You’re searching for the best beaches in Rapallo, Italy — a charming Italian Riviera hub where the sea sparkles and mature travelers, couples, and groups feel right at home. These are the local favorites, rich in atmosphere and practical details for those who want an authentic, walkable beach getaway with clear, useful advice at your fingertips.
Best Hotels in Rapallo🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Rosa Bianca Rapallo
- ✨ 5-Star: Excelsior Palace Portofino Coast
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Astoria
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Casa Da Cri
- 💸 Cheap: Verde Monte Di Portofino
- 🏢 Apartment: Vico Dell’Amore
- 👪 For Families: Casa Pietro E Bea
- 🏩 For Couples: Portofino Appartamento Vista Mare Con Piscina
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Peaceful Pebble Cove — San Michele di Pagana Beach
- 🌊 Classic Lido Vibes — Bagni La Marina Beach
- 🤿 Snorkeling Hotspot — Paraggi Beach
- 🌳 Nature Seeker’s Escape — Niasca Beach
- ⛪️ Historic Cove Experience — San Fruttuoso Beach
- 🏞️ Natural Local Hideaway — Spiaggia Libera Delle Nagge
- 👪 Family-Friendly Shores — Bagni Pagana Beach
- 🧘 Quiet & Secluded Haven — Clan Beach
- 🚂 Easy Access & Amenities — Nuova Spiaggia Delle Saline
1. San Michele di Pagana Beach: Quiet Beauty on the Italian Riviera
San Michele di Pagana Beach is a pebble stretch about 300 meters long, tucked between charming coastal gardens and the gentle waves of the Ligurian Sea. The light glints off the water as you walk from the church garden down to the shore — a scene straight out of a classic postcard. I lost count of the local couples smiling over morning coffee at the beachside kiosk here. This beach stays calm from May through September, ideal for swimming and kayaking, with Baia del Silenzio just a short walk away and the main promenade running behind the cafes.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Stroll past the Parco delle Trincee and small fishing harbor before reaching the water. Locals adore the quiet bend near Chiesa di San Michele, hidden from the main boardwalk and a favorite for peaceful solitude. The nearest bus stop is San Michele di Pagana — arrive early to enjoy the gentle sunrise.
- Pro: Ideal for quiet days and serene water views, with easy access to other sites.
- Con: Limited amenities; bring what you need for the day.
Best For / Skip If:
Those who want comfort, convenience, and a lively beach scene. You crave solitude — head for Clan Beach or Niasca Beach.
Best Hotels near San Michele di Pagana Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Excelsior Palace Portofino Coast — Iconic 5-star luxury facing the Gulf of Tigullio with panoramic sea views, two pools, a refined spa, and a private beach club.
- Rosabianca Boutique Hotel — Elegant seafront boutique hotel steps from San Michele di Pagana Beach, offering chic rooms, great breakfasts, and easy promenade access.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Italia e Lido Rapallo — Seafront classic beside Rapallo Castle with a small private beach, sea-view terrace restaurant, and easy ferry access.
- Vico dell’Amore — Cozy apartment on a quiet lane, offering a well-equipped kitchen and walkable access to the promenade and cafés.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Le Pleiadi 5 by PortofinoVacanze — Central apartment with air‑conditioning, balcony, and kitchenette, a short walk from the promenade and Rapallo’s historic sights.
2. Bagni La Marina Beach: Classic Lido Comfort
Bagni La Marina offers the classic Ligurian lido experience in a relaxed town on the Italian Riviera: neat rows of sunbeds, colorful umbrellas, and the convenience of showers and a snack bar. The pebble beach runs about 200 meters along the shore, lively from June to August when locals and visitors fill the loungers while chatting about the best things to do and easy ways to get to Rapallo from Genoa or Santa Margherita Ligure. The scent of salt and sunscreen drifts on the breeze; I once watched a lively bocce game as locals and tourists swapped seaside tips.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
From Bagni La Marina, it’s an easy walk to Rapallo Castle, the Lungomare Vittorio Veneto promenade, and the town’s open-air markets, which makes it a handy base to stay in Rapallo if planning day trips around Rapallo to Santa Margherita Ligure or even Cinque Terre. The real secret here is the tiny gelato stand just behind the showers, where the lemon granita is legendary and pairs perfectly with a slice of warm focaccia. The beach sits right along Piazza IV Novembre, with buses and taxis moments away for anyone deciding how to get to Rapallo or searching for more things to do in Rapallo beyond the shoreline.
- Pro: Full amenities, central location, and lively Italian beach culture.
- Con: Gets busy on summer weekends; early mornings are best.
Best For / Skip If:
Those who want comfort, convenience, and a lively beach scene. Skip If you crave solitude — head for Clan Beach or Niasca Beach.
Best Hotels near Bagni La Marina Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Villa Portofino With Private Pool & Garden — Spacious villa stay with private pool, garden, and parking, ideal for groups seeking a quiet base near the coast.
- Apartment In Villa Montuoro by Wonderful Italy — Bright apartment in a historic villa setting, offering sea-view terraces and convenient access to Rapallo and coastal trails.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Casa Rosa Al Mare Rapallo — Bright seafront apartment with balcony, steps from Rapallo Beach and convenient for train and coastal walks.
- Europa Hotel Design Spa 1877 — Historic property with spa facilities and stylish rooms, close to the marina and Bagni La Marina Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Matteotti Apartment — Bright, budget‑friendly flat near Via Giacomo Matteotti, featuring a practical kitchen and easy access to shops and the seafront.
3. Paraggi Beach: Vibrant Sand & Water Adventures
Paraggi Beach is the rare sandy gem on this stretch of coast, with crystal waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling — I could see schools of fish darting below even in knee-deep water, which is why many travel guide writers list it among the best Rapallo experiences. The beach itself is compact, only about 100 meters, but the vibe is lively, especially in June to September when visitors plan a train from Rapallo for a quick swim before exploring Monterosso. The bay is fringed by dramatic cliffs and pine trees, and you’re a short walk from Portofino village and the Punta Chiappa viewpoints, a coastal attraction that easily ranks among the best Rapallo day highlights.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Facilities include sunbeds, bars, showers, and easy access via bus or car parking nearby, and many visitors pick up a focaccia picnic before returning on the afternoon train from Rapallo. Locals swear by the tucked-away gelateria with views of the bay — perfect for a post-swim treat and a quick scan of a travel guide to map the next attraction. The best time to arrive is after 10 AM, when the sun hits the water just right, though those who stay in Rapallo often come earlier to beat the crowds.
- Pro: Sandy seabed, clear water, and a lively scene for couples and groups.
- Con: Small size means it’s best for shorter visits in summer.
Best For / Skip If:
Snorkeling, sunbathing, and those who want a taste of Riviera glamour. Skip If you’re seeking a long, rugged coastline; explore Niasca Beach or San Fruttuoso.
Best Hotels near Paraggi Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Hotiday Rapallo — Modern self-catering unit with clean design, close to shops and the waterfront for easy Riviera days out.
- Casa Vittoria Rapallo — Comfortable apartment stay with a well-equipped kitchen and quick links to the promenade and marina.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Relax Al Guardastelle — Dolce Vita Al Guardastelle — Comfortable apartment stay with terrace and hillside views, a short ride from Rapallo’s beaches.
- Verde Monte di Portofino — Peaceful hillside escape with garden space, offering easy access to Rapallo and Portofino area trails.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casaviva — Quadrilocale con Posteggio a Rapallo — Spacious four‑room apartment with parking, ideal for longer stays and convenient for reaching beaches and the marina.
4. Niasca Beach: Hidden Nature Escape
Niasca Beach is a secluded pebble cove, surrounded by lush vegetation and accessible by a scenic walk from Paraggi or by boat in the region of Liguria, a lovely choice for anyone who wants to enjoy Rapallo on quieter days. There are no facilities, but the water is clear and calm from May to September, perfect for those who want to swim or simply soak in nature at a small beach with few distractions. I settled in for an afternoon read, with birdsong and olive trees around me, savoring simple Italy travel pleasures like a pesto picnic.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Portofino Park is just above the beach, with hiking trails and panoramic views that link to coastal towns and other beaches in the area. The walkway from Portofino village is a local favorite, especially for early risers who want to enjoy the tranquil cove before anyone else arrives, and many later take the cable car in Genova or plan a loop to the towns of Cinque Terre via train and ferry. Parking is limited; arriving by ferry is easier in peak season and makes it simple to return in time to enjoy Rapallo before sunset.
- Pro: Peaceful, natural, and less crowded than most.
- Con: No amenities — pack your own drinks and shade.
Best For / Skip If:
Nature lovers, swimmers, and those seeking seclusion. Skip If you need sunbeds or refreshments; try Paraggi or Bagni Pagana.
Best Hotels near Niasca Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Apartment In Villa San Faustino — Peaceful villa apartment amidst greenery, featuring a balcony and easy access to seaside towns along the Ligurian coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Il Galeone Rapallo — Simple, clean apartment with balcony and kitchen, near shops and a pleasant walk to the seafront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa di Clara Rapallo — Simple, clean stay with a balcony and equipped kitchen, set in a quiet residential area with bus links to the waterfront.
5. San Fruttuoso Beach: History & Shoreline
San Fruttuoso Beach is a pebble cove with a legendary coastline setting, framed by the Abbey of San Fruttuoso and dramatic rock faces that many day-trippers from Milan include on Italy travel itineraries. The beach is about 200 meters long, best visited from May to September, and draws snorkelers and culture seekers heading onward to Sestri Levante or back to Rapallo by late afternoon. The underwater Christ of the Abyss statue is just offshore, but even from the sand, the medieval abbey’s presence is inspiring and easily the kind of attraction that appears in any best Rapallo coastal roundup.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
There are no sunbeds here, but nearby restaurants serve fresh seafood caught just offshore, and it’s easy to return back to Rapallo on the last ferry after a leisurely lunch. Locals love arriving by ferry from Camogli, soaking up the bay’s history before diving into the famously clear water, then linking a visit to the Santuario di Montallegro above town for sweeping views. Arrive by 10 AM or after 3 PM for the calmest waters and best photos, and if you’re continuing to Sestri Levante later, plan connections in advance.
- Pro: Historic setting, great for snorkeling and exploring.
- Con: No sunbeds or shade, and access is by boat or long hike.
Best For / Skip If:
Cultural travelers, snorkelers, and those who love history. Skip If you want amenities and easy access — head to Bagni La Marina.
Best Hotels near San Fruttuoso Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Italia e Lido Rapallo — Seafront favorite beside Rapallo Castle, with a small private beach, sea-view restaurant terrace, and quick ferry connections.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Re Dream Luxury — Rapallo — Stylish themed suites with hot tub options, set in a quiet spot with quick links to the center and beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Tigullio 38 by PortofinoVacanze — Contemporary apartment close to the Lungomare, offering Wi‑Fi, lift access, and a handy base for coastal day trips.
6. Spiaggia Libera Delle Nagge: Simple & Local
Spiaggia Libera Delle Nagge is a quiet, public pebble beach about 150 meters long, popular with locals and budget travelers who wonder if a trip to Rapallo is worth it for a simple seaside pause. It’s accessible year-round, with no frills — just the sea, some rocks, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it easy to judge the best time to visit Rapallo based on calm days and clear water. I once watched a local fisherman mending nets on the jetty while children splashed nearby, a slice of unvarnished Rapallo life that confirmed this is the right time to visit Rapallo if slow travel appeals.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The beach is minutes from Rapallo Castle, Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, and a tiny fishing harbor where small boats bob in the swell, which makes it simple to plan whether Rapallo is worth a quick stop on a broader itinerary. The small trattoria on Via dei Mille, a 10-minute walk inland, is beloved by locals for simple, honest Ligurian cooking and a relaxed vibe that suits a short trip to Rapallo. The nearest bus stop is Rapallo Centro, handy if you’re heading back to Rapallo’s promenade for sunset and timing your day to match the best time to visit Rapallo.
- Pro: Free, uncrowded, and authentic.
- Con: No facilities, and the beach can be rocky underfoot.
Best For / Skip If:
Budget travelers and those who want a local vibe. Skip If you need comfort — choose Nuova Spiaggia delle Saline or Bagni La Marina.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Libera Delle Nagge
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Tigullio — Beachfront apartment with fast Wi‑Fi and lift access, a short stroll from Rapallo Beach and marina.
- Appartamento Cà Du Pescou — Hill-view apartment with balcony and full kitchen, offering an authentic local base near the coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Nina Home 33 — Cozy one‑bedroom with a functional kitchen and fast Wi‑Fi, within easy reach of cafés, markets, and Rapallo Beach.
7. Bagni Pagana Beach: Family-Friendly Fun
Bagni Pagana Beach is a popular pebbly stretch about 200 meters long, equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and easy access from town for families who love Rapallo and want a calm swim closer to Portofino. The water is calm and clear from May to September, making it especially good for families and swimmers planning day trips along the coast to Vernazza or Corniglia later on. Watching kids build rock towers and parents paddle in the shallows is a true Italian beach holiday scene that often convinces first-timers this is the best way to get a gentle start to exploring the Riviera.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Rapallo Castle and Parco Casale are a short stroll away, and local cafes line the Lungomare where a quick snack powers the next outing along the coast. A family-run fruit stand near the entrance is a local hit for fresh pineapple and chilled drinks, and if you’re weighing the best way to get to the Cinque Terre after a beach hour, the train from Rapallo is the easiest link. The best time to visit is mid-morning on weekdays for a relaxed atmosphere, and anyone searching for a central base can find a convenient hotel in Rapallo to keep logistics simple.
- Pro: Clean, organized, and highly accessible for families and older travelers.
- Con: Gets busy on summer days.
Best For / Skip If:
Families with kids, swimmers, and those who want amenities. Skip If you want quiet — try Clan Beach or Niasca Beach.
Best Hotels near Bagni Pagana Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- LHP Suite Rapallo — Modern serviced suites near Rapallo Beach featuring kitchenettes, elevator access, and easy reach to the promenade and dining.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Casa Rosa — San Massimo — Quiet residential setting with a bright interior and easy bus links to Rapallo’s waterfront.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Vecchia Marina — Nautical‑themed apartment near the harbor with balcony space, great for evening walks along the marina.
8. Clan Beach: Quiet & Undiscovered
Clan Beach is a small, intimate pebble stretch about 100 meters long, little-known outside local circles but perfectly placed for those heading closer to Portofino after a quiet swim. The water here is especially clear, and the beach is at its best from May to September, though facilities are minimal, which suits travelers who prefer simple moments along the promenade before deciding if Rapallo is worth a longer stop including Cinque Terre side trips. On my last visit, I had the place to myself for an hour, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and thinking how easy it is to love Rapallo when days unfold slowly.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
The beach is near scenic lookout points and quiet walking paths that locals use for morning strolls, and the route along the promenade links well with pathways toward Santa Margarita for an easy coastal wander. The hidden stairway behind the Via San Michele di Pagana bend is a favorite shortcut for early risers who want a head start toward hikes along the coast. The nearest bus is at San Michele di Pagana, but it’s a 10-minute downhill walk that feels effortless on the way down and just right on the way back to Rapallo at sunset.
- Pro: Secluded, peaceful, and a true local favorite.
- Con: No amenities — bring your own snacks and shade.
Best For / Skip If:
Those who want solitude and a genuine Ligurian cove. Skip If you need facilities — head to Bagni La Marina or Nuova Spiaggia delle Saline.
Best Hotels near Clan Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Monuriki Rapallo — Bright apartment with balcony and equipped kitchen, set in a quiet area with easy bus links to the promenade and marina.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Paola — Pleasant, well‑equipped apartment with a balcony and kitchen, offering quick access to the promenade and train connections.
9. Nuova Spiaggia Delle Saline: Easy Access, Modern Comfort
Nuova Spiaggia Delle Saline is a modern pebble beach about 250 meters long, fully equipped with showers, sun loungers, and a snack bar, and it’s popular with Italians who appreciate easy access since Rapallo makes beach days simple. It’s open June to September, and the vibe is relaxed and orderly — perfect for those who want convenience without the crowds and who plan to explore the coast by train later in the afternoon. I remember enjoying a chilled local wine as I watched the sun set over the town from this spot, quietly agreeing this makes Rapallo worth a slow evening stroll.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The beach is near Rapallo train station, local cafes, and the lively Lungomare, making it a practical base for exploring on foot, and a short detour over the small stone bridge by the promenade adds a lovely viewpoint. The small park next to the Marina di Rapallo is a local favorite for sunset walks and gelato by the water, and it’s easy to continue the evening along the promenade without needing a car. Arrive before 11 AM for the best spot on a sunny day, then head out to nearby towns along the coast by train while the sands get busy.
- Pro: Modern amenities, great location, and easy to reach.
- Con: Slightly less character than other beaches; more practical than picturesque.
Best For / Skip If:
Travelers who want convenience, amenities, and a stress-free beach day. Skip If you want wild beauty or seclusion — explore Niasca or San Fruttuoso instead.
Best Hotels near Nuova Spiaggia Delle Saline
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Cavour Rapallo — Central seafront hotel near Piazza Cavour offering comfortable rooms, a generous breakfast, and quick access to beaches and the train station.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa De Los Amigos — Quiet hideaway with a terrace and kitchenette, a practical base for exploring Rapallo and nearby Portofino.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Rapallo?
Most public beaches are free, while lidos charge €20–40 per day for sunbeds, showers, and changing cabins, with most local expenses (meals, transport, activities) being moderate for Italy, especially outside July and August.
Which beaches in Rapallo are best for families with young children?
Bagni Pagana Beach and Bagni La Marina Beach are ideal, with calm waters, sunbeds, and easy access for families; avoid Spiaggia Libera delle Nagge and Clan Beach, which lack facilities for kids.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Rapallo?
Paraggi Beach is best for snorkeling and swimming, while San Michele di Pagana is good for kayaking; San Fruttuoso is famed for snorkeling and diving near the Christ of the Abyss statue.
What is the best time of year to visit Rapallo’s beaches?
May through September offers the warmest weather and calmest waters, with peak crowds and amenities in July and August; spring and early autumn are quieter and still pleasant for swimming.
How can you easily get around Rapallo’s beaches?
Most beaches are within walking distance of Rapallo’s train station or town center; buses connect further spots like San Michele di Pagana and Paraggi, and ferries serve San Fruttuoso from Camogli or Rapallo.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Rapallo?
Clan Beach and Niasca Beach are quiet, secluded coves loved by locals, while Spiaggia Libera delle Nagge is a budget-friendly public stretch with few visitors even in summer.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Rapallo’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for pebble beaches, arrive early for the best spots in high season, and plan for paid lidos (sunbeds, showers); most beaches have nearby cafes and promenades for breaks from the sun.
