You may know Rome for its history, cuisine, ruins, and architecture, but have you heard of the nearby beaches in Rome? Hop on a thirty-minute train and you can start to relax on one of Italy’s Blue Flag beaches, soaking in the sun and dipping in the Mediterranean Sea.
Whenever you are ready to escape the city, rent a car, hop on a bus or train and make your way to one of the best beaches near Rome.
Here are some of the best beaches in Rome to help you plan for your next trip. Whether you are traveling with family, looking for that natural beach, or ready for a beach party, we’ve got you covered!
Beaches in Rome For The Perfect Afternoon Trip
Santa Severa
Only a 40-minute train ride from the city center of Rome, Santa Severa is one of the beaches closest to Rome. Most of this beach is free to the public, though there are several locations where you can purchase sunbeds and parasols. If you haven’t seen enough Roman ruins, check out the 14th century castle where the original foundations touch the sea.
There are medium size waves at Santa Severa, so this is one of the Roman beaches that is frequented by intermediate surfers, but the waters are calm enough in the summer for small children. On your next trip to Rome, take an afternoon off from the city to relax on the sand!
Baia Benessere B&B is eco-friendly and vegan friendly, with a large terrace with garden views right on the beach. This B&B is also a 20-minute walk from downtown Santa Severa and will be perfect if you want to spend more than just an afternoon outside of the city.
Castel Porziano (Closest Beach)
Out of all of the beaches in Rome, Castel Porziano is by far the closest to Rome itself. This Roman beach is actually protected by the Roman Littoral State Nature Reserve. Only a 30-minute drive and a 2km hike to the sandy beach, Castel Porziano is one of the wildest and most natural beaches in Italy and is very popular with locals and tourists alike. Though it is one of the best beaches in Rome, it is usually less crowded because of the short hike that must be made on foot.
You can’t stay in the nature reserve but there are several houses available to rent right on the edge of this beautiful and historic park and only a short walk from the beach. But don’t worry, at Casa dei Sogni you’ll have your own pool and will be well taken care of.
Ladispoli
This Roman beach is a little further from Rome but after only a 45-minute drive or train ride you can enjoy the Mediterranean breeze with your toes in the sand. Ladispoli is loved for its wide-open stretches of sand, making it very spacious and one of the best beaches near Rome. If you’re traveling to Rome in April, keep an eye out for the annual artichoke festival that happens every year!
B&B Maria Rosaria is just off of the beach. So sit back and relax after your day of exploration, and make sure to catch the homemade fruit tarts at the breakfast buffet!
Best Beaches Near Rome For Families
Sperlonga
This 90-minute drive south of Rome is absolutely worth the trip. Enjoy the two crescent beaches as well as the gorgeous and historic town of Sperlona on this trip. There is so much to explore in these little coves, and the shallow waters make it the perfect beach for families with small children. Make sure to wander through the Museum of Tiberius off of the beach when you need a break from the sun!
If you already know you’ll need more time to explore, check out Hotel Marconi. It’s just feet from the water and perfect for your beach weekend. Enjoy the restaurant and bar with a view of the ocean!
Santa Marinella
This small town is less than an hour from Rome by train or car and has some of the most breathtaking beaches in Rome. Santa Marinella was actually a popular beach for sunbathing in Ancient Rome! This stretch of sand is protected by a breakwater so the shallow waters are perfect for families with kids. After enjoying the water, try one of the seafood restaurants along the shore for dinner!
Villa Emanuele is just a 10 minute walk from the beach and is the perfect B&B for your stay in Santa Marinella. Whether you’re staying for the night or spending a weekend in this picturesque town, Villa Emanuele has all the accommodations you may need.
Anzio
This Blue Flag certified Roman beach has turquoise water, incredible seafood restaurants, and Emperor Nero’s seaside Villa Imperiale. Anzio is only one hour south of Rome and its breakwater makes the waters calm and safe for families. This is one of the best beaches in Rome simply because of its history; it was the location of the Allied Landing where Rome was liberated from Nazi occupation. Check out the Anzio BeachHead Museum at the end of the beach!
Attico II Gabbiano is one minute from the beach and has some of the best views of the Italian coast. This is only one of the apartments that you can rent for the night, weekend, or week during your stay in Anzio.
MORE BEACHES IN ITALY |
The Most Natural Beaches In Rome
Sabaudia
One of the best beaches near Rome, Sabaudia is 15 kilometers long and is one of the most natural beaches in Italy. As it has very little commercial development, it is mostly free but there are several places where you can purchase sunbeds and parasols. The hour and 15-minute drive south of Rome is absolutely worth it if you’re looking for the perfect natural beach.
If you’re looking for a natural beach in Rome with the option of modern comforts nearby, consider staying at Hotel Oasi Di Kufra. It is one of the most beautiful hotels on the Italian coast and will bring the luxury to your natural beach vacation. Enjoy the beach bar in paradise!
San Felice Circeo
One of the most picturesque beaches near Rome, San Fellice Circeo is a 90-minute drive from Rome and is worth the time. Surrounded by several beautiful small towns, this stretch of beach is practically untouched and well known as one of Rome’s natural beaches. You can choose from one of the many restaurants for lunch or dinner, or wander the narrow streets into the local shops and bakeries. It does get fairly crowded so get there early!
Circeii is a 10 minute walk from the sandy beaches of Felice Circeo and is just one of the many beautiful properties in the area that are available to be rented for your vacation. We particularly like this one for the hot tub and patio.
The Best Roman Ruin Beaches
Terracina
This small town is filled with ancient Roman ruins and lined with a beautiful beach. If you’re looking for some history as well as a day relaxing in the sun by the sea, drive 90 minutes south of Rome to Terracina. Hike to the top of Mount Saint ‘Angelo at the edge of the Roman beach to find the first-century Temple of Jupiter Anxur. You can also take the ferry to the Pontine Islands from Terracina’s port.
Grand Hotel L’Approdo is the perfect stay for you and your family while you visit Terracina. It is the only hotel that is directly on the water and also within walking distance from the Roman ruins in town.
Gaeta
We saved the best beach in Rome for last! Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Rome, Gaeta may be more crowded than your other choices but it definitely worth it. This was one of the favorite beaches during Ancient Rome and is a 2 hour drive south of the city. When you’re ready to get out of the water, check out the 6th century Aragonese castle and the medieval churches in town!
Since this is the furthest beach from Rome, you may want to consider staying overnight. Villa Ninetta-Isabella is the perfect stay if you want to see the beach from your own private terrace and choose the perfect moment to go find your spot on the sand.
Visiting The Best Beaches In Rome
Rome is known for its ancient ruins and famous landmarks, but it also has some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy just a short trip away. While there are many things to do in Rome itself, it is also a destination to mix in a beach getaway.
Whether you’re looking for a natural beach to relax on or a beach with Roman ruins nearby, these beaches in Rome can only add to your experience on your next vacation in Italy.
