Discover the Best Beaches Near Rome

While Rome is renowned for its rich history and art, the city also offers nearby beaches for those looking to escape the summer heat. Within an hour's journey, visitors can find a variety of beaches, with even more picturesque options a bit further along the Lazio coast. These beaches are popular among locals, especially during weekends and August, so expect them to be bustling.

Beach clubs, known as stabilimenti balneari or lidos, dominate most Italian beaches, offering rented lounge chairs, cabanas, and amenities like restrooms and showers. While these services come at a cost, they provide comfort and convenience compared to the often less-maintained free beach areas.

The beaches near Rome may not boast the pristine waters of Sardinia or Sicily, but they offer a lively atmosphere. For those looking to explore the sandy shores, consider renting a car for easy travel around the city.

1. Sperlonga

Sperlonga, a charming town with whitewashed houses and crescent beaches, is about 90 minutes south of Rome. The beaches here have earned a Blue Flag designation for their clear waters. While Ponente beach is lined with amenities, Levante offers more natural surroundings. Both beaches are family-friendly with shallow waters. Historical attractions include the Grotto of Tiberius, showcasing ancient sculptures.

2. Santa Marinella

Less than an hour by train from Rome, Santa Marinella offers a fine-sand beach with clear waters, ideal for families. The town itself is not heavily touristic, providing a more authentic experience.

3. Anzio

Anzio, an hour south of Rome, features a golden-sand beach with calm waters, thanks to a protective breakwater. The town is steeped in history, from Emperor Nero's Villa Imperiale to the Anzio BeachHead Museum, which commemorates the WWII Allied landing.

4. Fregene

West of Rome, Fregene is popular with the younger crowd and families. The beach clubs here are chic, and the area is less crowded than Ostia.

5. Santa Severa

Medieval castle on the beach at Santa Severa

Just 40 minutes by train from Rome, Santa Severa boasts a wide sandy beach with a historic castle backdrop. The beach offers both free public areas and rented lounge spaces.

6. Sabaudia

View of the beach and Sabaudia Lagoon from Mount Circeo

Sabaudia's beach, set against Mount Circeo and within the Circeo National Park, is known for its pristine, Blue Flag-awarded sands and clear waters. The beach is largely free and less developed.

7. Lido di Ostia

Just a half-hour train ride from Rome, Lido di Ostia is a bustling beach with a traditional Italian vibe, though it's often crowded and has limited free space.