March 25, 2025, 9:37 am | Read time: 7 minutes
The picturesque island of Ischia is located in the Gulf of Naples, right next to the much better-known island of Capri. However, Ischia is around three times as big in total. The island was once formed by a volcanic explosion and today offers good wine and, above all, lots of cliffs. Nevertheless, there are also some sandy beaches here, which, of course, should not be missed during a vacation on Ischia. TRAVELBOOK shows which of them should be on every bucket list and presents six of the most beautiful beaches on Ischia.
The most popular main resorts on the island of Ischia are Porto, Forio, Lacco Ameno, and Sant Àngelo. These locales serve as excellent bases for your stay, boasting not only a plethora of hotel complexes but also the island’s prime sandy beaches. As Ischia was formed around 60,000 years ago by a huge volcanic explosion, its fertile soil produces very good wine. Moreover, the island’s rich variety of butterfly species draws entomologists from around the world, making it a buzzing hub for butterfly research. Yet, Ischia’s claim to fame is as a beach vacation haven, with its dramatic cliffs giving way to numerous stretches of invitingly soft sand. TRAVELBOOK has made a selection and shares six of the most beautiful beaches on Ischia.
Overview
Maronti Beach — in the South
Maronti Beach belongs to the district of the same name in the municipality of Barano d’Ischia and is located in a 2-kilometre-long bay. It is the longest beach on Ischia and is directly adjacent to the beautiful winding road from Testaccio in Barano d’Ischia. You can effortlessly access the beach by car along this scenic route. Alternatively, you can choose the Garibaldi footpath for a more intimate encounter with the island’s natural beauty. Maronti Beach is also well connected by the cab boats from Sant’Angelo and the regular bus service from Ischia Porto. Nestled in the south, Maronti Beach basks in sunshine from dawn until dusk, offering sun-worshippers ample time to revel in its warmth. The beach’s soft, light-colored sand makes it an exceptional spot to soak up the sun’s embrace. Small stores, restaurants, and cafés, all located in the piazzetta, provide variety. As on most of the island’s beaches, sun loungers and parasols can also be hired here.
Our tip: the Rena Ischia restaurant! Savor Italian cuisine in an elegant setting, complemented by sweeping sea views and enlivened by evening music events.
Spiaggia di Citara — in the West
Spiaggia di Citara is located in Forio d’Ischia, in the west of the island of Ischia. Legend has it that this beach takes its name from the Roman goddess Venere Citarea. This adds a touch of mythic charm to its shores. Due to its location, the waves at Spiaggia di Citara are comparatively strong. Nevertheless, the beach is perfect for snorkeling, as the water is clear and sea creatures thrive in the shade of the rocky walls. Entry to the beach is also free. Dogs are allowed, and umbrellas and sun loungers can be hired for a daily fee. If you are looking for refreshments after a long day at the beach, you will find them nearby, as there is a beach promenade right next door.
Our tip: 19 minutes by car from the beach is a small museum at the top of the hill. Admission to the Casa Museo is free, and you can see artistic fortifications made from various natural materials. These include mosaics, sculptures, and other installations. The special atmosphere alone makes it well worth a visit, and small donations are, of course, welcome!
Spiaggia di San Montano — in the North
The Spiaggia di San Montano is also known as Baia di San Montano and is located in the far northern part of Ischia. It is not only one of the most beautiful beaches on the island but also one of the most romantic! This is because it is located in a hidden bay, which is also in the area of the Negombo thermal garden. In addition to fine, light-colored sand, the water here is crystal clear, and the waves are quite gentle due to the sheltered location. It is the perfect place for lazing in the sun or snorkeling underwater.
Our tip: The Luchino Visconti Museum is just a few minutes away. Perched majestically atop a seaside cliff, the villa is a sight to behold and merits a visit for its grandeur alone. The terraces offer a breathtaking view of the sea, and inside the house, there is a lot to learn about the history of the island.
La Chiaia Beach — in the West
Chiaia Beach is probably one of the widest sandy beaches on the island. You can spend the day here on a free or paid beach section. La Chiaia Beach stands out as one of the island’s gems, offering an all-inclusive, carefree experience that caters to every beachgoer’s needs. In addition to free parking, there is another special feature for families with children: the Ischia Summer Camp offers children supervision, fun, and games while parents have some time to themselves. The beach area also features convenient showers equipped with soap and shampoo dispensers, adding to the comfort of your beach day.
Our tip: If you decide to go to this beach, you should definitely make a detour to the port of Forio. In addition to numerous restaurants, it also offers a few stores for leisurely harbor shopping.
Spiaggia di San Francesco — in the Northwest
In keeping with many Italian beach traditions, access to Spiaggia di San Francesco comes with a fee. The daily rates are seasonal and can be conveniently checked online before your visit. The advantage of the restricted access is that the Spiaggia di San Francesco is remarkably clean. It also offers the best view of the sunset; drinks, sun loungers, and parasols are also provided. So, here, you will find everything your vacation heart desires — albeit for a certain price.
Our tip: La Mortella Botanical Gardens are located above the beach. The Piazzale San Francesco hiking trail is also halfway along the beach. Combining the two makes for a delightful day of exploration and relaxation!
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La Mandra Beach — in the East
Located between Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte, La Mandra Beach is a rather small beach on Ischia. Ischia Ponte is also home to the island’s landmark: the Castello Aragonese! Although La Mandra can get quite busy during the high season, it is very quiet here for most of the year. Access to the beach is completely free, and it offers a fabulous view not only of the fortress but also of the islands of Vivara and Procida.
Our tip: The origins of Castello Aragonese date back to the 5th century BC, when the Greeks built the first fortifications on the rock. Over the course of time, it served as a defensive structure, a residence for nobles, a monastery, and later even a prison. Today, the Castello Aragonese can be reached on foot via a stone bridge. Despite the entrance fee, the castle’s captivating atmosphere and rich history promise a visit that’s well worth your while. There is also a café and a restaurant inside the fortress with a view of the sea. An absolute must-see during a vacation on Ischia!