If you're looking for some of the best places to surf in Italy, you've come to the right place. From the world-famous beaches of Sardinia to the hidden gems of Sicily, there are plenty of great spots for Italy surfing. In this article, Tavik will walk you through some of the best places to surf in Italy, as well as give you some tips on what to expect when surfing in Italy.
An Introduction To Surfing In Italy
It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of a Euro wave vacation. There are many destinations that can claim to be among the best on the planet, including Hossegor and the Algarve. It's difficult to overlook the fact that Italy is bordered by three seas. There are more than 7,500 km of coastline and many islands. It also has lakes in the mountains that could generate waves. The disclaimer is that this is not going to be thunderous A frames a la Portugal. Italy offers a truly Mediterranean adventure. It has beautiful coastlines, hemmed by mountains, and long post-surf meals of seafood and pizza. These spots are not easy to find, but they do have undiscovered surf territory that only locals can show you. The wild west coast of Sardinia is a highlight, as well as the future spots in the bay of Liguria. These have shady harbor breaks that can be very impressive. All of them work best in winter so bring the rubber.
Surfing in Italy at a Glance
- Pros
- One of Europe's most beautiful - and delicious - surfing spots! - countries.
- Enjoy some quality holidays in Sardinia surfing spots
- Cons
- Relies on windswell
- Never too big
- Quality spots are scarce
When To Surf in Italy?
It is the winter months that are best for Italian surfing. Strong winds can get rolling around September, but they don't really take off until December and January. This is the best time to surf on the east coast of Sardinia or for the hidden spots on the east side of Sicily (for our purposes, these are the most important surf destinations). The key to Tuscany's mainland spots of Varazze and Liguria is either a rare summer sirocco punch from France or a strong mistral. This is the best option for reliable waves and it's at its best in February or March.
Best Places to Surf in Italy
1. Best Spots for Beginners:
Artiglieria
Artiglieria, in Sabaudia, offers fast peeling waves with potential barreling parts. Due to the comparatively low height of the tides, the area may be appropriate for novices despite its fairly consistent surf breaks. The reduced heights also make it ideal for improving your surfing skills or adjusting to the waves while practicing your balance on the board while enjoying the offshore wind. Although the wind's intensity varies during the day, the change is very moderate.
Serapo
Serapo, a beach with clear seas and a considerable crowd, is located in the middle of Gaeta. This surf spot's beach breakers go up to 1.24 miles (2 km). The north side of the beach receives enormous northwest swells or tiny windless southwest swells, whilst the south side receives swells from the southeast. This surf site is excellent for novices because the waves are peakier and have smaller heights than other surfing spots.
Lido di Ostia
Lido di Ostia is a beach resort located just a few minutes from Rome's central area. The beach has average waves several times a day, with small, unwind southwest to northwest swells that continue to the shore. The majority of the beach is private so you will need to inquire at the bars if you want to surf there. This area is very popular with locals and is often crowded. The cool, refreshing waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea make this a great place for surfing. You can also visit Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman ruin located nearby.
2. Best Spots for Expert Surfers
Banzai
Banzai is home to at least three generations of Italian surfers. It is also a popular spot that attracts large crowds. The coast is known for its fast waves. Surfing is dangerous because of the presence of sea urchins, uneven reefs, and other hazards. The tide can change quickly depending on the wind conditions. This spot is not recommended for beginners due to these factors. The water quality is good and the wind is strong. It's a good idea for low tide to visit towns like S. Marinella and S. Severa to grab a slice of pizza.
La Roccetta
La Roccetta is located 200m (656 feet) south of Santa Marinella harbor. La Roccetta is a rock ledge that is very low where A-frame peak peaks often break. It is quite small and has waves that are decent in height. You should be aware of the differences in the breaks. The right side has slower breaks and is more intense, while the left side is faster but less intense and offers barreling sections. It is not recommended for beginners to surf here due to the different breaks and the dangers of coral reefs below.
La Chiesa
If you find Lido Garda or other popular surfing sites to be too crowded or dirty, La Chiesa is a terrific alternative. Rides to Nettuno's seaside village are available from the beach breaks provided by the La Chiesa beach. This is great for surfers who enjoy huge waves and want to improve their skills at a higher level. While you're up there, take in the view of the beach town from the crest of the wave and appreciate the sensation of the wind on your hair.
Sardegna
Sardegna is just a short flight away from major cities and a long boat ride from the ports on mainland Italy. The island receives most of the available swell from the south, all the way to the north-west and the Mediterranean (and very rarely the east). Sardegna, being in a very exposed area of Italy, is highly susceptible to wind. This can cause waves to change. However, it can be stated that surfers who are just trying to catch waves in lower-quality spots won't be discouraged by a constant on-shore wind. Mini Capo is one of the most difficult waves in Italy and requires perfect conditions. You need a strong North West wind to lift the faces as they emerge from deep under the reef, and a large swell to close in from the west to the south. Are you addicted to adrenaline pumping? You bet. Barrels? Absolutely! Are they quirky? Tonnes of them. Keep an eye out for urchins. This is only a small part of Italian surfing spots. Italy is home to hidden gems in every nook and crevice of coastline. While Italy might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of perfect barrels or huge walls of water to rip apart with, its quality, power, and fun cannot be denied. Although these solid swells might seem elusive, they are possible if you wait. Keep searching.
3. Best place for all
Sant’Agostino
Sant'Agostino, a popular spot for surfing along the beach's beautiful shoreline, is a good choice. It can be found near Gaeta on Route Flacca. The beach breaks are quite exposed and have a regular surf. However, it is usually flat in summer. It is more popular with southpaws, and it is also less crowded. The southeast winds are ideal and the waves are more likely to be generated by the wind swells than from distant groundwells. The spot is a great spot for surfing, but you should still be aware of rocks.
Lido Garda
This spot is located north of Anzio and is less than an hours drive from Rome. This beach is located right in front of the "Lido Garda Hotel". Waves are consistent with both right and left breaks. They peak closer to the harbor. You can use a shortboard, or even a mini-long board to enjoy this spot. The beach is often crowded in summer because of the many families who visit it. This contributes to pollution. Winter is the best time to visit as it is the best season for weather. You can also visit Anzio, a nearby city, while you're surfing. It is known for its many fish restaurants. This will make your trip to Italy a two-fer.
Fontane Bianche
Water sports are one of the most popular things to do during the summer holidays in Italy. Fontane Bianche is the perfect place. Fontane Bianche is located 7.5 miles (12 km) from Syracuse, along the Ionian Sea Coast of Sicily Island. It runs from Siracusa City into the southeast region of Sicily. Fontane Bianche's name derives from the many freshwater springs found on the seabed. The water is very deep and has both left and right breaks. The calm and warm water make it great for everyone, even beginners. You can take a break from surfing by visiting nearby bars and restaurants as well as sites like the Natural Reserve of Vendicari.
Liguria
Liguria has one of the most beautiful surf spots in Italy. Surfers of all levels can find what they're looking for in Liguria, which covers 350 km (220 miles). Levanto has one of the most famous waves in Italy and boasts over 500m of stunning coastline. The waves are accessible to all borders, even though they can be crowded. This is due to the variety of peaks that operate at different difficulties when the swells hit, and the long stretch of beach that allows for a spread of surfers. You will find spots like Sanremo or Varazze as you head towards the French border. These spots are just as popular as Levanto and offer more technical waves that challenge those who choose to go out. This section of the Ligurian coast has a large reef that provides excellent waves and allows for critical take-offs. There is also plenty to rip underfoot.
Tuscany
Similar to Liguria's coast, Tuscany's coastline is highly sought-after for its picturesque views, delicious food, and vibrant towns. Each year, millions of tourists visit the region. This is why it's easy to overlook its amazing surf spots. Ansedonia, the southernmost spot for surfing in Tuscany, is easily accessible with any amount of southerly wind. It can still be operated with onshore winds. The wave is also durable because it offers enough space for surfers to not crowd each other. Further north, Garagolo, and Lillatro activate, as the swells come more from the west. These spots can be reached in less than 10 minutes by car. If there are waves, you have the opportunity to explore the best options within the area. These spots are also close to Livorno, which boasts 3 top-quality spots, all located in its southern stretches. With a car and some time, you can choose from more than 5 spots. All of them are different and offer quality and enjoyment for all levels of surfers.
Conclusion
Italy is a renowned surfing destination, boasting an impressive coastline and plenty of waves to catch. Surfers of all levels can enjoy the sport here, with many different spots to choose from. Our list above is the top best destinations you should try to go to. What are you waiting for? Let’s surf now.
