Looking for the best beaches in Otranto to plan your next coastal escape? Whether you’re drawn by the soft sands, dramatic bays, or Otranto’s famed crystal-clear waters, this guide highlights the top 10 spots so you can experience the most stunning beaches in Otranto, Lecce, and across the Salento coast.
Best Hotels in Otranto🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Palazzo De Mori
- 🏨 4-Star: Balconi Sul Mare
- 🛏 3-Star: Notos B&B
- 💸 Cheap: B&B Otranto Vacanza
- 🏢 Apartment: Le Terrazze Otranto
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: La Torretta Charming House
- 🏩 For Couples: La Piccinna - Le Dimore di Thesia
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Iconic Bay — Baia dei Turchi Beach
- 🪸 Hidden Cove — Porto Badisco Beach
- 🌾 Pine-Fringed Sands — Alimini Beach
- 🌅 Clifftop Serenity — Santo Stefano Bay Beach
- 🏊 Accessible Urban — La Castellana Beach
- 👨👩👦 Family Pocket — Frassanito Beach
- 🧘 Secluded Retreat — Spiaggia Mulino d’Acqua Beach
- 🤿 Snorkel Point — Spiaggia della Staffa Beach
- 🧑🦽 Barrier-Free Zone — Abil Beach Otranto Beach
- 🦑 Local Favorite — Fuorirotta Beach
1. Baia dei Turchi Beach: Otranto’s Iconic Coastal Escape
Fine white sand cushions your feet as gentle Adriatic waves shimmer beside the pine forest on the Adriatic sea in Puglia. I still remember cycling through the shaded trails and down to this bay, the air carrying a fresh scent of sea and wild herbs as I planned to visit Otranto later in the day. This iconic beautiful beach stretches just under a kilometer, filled with crystal clear water that’s usually calm from late May to September—perfect for relaxed swimming or family picnics under the trees.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The fragrant pine woods line the path from Strada Provinciale 366, then the entrance opens onto the soft sand and vast blue horizon near the center of Otranto. Take a walk up to the scenic Bauxite Quarry, and don’t miss the Otranto Cathedral with its ancient mosaics—a must for lovers of history and art, especially if you also plan to get to Otranto from nearby Santa Maria di Leuca or explore Santa Maria along the coast. Alimini Beach and Torre dell’Orso are both close by, with Lido Mulino d’Acqua tucked between, and a quiet punta on the edge of the bay where locals sip local wines at sunset.
- Pro: Picture-perfect, natural setting ideal for relaxed sunbathing.
- Con: Can be busy in high season — get there early for a tranquil spot.
Best / Skip: Perfect for anyone wanting a classic Salento experience, families, couples, and swimmers. If you crave nightlife or nonstop action, try Fuorirotta Beach for its vibrant beach bar and coastal energy.
Best Hotels near Baia dei Turchi Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Borea Luxury Home — Modern holiday home in Otranto with a well-equipped kitchen and a private terrace, close to the seafront for easy beach days.
- Conchiglia & Medusa Home Otranto — Bright, sea-themed apartments offering handy self-catering and balconies, a short walk from historic lanes and waterfront promenades.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Balconi Sul Mare — Sea-view rooms set near Otranto’s waterfront, ideal for strolling the historic center and the marina promenade.
- Masseria dei Monaci — Countryside retreat with spacious outdoor areas, a calm base within easy driving distance of Otranto’s beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Birose B&B — Friendly B&B with bright, comfortable rooms and easy access to Otranto’s old town and seaside promenade.
2. Porto Badisco Beach: A Legend-Soaked Rocky Cove Near Otranto
Jagged rocks meet sparkling emerald water at this sheltered bay, where the sound of cicadas carries across weathered limestone in the province of Lecce. I traced the local myth of Aeneas by following Via Porto Badisco and finding this tiny strip of golden sand, just steps from the local fishermen’s boats in a beautiful coastal corner south of Otranto. Only about fifty meters long, mainly sand mixed with pebbles, with perfectly clear water best enjoyed from June to mid-September, it feels like one of the most beautiful tiny coves near a beautiful city rich in history.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Start at Piazza della Vittoria and stroll the clifftop promenade, then dip down to the old Porto Badisco fishing pier, keeping in mind the closest airport to Otranto is Brindisi if you’re planning logistics. The legendary Grotta dei Cervi, filled with prehistoric art, lies nearby, as does the lush pine forest above the beach, and if you’re day-tripping further, Porto Cesareo makes a fine comparison for calm, shallow waters. Locals love the secluded side inlet for its snorkel-friendly waters and peace—this is where lifelong friendships take shape over a game of cards. The #106 bus runs from Otranto a few times daily; visiting midweek means more space and fewer crowds.
- Pro: Unique setting with legendary history and epic snorkeling potential.
- Con: Limited sand, lots of rock — bring water shoes for comfort.
Best / Skip: Made for history buffs, snorkelers, and anyone seeking tranquility. Less ideal for those craving facilities or easy urban access—opt for La Castellana Beach if you want more comfort and soft sand.
Best Hotels near Porto Badisco Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Catona House Otranto — Stylish apartment with air conditioning and a compact kitchen, situated on a quiet street with quick access to cafés and shops.
- Appartamento Corallo Otranto — Comfortable stay with a full kitchen and living area, ideal for longer visits near Otranto’s beaches and marina paths.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Cala Dei Normanni — Simple, well-kept rooms tucked by the old town walls, perfect for quick access to cafés and coastal walks.
- Smilax Hydruntum Holiday Rooms — Practical, air‑conditioned rooms in a convenient Otranto location, handy for beach days and evening passeggiate.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- A Casa Dei Miei Otranto 2 — Simple, well-located guesthouse offering clean rooms and convenient walking distance to cafés, shops, and beaches.
3. Alimini Beach: Pine-Fringed & Breezy on the Salento Coast
Golden sand and soft dunes stretch for several kilometers at Alimini, with the scent of salty pines and the gentle Adriatic wind in your hair across the salento area. My afternoon exploring the cycle path to Via Alimini reminded me just how vast and untamed the Salento coast can feel in a coastal town that lives and breathes history and culture. The beach itself is wide—over 2 km—offering ample space, with sunny days common from May to early October and water perfect for swimming or kitesurfing when the wind picks up, and there’s also a long stretch of free beach for those who like simple days by the sea.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Wander from Piazza della Libertà along the main beach road lined by dune flora, stopping at Lido Alimini for a midday espresso near the small chapel of Santa Maria Annunziata that recalls the area’s rich history. Don’t miss the dramatic Alimini Lakes nearby or stop at Mulino d’Acqua Beach for a more secluded break in a tourist destination that still keeps a relaxed rhythm. Locals often gather at the last southern beach bar for sunset drinks thanks to its laid-back vibe. Cycling from Otranto takes under 25 minutes, and early morning is best for peace before the beach clubs fill up.
- Pro: Expansive sands, great for walks and water sports.
- Con: Can be exposed to wind — bring a light windbreaker if you linger into the afternoon.
Best / Skip: Excellent for active travelers, families, and anyone seeking big horizons. If you dislike long, busy strands, the sheltered Spiaggia della Staffa Beach is a calmer choice.
Best Hotels near Alimini Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Appartamenti Vista Mare Otranto — Apartments featuring sea views and balconies, great for sunset moments and easy access to coastal walking routes.
- Dimora Stella Otranto — Elegant apartment with tasteful décor and a small terrace, set near local bakeries and the old town’s stone archways.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Piccinna - Le Dimore di Thesia — Cozy apartment stay with a kitchenette and terrace space, set on a quiet street close to the historic lanes.
- Marimar Apartments Otranto — Self-catering apartments with modern comforts and balconies, great for longer stays near beaches and shops.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Casa del Gelso Bianco — Charming stay with a peaceful courtyard atmosphere, ideal for relaxed evenings after coastal explorations.
4. Santo Stefano Bay Beach: Clifftop Serenity and Panoramic Otranto Views
The sound of waves bouncing off limestone cliffs fills this small, intimate bay with a special energy along the coast of Salento. One morning, walking the zigzag path down from Strada Torre Santo Stefano, I saw the town’s skyline framed against the gleam of sea and made a mental list of things to see in Otranto later that day. This cove is mostly pebble with stretches of golden sand, about 300 meters long—prime from June through September, especially at sunset when the views turn golden and you can taste a glass of typical Salento or even a crisp salento wine nearby.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Stroll from Lungomare degli Eroi to the Torre Santo Stefano watchtower, and explore the remains of the old abbey and nearby pine-shaded lanes if you want to see in Otranto beyond the beach. Alimini and Spiaggia Mulino d’Acqua are an easy bike ride away and count among the things to see near Otranto when you stay in Otranto for a few days. Locals adore a clifftop picnic bench here, hidden just above the main beach—it’s a favorite for its breeze and dramatic sightlines. Park near the Torre access trail; arrive just before dusk for the stunning light over Otranto.
- Pro: Stunning cliff views, peaceful atmosphere, and golden-hour beauty.
- Con: Pebbles and rocks — pack sturdy sandals for maximum comfort.
Best / Skip: Great for sunset lovers, photographers, and couples wanting a romantic escape. Less flexible for sunbathers seeking soft sand — try Alimini Beach for a pillow-like experience.
Best Hotels near Santo Stefano Bay Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Palazzo De Mori — Chic rooms in a historic palazzo with a rooftop terrace, perfectly placed above the harbor for breezy morning views.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Home nel Cuore di Otranto — Charming home‑style apartment in the heart of Otranto, with a compact kitchen and easy access to sights.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Prim'Alba — Cozy B&B serving a tasty breakfast, positioned near local bakeries and the waterfront for easy morning strolls.
5. La Castellana Beach: Otranto’s Accessible Urban Sandy Beach
Soft waves lap at your ankles while beachgoers relax above on sunbeds, the city’s buzz always humming in the distance from the port of Otranto. One day, I slipped out for a morning swim before grabbing a creamy gelato on Via Antonio Sforza, enjoying how seamlessly this beach fits into Otranto’s urban rhythm and how easy it is to reach Otranto on foot from the historic center of Otranto. It’s sandy, about 250 meters long, busy but accessible year-round with excellent facilities from May to late September, and it’s perfect when planning things to do in Otranto between swims and strolls.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
You’re steps from Otranto’s bustling Lungomare Kennedy and a stone’s throw from the port views of Piazza Castello near the historic center of Otranto. Venture to the dramatic old Aragonese Castle or stroll to the mosaics at the Cathedral that commemorate the martyrs of Otranto—both are within a 10-minute walk. Locals cherish a tiny outcrop at the southern end for sunbathing in peace, especially after 5 p.m. The Lungomare Kennedy bus stop sits right behind the lido, making this an easy choice for a stress-free dip.
- Pro: Central, easy access, superb facilities for all ages.
- Con: Popular and sometimes crowded — late afternoon/evening visits are more peaceful.
Best / Skip: Perfect for anyone who values comfort, accessibility, and proximity to Otranto’s historic center. For quiet relaxation away from town, Santo Stefano Bay Beach is a strong alternative.
Best Hotels near La Castellana Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- B&B San Giorgio Otranto — Welcoming B&B offering a generous breakfast and cozy rooms, steps from lively piazzas and the seafront promenade.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Palazzo Borgomonte — Boutique-style rooms in a historic setting, featuring tasteful design and a central location for city exploring.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Balcone su Otranto — Apartment with a balcony and handy kitchenette, perfect for soaking up sea breezes and sunset views.
6. Frassanito Beach: Family Pocket & Laid-Back Vibes
You hear laughter and the sound of playful waves, where gentle shallows and soft sand welcome kids and parents alike in this beautiful Salento corner of the Puglia region. I biked to Via Frassanito for a lazy lunch of fresh seafood, then wandered the beach’s smaller coves—each a haven from crowds and a relaxed base for exploring around Otranto. The main stretch is 400 meters of sand dotted with sea grasses, best visited June through September when the water is at its warmest, and it’s easy to reflect on the martyrs of Otranto commemorated in town while planning a guide on what to see nearby.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
From Piazza Frassanito, stroll north toward the rustling dunes, or visit the nearby Lido Frassanito for drinks and snacks, then consider a cultural detour to the ruins of the monastery of San Nicola di Casole to appreciate why Lecce is often called the Florence of the South. Spiaggia Mulino d’Acqua and Alimini Beach are quick cycle hops away, perfect add-ons in the easternmost town in Italy for variety between coves and open strands. Early morning is the best time for quiet family time, as parking fills up very quickly on weekends.
- Pro: Excellent for families, shallow waters, and peaceful picnics.
- Con: Fewer services than city beaches — bring all essentials for little ones.
Best / Skip: Ideal for families, picnickers, and those wanting medium crowds. Want something even quieter? Head for Spiaggia Mulino d’Acqua Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Frassanito Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- C-Home — Contemporary loft-style apartment with sleek finishes and fast Wi‑Fi, convenient for exploring the historic center on foot.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamento La Nina — Bright apartment with a small balcony and kitchenette, ideal for couples seeking a relaxed coastal base.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Mediterraneo Camere — Practical rooms with air conditioning in a quiet spot, a short walk from the marina and historic lanes.
7. Spiaggia Mulino d’Acqua Beach: Secluded Retreat with Dramatic Caves
Trace salt spray in the air as you walk a sandy and rocky path to a hideaway, where low cliffs shelter clear blue pools in the area of Otranto. A local friend guided me off Via Mulino d’Acqua past a lemon grove to reach this pocket cove, which feels miles away from city crowds yet remains part of the city of Otranto, one of the most atmospheric cities in Italy. The beach runs about 200 meters, primarily sand but with pebbly patches, at its best from mid-June to late September when the sea glows turquoise and it hardly feels far from Otranto even though it’s tucked slightly north of Otranto along the same coastline.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Begin at Piazza Mulino d’Acqua, wander past a cluster of old fishermen’s shacks, and descend to the famous Grotta Sfondata—a cave with natural skylight often included among classic destinations in Puglia. Alimini and Frassanito are both near, but this is the locals’ hidden favourite for moonlit dips and bonfire nights in a spot that shows why Lecce is nicknamed the “florence of the south.” For a magical sunset or a private swim, plan your visit on weekdays and bring sturdy shoes for the climb down.
- Pro: Isolated, photogenic, and rich in atmosphere for quiet escapes.
- Con: Harder to access — not suitable for those with mobility concerns (suggest La Castellana Beach instead).
Best / Skip: Best for solitude-seekers, photographers, and nature lovers. Crowds or anyone needing facilities should consider La Castellana Beach as a fallback.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Mulino d’Acqua Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Masseria del Gigante — Country-style retreat with spacious grounds and rustic charm, offering a peaceful base within easy driving distance of Otranto.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Tenuta I Quattro Venti — Green, tranquil estate with rustic-chic rooms, offering peaceful countryside vibes close to Otranto.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Ancora del Sud — Welcoming guesthouse with thoughtful touches and helpful hosts, close to coastal paths and swimming coves.
8. Spiaggia della Staffa Beach: Snorkel Point Beneath Ancient Otranto
Fish dart through clear water over rocky shelves, while the salty wind stirs the reed beds nearby on the salento peninsula in the region of Puglia. Walking from Via Cerra, I could watch snorkelers surface beside the rocks, their laughter drifting up at this small beach in eastern Salento. This rocky, pebbly stretch is about 150 meters, with colorful marine life thriving from late spring through early autumn, and the surrounding town is rich in history and culture with plenty of time for the best things like slow seaside walks.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The Otranto Promenade leads you right here; detour to Museo Diocesano for a cultural fix and pass by the mosaic-tiled steps behind, a reminder of why Lecce is often called the florence of the south. Little known even to many locals, a rock pool behind the first major boulder is the go-to for sunset picnics that show off this corner of the region of Puglia. Morning visits promise better visibility and lighter crowds; the Via Cerra bus stop is a 5-minute walk away.
- Pro: Unique marine life, perfect for snorkelers and discovery.
- Con: Rocky entry — bring good shoes and a mask.
Best / Skip: For active explorers and underwater aficionados. If you crave classic sandy beaches, Alimini Beach is more your style.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia della Staffa Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Raffaela Sanarica — Private villa with garden and outdoor spaces, a calm option for families seeking extra room and a short trip to the coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Romantico Monolocale nel Cuore di Otranto — Romantic studio with thoughtful touches, steps from artisan boutiques and the seaside promenade.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Dimora Idruntina — Stylish apartment featuring modern décor and a compact kitchen, great for longer stays near key attractions.
9. Abil Beach Otranto Beach: Barrier-Free Zone with Inclusive Facilities
You notice gentle ramps and a friendly, accessible vibe right away, with adaptive sunbeds and staff always at hand in this beautiful coastal town that long stood as a bridge between east and west. I watched a joyful game of beach volleyball here on Via Lungomare Kennedy, inspired by the seamless access and the view of the Otranto port in the distance and the silhouette of the Aragonese fortifications built in the 15th century. This 120-meter sand-and-pebble beach offers services from June to September, is quieter by late afternoon, and lies just a few kilometers from Lecce’s Santa Maria Annunziata Cathedral, the city often called the Florence of the South.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Follow the main Otranto seafront from Piazza Castello and explore the historic port’s arches before looping back to the accessible beach zone, taking a moment to admire views toward the cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata. At the north end, a playful art mural draws both locals and visitors—a favorite Instagram spot due to its uplifting colors that celebrate this bridge between east and west. Wheelchair-friendly restrooms make it welcoming for all; best hours are after 3 p.m. when the heat eases, and with the Aragonese walls built in the 15th century nearby it’s easy to see how this beautiful coastal town earned its ties to the florence of the south.
- Pro: Barrier-free, friendly, and right by central sights.
- Con: Shorter beach — for more space, cross to Alimini Beach.
Best / Skip: Absolutely recommended for those with mobility needs, families with strollers, or anyone who values accessibility. Those after longer walks on sand may prefer Frassanito Beach.
Best Hotels near Abil Beach Otranto Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Appartamenti San Foca — Seaview apartment with a balcony and practical amenities, set for relaxed stays near swimming spots and seaside cafés.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Vacanze da Emanuele — Straightforward holiday home with kitchen facilities, a budget-friendly base for exploring town and coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Balconcino d'Oriente — Romantic pied‑à‑terre with a petite balcony, set amid atmospheric streets steps from the sea.
10. Fuorirotta Beach: The Local Favorite for Food, Drinks, and Adventure
The savory aroma of grilled seafood mixes with laughter as live music echoes over the sand at this lively urban beach located a few kilometers from the cathedral dedicated to Santa Maria Annunziata. My evening at Fuorirotta started with an Aperol spritz on Via Antonio Sforza, then spilled into dancing as locals gathered by the bar’s glowing lights in a place where Otranto is one of the coastal towns most proud of its historical and cultural heritage. It’s about 100 meters long, sandy, and best loved from June through September, especially for its vibrant late afternoons, and although Otranto has a small urban strand here the energy feels anything but small.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The surrounding Lungomare Kennedy buzzes with markets and events, while the Otranto port and Aragonese Castle are both less than 15 minutes by foot in a city located in the province of Lecce. Beach volleyball is a highlight; locals are fiercely loyal to their sunset hangout spot, famed for its DJ sets, and cave fans often swap stories about nearby grotto walls streaked with ochre and bat guano. Transit is a breeze via Otranto Stazione, just up the road. Sunset is prime time for both the energy and views.
- Pro: Playful, vibrant, and great for mingling with locals.
- Con: Can be noisy and crowded — for peace, make for Porto Badisco Beach.
Best / Skip: Best if you want local flavor, music, and nightlife blended with your beach day. If quiet and solitude are the goal, Porto Badisco Beach provides the perfect counterpoint.
Best Hotels near Fuorirotta Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villetta Claudia Castro — Compact house with a patio and kitchen facilities, good for budget-minded travelers exploring nearby beaches by car.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Profumo di Mare — Beach‑adjacent apartment offering sea-breeze living and easy access to swimming spots and sunset viewpoints.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Camere a Sud Est — Clean, budget-friendly rooms in a convenient location, ideal for travelers who plan to spend most days on the beach.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Otranto?
Expect to spend €25–€60 daily for meals and local transport in Otranto, with sunbed or umbrella rentals adding €10–€25 per person in peak season. Costs are higher on beaches with more facilities; shoulder months offer better rates and lighter crowds.
Which beaches in Otranto are best for families with young children?
Baia dei Turchi, Alimini Beach, and Frassanito Beach all have calm waters, sandy stretches, and good facilities for families. Shallow entry and lifeguard stations make them especially reassuring for parents.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Otranto?
Alimini Beach stands out for kitesurfing and windsurfing, while Porto Badisco is beloved for snorkeling. For paddleboarding or kayaking, Baia dei Turchi and Mulino d’Acqua also offer safe conditions.
What is the best time of year to visit Otranto’s beaches?
June through September brings the warmest water and best weather. July and August are busiest, with daytime highs near 30°C and sea temperatures perfect for swimming.
How can you easily get around Otranto’s beaches?
Most beaches are within cycling distance or a quick taxi ride from Otranto’s center. The local bus network connects to major beaches like Alimini or Porto Badisco, while walking paths and bike routes run along much of the Adriatic coast.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Otranto?
Spiaggia Mulino d’Acqua and Santo Stefano Bay Beach are less touristed, especially on weekdays or early mornings. Local favorites often linger at the pine-forested ends of these coastlines.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Otranto’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for rocky coves, arrive early to secure parking on busy weekends, and pack sunscreen as shade is limited outside pine forest areas. Respect posted signs about conservation areas and avoid loud music in tranquil spots.
