La dolce vita is what the best beaches in Rome are all about. Imagine the perfect afternoon—a picnic of schiacciata sandwiches supplied by the legendary All’Antico Vinaio, a backdrop of medieval seaside castles that look like they’re from a time immemorial, and a plush cushion in the form of a chic beach towel you just picked up from Testaccio Market.
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You can practically hear the slapping beach volleyballs, humming Vespas, and lapping waves. When in Rome during summer, do as the locals do and make your way to the shore.
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Discover the Hidden Gems of Rome’s Coastline
Big city business is no match for the best beaches in Rome that range from being just a stone’s throw away, such as Ostia, to farther day trips like Sabaudia Beach, located about 90 minutes away—these shorelines are as timeless as the Eternal City itself.
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Here, we’ve curated a formidable mix of free beaches along with those serviced by attentive butlers, and several picks designated with a Bandiera Blu (or Blue Flag certification) issued by the Foundation for Environmental Education for meeting standards in water quality, safety, and environmental education.
Ladispoli: A Quaint, Ancient Town
Make the hour drive out west—the road trip will have been well worth it once you arrive at Ladispoli. This quaint, ancient town is one of the Roman coast’s best-kept secrets.
While it’s not exactly a high-energy destination, the town is a boon for history lovers as home to the medieval Castello di Odescalchi and Borgo di Ceri, a preserved 13th-century hilltop village with a cluster of local restaurants.
Where to stay: To live like royalty (albeit American royalty), make your way to La Posta Vecchia, the iconic former residence of oil tycoon and art collector J. Paul Getty which has cemented its status in cultural memory with its maize yellow umbrellas and vaulted-ceiling indoor pool.
Anzio: A Birthplace of History
Located a convenient one-hour train ride south of Rome, Anzio is as rich with stories of Rome’s past as it is easy to get to and from the capital city.
As the birthplace of the infamous emperor Nero and the site of a famous World War II battle, Anzio’s shore has seen the Romans through it all.
Should you prefer your vacation to be a calm one, opt to lounge around the town’s miles of soft, sandy beaches, or easily sail away to the nearby Pontine islands for an even more intimate sense of escape.
Where to stay: Stay steps away from the shore and a mere 25 miles away from Giovan Battista Pastine International Airport (CIA) at La Casa Del Sole, a cozy beachfront B&B that also offers a breakfast buffet featuring vegan and gluten-free options.
Santa Marinella: A Charming Little Beach Town
Santa Marinella is a favorite among Romans for its clear, azure water and easy access.
A regional train will get you here from Termini Station in about an hour, and it’s only a five-minute walk to the beach.
The crescent-shaped sand is lined with beach clubs where you can rent sun beds and umbrellas for the day, plus restaurants in town include waterfront options Bianca Ristorante and Molo 21 to enjoy a leisurely meal overlooking the sea without being directly on the beach.
Where to stay: Seated right in the center of town, Villa delle Palme keeps the sea front and center with spanning views at its outdoor restaurant plus a garden patio to take it all in from.
Civitavecchia: A Seaside Town with a Rich History
From its roots as a humble Etruscan village to its days as one of the Roman Empire’s most critical harbors and its stint as a Papal State, Civitavecchia is a seaside town that has lived many lives.
Today, visitors venturing an hour away from Rome by car reap the fruits of both its beaches, like Il Pirgo, and the rich history of its cathedrals, fortresses, and town square.
Where to stay: Hotel San Giorgio pampers its guests with seafront views, a rooftop garden, full-service beauty center, and on-site restaurant that crafts its menu around the day’s fresh catch.
Sabaudia: A Summer Hotspot
In the summer months, Sabaudia is frequented by a mix of Romans and Neapolitans, owing to its equidistant position between the capital and Naples (roughly two hours away from each by car).
With nearly ten miles of Blue Flag-approved public shoreline, it’s easy to see why year after year, this sizable beach welcomes throngs of vacationers.
Where to stay: At Love & Fama Hotel guests can shake off the sand at the hotel’s garden or roomy terrace. Plus, there’s no need to worry about roaming the streets for curbside space here—the hotel offers free private parking.
