Where to Swim in Brindisi When the Sea Is Rough

Brindisi is a seaside city. If you know it, you know the wind is always there.

On many days, especially with the tramontana or maestrale winds, the sea can get rough and uninviting. But on calmer days, you can choose beaches facing the open sea, like Oktagona Beach, Granchio Rosso. These are perfect if you want a sandy beach with clear water.

When the open sea is rough, it doesn't mean you can't swim.

Locals know two small natural coves near the airport, about six kilometers from the center. Here, the water is calmer than at the surrounding beaches, even when it's windy.

The two most sheltered bays near Brindisi

Just a few hundred meters apart, La Conca and Lido Hemingway offer very different experiences.

The first is a small natural cove, untouched with no facilities. It's pristine. Elsewhere, the coast is sandy and shallow. But here, the water gets deep quickly. It's better for strong swimmers and those who love diving off rocks.

Not far away is Lido Hemingway, a beach resort with two small coves. One has a rocky bottom, the other sandy. Hemingway offers sunbeds, umbrellas, a bar, and services. Families love it for a full beach day. It's also budget-friendly, with lower prices than many other equipped beaches. For example, I paid 25 euros for two sunbeds and an umbrella during my visit.

It also has a large free parking lot right at the entrance.

La Conca attracts those wanting a quick swim in a wild setting. Meanwhile, Lido Hemingway is ideal for spending the whole day at the beach with all amenities.

If you decide to spend a day here, start with a seaside breakfast at PIC NIC Brindisi Beach Club or Estoril, both on the Materdomini coast. From there, it's a short drive to either cove for the rest of the day.

If you don't have a car, both bays are accessible by STP city bus. Use line 4, departing near Brindisi train station (Piazza Crispi). The ticket costs only 1.10 euros.