Lykkers, the Gargano Peninsula in southern Italy holds some of the most dramatic coastlines in the Mediterranean. Tucked away along this rugged coast near the town of Mattinata in Apulia is Baia delle Zagare, a beach defined by its towering white limestone cliffs and emerald waters.
The name comes from the fragrant orange blossoms that bloom in the surrounding area, but the true stars of the bay are the striking sea stacks, or faraglioni, that rise dramatically from the sea. For travelers seeking a visually stunning coastal escape, this hidden Apulian gem is an absolute must-see.
<h3>The Faraglioni and the Bay</h3>
The visual appeal of Baia delle Zagare lies in the sharp contrast between the bright white cliffs and the deep turquoise Adriatic Sea. The two iconic faraglioni are positioned just offshore, framing the bay perfectly. The beach itself is a mix of light sand and smooth white pebbles, which keeps the water incredibly clear and ideal for snorkeling. Swimming out toward the sea stacks offers a breathtaking perspective of the towering cliffs above. Because the beach is nestled deep within a cove, the waters remain relatively calm during the summer months, making it a highly relaxing environment.
<h3>Access and Entrance Costs</h3>
Reaching Baia delle Zagare requires a bit of planning, as access is carefully controlled to preserve the environment. The beach is accessible via a steep stairway connected to the clifftop hotels. The local municipality of Mattinata issues a limited number of free daily passes for public access, which you must request in advance at the local tourist office.
Without a free pass, you can pay for day access at one of the private beach clubs, which typically costs between US$35 and US$55 for two sunbeds and an umbrella. Alternatively, many visitors choose to see the bay by taking a guided boat tour from the nearby port of Mattinata, which usually costs about US$25 to US$40 per person.
<h3>Transportation and Logistics</h3>
The Gargano Peninsula is best explored by car. The closest major airport is in Bari, roughly a two-hour drive away. Renting a car from Bari generally costs between US$40 and US$70 per day. The coastal road leading to Mattinata, known as the SP53, is a winding, scenic route that requires careful driving but rewards you with spectacular sea views. If you are staying in the nearby town of Mattinata, the bay is only a fifteen-minute drive away.
<h3>Where to Stay</h3>
Accommodation options range from ultra-convenient luxury to charming local guesthouses. For direct elevator access to the beach, the clifftop resorts directly above Baia delle Zagare offer a premium experience, with rooms generally ranging from US$200 to US$350 per night during the peak summer season. For a more budget-friendly approach, basing yourself in the town of Mattinata is highly practical. The town offers excellent bed-and-breakfasts and mid-range hotels costing between US$80 and US$140 per night, keeping you close to the coast while providing easy access to local shops and evening walks.
<h3>Dining Options</h3>
Apulian cuisine is world-renowned for its simplicity and reliance on incredibly fresh, local ingredients. Dining around Mattinata focuses heavily on seafood, handmade pasta, and rich local olive oil. A traditional dinner featuring local specialties, such as orecchiette pasta with a fresh tomato and vegetable sauce or a plate of mixed grilled seafood, will typically cost between US$20 and US$35 per person. For a casual lunch to take to the beach, local bakeries sell traditional Apulian focaccia topped with cherry tomatoes for just US$3 to US$5 a slice.
<h3>Final Thoughts</h3>
Baia delle Zagare is a destination that rewards travelers who are willing to navigate a slightly more complex access process. The dramatic scenery of the white sea stacks against the Adriatic waters is entirely unique to the Gargano coast. Whether you secure a public pass, book a comfortable sunbed, or admire the cliffs from a boat, experiencing the pristine beauty of this Apulian bay is a true highlight of southern Italy.
