Tigullio · the sea from Rapallo
The best beaches in the Tigullio, from Rapallo.
Sand, fine gravel, sheltered bays and rocky shores with clear water. The Tigullio Gulf offers very different beaches, almost all reachable from Rapallo by train or ferry. Here are the best, with practical advice on when to go and how to get there car-free.
Unlike other rivieras, the Tigullio has no long stretches of sand: its beaches are small, often set between headlands, and that is part of their charm. Many are free, others run as beach clubs (18-35 EUR a day for two loungers and an umbrella). The best way to reach them is the regional train or the ferry: parking in summer is hard and expensive.
The selection
The best beaches in the Tigullio.
Bagni Castello, Rapallo
The beach in central Rapallo, at the foot of the castle on the sea. Sand and gravel, handy because it is steps from the station and the seafront. A mix of free beach and beach clubs. Ideal for a day with no travel.
San Michele di Pagana
A tucked-away bay between Rapallo and Santa Margherita, with especially clear water and a church holding a Van Dyck painting. Small, loved by locals, reachable on foot or by bus from Rapallo.
Paraggi
The turquoise beach between Santa Margherita and Portofino, the only sandy one on the promontory. Caribbean-like water but exclusive, pricey beach clubs. Reached by bus or ferry. The most scenic in the Tigullio.
Bay of Silence, Sestri Levante
One of Italy's most photographed bays: sand, colourful houses in a semicircle and calm water. 20 minutes by train from Rapallo. Very busy in August, magical early in the morning.
Punta Chiappa and San Fruttuoso
Not sandy beaches but rocky shores and sea platforms, with clear water in the protected marine area. Punta Chiappa is reached from Camogli, San Fruttuoso only by sea or trail. For those who love diving into deep water.
Cavi di Lavagna
For those after sand and space: Lavagna has one of the longest beaches on the eastern Riviera, good for families. 20 minutes by train from Rapallo, with wide free stretches.
Info pratiche
How to choose and get there
For families with small children, the sandy beaches are best (Bagni Castello, Bay of Silence, Cavi di Lavagna). For those who love deep, clear water, the rocky shores of Punta Chiappa and San Fruttuoso. Paraggi is the most beautiful but the most expensive.
Almost all are reached by regional train (Genoa-La Spezia line) or by Tigullio Maritime Service ferry. In summer, leave the car: parking near the beaches is scarce and costly, and Portofino has a limited traffic zone. From Rapallo, a central base, you reach everywhere in 5-30 minutes.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
What are the sandy beaches in the Tigullio?
The main sand or fine-gravel beaches are Bagni Castello in Rapallo, the Bay of Silence in Sestri Levante, Cavi di Lavagna and, on the promontory, Paraggi. Many other coastal spots are rocky with sea access from platforms.
Are there free beaches in the Tigullio?
Yes, several: part of Bagni Castello in Rapallo, stretches of Lavagna, and some coves. Beach clubs cost on average 18-35 EUR a day for two loungers and an umbrella. In high season it pays to arrive early for the free spots.
How do you reach the beaches without a car?
By regional train on the Genoa-La Spezia line (Rapallo, Santa Margherita, Sestri, Lavagna) or by Tigullio Maritime Service ferry for Portofino, San Fruttuoso and Camogli. In summer the train is far more practical than the car.
Which is the most beautiful beach in the Tigullio?
It depends on taste: Paraggi has the most spectacular water but is pricey and exclusive; the Bay of Silence in Sestri is the most photogenic; San Michele di Pagana has clear water and a local feel. For sand, Cavi di Lavagna.
Who is Rapallo Smart Home for?
For couples, families or small groups up to 4 guests. Rapallo is the central Tigullio base: you reach all the beaches by train or ferry and return in the evening to a real home with a kitchen.
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