The 9 Wonderful Conero Beaches in the South of Ancona

The Conero Riviera is one of the most fascinating gems of the Marche region, a coastal stretch that enchants with its perfect balance of wild nature and breathtaking landscapes. The Conero Beaches, located south of Ancona, are dreamy destinations offering crystal-clear waters, stunning views, and lush vegetation embracing Monte Conero, making them truly unique!
Unlike the more famous Romagna Riviera, the Conero Riviera (Marche) has preserved an authentic and unspoiled atmosphere, characterized by the scent of salt air mixed with the aromas of myrtle, pine trees, and cultivated fields.
From the gentle hills overlooking the Adriatic, you can admire spectacular views of historic towns like Loreto, Castelfidardo, and Camerano, bathed in the warm colors of summer sunsets or the crisp air of spring.
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The Wonderful Conero Beaches
The Conero Beaches offer a unique experience: hidden and peaceful coves alternate with well-equipped beaches that are easy to access, leading to the long Marcelli Beach, which offers a full range of services.
Here, you won’t find luxury shops or a frantic nightlife, just the freedom to move around in light clothing and comfortable sandals, immersed in an authentic and relaxing landscape. In this article, we will explore some of the most beautiful Conero Riviera beaches that are absolutely worth visiting… and taking a dip in!
Mezzavalle Beach
Located in Portonovo, at the beginning of the Conero Riviera, Mezzavalle Beach is a hidden gem. A bit of effort is required to reach it, but the reward is a refreshing swim in its clear waters. The beach is accessible via a steep path north of Portonovo or by sea. There are no beach clubs, but you’ll find showers, restrooms, and a restaurant.
Beach type: pebbles and gravel.
How to get there
Drive along the Conero Provincial Road towards Portonovo. Then, continue on foot via two different trails descending the hillside—one longer and winding, the other shorter and steeper.
Portonovo Beach
Portonovo is a bay that embraces the northern base of Monte Conero. Nestled in the lush greenery of the mountain, the bay is adorned with a shoreline of smooth white pebbles. It features both free beach areas and fully equipped sections with numerous seafood restaurants by the sea. It’s a popular spot for surfers when the sirocco and ostro winds blow.
Beach type: smooth pebbles and gravel.
How to get there
Drive along the Conero Provincial Road towards Portonovo. Parking is limited. If the road is closed to traffic, a shuttle bus service runs from the upper parking lot.
“La Vela” Beach
Also in Portonovo, La Vela Beach gets its name from the sail-shaped rock at the end of the shoreline. This stretch of coast is the last swimmable area at the foot of the northern slope of Monte Conero.
Beach type: pebbles and gravel.
How to get there
Drive along the Conero Provincial Road towards Portonovo and take the road that descends the mountainside. Parking is limited. If the road is closed to traffic, a shuttle bus service operates from the upper parking area.
“Due Sorelle” Beach
The Due Sorelle (Two Sisters) are two sharp rock formations that have become the symbol of the Conero Riviera. Positioned side by side—hence their name—they mark the entrance to the first white beach on the southern slope of Monte Conero. This stretch of coastline is wild and untouched, accessible only by sea, and has no available services.
Beach type: gravel, pebbles, and rocks.
How to get there
The beach is accessible only by sea via daily ferry services from Numana’s port.
“Sassi Neri” Beach
Sassi Neri Beach is a long, wide, and wild shore, often frequented by naturists. It’s a peaceful and natural retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.
Beach type: dark sand and pebbles.
How to get there
Reachable on foot from the Parco della Repubblica in Sirolo or by bus from Sirolo’s town hall. In the off-season, it’s accessible by car.
“San Michele” Beach
Located in Numana, San Michele Beach lies at the base of cliffs that descend into the sea. Separated from Sassi Neri Beach by a small coastal stretch, it is partly free and partly equipped, offering a wild yet picturesque setting.
Beach type: pebbles and gravel.
How to get there
By foot or shuttle bus, which runs every 30 minutes.
Urbani Beach
A charming crescent-shaped beach nestled between a cave and a towering cliff, protected by a semicircular rock barrier. The strong scent of pine trees, the vast sandy shoreline equipped with beach resorts, and the clean waters make this bay a unique and repeatedly awarded Blue Flag beach.
Beach type: pebbles and gravel.
How to get there
Accessible by foot, car, or shuttle bus. A 1 km road leads down to the beach from the center of Sirolo.
Numana Alta Beach – “La Spiaggiola”
La Spiaggiola is an enchanting, elegant, and secluded beach, dotted with colorful umbrellas. With well-equipped beach resorts, shallow waters, and three protective reefs, this northern stretch of coast near the port is one of the most beloved spots among tourists, particularly those from Rome and Milan.
Beach type: fine and well-maintained sand.
How to get there
By bus; a 15-minute ride from Numana’s main square.
Numana Bassa and Marcelli Beach
From Numana Bassa to Marcelli, you’ll find well-equipped beach resorts featuring long rows of umbrellas, cabins, and numerous restaurants. This area is well-organized and offers excellent hospitality and services, making it ideal for families on vacation.
Unfortunately, the Marcelli town center, like many other seaside resorts along the coast, has suffered from heavy and disorderly construction, especially with buildings dating back to the 1970s.
Beach type: fine and well-maintained sand.
Overlooking these beautiful beaches are the picturesque villages of Numana and Sirolo, where you can stroll through evening markets, wander charming stone-paved streets, and explore quaint alleys full of character.
I hope you find this list useful. If you have any questions or would like to recommend another beautiful beach on the Conero Riviera, please leave me a comment below.
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