7 Best Beaches to visit Near Rome To Visit in 2025

If you need a break from Rome’s busy streets, the coast is closer than you think!

Some of the best beaches near Rome are just an hour or two away, offering everything from quiet coves to lively seaside towns. 

Sperlonga stands out with its clear waters and historic charm, while Santa Severa offers a unique backdrop with its medieval castle on the shore. 

But these are just two of the many options to choose from!

Whether you’re looking for a quick swim, a seafood lunch by the water, or a full day trip from Rome, there’s a beach that fits the plan.

Disclosure: This post does contain affiliate links which I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any purchases you make through my links help keep the site running. Thanks in advance for your support!

1. Sperlonga

Sperlonga is a postcard-perfect beach town with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a charming old town. 

It’s a Blue Flag beach, meaning excellent water quality and cleanliness. 

The historic town, perched on a cliff, offers breathtaking views, while the Villa of Tiberius, an ancient Roman villa that belonged to the Roman emperor, adds a historical touch to your beach day.

For those looking for a unique experience, I suggest booking a tour to the Blue Grotto, one of the many caves of Sperlonga and one of the most visited spots in the region. There you can swim or snorkel in the turquoise water of the cave.

How to Get There from Rome

• By Train: Take a train from Roma Termini to Fondi-Sperlonga (1h 10m). Then, a bus or taxi (15 min) to the beach.

• By Car: Drive along the A1 or SS148; it takes about 1.5 hours.

Best Tours

• 1 – Boat Cruise to the Blue Grotto with Swimming – Take a cruise along the coast of Sperlonga and visit bays, sea caves, and more. Stop at the Blue Grotto for a swim and visit the Grotta di Tiberio to learn more about the history of this area.
• 2 – Private Cruise to discover the “Seven Beaches – This private boat tour takes you to explore the Tyrrhenian Sea, stopping at different spots along the way, including the Cave of Tiberius, the Blue Grotto, and the Gulf of Gaeta. The tour also includes pizza and prosecco
• 3 – Sperlonga Art & Food Tour – In this guided tour, you will explore the medieval city, the Tiberius Villa Museum and Grotto, and try local food such as the mozzarella di bufala and wines in the meantime.

2. Santa Severa

Santa Severa is one of the most unique beaches near Rome, thanks to the medieval castle right by the shore, and its black sand. 

The beach is peaceful, with black and golden sand, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. 

The volcanic sand that gives the beach its dark color was once believed to have healing powers. 

It’s less crowded than other beaches, making it perfect for a quiet escape.

How to Get There from Rome

• By Train: Take a regional train from Roma Termini to Santa Severa (45 min). The beach is a short walk from the station.

• By Car: Drive along the A12 highway; it takes about 1 hour.

Best Tours

• 1 – Santa Severa Castle and Civitavecchia Tour from Rome by Car – Best option if you are looking for a day trip from Rome. This private guided tour includes the car transfers with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Rome, a certified guide, and skip-the-line tickets to Santa Severa Castle.
• 2 – Santa Severa Castle: Entry Ticket & digital audioguide – Entrance ticket to the Santa Severa Castle, which also includes an audioguide.

3. Anzio

Anzio is famous for its soft sandy beaches and clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming. 

The town is historically significant due to its role in World War II, and visitors can explore war memorials and museums. 

Another relevant spot is Nero’s Cave, these ruins were once part of Emperor Nero’s seaside villa 

The local seafood is among the best near Rome.

How to Get There from Rome

• By Train: Take a regional train from Roma Termini to Anzio (1 hour). The beach is a short walk from the station.

• By Car: Drive via the SS148 Pontina; it takes about 1 hour.

Best Tours

• 1 – Rome Shopping Tour: designer deals and Anzio seaside charm – Day trip from Rome that includes a round-trip transportation. The tour takes you to the Castel Romano Designer Outlet, where you can go shopping. After that, you can enjoy your time by the sea and explore Anzio.
• 2 – From Rome: Anzio and Cassino WWII Battlefields – A day trip from Rome to explore Anzio and its most relevant locations related to WWII. Round trip and lunch are included.
• 3 – Day Trip from Anzio with 5-Hour Boat Excursion – This is the best option if you just want to enjoy Summer by the sea. This boat excursion takes you from Anzio to the island of Ponza, where you can swim in a less crowded place, surrounded by nature.

4. Lido di Ostia

Lido di Ostia is the closest beach to Rome, making it the most convenient option for a quick beach escape. 

While not as pristine as Sperlonga, it has plenty of beach clubs, restaurants, and bars, perfect for a fun day at the sea.

Besides its coastline, Ostia is famous for its ruins. Ostia Antica was once Ancient Rome’s port and now preserves one of the best-preserved ancient Roman sites. 

How to Get There from Rome

• By Train: Take the Roma-Lido train from Piramide Station to Lido Centro (30 min). Walk or take a bus to the beach.

• By Car: Drive via the Via del Mare; it takes about 40 minutes.

Best Tours

• 1 – Day Trip to Ostia Antica and Cerveteri from Rome Hotel – Visit Ostia Antica and Cerveteri in this private tour. The tour includes a private car with pick up and drop off at your hotel in Rome. This tour is perfect if you are looking to visit ancient ruins.
• 2 – Beach Ride in Rome – Discover Rome’s seaside from the back of a horse. In this unique experience, you will ride by the sea and visit the ruins of Ancient Ostia.

5. Fregene

Fregene is a trendy beach destination, popular for its lively atmosphere, stylish beach clubs, and sunset aperitivos. 

It’s a favorite among young crowds and locals looking for a fun day out.

How to Get There from Rome

• By Bus: Take a Cotral bus from Cornelia Metro Station (Line A) to Fregene (45 min).

• By Car: Drive via Via Aurelia; it takes about 40 minutes.

6. Gaeta (Serapo Beach)

Gaeta is one of the most scenic beach destinations near Rome, with golden sand, clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. 

The town itself is rich in history, with medieval buildings and fantastic seafood.

Another highlight of Gaeta is its Split Mountain, the Montana Spaccata, the scenic walk offers tales of pirates and Saints and features a catholic sanctuary, the Sanctuary of Most Holy Trinity. 

How to Get There from Rome

• By Train: Take a train from Roma Termini to Formia-Gaeta (1h 15m). Then, a bus or taxi (15 min) to Gaeta.

• By Car: Drive via the A1 or SS148; it takes about 2 hours.

Best Tours

• 1 – Gaeta: Boat tour, swim and snorkeling – Explore the peninsula of Gaeta until Sperlonga. See the Mura difensive di Gaeta, Castello Angioino, Grotta del Turco, nd much more in this 4 hours boat tour that includes a stop for snorkeling.
• 2 – Gaeta Medieval Art and Architecture – Explore the historic town of Gaeta, visit highlights such as the Temple of St. Francis of Assisi, the Sanctuary of the SS. Annunziata, and the Aragonese Castle in this private tour.

7. Sabaudia

Sabaudia is known for its unspoiled beauty, with dunes, clear waters, and a backdrop of Monte Circeo National Park. 

It’s a quiet, natural beach, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

But if you are tired of sunbathing, Sabáudia offers a beautiful hike through the Monte Circeo National Park leading to a scenic panoramic view of the coastline. 

Sabáudia was, in ancient times, the refuge of Roman Emperor Domitian, and the ruins of his Villa are now a popular destination for those willing to explore ancient ruins outside Rome. 

How to Get There from Rome

• By Bus: Take a Cotral bus from Roma Laurentina to Sabaudia (1h 45m).

• By Car: Drive via SS148 Pontina; it takes about 1.5 hours.

Best Tours

2 – Private Sandy Beach Day Trip From Rome – Take some time to relax on a private day trip to Sabaudia Beach from Rome. This private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

---

These beaches each offer something unique, from history and nature to lively beach clubs. 

If you’re looking for a quick escape, go for Lido di Ostia or Santa Severa if you want a beautiful seaside town, head to Sperlonga or Gaeta. For a natural retreat, try Sabaudia.

Now it is your turn, which one of them would you choose to visit? If you have already done so, tell me your opinion about them in the comments section!

Quick links to plan your visit to Rome, Italy

More About Rome

• How to get to Rome Termini from Fiumicino Airport
• 3 Days in Rome Itinerary
• Christmas in Rome: Best Things to Do
• Guide to the Palatine Hill: 10 Monuments to See
• 20 Must-Visit Ancient Roman Ruins in Rome
• How did The Roman Forum Look Like Before Excavations?
• How Many Forums Did Rome Have?
• Did Gladiators ever fight Lions?

Italy Travel Essentials

• FLIGHT TICKET: Get the best flight deal with Skyscanner.
• ACCOMMODATION: Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.
• VISA: Apply for a Visa on iVisa.
• eSIM: Stay connected throughout your trip with Airalo eSim. It offers packages from 7 to 30 days for accessible prices.
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book your private airport transfer.
• RENT A CAR: Find the best rates on DiscoverCars.
• GUIDED TOUR: Find the best tours in Italy on GetYourGuide