Cinque Terre is a picturesque area in Italy that is known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches.

While there are many beautiful beaches in Cinque Terre, the following ones are some of the best and most popular in the area.

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This guide will cover the best beaches and swimming spots around each Cinque Terre village.

Monterosso

Monterosso Beaches

Monterosso beach has two main sections – Fegina Beach and Old Town Beach.

Fegina Beach is the most popular beach in Monterosso and is situated close to the town center. This beach has many facilities, including sun loungers, parasols, showers, and a beach bar.

This beach is located next to the train station so you cannot miss it.

Fegina Beach

The Old Town Beach is a more secluded beach located in the old harbor area of Monterosso. This beach is divided into two parts (a public and a private zone).

You’ll need to walk toward the old town to reach this beach. It’s about 10 minutes away from the train station.

Monterosso Beach

Vernazza Beaches

Vernazza has two main beaches – The Harbor beach and the “Cliff” Beach.

The Harbor Beach has a small sandy beach with an area where you can swim.

Although the water there was quite dirty during our visit, you might consider going elsewhere instead. Simply walk towards the harbor from the train station to find this beach.

Monterosso Beach

The Cliff Beach is a more secluded beach located on the village’s east side. This beach is less crowded and ideal for those looking for a more relaxing experience.

You’ll need to walk through a cave to reach it. You can usually spot the beach from the village at the top of the cliff.

Vernazza swimming spot

Staying In Cinque Terre?

Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels in Cinque Terre.
Best hostel: The 5 Terre
Best mid-range hotel: MADA Charm Apartments
Best luxury hotel: La Vista di Marina by The First

Corniglia Beaches

Corniglia has one main beach – Guvano Beach.

Guvano Beach is a more secluded beach located in the north of Corniglia. This beach is less crowded and ideal for those looking for a more relaxing experience.

To reach the beach, you’ll need to start the hike toward Vernazza and follow the signs for the beach Spiaggia Libera.

Corniglia Beach Guvano

Manarola Beaches

Manarola doesn’t have beaches, but there’s a swimming spot around the harbor area.

From the village at the top, you’ll see it clearly. You can climb the rocks to swim, but it can get crowded.

Manarola swimming spot

Riomaggiore Beaches

Riomaggiore has one main beach at the harbor. The water over there is amongst the nicest – but note that it’s not a sandy beach, but a pebble beach.

Simply head toward the harbor to find it.

Riomaggiore swimming spot

Things To Know About The Cinque Terre Beaches

When visiting any of the Cinque Terre beaches, there are a few things to remember.

First, most beaches in Cinque Terre are pebble beaches. This means that there is no sand, only small rocks.

Because of this, it is recommended to bring water shoes or flip-flops to make walking on the rocks more comfortable.

Second, all of the beaches in Cinque Terre are free to use. However, there may be a charge for sun loungers and parasols.

If you wish to go to a sandy beach, we recommend the ones around the Monterosso area.

Keep reading to learn about the sandy beaches that are nearby.

Sandy Beaches Close To Cinque Terre

If you’re looking for a sandy beach, we suggest you visit Monterosso.

Another option is to take a boat trip from Cinque Terre to Porto Venere. You’ll find some good beaches (some of them with pebbles).

Finally, you can also take a bus or drive to one of the beaches in the nearby town of Levanto. This town is quite close to Monterosso, and you’ll find a sandy beach divided into private parts and public parts.

Levanto Beach

What To Bring To The Beach

When packing for Cinque Terre, there are a few things you will need to bring to the beach.

First, you will need to bring water shoes or flip-flops. This is because all of the beaches in Cinque Terre are pebble beaches.

Second, you will need to bring sunscreen and a hat. The sun can be very strong in Cinque Terre, so protecting yourself from the sun is essential.

Third, you will need to bring a beach towel.

Fourth, you will need to bring a beach bag.

Finally, you will need to bring a camera. Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and you will want to take lots of pictures!

Final Thoughts On The Best Beaches In Cinque Terre

There are many factors to consider when it comes to finding the best beaches in Cinque Terre.

The beaches mentioned above are some of the best in Cinque Terre, based on their location, facilities, and views.

Visiting Italy soon? Read one of the following guides:

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015 and has been living abroad since 2014. Originally from Canada, she has embraced a digital nomad lifestyle, working online from various destinations worldwide. Melissa is passionate about travel, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit. Her extensive travels have taken her across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. Currently, she resides in Thailand.


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