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- Beaches of the Maruggio Coastline
Beaches of the Maruggio Coastline
The Maruggio coastline, stretching 9 km and located in the municipality of Maruggio, is famous for the beauty of its sea and the diversity of its beaches. Starting from the promontory of Torre Ovo and continuing eastward, you will encounter the beach of Acquadolce Cirenaica, also known as "Piri Piri", characterized by freshwater springs that make the water particularly clear. This is followed by Capoccia Scorcialupi beach, also known as Madonna beach, Commenda beach, and the less accessible but pristine D'Ayala beach. Continuing, there are the "wind" beach, the "port" beach near the marina, the "commuter" beaches, "Giannarelli" beach, and finally Monaco Mirante beach, characterized by high dunes and cliffs.
These tourist-friendly beaches can be enjoyed from late April to October. They are also known to be nesting sites for the Caretta caretta turtle, with three different nesting sites found between 2011 and 2017. The area has implemented measures to protect these vulnerable nests.
The Maruggio coastline has received recognition, such as 4 blue sails in Legambiente's Blue Guide in 2015, and has been listed among the 10 most beautiful free beaches in Italy.
Campomarino
Campomarino, the only hamlet of the municipality of Maruggio, transforms into a lively tourist destination every summer, recognized for its natural beauty. In 2013, this beach was included among the seventeen most beautiful beaches in Italy by Legambiente, thanks to its turquoise and crystalline sea and soft sand. Characterized by unique natural scenery, Campomarino offers all the essential services for a pleasant day at the beach.
The beach extends around the ancient Torre delle Moline, built in 1473 for sighting Saracen raids. The tower stands out for its structure and its history linked to grain milling. Campomarino also has a port, divided into a tourist area and a fishing area, which comes alive during the summer with markets and outdoor performances.
Furthermore, Campomarino is surrounded by Maruggio, San Pietro in Bevagna, and Avetrana, offering further exploration opportunities. It is easily accessible by both car and plane, with connections from Brindisi and Taranto.
Ayala Beach
Ayala Beach, also known as Conte Beach, is a renowned naturist paradise located on the coast of Campomarino, made unique by its secluded location protected by the Ayala Pine Forest. This beach is characterized by white, fine sand interspersed with Mediterranean shrubbery and aromatic plants. Facilitated by wooden walkways, it offers an ideal seabed for diving and snorkeling. Often compared to the Caribbean of Manduria, it is reached by crossing a lush pine forest reminiscent of an exotic jungle.
A trekking path allows you to explore the vegetation and reach the white sand that fades into the crystalline sea. The beach offers both equipped stretches and free areas, immersed in the wild nature of the Ionian coast. In August, it becomes a popular destination for tourists, so it is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy the sunset over the sea.
Commenda Beach
Commenda Beach is a spectacular sandy beach with a stunning coastline that stretches for several kilometers, characterized by breathtaking views and cliffs overlooking the crystal-clear sea. The waters are clear and calm, making it ideal for swimming. The beach, perfect for families with children due to its shallow waters and lack of currents, is surrounded by fragrant pine forests, vineyards, and olive groves. The soft golden sand, the long shoreline gently sloping into the water, and the beautiful dune system offer a unique experience. The transparent and crystalline sea has gradually sloping but rocky bottoms in some spots, suitable for swimming with caution at the entrance. The tranquility of the beach, still relatively unknown, adds to its charm.
The nudist area, located towards Campomarino, offers an even more peaceful atmosphere. Despite the lack of beach resorts, the beach provides ample space to relax and enjoy the extremely clear blue sea, also suitable for children. However, attention should be paid to the alternation of sand and rocks, and it is advisable to bring everything necessary for a relaxing day as there are no beach clubs or resorts.
- Panoramic terrace with dining facilities
- Garden with olive trees for relaxation
Tayga Beach
Opened in 2016, Tayga Beach is located near the Dunes of Campomarino, within the natural park of the dunes on the Ionian Sea. It stands out as an internationally renowned beach club, with 135 classic setups and 40 premium setups featuring king-size beds and private canopies. It offers personalized beach service and caters to various customer needs. The restaurant, open from 12:00 to midnight, is one of its highlights, offering a menu that includes meat and seafood dishes and a selection of over 270 labels of national and international wines.
Tayga Beach is also known for entertainment, with DJ sets by international artists and festive sunset events curated by nationally renowned resident DJs. Furthermore, it is a popular wedding venue, attracting couples from around the world and offering comprehensive services for organizing the big day.
Acquadolce Beach
Acquadolce Beach stands out for the quality of its water, comparable to that of nearby renowned beaches, but with superior cleanliness due to fewer bathers and initially rocky seabed. It is an extremely relaxing coastline, perfect even in August, away from noisy tourism and less environmentally conscious, thanks to the lack of services in the immediate vicinity.
The beach offers medium-grain sand and clear crystalline waters, with shades of blue and green, ideal for families. It is not affected by the phenomenon of posidonia and access is facilitated by pontoons and wooden stairs. It has a clean free beach, even during weekends and August, with an equipped beach nearby for bar and catering services. There are good parking possibilities along the coastal road. Unique during the Apulian holidays, it is characterized by coastal dunes and aquifers that make the water less salty and more pleasant.