Calabria beaches around Tropea

Tropea is a magnificent cliff-top city that is becoming an increasingly popular vacation destination in Italy which located on the so-called Costa delle Dey (Coast of the Gods) in Calabria. On the beaches of Tropea you will find perfect white sand, romantic grottoes, beach clubs (Lido) and free areas for relaxation on the Tyrrhenian Sea.

So, when planning a trip to Calabria, you’d better spend some days to enjoy the beaches of the Coast of the Gods.

Here’s a list of beaches near Tropea that, in my opinion, are suitable for a good vacation. All of them are different, so I’m telling you who and where it will be best to relax on them. These are the beaches in Tropea, as well as those located no more than an hour away by car or electric train.

I advise you to read it: Tropea – beach vacation in Calabria, Italy

Features of the beaches of Calabria and Italy

Before planning a trip to the beaches of Italy, you need to understand their important feature: most beaches in the country are private.

This does not mean that the strip of sand belongs to anyone – it means that most of it are private beaches Lido.

Lido‘s tend to occupy more than 90% of the coast, and only 10-15% is a place for free, unencumbered recreation. This, although access to each beach is available to everyone, this does not make the entire beach “public”.

If you come to Italy in the summer, you will see a lot of sun loungers and umbrellas on the beaches. In fact, these are beach clubs that are separated by ropes or just rows of sun loungers from the free part of the beach – “spiaggia librera”. The situation is exactly the same on our coast in Odesa. Unfortunately.

Conclusion: The problem of crowds is solved by the simplest solution: do not go here on vacation during the high season (summer). It’s better to choose the fall, September and October, when there are no more crowds and Lido’s part is closed. And the water and air are still warm enough to relax and swim on the beach.

Beaches in Tropea

The historic center of Tropea is located on top of a cliff, under which there are three beaches at once. They are easily accessible by stairs leading down from the city (it’s not so easy to get up because there are no elevators).

If you arrive in Troia by car, you can leave your car in one of the parking lots located along Via Lungomare. It is also an ideal parking place for those who come to Tropea even for one day and want to relax on the local beaches.

Beach Spiaggia Della Rotonda (Spiaggia Della Rotonda)

This is the best beach in Tropea. It features a pastel peach background and pink buildings of the old town towering over it. It’s very beautiful – the picture of this beach made me come to Tropea. The only drawback is that this rock blocks the morning sun (at least it did in October), so it makes sense to come to it after 10 am.

This beach is free to visit, but for those who need sun loungers, Lido San Leonardo is on the right side (if you stand with your back to the Tropea). This is a private beach club that requires a fee to enter. But it’s a good place for those who don’t want to relax on their own towel.

On the left is the largest section of free beach, where you can lay your towel and set up your own umbrellas. Also on the left, at the foot of the church, is the Spiaggia Mare Piccolo triangle. This free beach has freshwater showers, but like other beaches, there are no free toilets or changing rooms.

Because this beach has the easiest access, it is popular with locals and visitors alike. That’s why there are quite a few people here. However, it often falls into the shade much earlier than other parts of Tropea beaches, due to its sheltered location near the cliff. That’s why it’s a good place to relax early in the morning or in the afternoon. There is also a small beach kiosk with snacks and drinks.

Conclusion: the beach is good for people of all ages. The entrance to the water is not too gentle, but people also relax here with children. Keep in mind that there may be shadows on the beach in the morning. But if you come here in the afternoon, there will be more than enough sun.

Hotels near Spiaggia Della Rotonda:

BlueMind – is one of the most beautiful hotels in the historic center, mostly due to its location, views from the windows and balconies overlooking the Della Rotonda beach. The rooms are large, modern with a neutral palette, and also have a large rooftop terrace with sea views.
Villa Adua – If you prefer to stay in a historic building, you should take a look at this B&B, which offers lovely suites with interesting decor. An excellent breakfast is included in the price, and the beach and city center are almost close by.
Domus Gieffe – excellent rooms in the center of Old Tropea, but with a new modern renovation. There is a private balcony with views of the ancient square and the azure sea. There are many restaurants nearby, but they are located on neighboring streets and will not disturb you at night.

Grotto Grotta Della’Isola and Spiaggia Di Tropea Beach

It is easy to miss this beach and the hidden small grotto carved by nature into the rocks near Santuario. Previously, there was a passage to this beach through a natural arch in the rocks. But it was destroyed by waves, and now this passage is closed. But from the water side, we calmly walked to it. From here you can swim to the even more secluded Grotta del Palombaro.

Languata Beach (Spiaggia a Languata)

On the left side of a rocky outcrop crowned by the Santuario di Santa Maria, this white sandy beach stretches for about a kilometer and is the most developed of the Tropea beaches.

The main disadvantage of Spiaggia A Linguata is the amount of space that Lido takes up in summer along the entire stretch of sand. Therefore, there is very little free space for those who come with their own towels. That is why Spiaggia della Rotonda is more popular among those who do not want to pay for Lido.

Hotels near Languata Beach:

Deus Accomodation≫ – Good location: close to the beach or the old town. There are all the amenities: gas stove, refrigerator, washing machine, etc. Nice patio and terrace.
Caia Appartamenti Tropea≫ – the apartment has a magnificent view of the Linguata beach from the balcony. It is located in a quiet location, but the historic center can be reached on foot in 10 minutes.
Tropea Solemare≫ – apartment is located within walking distance from the city center. To get to the beach, just go down the stairs from the hill.

Spiaggia della Contura beach

The beach of Spiaggia della Contura actually connects with the neighboring beach of Spiaggia Villaggio L’Olivara into one beach strip. It is located to the right (to the north) of the berths of the Tropea Marina. This is a less busy beach, although in summer it is also popular with vacationers.

The wide expanse of tiny white pebbles can get quite crowded during the summer months. But it does offer a large free portion of the beach in addition to a variety of Lido’s with entrance fees, umbrellas and sun loungers. There is a fairly gentle entrance to the water and then shallow water, which makes it a good choice for families with children.

Getting to Spiaggia della Contura Beach:

There is a large parking lot near the beach (2.5 km from Tropea) called Parcheggio Spiagga ‘La Grazia ‘. This is a large, very convenient parking lot located up the road from the beach, which costs 1.50 euros per hour. There are card machines, but it’s always better to bring coins.
If you book your accommodation not in the Old Town of Tropea, but in hotels located in the modern northern part of the city, it will be convenient for you to walk here.

Hotels near Spiaggia della Contura:

Appartamenti Tropea Gargano≫ – is a comfortable, clean and cozy apartment for those who want to spend more time at the sea, as the beach is very close. The apartments also have a wonderful view of the beach and the sea from the balcony.
Appartamenti Michelino≫ – The apartment is located near the beach – about 9 minutes walk, the beach is clean and beautiful. Tropea is located nearby, so in the evening you can visit the nightlife and explore the ancient city.
Residence Vardano≫ – Great location. Access to the beach, possibility to park on the territory outside the gate.

The best beaches on the north side of Tropea

There are some absolute gems just 10-15 minutes by car from Tropea, as well as some great alternatives to the city beaches for those looking for places with fewer people or a more relaxed environment.

Beaches Marina di Zambrone

The two beaches of Marina di Zambrone are located next to each other, but offer very different conditions for relaxation.

The long, flat white sands of Marina di Zambrone are easily accessible by car or train. This is a great option for a beach where it is very convenient to relax with the whole family. Or if you just want to relax and sunbathe on the beach all day. You don’t have to go out for lunch: you can have lunch or a beer in one of the cafes. Here you can rent a sun lounger and umbrella or lie on your own towel.

Unlike other beaches, there are no crowds and plenty of space. The further you move to the right, the quieter and more comfortable the rest becomes.

The beach is located near a nice small resort village with plenty of decent accommodation options just a stone’s throw from the water. This beach is well suited for those who want to be near the beach and do not prioritize being near the historic city.

If you wish, you can reach the bay of Marinella di Zambrone. This cozy, romantic cove, hidden behind a cliff next to Marina di Zambrone, is ideal for snorkeling.

Getting to Marina di Zambrone:

Located 10 km from Tropea. There are many parking options here – you can arrive by car. Parking costs EUR 1.50 per hour. More paid parking spaces on the blue line on different streets
There is also Zambrone Train Station near the beach. By train from Tropea – travel time is 10 minutes.

Where to stay near the beach of Marina di Zambrone:

Residence BiDreams≫ – Good location and beach with a private bar. Very well-equipped accommodation, there is a good pizzeria right next door.
Hotel Residence Riviera Calabra≫ – Clean, comfortable, on the beach, with excellent cuisine and a small bar. Good location in the bay of Zambrone with a magnificent view of the sea.
Il Calabriano Residence≫ – Comfortable accommodation very close to the sea. A well-equipped kitchen to cook on your own.

Michelino Beach (Spiaggia Michelino)

Similar to the Marinella di Zambrone lagoon, Michelino Beach is also located between the rocks. But more accessible to most vacationers. It consists of two sections, protected sandy beaches with clear blue water. It’s nice to just swim here, and it will also be interesting for those who go scuba diving.

How to get to Michelino Beach:

The beach is 4 km from Tropea. Unfortunately, there is no parking near the beach. Important: in no case do not park on Che Guevara Street, the closest to the stairs, you cannot park there (fine). But on the opposite street, there are a small number of paid parking spaces behind the blue line (2 euros per hour), but they fill up very quickly. There is also a larger selection of paid street parking on Parghelia streets, a 10-minute walk from the stairs.
The beach can also be reached by train to Parghelia station. Further down to the beach is a modern stone staircase (Scale spiaggia Michelino) that zigzags down to the sand. The stairs can be reached from Via Michelino.

Where to stay near Michelino Beach:

Residence Pousada Michelino≫ – Great location, close to the beautiful beach of Michelino, spacious apartments, large free parking, very friendly, helpful and attentive staff.
Terrazza Michelino≫ – Great apartment, clean and spacious inside. Located near the beach, there is also a bar with delicious food nearby. There is also a railway station nearby.
Michelino House≫ – The apartment has a huge terrace overlooking a beautiful garden, a clean room and a bathroom.

Beaches to the south of Tropea

Moving south from Tropea, you can visit the wonderful more natural beaches of the Coast of the Gods.

The famously beautiful beaches of Capo Vaticano are located on this coast. You can see them during a day trip to these places. In addition, there are several beautiful beaches for a relaxing beach vacation near Tropea.

Beach Spiaggia la Scalea

Not far from Spiaggia di Riaci, but much quieter and more isolated due to more difficult access, it is a long stretch of uneven free beach without sun loungers and umbrellas.

Its proximity to the Santa Domenica train station makes it a great choice for travelers looking for something quieter but close to the Tropea.

The only downside to Spiaggia la Scalèa is that it can get a little covered with algae, and the water can be a little rougher than the calm shallow beaches nearby.

Getting to Spiaggia la Scalea beach:

By car – in the town of Santa Domenica there are free parking spaces 5-7 minutes from the beach.
Public transportation – from Tropea to Santa Domenica train station is one stop and 5 minutes away. It is a 10-minute walk to the beach.

Where to stay near Spiaggia la Scalea:

Villa Regina Accommodation≫ – The apartment is located very close to all the wonderful beaches – Spiaggia la Scalea and near the Capo Vaticano.
Villa Ada≫. – The property was located in the center of Santa Domenica with restaurants and grocery stores, within walking distance of the beach of Spiaggia la Scalea.

Spiaggia di Riaci Beach

There is a beach called Riachi just a couple of kilometers from Tropea. This is one of the best family beaches on the coast in a very picturesque location. Due to its popularity, Riachi Beach can be overcrowded in high season.

There are many Lido’s (private beaches), a stunning rocky outcropping from which to jump, and great places for swimming and paddling. There is also a company that offers a variety of water sports and boat rentals.

Getting to Spiaggia di Riachi beach:

By car – a large official parking lot is located at the end of a rather narrow and winding access road. There are two separate parking areas: one costs about 5 euros per day, and the other several parking spaces cost 2 euros per hour.
Public transportation – from Tropea to Santa Domenica Train Station is a 5-minute drive. And then 1.5 km on foot from the station down to the beach (back up, respectively).

Where to stay near the beach of Spiaggia di Riachi:

Villa D’Aquino≫ – The apartment is spacious and clean, with a beautiful view of the coast. A varied, tasty, hearty breakfast on the terrace with a beautiful view of the sea.
Apartment Sulla Scogliera by Interhome≫ – The apartment has a great location – it offers a magnificent view of the sea, to the beach.

Capo Vaticano beaches

The beaches on Cape Capo Vaticano are different from those of Tropea. The coastline here is more natural, with many lagoons separated from each other by stones and rocks.

The Capo Vaticano is seven kilometers of typical Calabrian coastline: impressive green hills, gray and white granite cliffs, hidden from view patches of white sand beaches, mystical grottoes and the incredible blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea. From the 125-meter-high cliffs of Capo Vaticano you will see insanely beautiful views of Sicily and the Strait of Messina.

The beaches with a minimum of traditional lido are wild and thus very valuable for those who like to relax against the backdrop of real nature. There are two popular beaches here – Spiaggia di Grotticelle and Spiaggia del Tono– which have infrastructure: swimming pools, restaurants and water sports rental. And two beaches with absolutely nothing – sand, clear water and rocks.

Access to the secluded twin beaches of Spiaggia Praia di Fuocu and Spiaggia di Ficara is via a very steep, overgrown path down the cliff. This is only possible with good shoes and in dry weather. However, there is a parking lot at the beginning of the trail (38°37’24.0 “N 15°49’43.7 “E), which offers a great view of both sides of the cape.

How to get to the beaches of Capo Vaticano:

By car – 14 km from Tropea. The beaches of Capo Vaticano, such as Spiaggia di Grotticelle, are easily accessible by car, as there is a parking lot right next to the sand (38°36’59.3 “N 15°50’11.6 “E).
Public transportation is by train to Ricadi Station, an 8-minute drive from Tropea. Then you have to walk 2.5+ km to get to any of the beaches of Capo Vaticano.

You can also join a boat tour to the beaches of Capo Vaticano.

Where to stay near the beaches of Capo Vaticano:

Capovaticano Resort Thalasso Spa≫ – excellent location near the beach of Spiaggia del Tono, on the territory there is a swimming pool with sea water. The beach impresses with crystal clear water.
Villetta sul mare≫ – Fantastic location right on the beach with its own private area. The turquoise blue sea is perfect, with clear water and a clean sandy beach.
Hotel La Campagnola≫ – A great family-run hotel located along the main road in Capo Vaticano, about a 20-minute walk down the hill to the Spiaggia di Ficara beach.
ValGiuSi Resort≫ – new air-conditioned apartment with modern facilities, beautiful Spiaggia di Grotticelle beach within walking distance.

Useful articles and links:

Car rental – cheap car rental options at Rentalcars.com
Find train tickets in Europe conveniently on Trainline
Green Card, Car Insurance and Travel Medical Insurance – online on the portal HotlineFinance
Booking of hotels and apartments – Booking.com

Beaches of Tropea – cheap vacation in Italy

Features of the beaches of Calabria and Italy

Beaches in Tropea