Having grown up in Rome and spent 12 years exploring every corner of this stunning city, I’ve had plenty of time to scout out the very best seaside escapes just outside of it.
Whether you’re craving a quick day trip or a longer getaway, the beaches in Rome, Italy offer far more than just sun and sand—they’re a gateway to postcard-worthy backdrops and that irresistible Mediterranean vibe.
In this guide, I’m sharing the best beaches near Rome, Italy; a mix of iconic local favorites and secret spots you’ll be thrilled to uncover.
From picturesque coastal towns to hidden coves with crystal-clear water, these are the beaches I return to again and again when I need a break from city life.
You might also be interested in:
⛲️ The Perfect 4 Days in Rome Itinerary
🏡 Where to Stay in Rome: Best Areas + Hotels
🏟 12 Best Rome Hotels with Colosseum Views
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can learn more about this in my disclosure policy.
🌟 Top Tip for Visiting the Best Beaches in Rome
This guide includes some of the best beaches near Rome by train. Many beaches listed here can be reached via a direct train ride from Rome, but some do require a bus afterward, or a 15-20 min walk from the train station.
In total, the commute time to some of these beaches can be up to 2.5/3 hours.
I recommend renting a car in Rome if you want to avoid the hassle of traveling by public transport. Having grown up in this city, I know the trains here can be… unpredictable. There were definitely times when I’ve waited hours for one to show up.
So if you’re heading to a beach with a longer commute or just want a more relaxed, flexible experience—renting a car is absolutely worth it.
🏝 14 Best Beaches Near Rome, Italy
1. Sperlonga
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1.5 hours by train + bus from Roma Termini Station
The beautiful beach in Sperlonga is only one of the reasons to visit this charming coastal town. With picturesque white-washed buildings and numerous archeological sites, Sperlonga is worth a weekend trip or at least an overnight stay.
But if you’re just here for a beach day, you’ll be treated to soft golden sands and warm shallow waters. In fact, Sperlonga has been awarded with Blue Flag designation, a prestigious achievement for a beach so close to the city of Rome.
Sunbeds, changing rooms, and showers are widely available, along with a great selection of beachfront restaurants and bars. And because the town is just a short walk away, it’s easy to go from the sea to the old town for shopping and sightseeing.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Marconi (⭐️ 8.4) | Hotel Corallo Sperlonga (⭐️ 9.2)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Napoli Centrale, and get off at Fondi Sperlonga Station (the train journey is around 1 hr 15 min). From there, it’s a 15-min bus ride to the beach.
2. Santa Severa
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1 hr 15 min by direct train from Roma Termini Station
Nestled right at the foot of the Santa Severa Castle sits Santa Severa Beach, a surprisingly long stretch of shoreline with both sandy and pebbly areas.
This beach is one of the few places near Rome (if not the only place) where you can swim in the shadow of a 9th-century castle. The castle is also open to visitors during the day, so it’s worth a visit if you’re interested in medieval history.
The sand at Santa Severa may not be the cleanest, but the water is crystal clear and a great option for swimmers. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas during the summer season, although large portions of the beach are free if you just want to lay out a towel.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Baia Benessere B&B Eco Vegan (⭐️ 9.0)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Civitavecchia, and get off at Santa Severa Station (the train journey is around 1 hour). Then, walk for 15 mins to the beach.
3. Anzio
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1.5 hours by direct train from Roma Termini Station
If you want to escape the crowds of tourists, Anzio is one of your best bets. It’s not flashy or known for its sights and attractions (except for the stunning Grotte di Nerone caves), but it’s suitable for those wanting to experience local Italian life.
Best of all, the beach here is long and spacious, so you should have no problem finding a place to stretch out on the sand or a sunbed to rent.
The waters near the shore are calm, but swells further past the beach break can be rough. For this reason, Anzio is popular for windsurfing, kite surfing, and wing foiling.
Behind the beach, a lovely promenade leads directly to the town’s harbor. As a working fishing port, Anzio is an excellent option if you’re craving fresh seafood, as many restaurants and bars buy straight from the boats that dock earlier that day.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Golden Home (⭐️ 8.7) | La Casa del Sole Beachfront B&B (⭐️ 8.8)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Nettuno, and get off at Anzio Station (the train journey is around 1 hr 15 min). Then, walk for 15 mins to the beach.
Related: The Perfect 3 Days in Rome + Tips From a Local
4. Ponza
🚇 Distance from Rome: 2.5 hours with an organized tour – I highly recommend booking this Ponza Island day trip from Rome. Otherwise it’s 4-5 hours by public transport.
Located roughly 48 km off the Lazio coast sits one of the country’s most breathtaking islands. Ponza is a postcard-worthy destination that attracts visitors far and wide for its natural pools, hidden coves, and rugged rocky cliffs.
This little slice of paradise is also known for it’s crystal-clear waters – which some say are the clearest in all of Italy!
The island is only accessible by boat, although it’s possible to book a day tour that leaves directly from Rome. While the best swimming and snorkeling spots are in the grottos and bays, Ponza’s sun-soaked beaches are ideal for sunbathing or soaking up the island life.
Cala Feola is a favorite amongst visitors, with rentable sun loungers and a quaint little restaurant right on the water. But if you’re on the eastern side of the island, you can visit the pebbly beach of Frontone instead.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Domus Ɫ Ponza SeaView (⭐️ 9.7) | Hotel Chiaia Di Luna (⭐️ 8.4)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Book this Ponza Island day trip from Rome so you can just relax and leave the travel logistics to an expert tour operator. This tour will get you to Ponza by bus (1 hr) + ferry (1.5 hours). Getting there on your own would require a difficult 4-5 hour commute.
5. Lido di Ostia
🚇 Distance from Rome: 50 mins by direct train from Roma Porta S. Paolo Station
Ostia is one of the most popular destinations for Roman holidaymakers and beachgoers. It’s loud, lively, and great for people-watching. But as you can imagine, Lido di Ostia can also be extremely crowded, especially during the weekends and busy summer months.
For that reason, I recommend skipping the free beach area (which is nearly always packed) and opting for a beach club instead.
Tibidabo Beach is one of my favorites, as it has a restaurant, bar, and often live music. They also have a large kid’s play area and a children’s pool which makes it a family-friendly destination as well.
And while the shoreline may not be the prettiest or the cleanest, there are plenty of amenities (like cabins, showers, seafood restaurants, and snack kiosks) available.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Guest House Maison 6 (⭐️ 8.9) | Fly Decó Hotel (⭐️ 8.6)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take the Metromare train from Rome’s Porta S. Paolo Station going in the direction of Cristoforo Colombo, and get off at Lido Centro Station (the train journey is around 30 mins). From there, it’s less than a 15-min walk to the beach.
6. Sabaudia
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1.5 hours by train + taxi ride from Roma Termini Station
Unlike other best beaches near Rome, Sabaudia is the best option in terms of nature and wildlife.
The beach here seems to stretch endlessly down the coast (although it’s actually more like 20 km), but what’s truly breathtaking is the backdrop of lakes, pine forests, and sand dunes. And don’t forget about those unobstructed views of Monte Circeo off in the distance!
The Blue Flag-designated beach here is incredibly clean, which makes it a prime destination for swimmers, windsurfers, and paddleboarders.
While the shores are nowhere near as crowded as they are in other areas around Rome, you’ll still find plenty of stabilimenti (beach clubs) and beachfront bars offering all the essentials.
Because Sabaudia is a bit further out of the city, you may consider spending the night. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy hanging at the beach and exploring the nearby landscape without feeling too rushed.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Oasi Di Kufra (⭐️ 8.5) | L’ippocampo Guest House (⭐️ 9.5)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Napoli Centrale, and get off at Priverno-Fossanova Station (the train journey is around 50 mins). From there, it’s a 30-min taxi ride to the beach. Alternatively, rent a car in Rome and drive there.
7. Fregene
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1 hour by train + bus from Roma Termini Station
In addition to Lido di Ostia, Fregene is another buzzing beach destination that’s popular with the locals. It would be difficult to find someone in Rome who doesn’t know this beach.
There are more than 20 beach clubs here, from laid-back family spots with playgrounds to upscale lidos with craft cocktails and live DJs. Free beach sections are available, but they are rammed in the summer and on peak weekends.
While the beach attracts sunbathers and swimmers, Fregene is also a nice place for cycling. There’s a well-maintained bike path that runs parallel to the beach, allowing you to explore the coastline and the charming town at your leisure.
And if the crowds get too much, you can always head up to the pine forest, which sits just a few blocks up from the beach. It’s a peaceful place where you can go for a stroll while enjoying the shade and cool breeze from the sea.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Casa Mary (⭐️ 9.0) | Santa Lucia Maccarese (⭐️ 9.4)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Civitavecchia, and get off at Maccarese – Fregene Station (the train journey is around 30 mins). From there, it’s a 10-min bus ride + 15-min walk to the beach.
Related: Where to Stay in Rome: The Ultimate Guide
8. Terracina
🚇 Distance from Rome: 2.5 hours by train + bus from Roma Termini Station
Terracina is more than your average beach town. With a history that dates back to the 7th century BC, this city is teeming with Roman remains.
Considering it’s a 2.5-hour commute from Rome, it’s a good idea to spend the night so you can see the different temples and ruins while also having time to relax on the beach.
When it’s time to hit the shore, you can choose between the beach clubs or the well-kept free public sections. There’s plenty of space, as the beach is wide and the shallow waters are ideal for swimming and wading (which is perfect for families!).
During the day, the restaurants, cafes, and gelato shops on the beach promenade offer stunning sea views and a laid-back atmosphere.
But in the evening, the promenade comes alive. You’ll often find people out for their evening stroll to watch the sunset or to enjoy the live music and street performers.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Casa Mar B&B (⭐️ 9.6) | Hotel Poseidon (⭐️ 8.7)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Napoli Centrale, and get off at Monte San Biagio – Terracina Mare Station (the train journey is around 1 hr 10 min). From there, it’s a 1-hour bus ride to the beach.
9. Gaeta
🚇 Distance from Rome: 2 hours by train + bus from Roma Termini Station
The medieval town of Gaeta feels like a hidden gem on the Lazio coast, especially when you consider how beautiful its main beach truly is. Serapo is a Blue Flag beach famous for its blue-green waters, dramatic coastline, and jaw-dropping views of Monte Orlando.
One of the best things about Serapo Beach is that it’s never really crowded. Even in summer, you can always find a spot on the free beach or a sunbed at one of the nearby stabilimenti (beach clubs).
If you’re willing to venture further out, you can find several of Gaeta’s other beautiful beaches. This includes Fontania (for snorkeling), Ariana (for shallow waters), and Arenauta (for peace and nature).
Adventurous travelers can also visit Quaranta Remi, a small rocky cove that’s only accessible by boat or kayak.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Grand Hotel Le Rocce (⭐️ 9.3) | La Gaetana (⭐️ 8.3)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take an Intercity train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Palermo Centrale, and get off at Formia-Gaeta Station (the train journey is around 1 hr 10 min). From there, it’s a 20-min bus ride to Serapo Beach.
10. Lake Bracciano
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1 hr 15 min by direct train from Valle Aurelia Station in Rome
You don’t have to drive to the sea to enjoy a day at the beach. Set inland from the coast, Lake Bracciano has tons of refreshing beaches where you can relax, swim, or paddleboard.
The gently lapping waves here are clean and free from wakes, as motorboats are banned to protect the quality of the water. In fact, this lake is even used as a source of drinking water for the city of Rome!
The best beaches are on the southwestern shores. Here, you’ll find rentable sunbeds, lakeside cafes, and pristine views over the water. And while the beaches may not be as wide as the ones on the Mediterranean, it’s not hard to find a quiet place to spend the day.
The only catch is that Lake Bracciano’s shoreline is mostly comprised of rocks and pebbles. Therefore, you might be disappointed if you’re looking for the golden sands found near the sea.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Vigna Caio Relais & Spa (⭐️ 9.3)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Rome’s Valle Aurelia Station going in the direction of Viterbo Porta Romana, and get off at Bracciano Station (the train journey is around 50 mins). Then, walk for around 20 mins to the beach. You can also take a direct train to Bracciano Station from Roma Trastevere Station.
Related: 12 Stunning Rome Hotels with Colosseum Views
11. Nettuno
🚇 Distance from Rome: 2 hours by direct train from Roma Termini Station
Often overshadowed by the more popular beaches around Rome, Nettuno is one of my favorite places for a laid-back beach day. The main beach runs right alongside the town and has a wide stretch of golden sands and calm water for swimming.
There’s a good mix of beach clubs and free beach sections, as well as a variety of affordable seafood restaurants and cafes. You can also take windsurfing or wing foil lessons, or rent a boat to explore the open waters at your own pace.
If you’re into history, the town also boasts some interesting attractions that are well worth exploring. Take a stroll down the winding cobblestones of Borgo Medievale, admire the ancient artifacts at Museo Civico, or explore the 16th-century Forte Sangallo.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Il Borgo Luxury Suites (⭐️ 9.5) | Mary Goretti Home Sea View (⭐️ 10)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Nettuno, and get off at Nettuno Station (the train journey is around 1 hr 25 min). From there, it’s a 25-min walk to the beach.
12. Lake Albano
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1 hr 15 min by direct train from Roma Termini Station
This picturesque volcanic crater lake is best known as the site of the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo. But with calm, clean waters and lush views of the surrounding green hills, it’s also a wonderful place for a lake day.
All the best beaches are on the western shore, within walking distance from the train station. The stabilimenti (beach clubs) and free beaches have black sand and grassy lawns, so you can choose where you want to post up for the day.
Visiting Castel Gandolfo (and the scenic town where it’s perched) is a must during your time here. But if you prefer something more outdoorsy, you can always rent a kayak or pedal boat to take in the fresh air and natural beauty from the water.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Castel Vecchio (⭐️ 8.0) | La Locanda Del Pontefice (⭐️ 8.5)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Albano Laziale, and get off at Castel Gandolfo Station (the train journey is around 45 mins). From there, it’s a 25-min walk to the beach.
13. Santa Marinella
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1 hour by direct train from Roma Termini Station
Head to the golden shores of Santa Marinella and enjoy a day of sun and surf with the locals of Rome. Despite the close proximity to the train station, this sandy beach is relatively laid-back, with palm-lined streets and plenty of seaside trattorias and cafes to choose from.
With clear waves and calm waters, it’s the perfect destination for swimmers and sunbathers alike. The beach is on the small side, but that only adds to the intimate vibe, which is ideal for those interested in a quaint seaside escape.
Once you arrive, grab a sunbed and umbrella from one of the stabilimenti (beach clubs). They may be a bit pricey, but in my opinion, it’s a far better option than the free beach, which can be quite rocky.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Cavalluccio Marino (⭐️ 8.2) | Hotel Del Sole (⭐️ 8.3)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of either Civitavecchia or Pisa Centrale, and get off at Santa Marinella Station (the train journey is around 1 hour). Then, walk for 3 mins to the beach.
14. Ladispoli
🚇 Distance from Rome: 1 hr 15 min by direct train from Roma Termini Station
Conveniently located close to Rome, Ladispoli has all the makings of a great local beach town. There are several beach areas, warm shallow waters, and tons of delicious seafront restaurants where you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine.
The main beach in town is covered in rough, volcanic black sand which is believed to have therapeutic properties. Just make sure you bring a pair of water shoes, as black sand tends to get scalding hot when heated up by the sun.
Further up the coast, you’ll find Torre Flavia Beach, which is near the natural reserve and wetlands. While you won’t find any facilities here, the unspoiled stretch of coastline provides a dreamy setting for nature lovers.
🏡 WHERE TO STAY: La Posta Vecchia Hotel (⭐️ 9.1) | Riva di Palo Resort (⭐️ 8.7)
🚉 HOW TO GET THERE: Take a regional train from Roma Termini Station going in the direction of Pisa Centrale, and get off at Marina di Cerveteri Station (the train journey is around 50 mins). From there, it’s a 20-min walk to Torre Flavia Beach.
I hope you felt inspired by these stunning beaches of Rome!
For further reading on Rome, discover:
🏡 Where to Stay in Rome: Best Areas + Hotels
🏠 12 Best Rome Hotels with Colosseum Views
🛵 3 Days in Rome: The Ultimate Itinerary
⛲️ 4 Days in Rome: The Perfect Itinerary
🍝 2 Days in Rome: The Ultimate Itinerary
🌃 Top 12 Rome By Night Tours to Take
For further reading on Italy, discover:
🇮🇹 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy
🏙 24 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in Italy
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