There’s something a bit magic about swapping Rome’s cobbled chaos for the salty air of a proper Italian seaside town. The best part? You don’t need to trek far – Lazio’s coast is full of lively beach towns, golden sands, seafood that actually tastes like the sea. The beach towns near Rome are brilliant for both quick escapes where you go for a dip after sightseeing, and longer stays, a lazy weekend by the Tyrrhenian. Sand, sunbeds and a chilled aperitivo are never far from the Italian capital.
Top lesser-known beach towns near Rome
Santa Marinella
Santa Marinella is a real favourite with Rome locals looking for a breezy escape that isn’t overrun with tourists. It's also home to one of the best beaches near Rome. The town has a long pebbly-sandy stretch, clear water, and a mix of public and managed beaches where you can nab a sunbed for the afternoon. Don’t miss the little harbour and the castle that feels lifted from a children’s storybook—there’s even a local sea and urchin festival in August.
To get to Santa Marinella, you can hop on a regional train from Roma Termini or Roma San Pietro, and you’ll be paddling within an hour. Trains run frequently with tickets no more than €5, and the beach is a short stroll from the station.
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Santa Severa
A bit quieter and rougher around the edges, Santa Severa is best known for its dramatic castle that practically sits in the waves. The beach has soft sand near the main castle stretch and remains reliable for a swim without the big beach crowds.
Catch the regional train towards Civitavecchia and hop off at Santa Severa. It’s a five-minute amble to the sand, and you can bring your own picnic or try some honest, no-frills seafood from the beach kiosks.
Nettuno
Neighbouring Anzio but usually sleepier, Nettuno keeps a more local feel with colourful beach umbrellas and a medieval quarter right by the sea. If you’re into quirky Italian festivities, the town’s Madonna delle Grazie celebrations are something special, with boats gathering in the harbour each July.
You can get a direct train from Roma Termini—journey’s roughly an hour and ten, and the beach is a stroll from the central piazza.
Anzio
This port town comes with an old-school Italian vibe and plenty of space to spread out—crystal shallows, local fishing boats, proper trattorie, and a historic centre that’s not been jazzed up for mass tourism. Anzio’s beaches run long and sandy, and the town is known for its ties to World War II—there’s a respectful air around the commonwealth cemetery and the museum for those interested.
From Rome, regional trains go direct from Termini in about 60 minutes. Beaches are close to the town centre, and it’s fun to wander from sunlounger to gelato in just a few steps.
Ladispoli
Proper sandy beaches here, and usually a bit more elbow room compared to the more famous spots. The lungomare (seafront promenade) is lively at weekends but avoids the mega-tourist bustle. You’ll find family businesses, good value focaccia, and the annual artichoke festival—Sagra del Carciofo—brings the place alive every spring.
Trains run around every half an hour from Rome and only take about 40 minutes. It’s ideal if you want a quick, easy break with proper local weekender spirit.
Torvaianica
Low-key and off the tourist radar, Torvaianica’s wide beaches attract Roman families who want long stretches of sand and affordable lidos. There’s a playful, easygoing energy—think kids digging in the sand, espresso from a beach bar, and the odd old-timer fishing by the pier.
Hop on the Cotral bus from Laurentina (on Metro Line B) or drive the short stretch down the coast road—the beach is nearly always within easy reach of wherever you park.
Marina di San Nicola
For something small-scale and peaceful, Marina di San Nicola is a little residential enclave with a decent beach, proper sand, and hushed afternoons out of season. It's nothing flashy, but a sound escape if you want to keep things as local and hassle-free as possible.
Drive from Rome (about 40 minutes) or use the frequent trains to Ladispoli and then a local bus or bike along the flat road.
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