Whether you just want to unwind or go on some water adventures, beaches in Basilicata are always open to welcome you! This region is mostly mountainous, but it has a number of beautiful beaches where you can enjoy spending your summer.
The region’s coasts along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas boast a range of landscapes and beaches, from rocky coves and stretches of sands to enchanting bays and charming coastal villages that are rich in history.
Basilicata is best known for the legendary Sassi di Matera as well as the Lucanica di Picerno pork sausage and the cone-shaped bread called pane di Matera. Its coastline, albeit short, boasts a range of landscapes and beaches – from rocky coves in the Tyrrhenian Sea and stretches of Ionian sands to enchanting bays and charming coastal villages that are rich in history.
The beach layout ensures that everyone will find their own personal haven. Most of Basilicata’s beaches are situated in quieter areas, away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, and many of them boast stunning views of the sea. That’s why the tourists and locals give these spots such praise.
11 Best Beaches in Basilicata, Italy
Listed below are the best beaches in Basilicata you should visit.
1. Lido di Metaponto – Bernalda, Matera
The Lido di Metaponto in Basilicata, Italy, is among the finest beaches on the Ionian Sea.
There are many breakwaters along the coast, but they are hidden from view. The beach’s brown sand adds a special allure, setting it apart from the more common white sand beaches. It has a stunning ocean view, and the sound of the waves lapping at the shore is relaxing.
The setting is ideal for unwinding with loved ones. Young children will enjoy themselves here. In the peak season, the most central part of the beach is always swarmed with people. But if you just veer off to the side a little bit, you’ll find a ton of open room.
There are also numerous beach amenities available on this expansive sandy beach.
2. Spiaggia Lido Macarro – Maratea, Potenza
This beach is nestled between the mountains and the cliffs, providing a picturesque backdrop. There are trees lining the area that provides some natural shade. You won’t need any special footwear to enjoy the small, charming coastline of a few bays and clear, blue water.
You’ll find a diverse crowd on this beach, from loners and retirees to young couples and young party goers. During peak times, it can get a little hectic in here.
There are exclusive beach clubs that take up a sizable portion of the shoreline. Resort guests are the only ones allowed to use the beach facilities.
3. Lido di Scanzano – Scanzano Jonico, Matera
At the heart of the Ionian coast, you’ll find Lido di Scanzano. This beach is so popular that it’s a well-known tourist destination during summer.
The beach has a great campground with a beautiful shoreline and a helpful staff that welcomes tourists and their four-legged friends. It’s impossible not to be moved by the beach’s breathtaking natural beauty.
If you’re looking for a serene getaway, this one is the right place for you.
4. Marina di Pisticci – Pisticci, Matera
Between San Basilio and San Teodoro, close to the archaeological area of Metaponto and the Palatine Tables, is a small collection of homes that make up the Marina di Pisticci fraction.
The golden sand beaches and clear blue water make this beach resort a natural paradise perfect for summer vacations.
Due to its extensive length of golden sand, this beach is one of the most popular in the region. The beach is peaceful, and the surrounding landscape is impressive.
5. Spiaggia di Fiumicello – Maratea, Potenza
Spiaggia di Fiumicello is located outside of the Porto di Maratea community, which can be a bit of a hassle for those who stay away far from the coast. However, being far away isn’t always a bad thing. Beachgoers who prefer a less crowded experience know that the further they travel, the fewer people are.
There is both a public beach that anyone can use for free and a luxurious beach club. The highlight of the town of Fiumicello is the little stream of icy mountain water that runs down into the bay.
6. Spiaggia di Policoro – Policoro, Matera
The coastline of Spiaggia di Policoro is open to the public. Loungers and umbrellas, showers, lockers, and restrooms are available here. There is also a restaurant.
You can also go on a variety of water excursions, like riding a jet ski or a catamaran. Activities like sup-surfing and sea kayaking are also available, in addition to the more traditional swimming and sunbathing. Sport enthusiasts can play a game of beach volleyball for some vigorous fun.
A lifeguard patrols the beach during the summer months. It’s located in an urban area and close to the road, so it’s easily accessible.
7. Spiaggia Anginarra -Acquafredda, Maratea, Potenza
Due to its scenic appeal and relative seclusion, it has become one of the region’s most visited beaches.
Pebbles and rocks make up the beach, and the sea is crystal clear and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach has a wild and untamed vibe thanks to the high cliffs and typical Mediterranean scrub that line it.
Parking, a restaurant, and a bar are just some of the amenities at this beach. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent so that visitors can make the most of their time at the beach.
8. Spiaggia Nera (Cala Jannita) – Maratea, Potenza
The black sand and dazzlingly clear waters of Spiaggia Nera, also known as Black Beach, are what make this beach so unique. However, due to the sand’s color, it can become extremely hot, so it’s best to wear sandals or wet shoes.
If you stay until sunset, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the ocean and sky, with the beautiful rock formations to your left acting as a natural frame.
It is also possible to go snorkeling, go on a guided kayak tour, or rent a kayak.
9. Spiaggia D’ A Scala (Cala Ficarra) – Marina di Maratea, Potenza
Spiaggia D’ A Scala, also known as Cala Ficarra (“Beach of the Fig Tree”), is a lovely secluded beach in Marina di Maratea that is nestled between pristine white limestone and dolomite cliffs.
The beach got the name “D’ A Scala” because legend has it that people used to be able to access it via a staircase (“scala“) carved into the rock, but that route was destroyed by a storm.
There is a small cave on the beach’s northern end, where you can go underground to watch the sun’s rays dance across the surface of the crystal clear water that tends to be warm. The seabed is also a delight for snorkelers.
10. Marina di Castrocucco – Maratea, Potenza
Marina di Castrocucco is a long stretch of sand in the town of the same name, far south along the coast of Maratea, ideal for snorkelers who want to get up close and personal with the unique marine life that calls this area home.
It is a small beach at the mouth of the Noce River, not far from Tortora Marina, with the atmospheric ruins of the medieval castle of Castrocucco rising above it.
Tourists of all ages and walks of life flock to this small seaside town because of its consistent recognition as a Blue Flag beach by the FEE.
Grayish sand makes up the majority of the beach, and lush Mediterranean vegetation covers the entire bay.
11. Spiaggia delle Gnola – Castrocucco di Maratea, Potenza
You can find Spiaggia delle Gnola in Maratea’s hamlet of Castrocucco. It is also called Spiaggia a ‘Gnola, or Gnola Beach.
Sand, gravel, and gray pebbles make up this expansive beach. The water is so clear that activities like scuba diving and snorkeling are possible.
The Gnola Beach is the largest and most popular on the Maratea coast. The mouth of the Noce River, which marks the border between Basilicata and Calabria, can be found to the south of this beach.
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