Today we will satisfy one of the biggest curiosities of our clients, as well as of most tourists who choose Polignano as their destination for summer holidays: the ranking of the best free beaches in the area!
8) Porto Contessa: it’s one of the smallest and most suggestive coves offered by the Polignano coast. A miniature bay, with a length of about 12 meters, Porto Contessa represents one of the few small sandy beaches in the area. Located a few steps from the San Vito harbor, Porto Contessa offers an enchanting panorama, worthy of a postcard: not to be missed!
7) Molo Corto: named this way by most of the Polignano locals, Molo Corto (Short Pier) used to be the only docking point for small fishing boats in the past. After the construction of the tourist port, which took place recently, bathers continued to crowd this characteristic stone arm. Its protected location and entirely sandy bottom make it an ideal spot for families and groups of friends.
6) Ponte dei Lapilli: among the less known but most suggestive frames of Polignano, the beach of Ponte Lapilli represents one of the places of greatest interest for sea lovers. Nestled among the rocks, this small cove owes its name to the presence of lapilli (small to medium-sized pebbles) that completely cover the areas in front of the beach and the shoreline, extending into the sea and to a bridge that looms a few meters from the shore, allowing the connection between Polignano and the San Vito fraction (located to the north of the town). It is recommended to wear protective shoes or sandals during bathing to avoid painful falls.
5) Spiaggia di San Vito: located just a few steps from the abbey and the small harbor where every morning the gozzi (typical fishing boats) depart towards the Adriatic Sea, San Vito Beach is one of the most picturesque places offered by the Apulian town. Surmounted by an ancient watchtower of Saracen origin, the beach is perfect for long and romantic walks contemplating the sea. Following an intervention by the public administration, the beach has been equipped with two semi-mobile platforms that allow for better access to the sea. The relatively shallow seabed is mostly made up of sand and small rocks. The location is completed by many small shops that surround the beach where you can taste local specialties or simply quench your thirst with a refreshing drink. The nearby harbor is also the starting point for many boat tours to discover the coast and marine caves of Polignano.
4) Portalga (also known as Cala Sala): located in the southern outskirts of Polignano, near the “Madonna d’Altomare” Municipal Stadium, Portalga Beach is characterized by a natural cove made mostly of gravel and pebbles, surrounded by spontaneous vegetation including the typical prickly pear of the Mediterranean scrub. To access it, you need to pass through a symbolic tuff gate and descend some steps carved into the rock. Breathtaking views and crystal clear water complete this splendid location enriched by the characteristic gozzi moored on the shore. Unknown to most tourists, Portalga is ideal for those who want a place to relax in peace. Easily reachable by car, the beach is served by a free parking lot located at the entrance.
3) Cala Paura (also known as Cala Paguro): On the third step of the podium of the best free beaches in Polignano, we find Cala Paura. Originally designed as a small harbor for boats, the beach, consisting of two coves and a small dock, has been enhanced over the years thanks to regional and European contributions. Today it represents one of the most attractive destinations for tourists, also due to its proximity to the city center. Both coves that make up the beach are entirely covered with pebbles and gravel. The predominant characteristic of Cala Paura is given by the alternation of cold and warm underwater currents that are a real tonic for the body. In addition, the beach is served by some kiosks that allow the tasting of snacks and typical local products. Cala Paura has been the venue for important cultural events including theatrical performances and musical concerts. It is also highly recommended to wear protective shoes or slippers during swimming to avoid painful falls.
2) Porto Cavallo: Silver medal for Porto Cavallo, one of the few Polignano beaches with an entirely sandy bottom. It is probably the best free beach for families available in the area. Consisting of a strip of sand about 30 meters long, Porto Cavallo is located a few meters from the tourist port of Polignano, reachable through a 50m pedestrian path with free street parking. The beach owes its name to an ancient tradition, where travelers passing through Polignano used to refresh their horses from the heat by bringing them to this small bay. The beach is delimited by two arms of easily walkable rocks.
1) Lama Monachile (also known as Cala Porto): the highest step on the podium for Polignano’s most iconic beach. Made famous by countless film productions and selected as the location for the world-renowned Red Bull Cliff Diving competition, Lama Monachile is the favorite beach for tourists from all over the world who choose Polignano as their holiday destination. As a symbol of Polignano, the bay of Lama Monachile is located in the heart of the town and can be reached through two entrances at the ends of the 200-year-old Bourbon bridge of Via Pompeo Sarnelli. The picturesque bay, paved with rocks, pebbles, and gravel, was the mouth of an ancient river that flowed through these rocks millions of years ago. Crystal clear water and breathtaking views complete the spectacle offered by this little corner of paradise.
Whatever beach you choose to visit (we hope you’ll visit them all 😊), we’re sure you won’t be disappointed. Polignano has been awarded the Blue Flag and the 4 Sails Legambiente certification for the quality and purity of our waters for several years now. So all you have to do is pack your bags, and we at B&B A Casa di Anna will be waiting for you to make your stay unforgettable!
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