Italian beach clubs, also known as lidi or bagni, are a dreamy slice of Italian coastal heaven that blends comfort, community, and Mediterranean charm. But despite all their appeal, our Italy travel clients often aren’t sure what these “bagni” are or what they include. So, we’ve decided to decode this mystery once and for all because bagni are everywhere in Italy, whether you’re headed to the Amalfi Coast or Tuscany’s golden shores.
Almost all public beaches in Italy are dotted with orderly umbrellas and well-maintained beach club operators, essentially just businesses that allow you to pay to use their slice of sand. These beach clubs will provide chairs, umbrellas, a lifeguard, usually bathrooms, a bar, and sometimes a kids’ area and a restaurant. It seems like a fair deal, but many tourists don’t get the appeal, preferring to visit the “spiaggie libere” or free beaches.
When I first started going to the beach in Italy, I resisted the bagno experience. Why should I have to pay to use the beach, I thought? Isn’t there public beach access because the beach is for everyone? Then, one summer as I was crowded into another too hot, small, and rather stinky stretch of sand, I decided to splurge on one of the private beach clubs.
I gathered my stuff and walked to the first beach establishment I found. As soon as I settled into my clean lounge chair with an umbrella waving gently overhead and an Aperol spritz in hand, I finally got the hype. Call me spoiled because it’s been twenty years since I returned to a free beach!
Trust me when I say the Italian beach club experience can improve your beach day in many ways! First, it gives you easy access to bathrooms, changing rooms, showers, and more. Plus, it offers a place to eat, grab an ice cream or a coffee, and get your little swath of sand from which you can come and go for the whole day, without worrying that everyone will steal your spot.
On top of all that, as I have more recently learned since we bought a beach house in Italy, the best beach clubs offer a sense of community. You get to know your “neighbors,” the club managers, and the staff. They begin to say your name when you walk in, see how you like your coffee, and which popsicle you prefer as an afternoon treat. It starts to feel like more than just a beach day, but a whole experience to be savored and enjoyed.
12 Tips For Italian Beach Clubs
So, if you, too, would like to learn to love the Italian beach club experience and embrace the dolce vita lifestyle, read on. I’m sharing 12 must-know tips and etiquette for making the most of your Italian beach club vacation, the five most asked questions and answers we get from our Italy travel clients, and three things to consider to decide if the beach club life is right for you.
Reserve Ahead of Time
The first thing to know is that Italian beach clubs book up fast, especially in July and August. When our clients decide on a summer vacation in Southern Italy, we first make sure they decide if they want to go to a beach club. That’s because hot spots like the Capri and Amalfi Coast beach clubs are in high demand.
As a general rule, reserve your beach umbrellas and sun loungers in advance to get the perfect place for you. You can reserve these via email, phone, or even Facebook Messenger. You must provide your dates, how many people are in your party, and whether you prefer chairs or loungers. Additionally, be prepared to discuss how far away from the water you want to go.
In my experience, being closer to the water is almost always better, as it’s cooler. And, if you have kids, you can watch them from your chair as they play in the sand. It’s also worth noting that long-term stays are preferred, so if you’re planning to be at the beach for more than a day, try to reserve the same bagno for your whole stay to get the best prices.
Call Ahead for Last-Minute Availability and Hours
No reservation? No problem; call before you go. But be warned: These beach clubs can be fully booked in the high season. A quick call can save you from wandering from beach to beach searching for a spot under the sweltering sun.
Additionally, the beach clubs in Italy are not open year-round. If traveling in the off-season, you may find many bagni closed even if it’s hot. In general, the season runs from May to October when the Italian beaches have great weather, but some places may open as early as March. If you need help booking a beach club or your whole Italian vacation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of travel experts!
Decide Between an Umbrella or a Cabana
While umbrellas are fine for four people give or take, if you’re traveling in a larger group, you might want to consider a cabana. They offer ample shade and sometimes include extra perks like tables and lockable storage. Not all beach establishments have cabanas, so call ahead if that’s what you need. For a luxurious cabana experience, head to La Canzone del Mare in Capri. The cabanas are private; you can choose between sea view and regular rooms.
Don’t Worry About Bringing Much
Once you’ve reserved, all you need is your beach towel, sunscreen, and maybe inflatable floaties (you’ll want one when you see locals bobbing peacefully offshore). Everything else, from loungers to bathrooms, is provided.
Join the Community Spirit
A beach club isn’t just a service; it’s a social hub! Over time, Italian families build bonds with their bagno staff, return to the same umbrella every summer, and even stay in touch in the off-season. You might find your slice of that warm Italian hospitality if you visit the same bagno year after year, or reserve one umbrella for an extended stay. This is probably my favorite aspect of the beach club. We return to the same place so we (and our kiddos) can see our friends yearly.
Ask About Kids’ Amenities
Traveling with children? Many beach clubs offer playgrounds, pools, and even animatori, or on-site entertainers, who keep kids busy while parents relax. If this interests you, look for a beach establishment with the needed services before your trip. Check out Bagno 81 in Rimini; this place has everything a family could ask for, including kids’ entertainment, play areas, and even a parrot!
Respect the Dress Code
Yes, there’s a dress code even at the Italian beach clubs. Generally, wearing shoes and a cover-up when leaving the sand or dining at the beach bar is polite. Young children and teenagers are typically exempt from this rule, though. It also depends a bit on the club itself, with some being more formal, while others are more casual and don’t mind if someone makes a quick espresso stop in their bikini.
Topless or Not?
Many beaches in Italy allow topless bathing, so don’t be surprised if women of all ages sit nearby you without bikini tops. However, asking before ditching your swimsuit is always a good idea in case your beach club has different rules.
You Can Eat at the Club (And You Should!)
You can have a great dining experience at a beach club because most have excellent on-site restaurants or bars. Some even have tables in the sand, concession areas, and a bustling bar area. Good food like sandwiches, hot dishes, fresh-cooked seafood, cocktails, cold drinks, and espresso is the norm at most beach clubs.
It’s also worth noting that some clubs do not allow outside food and beverages. That said, I have never personally been to one of these clubs, and I often see Italians opening up their containers of homemade lunch right at their umbrellas.
If you’re looking for a beach bagno where you can eat a stellar dinner or lunch with your toes in the sand, there are plenty. In fact, in places like Forte Dei Marmi, some of the area’s best Italian restaurants are at beach clubs. Speaking of Tuscany, Italy beaches, consider Bagno Florida in Viareggio. It is my favorite for spaghetti alle vongole (clam pasta) while watching the sunset over the water.
Tipping Is Optional But Appreciated
Tipping isn’t required at the private clubs, but if someone goes out of their way to help, like setting you up extra early or giving you a prime spot, it’s always nice to leave a small thank you as a tip. If a bar or restaurant is on-site, they usually also accept tips, but it’s not the norm in Italy, so don’t feel obliged to tip after every espresso.
Don’t Assume You Can Camp
Planning a beach night under the stars? Double-check first. Many Italian beaches, especially those with established beach clubs, don’t allow camping. Avoid fines by confirming local regulations, and don’t assume you can use your beach spot well into the night. Many bagni close between 8:00 and 10:00 PM.
Know the Local Terms
Familiarize yourself with key terms. Due to heavy tourism, most establishments speak English, but having an Italian word or two under your belt is always a good idea.
- Bagno / Bagni (bahn-yo / bahn-yee) – Beach club(s) in central Italy
- Lettino (leh-tee-no) – Sun lounger
- Lido / Lidi (lee-doh / lee-dee) – Beach club(s) in southern or northern Italy
- Ombrellone (ohm-brell-oh-nay) – Umbrella
- Sdraio (s-dry-oh) – Beach chair
- Stabilimento / stabilimenti (stah-bill-ee-mento, stah-bill-ee-ment-ee) General term for beach establishments
- Bonus Phrase to Know: Want to sound like a local? Say “Buon mare!” (Have a great day at the sea!) when you head to the beach.
Three Key Things To Consider Before Booking a Beach Club
Cost vs. Value
Beach clubs are not free, so expect to pay for entry, an umbrella, and loungers. Prices vary based on location and season (an Italian lido can range from €20 to over €100 per day).
Why it matters: If you’re on a tight budget or want a quick dip, this can feel restrictive, especially when nearby public beaches are free.
Less of a ‘Wild’ Nature Experience
Beach clubs prioritize convenience and comfort, but are highly managed and can feel commercialized and cookie-cutter.
Why it matters: If you’re looking for a rugged, natural beauty or a coastal experience, like cliffs, coves, or undeveloped dunes on public land, this curated setup may not match your vibe.
Limited Spontaneity
Beach clubs often require reservations, especially during peak season. Walk-ins may not get a spot, particularly in popular areas like the Amalfi Coast or the Tuscan coast of Versilia. Also, paying for a place means you’re stuck in that area for the day, albeit a relaxing day!
Why it matters: This can take away the spontaneity of a beach day; you can’t just show up and plop your towel down or wander from beach to beach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Beach Clubs
While some beach clubs may allow it, many prefer guests to purchase food and beverages onsite. Bringing your own may be discouraged or even prohibited in certain establishments. It's advisable to check the specific policies of the beach club you're visiting.
Yes, especially during peak seasons. Reservations are strongly recommended as beach clubs can fill up quickly. Some clubs may accept walk-ins, but availability isn't guaranteed. If you book online, you will often get pictures of rows, and the various cabanas or chairs vary in entrance fee and amenities.
At a minimum, the Italian beach club rental fee covers a sunbed, an umbrella, and access to a bathroom. Some clubs may also offer additional amenities like small changing rooms, showers, and access to a bar or restaurant. Bigger beach clubs might even have dancing and a DJ available well into the night (although the beach chairs and umbrellas will be closed at that time). It's best to inquire directly with the club about what's included in their packages.
Arriving early, around 8:00–9:00 AM, is advisable to secure a good spot, especially during peak summer months, if you don’t have reservations. If you’ve paid in advance, though, your umbrella is yours for the whole day, whether you stay an hour or twelve, or show up or not.
Get A Personalized Travel Itinerary
Tuscany Italy Beaches
Understanding how Italian beach clubs work is essential if you dream of a summer getaway on Italy’s coast. For a deeper dive into one of the best coastal regions, head to our guide on Tuscany Italy beaches, where we explore the whole stretch from Viareggio’s classic beach town vibes to the wild, picturesque shores of the Maremma. It’s your go-to resource for finding the perfect Tuscan beach—whether you’re after family-friendly shores or escapes backed by pine forests.
Summery Italian Recipes
Want to cook all things summery with an Italian twist? Here are a few of our readers’ favorite recipes to make in the summertime:
Italy Travel Guide
Are you considering traveling to Italy in real life? Check out our free Italy Travel Guide for our best travel tips, recipes, and articles.
Have Us Plan Your Italy Trip
Did you know we’re also a boutique travel agency specializing in Italy travel planning? If you’re looking to plan one of the best trips to Italy, our Italy trip planner services are here to help you plan your perfect itinerary.
