortona’s beaches.
- Appartamento in Centro Storico — Ortona — Bright historic-center flat steps from cafés and the seaside promenade, featuring a living room and equipped kitchenette for comfortable stays.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- CasAzzurra — Spacious three-bedroom apartment with balcony, air-conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen, set on a quiet street with easy parking and a short drive to Ortona’s beaches.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Ortona?
Ortona’s beaches are mostly free, but expect to pay for parking (€5–10/day), meals at beach bars or trattorias (€10–25 per person), and rentals like sunbeds (€10–20/day); costs are higher in July and August, and lower off-season.
Which beaches in Ortona are best for families with young children?
Spiaggia del Foro, Lido Riccio, and Spiaggia Marina di Ortona offer gentle waves, shallow water, and plenty of amenities, making them ideal for families with kids.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Ortona?
Punta Ferruccio is best for windsurfing, while Ripari di Giobbe and Punta Acquabella offer great snorkeling; kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at Lido Riccio and Lido Saraceni.
What is the best time of year to visit Ortona’s beaches?
Late June to early September is peak season, with warm sea temperatures and lively beach life; May, June, and September are quieter, with pleasant weather.
How can you easily get around Ortona’s beaches?
Most urban beaches (Lido Saraceni, Lido Riccio, Marina di Ortona) are walkable or served by the local bus; the Trabocchi Coast and Ripari di Giobbe are best reached by car or bike, with a scenic cycle path connecting all key spots.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Ortona?
Ripari di Giobbe, Punta Acquabella, and Spiaggia Ritorna are quieter options—arrive early, bring supplies, and enjoy a cove to yourself.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Ortona’s beaches?
Arrive before 10 a.m. for parking, bring water and snacks to hidden coves, wear sturdy shoes for rocky beaches, and always check weather and wave conditions before swimming—the Adriatic can be unpredictable.
