The Best Beaches in Venice: A Guide For Visitors
Venice offers stunning beaches, perfect for a break from sightseeing. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, untouched nature, or a quiet escape, the sandy dunes of our city have something for everyone. Here are four of the best beaches in Venice, each with its own unique charm.
1. Lido di Venezia – The Classic Venetian Beach
Lido is the most famous beach in Venice, offering a mix of elegance, history, and relaxation. Known for hosting the Venice Film Festival, this 11-kilometer-long sandbar boasts well-maintained beaches, beachfront hotels, and a lively promenade.
Pros:
- Easy to reach from central Venice (just a short vaporetto ride)
- Plenty of amenities: sunbeds, restaurants, and beach clubs
- Suitable for families, with shallow waters and lifeguards
- A mix of free beaches and private lidos for a more luxurious experience
Cons:
- Can get crowded, especially in summer
- Private beach clubs can be expensive
- Not as wild or scenic as other Venetian beaches
2. Punta Sabbioni – The Beach at the Edge of the Lagoon
Located at the southern tip of the Cavallino-Treporti peninsula, Punta Sabbioni offers wide, sandy shores and clear water. It’s popular with campers and travellers looking for a peaceful beach experience just outside of Venice.
Pros:
- Long, open beach with plenty of space
- Great for swimming and sunbathing without large crowds
- Perfect excuse for exploring the lagoon by boat
- Easily accessible by private boat
- Great snack bar nearby (delicious panini) called Chiosco al Faro
Cons:
- Fewer amenities than Lido; some areas are quite wild
- A bit farther from Venice compared to Lido
3. Bacan – A Hidden Paradise for Locals
Bacan is a well-kept secret among Venetians, located near Sant’Erasmo island. Unlike traditional beaches, Bacan is a shallow, sandy area in the middle of the lagoon, accessible only by private boat. It’s a favorite for those who want a peaceful, natural setting.
Pros:
- Crystal-clear, calm waters—perfect for swimming
- Less crowded, as it’s only accessible by boat
- Surrounded by nature, making it an ideal escape from the city
- Great restaurant nearby called Al Bacan
Cons:
- No facilities—bring everything you need
- Requires a boat to reach
- Tides can affect the beach size
4. Pellestrina – A Tranquil Fishermen’s Paradise
If you want to experience a different side of Venice, Pellestrina is the place to go. This long, narrow island between the lagoon and the Adriatic Sea has a laid-back atmosphere, picturesque fishing villages, and beautiful beaches.
Pros:
- Quiet and authentic, far from the tourist crowds
- Stunning sunsets and views of the Adriatic
- Great seafood restaurants nearby, like Agriturismo le Valli and Ristorante da Celeste
- Perfect for a bike ride along the island
Cons:
- Less developed for tourism—fewer beach facilities
- Requires multiple vaporettos to reach from Venice, but easy to reach by private boat
- The beach can be rocky in some areas
5. Alberoni – A Wild and Scenic Retreat
Located at the southern tip of Lido, Alberoni is one of the most unspoiled beaches in Venice. It’s known for its dunes, nature reserve, and peaceful atmosphere. This beach is a favorite among locals who prefer a more natural setting away from the crowds.
Pros:
- Surrounded by a protected natural reserve with sand dunes and pine forests
- Less crowded than central Lido, offering a more peaceful experience
- Great for nature lovers, with opportunities for birdwatching and scenic walks
- A mix of free beach areas and a few well-kept beach clubs
- Great restaurants nearby like Agriturismo Le Valli and Trattoria al Ponte di Borgo
Cons:
- Limited facilities compared to Lido’s main beaches
- Requires a vaporetto ride plus a long bus or bike ride to reach, but quick to reach by private boat
Which Beach Should You Choose?
- For convenience and comfort: Lido
- For a peaceful, natural beach: Punta Sabbioni
- For a secret escape by boat: Bacan
- For an off-the-beaten-path experience: Pellestrina
- For nature and tranquility: Alberoni
No matter which beach you choose, a seaside escape in Venice is a fantastic way to experience a different side of the city. Whether you’re lounging on Lido’s soft sand, discovering the hidden beauty of Bacan, or soaking up the quiet charm of Pellestrina, Venice’s beaches offer something special for every traveler.
If you want to organise a trip to one of the best beaches by boat, just drop us a message here!