Best Beaches near Rome

Did you know that while Rome is famous for its stunning history and architecture, it’s also super close to some amazing beaches? Just over an hour away from the city center, you can easily find beautiful spots with soft sand and crystal-clear waters.

After hitting all the iconic sights like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, a beach day is just what you might need to recharge. Luckily, there are plenty of great options for a refreshing escape.

Getting to these beaches is a piece of cake with public transportation! Whether you’re into thrilling watersports or just want to chill out, the nearby beaches have so much to offer.

Plus, you’ll be happy to know that many of them have free beaches, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy some sun and sand. One more thing—don’t forget to check which beaches have the Bandiera Blu (Blue Flag) certification for top-notch water quality!

Our Top Picks for the Best Beaches Near Rome

If you’re on a budget, you’ll love the spiaggia libera (free beach space) options available around Rome. They’re perfect for lounging under the sun without any added costs. What’s really fun about these beaches is the bit of history that comes along with them. Picture locals setting up their beach towels and umbrellas, excited for a day of fun in the sun—it’s a vibe you won’t want to miss!

Santa Marinella Beach

Santa Marinella Beach is a total gem and a favorite among both locals and travelers. This Blue Flag beach has soft, fine sand and is super close to the train station. Just follow the crowd in swimsuits, and you’ll easily find the cozy bay with its clear, inviting water.

In Italy, you generally have two options for beach access: stabilimenti (private beach clubs) where you can rent umbrellas and loungers, or the spiaggia libera, where you can lay your towel wherever there’s space. Santa Marinella leans more toward stabilimenti, but that just means you’ll have more comfortable options!

In the winter, the waves here attract local surfers, but during the summer, the water smooths out for a perfect swimming day. As the sun sets, grab a table at L’Acqua Marina for breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and indulge in some delicious grilled seafood. You’re going to love it!

How to Get There

Getting to Santa Marinella is easy. Just hop on a train from Roma Termini, Ostiense, Trastevere, or San Pietro, and you’ll be there in less than an hour (about 30 minutes). If you’re driving, it’ll take just over an hour. There are a few parking options near the beach, both free and paid, but make sure to arrive early in peak season to snag a good spot!

• Storage Tip: Planning to explore Rome before hitting the beach? You can leave your luggage with one of Bounce’s local partners! This way, you can roam the city freely, checking out the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain without being weighed down. After this checkpoint, head straight to the beach without the hassle of carrying all your bags. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a stress-free day!

Anzio Beach

Anzio Beach is another picture-perfect beach, just about an hour south of Rome. This charming seaside town has sandy shores perfect for sunbathing and swimming. You'll find plenty of cozy beach clubs and restaurants along the shore where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat.

Also, Anzio has a rich history—you might remember that it played a big role during World War II. You can still see traces of that time in the solid, minimalist Mussolini-era architecture and monuments throughout the town.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a boat trip from Anzio to some stunning islands like Ponza, Palmarola, and Ventotene? These spots are popular getaway destinations for wealthy Romans, especially during the summer. So, if you’re up for a little island adventure, you’ll have a great time!

How to Get There

To get to Anzio, catch a train from Termini for a quick ride that’ll cost you less than €5. The beach is only about 20 minutes from the town center, and the scenery on the way is lovely.

If you decide to drive, the trip takes about an hour and 20 minutes, with both free and paid parking options available along the promenade. Just a heads up: those spots can fill up fast during the summer, so it’s best to arrive early!

Sperlonga Beach

Sperlonga is a cute little town that’s a quick train ride from Rome. Sitting on a rocky cliff, it offers amazing views of the Mediterranean. Down at the beach, you’ll find soft sand and super clear waters that are perfect for a day of relaxation. If you stroll up the hill, you’ll discover a lovely whitewashed village with winding streets, cozy cafes, and gorgeous sea views.

This place is perfect for a day trip, whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, a family-friendly beach, or a chance to explore the ruins of Tiberius’s Villa by the water. Sperlonga has a little bit of everything and can be an ideal retreat from the hectic city life.

If you’re up for an adventure, give water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding a shot. After that, treat yourself to fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants or grab a gelato and wander through the charming streets.

How to Get There

To get to Sperlonga, take a train from Roma Termini to Monte San Biagio, then hop on a bus to Terracina and another bus to Sperlonga. Once you arrive, it’s a short walk to the beach.

If you’re driving, Sperlonga is just a couple of hours from the city center. The town is walkable, so once you park, you can easily explore all the charming streets and beach spots on foot. There are paid parking options close to the beach, especially near popular areas, but you might even stumble upon some street parking. Enjoy soaking in the sights and the lovely atmosphere!

Just a Few Additional Tips

Besides the beautiful beaches and attractions we've mentioned, make sure to check out Santa Severa. This lovely seaside resort has a stunning sandy beach and the iconic Santa Severa Castle, which offers a perfect backdrop for your beach day.

It's also recognized for its Blue Flag beaches certificate, which means you can count on clean waters and great amenities while soaking up the sun. Whether you want to relax by the waves or explore the historic castle, Santa Severa is definitely worth a visit!

If you have a late flight and want to squeeze in another beach stop before heading to Rome's airport, Bounce’s got you covered. Imagine spending your last day exploring another beautiful beach after a fun day in Rome. You can leave your luggage with Bounce partners in the city. This allows you to enjoy your time at the beach without the stress of dragging your bags along, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable!