Malpasso Beach
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Malpasso Beach

4.5
·3k reviews·, Italy

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early June mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
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Malpasso Beach

Malpasso Beach

Best Time

Early June mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(3k reviews)

"One of the best beaches in Liguria! The water is magical and super clear!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

Malpasso Beach

Dive into incredibly clear, blue waters perfect for swimming and enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

Instagram+1
Dramatic Cliffside Scenery

Dramatic Cliffside Scenery

Malpasso Beach

Marvel at the striking cliffs that frame the beach, offering a dramatic and picturesque backdrop.

Instagram
Relaxing Beach Vibe

Relaxing Beach Vibe

Malpasso Beach

Unwind on the sandy and pebbly shores, soaking up the sun and the laid-back Italian coastal atmosphere.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Prime Spots

Malpasso Beach can get busy, especially during peak season. Arriving early is key to securing free parking and the best spots on the sand or rocks. Consider visiting in early June to enjoy the beach before the major crowds arrive. Reddit

Understand Beach Access & Amenities

While some areas of Malpasso Beach are free, there's an entrance fee of around 5 euros per person. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas or bring your own. Note that showers are for rinsing only, and soap is not permitted. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Early June mornings
Why
Beat the crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (after 3:30 PM)
Why
Reduced entrance fees
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays outside July/August
Why
Quieter, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🩵 Un destino increíble para los próximos meses: la Costa de Liguria #viajestiktok #italia #genova
@akkicris
48K likes • 1M views

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Free parking fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 10 AM or be prepared for paid parking nearby. TikTokReddit

💰 Entrance Fee & Options

Expect a small entrance fee (~€5). Bring your own umbrella/towels or rent them on-site. TikTokReddit

POV: sei un po’ genovese nell’anima e no, la spiaggia non si paga. Le spiagge di più belle tra Santa e Portofino sono davvero quelle libere. Tra gli scogli, dopo un po’ di scarpinate, ci sono gli scorci in cui l’acqua è più blu, dove incastrarsi e leggere per tutto il giorno. Si trovano tra Paraggi e Portofino e sono uno più bella dell’altro. Ma uno è nel mio cuore. Un rifugio, una certezza, un an...
@doralicebosio
25K likes • 414.6K views
#malpasso #italy #beach #travel
yuliia_kompanchenko
47 likes • 1.3K views

🚿 Rinse Only Showers

Showers are for rinsing off sand and salt, no soap or shampoo allowed. Reddit

🎶 Bar Music Location

For a quieter experience, head to the far left side of the beach to avoid bar music. Reddit

From Capo Noli through Malpasso Beach to Baia dei Saraceni around Wonderful Noli #noli #ligurien #wonderfulnoli #italien #aroundwonderfulnoli #ferienhaus www.wonderfulnoli.com
wonderfulnoli
126 likes • 10.1K views

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. TikTokReddit

💰 Entrance Fee & Options

Expect a small entrance fee (~€5). Bring your own umbrella/towels or rent them on-site. TikTokReddit

🚿 Rinse Only Showers

Showers are for rinsing off sand and salt, no soap or shampoo allowed. Reddit

🎶 Bar Music Location

For a quieter experience, head to the far left side of the beach to avoid bar music. Reddit

🥽 Water Safety

Some visitors noted a lack of dedicated beach staff for water safety. Be mindful of conditions. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

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

Beautiful clear water
Dramatic cliff scenery
Organized facilities

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Limited water safety

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is typically an entrance fee of around 5 euros per person. This fee helps maintain the beach facilities. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! You are welcome to bring your own umbrella, towels, and even food. Alternatively, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas on-site. Reddit

The beach generally opens around 8 AM, and it's advisable to arrive early, especially for parking and securing a good spot. Reddit

Some visitors mention that fees might not be collected if you arrive after around 3:30 PM, though this can vary. Reddit

Malpasso Beach offers amenities like a bar, sunbed and umbrella rentals, and rinsing showers. Restrooms are also available for an additional fee. TikTok

🎫 🏖️ 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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

The primary activities are swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenic beauty. The clear waters are great for a refreshing dip. Instagram+1

The showers are strictly for rinsing off salt and sand. Using shampoo or soap is not permitted. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the beach with its dramatic cliffs, the clear blue water, and the coastline. Drone photography offers unique aerial perspectives. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, can provide beautiful lighting for photography, highlighting the colors of the sea and cliffs. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Expect breathtaking landscape shots, close-ups of the clear water, and panoramic views of the Ligurian coast. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Malpasso Beach can be a beautiful spot for families, but it's important to be prepared. While the clear waters are inviting, some visitors have noted a lack of dedicated beach staff for water safety, so extra vigilance is advised with young children. Reddit The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, which can be fun for kids to explore. Consider bringing water shoes for comfort. Arriving early is essential to find convenient parking and a good spot for your family's setup. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Malpasso Beach offers a relatively budget-friendly beach experience in Liguria. The entrance fee is around 5 euros per person, which is quite reasonable for a well-maintained beach. TikTokReddit To save further, pack your own umbrella, towels, and picnic lunch. This avoids rental costs and allows you to control your spending on food and drinks. Reddit

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. Reddit Opting for a weekday visit outside of peak season can also lead to a more affordable and less crowded experience.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Malpasso Beach is a dream for photographers, offering dramatic landscapes and stunning natural beauty. The combination of rugged cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and the Ligurian coastline provides endless opportunities for captivating shots. Instagram+2 Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the water and sky. Instagram

Drone pilots will find Malpasso Beach particularly rewarding, with its unique geological formations and coastal vistas. Instagram 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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Malpasso Beach: Access and Amenities

Malpasso Beach, nestled between Noli and Varigotti, offers a stunning Ligurian coastal experience. Access typically involves a short walk from the roadside parking areas. While some parts of the beach are free to access, there's usually a small entrance fee, around 5 euros per person, which contributes to the upkeep of facilities. Visitors have the option to bring their own beach gear or rent sunbeds and umbrellas on-site for added comfort. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, framed by impressive cliffs, making it a visually striking destination. Instagram

The Best Times to Visit Malpasso Beach

To make the most of your visit to Malpasso Beach, timing is crucial. Arriving early in the morning, particularly before 10 AM, is highly recommended. This strategy not only helps you secure a spot in the often limited free parking but also allows you to claim a prime location on the beach before it gets crowded. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Photography Opportunities at Malpasso Beach

Malpasso Beach is a photographer's paradise, offering a wealth of visual opportunities. The dramatic cliffs that rise behind the beach provide a stunning natural backdrop, contrasting beautifully with the clear, azure waters of the Ligurian Sea. Instagram+1 The interplay of light and shadow on the rock formations throughout the day creates dynamic scenes. Instagram

For those with drones, Malpasso Beach offers spectacular aerial perspectives, showcasing the curve of the bay and the rugged coastline. Instagram 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. Instagram

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