
Malpasso Beach
A stunning Ligurian beach with clear blue waters and dramatic cliffs, perfect for a scenic escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Malpasso Beach
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Ligurian beach with clear blue waters and dramatic cliffs, perfect for a scenic escape.
"One of the best beaches in Liguria! The water is magical and super clear!"

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 10 AM or be prepared for paid parking nearby.
💰 Entrance Fee & Options
Expect a small entrance fee (~€5). Bring your own umbrella/towels or rent them on-site.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters
Malpasso Beach
Dive into incredibly clear, blue waters perfect for swimming and enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

Dramatic Cliffside Scenery
Malpasso Beach
Marvel at the striking cliffs that frame the beach, offering a dramatic and picturesque backdrop.

Relaxing Beach Vibe
Malpasso Beach
Unwind on the sandy and pebbly shores, soaking up the sun and the laid-back Italian coastal atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for Prime Spots
Understand Beach Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 10 AM or be prepared for paid parking nearby.
💰 Entrance Fee & Options
Expect a small entrance fee (~€5). Bring your own umbrella/towels or rent them on-site.
🚿 Rinse Only Showers
Showers are for rinsing off sand and salt, no soap or shampoo allowed.
🎶 Bar Music Location
For a quieter experience, head to the far left side of the beach to avoid bar music.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 10 AM or be prepared for paid parking nearby.
💰 Entrance Fee & Options
Expect a small entrance fee (~€5). Bring your own umbrella/towels or rent them on-site.
🚿 Rinse Only Showers
Showers are for rinsing off sand and salt, no soap or shampoo allowed.
🎶 Bar Music Location
For a quieter experience, head to the far left side of the beach to avoid bar music.
🥽 Water Safety
Some visitors noted a lack of dedicated beach staff for water safety. Be mindful of conditions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Malpasso Beach is praised for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffside setting, making it a must-visit in Liguria. Visitors appreciate the organized facilities and the option to bring their own gear. However, parking can be a significant challenge, and some guests noted a lack of dedicated water safety personnel.
"We came early because we are from Valle d'Aosta, this picture was taken 3rd week of June 2025,
Everything was perfect when you early the parking was free in front of the entrance,
They open at 8am, you can bring your umbrella and bed or food or you can rent,
Remember their SHOWER Not allowed to use shampoo or any soap JUST RINSE"
Rose
"When I come to Liguria, this is a must-visit place to spend a whole day ... Everything is very organized and clean.
Thank you for a wonderful stay 😉
PS: please help to put the umbrella up if necessary, I'm smaller than the umbrella, so how can I put it in …? 🙏🏻
PPS: the beach staff does everything but not protect guests in the water... It's a pity, I would like to feel safe in the water…"
Elena
"You need to go early for parking, otherwise you won't find any parking. very nice beach ⛱️⛱️⛱️"
Jomar Ramos (Balahura Rider)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Malpasso Beach is located on the Riviera di Ponente, between Noli and Varigotti in Liguria, Italy. You can drive and park nearby, though parking can be challenging during peak times. Public transport options might involve buses to Noli or Varigotti, followed by a walk or short taxi ride.
Yes, there is parking available, but it fills up very quickly, especially in summer. Arriving early is highly recommended for free parking. A paid parking lot is also available a short walk away.
While direct public transport to the beach itself might be limited, you can take buses to nearby towns like Noli or Varigotti and then walk or arrange local transport. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Access to Malpasso Beach involves a short walk from the road or parking area. Some areas might require a bit of scrambling over rocks, especially if you're looking for more secluded spots.
Yes, Malpasso Beach is a great option for a day trip from Genoa, offering a beautiful coastal escape. It's less crowded than some other Ligurian hotspots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee of around 5 euros per person. This fee helps maintain the beach facilities.
Absolutely! You are welcome to bring your own umbrella, towels, and even food. Alternatively, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas on-site.
The beach generally opens around 8 AM, and it's advisable to arrive early, especially for parking and securing a good spot.
Some visitors mention that fees might not be collected if you arrive after around 3:30 PM, though this can vary.
Malpasso Beach offers amenities like a bar, sunbed and umbrella rentals, and rinsing showers. Restrooms are also available for an additional fee.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Malpasso Beach features a mix of sand and pebbles, set against dramatic cliffs. The water is known for its clarity and beautiful blue color.
It can get crowded, especially during peak season (July-August). Visiting on weekdays or in the shoulder seasons (June, September) can offer a less crowded experience. Arriving early is always a good strategy.
The primary activities are swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenic beauty. The clear waters are great for a refreshing dip.
The showers are strictly for rinsing off salt and sand. Using shampoo or soap is not permitted.
While beautiful, families should be aware that some areas might involve rocky terrain, and water safety can be a concern for younger children as dedicated lifeguards might be limited.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the beach with its dramatic cliffs, the clear blue water, and the coastline. Drone photography offers unique aerial perspectives.
Drone photography is popular here, offering incredible aerial views of the coastline and beach. Ensure you are aware of any local regulations regarding drone usage.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, can provide beautiful lighting for photography, highlighting the colors of the sea and cliffs.
The unique rock formations and the curve of the bay itself are iconic. The contrast between the rugged cliffs and the serene sea is a photographer's dream.
Expect breathtaking landscape shots, close-ups of the clear water, and panoramic views of the Ligurian coast.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that the showers are for rinsing only, so plan accordingly. While there's a bar, bringing your own snacks and drinks can be a good idea, especially for picky eaters. The entrance fee is modest, and you can save money by bringing your own umbrella and towels.
💰 Budget Travelers
Arriving early is crucial for securing free parking, as paid options can add up. If you're flexible with timing, visiting after 3:30 PM might mean no entrance fee, though this isn't guaranteed. Opting for a weekday visit outside of peak season can also lead to a more affordable and less crowded experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Drone pilots will find Malpasso Beach particularly rewarding, with its unique geological formations and coastal vistas. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a soft, warm glow that accentuates the scenery. Don't miss the chance to capture the waves crashing against the rocks, adding a dynamic element to your portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Malpasso Beach: Access and Amenities
It's important to note the specific rules regarding the showers: they are designated for rinsing off salt and sand only, and the use of soap or shampoo is prohibited. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, positioning yourself on the far left side of the beach can help you avoid the music from the on-site bar. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, framed by impressive cliffs, making it a visually striking destination.
The Best Times to Visit Malpasso Beach
Visiting during the shoulder seasons, such as early June or September, can offer a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. While July and August are peak months, arriving after 3:30 PM might mean reduced entrance fees, though this can vary. Weekdays generally provide a quieter experience compared to weekends. The water, while refreshing, can still be a bit cool in early June, but it's perfect for beating the midday heat.
Photography Opportunities at Malpasso Beach
For those with drones, Malpasso Beach offers spectacular aerial perspectives, showcasing the curve of the bay and the rugged coastline. Capturing the vibrant blue of the water, the texture of the pebbles and sand, and the overall serene yet dramatic landscape will result in memorable images. The golden hours, both at sunrise and sunset, are particularly magical for photography, bathing the scene in warm, soft light.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit