Salento
Hidden Beaches
Where to Escape the Crowds (and How to Choose the Right Coast)
In Salento, the sea is more than just water — it’s wind, light, and a promise of quiet between the rocks or music floating over sunbeds. You just need to know when and where to go.
The golden rule for a real local beach day?
Follow the wind.
-
Tramontana wind? Head to the Ionian coast: calm, crystal-clear waters await.
-
Scirocco wind? Go to the Adriatic side for refreshing, turquoise sea and dramatic cliffs.
To make it even easier, check @salentoventiemari on Instagram — they post daily updates on which beaches will have the calmest waters based on the wind.
Now, let’s discover some hidden gems across the Ionian and Adriatic coasts that locals love — perfect if you're dreaming of an authentic Salento escape.
IONIAN COAST – Best when the Tramontana blows
​
1. Porto Selvaggio (ROCKY/SANDY)
A wild natural reserve you can reach on foot through a shady pine forest or by shuttle bus. The cove is made of pebbles and the water is refreshingly cold thanks to underwater springs. It’s raw and beautiful.
2. Lido Conchiglie (Rocky/Sandy)
Rarely crowded, loved by locals. Soft sand, shallow waters, and a peaceful atmosphere — ideal for couples or families with kids.
3. Punta della Suina (Rocky/Sandy)
A scenic mix of rocky coves and golden beaches. The water is crystal-clear, and the sunsets from here are unforgettable.
4. Lido Pizzo Beach (Sandy)
Set inside a natural park, this stretch is quieter than nearby Gallipoli. Sandy, calm, and framed by pine trees — perfect for nature lovers.
5. Lido Marini (Sandy)
A long beach with fine sand and calm waters, far from the party scenes. Ideal for those seeking space and relaxation.
ADRIATIC COAST – Best when the Scirocco blows
1. Torre Chianca (Sandy)
Fine white sand and shallow waters, with a 16th-century watchtower as your backdrop. Calm and local.
2. San Foca – Lido San Basilio (Sandy)
Less touristy than its neighbors Torre dell'Orso, with amazing turquoise waters and a quiet, authentic feel. Great beach club too.
3. Alimini – Lido 2 Mori (Sandy)
Endless sand dunes, Mediterranean vegetation, and open, wild sea. A place for long walks and powerful waves, with a suggestive shipwreck ''relitto'' lying in the water.
4. Baia dei Turchi (Sandy) very crowd in august
Hard to access in high season, but magical in May, June, early July, September and October. Reach it through a shaded forest trail and discover a secluded, white-sand beach.
5. Baia di Porto Miggiano (Rocky/Sandy)
very crowd in august
A small bay enclosed by cliffs, with deep blue water and a peaceful vibe — when access is still possible. Go early!
6. Cala dell’Acquaviva (Rocky/Sandy)
Tiny and intimate, this emerald-colored cove is perfect in the early morning. Refreshing and quiet, ideal for a slow swim.
Secret Spots You Can Only Reach by Boat
Mulino d’Acqua Bay
magical sea caves with natural skylights.
​​Baia Murrune
peaceful, perfect for snorkeling.
Faraglioni of Sant’Andrea
best seen from the water, far from the crowds.​​​
Punticeddha Bay
a tiny hidden bay where time stands still.
