Puglia has two coasts (Adriatic east, Ionian south) and 800km of shoreline. The Salento (the heel) has the Caribbean water. The Gargano (the spur) has the dramatic cliffs. Between them: Polignano a Mare's cave beach, Monopoli's coves, and Trani's limestone platforms.
Fine white sand, shallow turquoise water. Free sections between stabilimenti. The name is earned.
Lagoon bays. 30cm deep for 50m. The family beach capital of Puglia.
Two sea stacks (Le Due Sorelle) framing a sandy bay. Shallow, calm, Blue Flag.
Near Otranto. Pine forest behind the dunes. Walk 15 min from parking. The legend says the Turks landed here in 1480.
Two white sea stacks, pebble beach between cliffs. Hotel access or boat from Mattinata. THE Gargano image.
Sheltered cove below the forest. Clear water, rocky bottom, snorkeling.
Pebble beach between two 30m cliff walls. The old town perched above. Arrive by 8am in summer.
Hidden cove below the Abbazia di Santo Stefano. Walk through the abbey grounds. Crystal water.