Top 5 beaches in Molise
Molise has a short Adriatic coastline with sandy shores, dunes and seaside towns. These five beaches offer different ways to enjoy it, from Termoli’s historic waterfront to Petacciato and Campomarino. Combine your beach days with our 5-day Molise itinerary.
5. Marina di Montenero
At the northern end of Molise’s coast, Marina di Montenero combines a beach visit with a promenade and the boats of Marina Sveva. Also known as Costa Verde, this is the coastal part of Montenero di Bisaccia, close to the Abruzzo border. It works well as a stop when travelling into Molise from the north.
Why visit: A coastal promenade, beach time and the setting around Marina Sveva.
Hidden Italy tip: Distinguish the marina from inland Montenero di Bisaccia when setting your route. For a longer trip through the region, follow our five-day road trip from Termoli.
4. Rio Vivo, Termoli
South of Termoli, Rio Vivo has a broad sandy shore and a strong connection to watersports. Sailing, surfing and beach sports are part of its character, offering a different setting from Sant’Antonio on the northern side of town. Choose the section and facilities that suit your plans.
Why visit: A broad sandy beach with opportunities for watersports and beach activities.
Hidden Italy tip: Check local wind and sea conditions, and follow lifeguard advice. After the beach, head into Termoli’s old town, the starting point of day one of our Molise itinerary.
3. Campomarino Lido
Campomarino Lido pairs a long sandy shoreline with dunes, pinewoods and the facilities of an established seaside resort. South of the Biferno river, it offers equipped lidos along Lungomare degli Aviatori, making it a practical choice for a beach day with lunch close by.
Why visit: Sandy shoreline, coastal vegetation and a choice of equipped beach establishments.
Hidden Italy tip: Allow time for the separate historic village of Campomarino inland, where murals reflect its Arbëreshë heritage. For the wider region, explore our Molise travel guide.
2. Petacciato Marina
Pale sand and coastal dunes make Petacciato Marina one of Molise’s distinctive beach settings. This stretch north of Termoli suits a day focused on the shoreline, with equipped areas available if you want a sunbed and refreshments. The marina is separate from Petacciato’s hilltop village.
Why visit: Fine pale sand, dunes and a mix of beach settings along the coast.
Hidden Italy tip: Stay on established access paths around the dunes. Use designated parking and check current seasonal charges and restrictions; beach facilities and services vary by stretch.
1. Sant’Antonio, Termoli
Fine sand, a seafront promenade and Termoli’s old town give Sant’Antonio its appeal. The beach stretches north of the historic centre along Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo, with equipped lidos and a gently shelving seabed. Combine a few hours by the sea with a walk through the borgo and dinner in town.
Why visit: A sandy beach within easy reach of Termoli’s historic centre and waterfront.
Hidden Italy tip: Follow day one of our Molise itinerary to combine the cathedral square, the outside of Castello Svevo and beach time. Check local sea conditions; a gently shelving shore does not mean the water is always calm.
Plan your Molise trip
Explore beyond the coast with our Molise travel guide and five-day road trip. Beach establishments, equipment hire and parking may involve charges; check local signs and current services, especially outside the summer season.
5-day roadtrip
Follow a five-day loop from Termoli to Larino, Roman Saepinum, Castel San Vincenzo and Samnite Pietrabbondante, with practical driving estimates and overnight bases.
Molise Travel Guide
Discover Molise’s hidden gems, mountain villages and ancient heritage, with seasonal advice and practical tips for planning your trip.