In this guide, we will take you through a curated selection of the best Lecce beaches, each offering a unique slice of paradise waiting to be discovered. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to uncover the sunlit gems of Salento!
Immersed in the heart of Salento subregion, Lecce is a destination celebrated not just for its baroque architecture and rich history, but also for its spectacular coastline.
With the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas embracing its shores, Lecce offers some of the most picturesque and inviting beaches in Puglia. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a family on holiday, or an adventurer looking to explore the natural beauty of the Mediterranean, the beaches in Lecce cater to every type of beachgoer.
Discover Lecce’s Top Beaches Destinations
Lecce is surrounded by some of the most stunning beaches in Italy, each offering unique characteristics and breathtaking views. Here’s a guide to the best and most famous beaches near Lecce, complete with brief introductions, distances, and travel instructions:
1. Torre dell’Orso
- Introduction: Torre dell’Orso features a wide crescent of fine, golden sand flanked by limestone cliffs and the iconic twin rocks known as “Le Due Sorelle” (The Two Sisters). This beach is perfect for families and sunbathers looking for ample amenities and crystal-clear waters.
- Distance from Lecce: Approximately 29 km
- How to get there: Drive via the SP1 road, a journey that takes about 30 minutes. Public transport options include regional buses, which take about 40 minutes from Lecce’s central bus station.
2. Pescoluse (Maldives of Salento)
- Introduction: Often dubbed the ‘Maldives of Salento’, Pescoluse boasts stunning white sandy beaches and shallow, turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for families with young children.
- Distance from Lecce: About 62 km
- How to get there: The drive takes around 1 hour via the SS101 towarda Gallipoli followed by the SS274 way. Public transportation is less direct, but buses are available with a change in Maglie, taking around 1.5 hours.
3. Porto Cesareo
- Introduction: Known for its long stretches of white sand and protected marine areas, Porto Cesareo is a haven for snorkelers and nature lovers. The area is also renowned for its vibrant sea life and clear, calm waters.
- Distance from Lecce: Approximately 28 km
- How to get there: Travel by car via the SP119 towards Leverano and continuing on the SP21 road, which takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, local buses run directly to Porto Cesareo, typically taking about 40 minutes.
4. Alimini Beach
- Introduction: Alimini Beach is characterized by its fine sandy dunes and freshwater lakes nearby, making it a unique beach experience. Its extensive shores are less crowded, offering a more tranquil beach day for visitors.
- Distance from Lecce: Roughly 35 km
- How to get there: Drive via the SS16 highway, taking about 40 minutes. Buses also serve this route, taking approximately an hour from Lecce.
5. Spiaggia di Baia Verde
- Introduction: Near the lively town of Gallipoli, Spiaggia di Baia Verde is popular among the younger crowd for its vibrant nightlife and beach clubs. The beach itself is known for its fine golden sand and clear blue waters.
- Distance from Lecce: About 45 km
- How to get there: The journey by car via SS101 takes around 45 minutes. Public transport options include frequent buses to Gallipoli, followed by a short local bus or taxi to Baia Verde.
6. Punta Prosciutto
- Introduction: Punta Prosciutto is renowned for its pristine, almost Caribbean-like beaches with fine white sand and incredibly clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to escape crowded areas and enjoy unspoiled nature.
- Distance from Lecce: Approximately 50 km
- How to get there: Drive towards Porto Cesareo and then take the SP359, which takes about an hour. Public transportation is less convenient, with bus travel requiring multiple changes and significantly more time.
7. Torre Lapillo
- Introduction: Torre Lapillo is known for its wide sandy beaches and clear shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children. The beach is also surrounded by a variety of services and amenities.
- Distance from Lecce: Roughly 29 km
- How to get there: Drive towards Porto Cesareo and then take the SP359, taking about 30 minutes. Buses are also available, but the journey may include transfers and take longer.
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8. Porto Selvaggio
- Introduction: Nestled within a natural park, Porto Selvaggio boasts a rugged coastline and a mix of rocky and pebble beaches surrounded by dense Mediterranean scrub. It’s a favorite for hikers and nature lovers.
- Distance from Lecce: About 45 km
- How to get there: Driving is the best option, via SS101 and then local roads, taking approximately 50 minutes. Public transport can be tricky as it requires multiple changes.
9. Santa Cesarea Terme
- Introduction: Famous for its thermal springs and dramatic cliffside setting, Santa Cesarea Terme offers a unique combination of natural spa experiences and beautiful sea views.
- Distance from Lecce: Approximately 48 km
- How to get there: The drive via SS16 takes about an hour. Direct bus services are available but less frequent, taking around 1.5 hours.
10. Torre Mozza
- Introduction: This beach features a wide sandy shore and an old Spanish tower that adds a historical touch to its scenic views. It’s particularly popular for its clean water and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Distance from Lecce: Roughly 60 km
- How to get there: Drive via the SS101 towards Gallipoli and continue along the SS274, taking about 1 hour. Public transport is not ideal due to the longer journey times and transfers involved.
11. Porto Badisco
- Introduction: Porto Badisco offers a small, sheltered bay known for its stunning clear waters and historical significance—it’s said to be the landing spot of Aeneas on his journey from Troy.
- Distance from Lecce: About 45 km
- How to get there: The drive via SS16 takes approximately 50 minutes. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended.
12. La Grotta della Poesia
- Introduction: La Grotta della Poesia is a picturesque natural swimming hole that ranks as one of the most beautiful in Italy. Its name, meaning “The Cave of Poetry,” adds to its romantic and mythical allure.
- Distance from Lecce: Approximately 23 km
- How to get there: The quickest route is by car via SP1, taking about 30 minutes. Buses go to nearby Roca Vecchia, with a short walk to the site.
This guide provides the best Lecce beaches, from hidden coves and bustling sandy beaches to historical sites and natural wonders. Each beach has its own unique charm, ensuring that every visitor finds a spot that suits their taste.
