10 Beaches in Lazio for a Thoroughly Relaxing Holiday

Spiaggia di Chiaia di Luna (Chiaia di Luna Beach) is an over 100-metre-tall white-tuff cliff face descending steeply into the sea, leaving a thin strip of beach exposed. It's an iconic feature of the island of Ponza. The name refers to its formation and colour, reminiscent of a crescent moon on a clear summer's night.

It's an idyllic spot for romantic types, especially at sunset. Just sit on the shore or on one of the terraces that protrude from the cliff and watch the sun disappear over the horizon.

Don't miss Cala Nave Beach, famous for its dark sand with shades of bronze, if you're passing through the volcanic island of Ventotene. Your jaw will drop when you see the colours, which make the crystal-clear waters stand out even more.

The cove can be reached on foot from the town centre, making it a hub for locals and tourists alike. The beach's name refers to the large cliffs surrounding it, which resemble a ship. The seabed is also rocky, which is why the water is so clear.

Spiaggia di Torre Astura (Torre Astura Beach) brims with culture and nature, boasting a castle by the sea, the partially underwater ruins of a Roman villa and fish farm, and kilometres of empty beach. Swimming in the waters here is like immersing yourself in history.

Research has revealed that the ruins surrounding the castle, which date to the 1st century BC, are those of Villa di Astura, belonging to Cicero. The stronghold, on the other hand, was built in 1193 as a defence against Saracen raids and has been celebrated by painters, travellers and poets from every era.

Bufalara Beach is an untouched beach, far from the madness of Sabaudia, that is almost always quiet, even in August. Bufalara is a long, straight beachfront whose name refers to the herds of buffalo who graze freely and undisturbed in the nearby fields.

To reach this peaceful oasis, you'll need to follow a path through the sandy dunes that the separate the sea from the coastal lakes of Fogliano, Caprolace and Monaci. It's definitely worth the effort. Swimming in the crystal-clear waters and admiring the grazing animals from afar is a unique experience that's not to be missed.

Spiaggia di Torre Paola (Torre Paola Beach) is a strip of golden dunes and a transparent sea that’s dotted with surfers and kite surfers. It provides both areas with amenities and freely accessible spaces. The name derives from the castle that dominates the coast from the Promontorio del Circeo (Cape Circeo). Together with the mountain's lush vegetation, it forms a breathtaking backdrop for the beach.

The area is almost always windy, so it's a great spot for trying water sports. It also boasts a body of fresh water that is separated from the Mar Tirreno (Tyrrhenian Sea) by the coast's strip of sand. This stretch of water is inhabited by cormorants, grey herons and even pink flamingos.

Spiaggia di Serapo (Serapo Beach) is the main beach in Gaeta. It's appreciated not only for its convenient location near the town centre, but also for its ultra-fine sand and turquoise sea, which is almost always calm. It's home to numerous beach resorts, bars and restaurants.

Look to the horizon, and you'll spot a long rock resembling a boat: this is the Nave di Serapo (Ship of Serapo). According to legend, it's Ulysses' boat, turned into stone by the rage of Circe the sorceres.

Spiaggia di Pian di Spille (Pian di Spille Beach), a corner of paradise on the Viterbo coast, is 10 km long and shielded by a lush, fragrant Mediterranean pine forest. Its sandy shore is often frequented by nudists who want to make the most of the untouched wildlife and soft sand dunes.

As well as the free beach, there are plenty of resorts, bars and restaurants nearby. Also known as la Grande Ciambella (the Big Doughnut) because of its geographical shape, the area boasts clear waters, deep sea beds and meadows of Neptune grass. It makes diving into the sea a real treat!

Spiaggia dei Bagni di Sant’Agostino (Bagni di Sant’Agostino Beach) was well known even in ancient times and was popular with the Etruscans. Can you blame them? The deep seabed and 2 km of soft sand surrounded by quintessentially Mediterranean scrub makes it an irresistible spot for swimmers of all ages.

You can also make the most of resorts with amenities and the large free beach. But that's not all: there's also space for wildlife. Nearby is the Riserva Naturale di Popolamento Animale Salina di Tarquinia (Salina di Tarquinia State Animal Population Nature Reserve), and it's not uncommon to see flamingos and herons flying by.

The so-called Piscina delle Batterie (Pool of the Batterie), a cove with a very shallow seabed and large pebbles, is perfect for splashing around in emerald waters. You'll find this ‘secret’ pool at Promontorio del Circeo (Cape Circeo), hidden among the rocks that overlook the sea.

From here, you can access the sea. Put your flippers and snorkel on and admire the countless fish that inhabit the seabed and the nooks and crannies in the rocks. This heavenly spot is an great alternative to standard beaches and wonderful for sunbathing on the rocks.

Spiaggia dei 300 Gradini (Beach 300 Steps) in Gaeta is the place for you if you don't shy away from a bit of exertion when that's rewarded with breathtaking view,. The name comes from the 300 steps you need to climb to access it. Your effort will be richly rewarded though.

Once you're on the cliff, you'll be greeted by a bay of snow-white sand and a sea that, as you'll have already seen from above, is as beautiful as the Caribbean. You can find resorts here, as well as a free beach. The southernmost part, which is rarely crowded, is reserved for naturists.