San Montano Beach
A stunning bay on Ischia island, famous for its thermal hot springs flowing into the sea and a beautiful, albeit divided, beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
San Montano Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning bay on Ischia island, famous for its thermal hot springs flowing into the sea and a beautiful, albeit divided, beach.
"Beautiful beach with unique thermal springs, but be prepared for the cost of private sections."
💰 Private vs. Public Beach
Public beach is free but small & crowded. Private sections are pricey (€60+ for umbrellas).
♨️ Embrace the Thermal Waters
Don't miss the natural hot springs flowing into the sea for a unique experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thermal Hot Springs
Experience unique natural hot springs flowing into the sea for a therapeutic and relaxing dip.
Negombo Thermal Spa
Adjacent to San Montano Beach
Explore 14 thermal pools, lush gardens, art installations, and a sandy beach in a picturesque bay.
Bay of San Montano
A stunning, sheltered cove known for its natural beauty, clear waters, and dramatic cliff backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating San Montano Beach
Beyond the Sand: Thermal Springs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Private vs. Public Beach
Public beach is free but small & crowded. Private sections are pricey (€60+ for umbrellas).
♨️ Embrace the Thermal Waters
Don't miss the natural hot springs flowing into the sea for a unique experience.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll need to walk a bit into the water to avoid sand; good for kids.
🍽️ Beachside Dining
Enjoy surprisingly good food at beach cafeterias, like fresh seafood.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Private vs. Public Beach
Public beach is free but small & crowded. Private sections are pricey (€60+ for umbrellas).
♨️ Embrace the Thermal Waters
Don't miss the natural hot springs flowing into the sea for a unique experience.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll need to walk a bit into the water to avoid sand; good for kids.
🍽️ Beachside Dining
Enjoy surprisingly good food at beach cafeterias, like fresh seafood.
📅 Book Negombo in Advance
The popular Negombo Thermal Spa can get busy; pre-booking is wise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
San Montano Beach offers a beautiful setting with unique thermal springs, but visitors note a significant divide between the crowded, free public section and the expensive private areas. While some praise the natural beauty and family-friendliness, others criticize the high costs and basic facilities in the paid sections.
"Beach itself spreading in two parts. Arroun 70% private (you have to pay) and 30% public (for free). We used free on, they including toilets. The shade from the mountains come first on the free beach. It’s very great with kids, you need to walk little bit in the water to not feel sand under you feet. It’s very lovely. We are visiting in mid September so it’s not crowded. Recommend"
Olya Fostyk
"Nice beach with moderately steady slope for younger kids. There is free shade along shade if you don’t have umbrella next to cliffs. Water is clean and not rough bc in cove"
Tuan Pham
"Way too expensive for such basic service. No side tables, no lockers. Umbrellas are not adjustable. Owners should invest more into the facilities, not just raise the prices"
Anton Goncharov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Montano Beach is located in the municipality of Lacco Ameno on Ischia Island. You can reach it by local bus, taxi, or by car. Buses are a popular and affordable option for exploring the island.
Parking can be challenging in peak season. If driving, look for designated parking areas in Lacco Ameno and be prepared for a short walk or to use local transport to reach the beach.
Yes, depending on your starting point on Ischia, you can walk. It's a scenic island, so consider a leisurely stroll if you're staying nearby in Lacco Ameno.
Local buses are efficient and connect major towns and attractions, including San Montano Beach. Taxis are also available but will be more expensive.
While the beach itself is a natural setting, access to the private sections with amenities is generally good. The public area might be more basic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
San Montano Beach has both free and paid sections. The free public area is quite small and can become very crowded. The private sections require payment for sunbeds and umbrellas, which can be expensive.
Prices for private beach access, including sunbeds and umbrellas, can be high, with reports of umbrellas costing around €60 per day.
It is highly recommended to book tickets for Negombo Thermal Spa in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
The beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. The Negombo Thermal Spa has specific operating hours, which vary by season and should be checked on their official website.
Discounts are not widely advertised. It's best to check the official Negombo Thermal Spa website for any package deals or seasonal offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the unique thermal hot springs that flow into the sea. The adjacent Negombo Thermal Spa offers a wider range of activities including multiple thermal pools and gardens.
Yes, the beach has a moderately steady slope into the water, making it suitable for children. The free section's proximity to cliffs offers some natural shade.
Facilities vary between the public and private sections. The private areas offer sunbeds and umbrellas, while the public section is more basic. Some reviews mention a lack of amenities like side tables or lockers in private areas.
Yes, the cliffs provide natural shade, especially on the free beach area. Private sections offer umbrellas, though their adjustability has been questioned.
Water quality can vary. Some visitors describe it as clean, while others note it can be less clean, possibly due to its sheltered cove location.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are beach cafeterias where you can enjoy meals. One reviewer highlighted the quality of food, including freshly grilled swordfish and pasta dishes.
Expect typical Italian beach fare, including fresh seafood, salads, and pasta dishes. The quality can be surprisingly good, offering a convenient dining option.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally permissible to bring your own snacks and drinks to the public beach areas. For private sections, policies may vary.
Negombo Thermal Spa typically offers dining facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments and meals within the spa complex.
The nearby town of Lacco Ameno offers a variety of restaurants and pizzerias serving local Ischian cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the picturesque bay with its dramatic cliffs, the clear blue waters, and the unique thermal spring outflows. The Negombo gardens also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many public and private areas, especially near resorts and spas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Negombo offers diverse photo opportunities, from lush botanical gardens and unique water features to artistic installations and panoramic sea views.
Yes, the illuminated Torre Mezzatorre is visible from the bay and can make for a stunning evening or sunset photograph.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing beach toys and snacks, as the public area is more basic. If your budget allows, the private sections offer more space and amenities, but the cost can be substantial. The nearby Negombo Thermal Spa also has areas suitable for families, though it's more of a wellness-focused experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for picnics or snacks from local markets rather than eating at the pricier beachside cafes. Utilize the local bus system for transportation around Ischia, as it's far more economical than taxis.
🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
Don't miss the Negombo Thermal Spa, a highlight for wellness enthusiasts. With its array of thermal pools, lush gardens, and art installations, it provides a comprehensive spa day. Booking in advance is recommended to fully immerse yourself in this tranquil environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding San Montano Beach's Layout
Conversely, the private beach areas provide more comfort and space, with amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas. However, these come at a considerable cost, with reports of high prices for basic services. Some travelers have expressed disappointment with the value for money in these private sections, citing a lack of additional facilities like side tables or lockers.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to decide whether the cost of the private section is worth the added comfort or if you prefer to navigate the more crowded, but free, public area. Arriving early can help secure a good spot in the public section.
The Therapeutic Appeal of Thermal Waters
Adjacent to the beach is the renowned Negombo Thermal Spa, a sprawling complex that capitalizes on these natural resources. It boasts 14 different thermal pools, each with varying temperatures and therapeutic properties, set within beautifully landscaped gardens. The spa also features unique attractions like Japanese maze baths and a serene Onphalos cave pool, providing a comprehensive wellness experience.
Combining a day at the beach with a visit to Negombo offers a holistic relaxation experience. Whether you're soaking in the natural springs by the sea or exploring the diverse pools at the spa, the therapeutic benefits of Ischia's volcanic landscape are a major draw for visitors seeking rejuvenation.
Dining Delights by the Sea
These dining spots offer a convenient way to refuel without leaving the beach, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the sun and sea. The offerings typically include fresh seafood, salads, and classic pasta dishes, reflecting the local Italian cuisine.
For those looking for more extensive dining options, the nearby town of Lacco Ameno, located within the municipality of San Montano Bay, offers a wider selection of restaurants and pizzerias. This provides ample opportunity to sample authentic Ischian specialties.
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