Top 5 Seaside Experiences Near Rome (That Most Visitors Never Find)
The Voyage Co.
Most travellers come to Rome and never realise that the coast is just one hour away. I spend my time introducing them to the seaside places that Romans actually escape to — places where history meets the sea and crowds disappear.
Giulia is based in Anzio and works in the travel industry with deep knowledge of Rome. What makes her different is that she doesn't stop at Rome — she takes travellers to the nearby coastal area of Nettuno and Anzio for a more relaxed, authentic experience.
1. Grotte di Nerone, Anzio
Anzio Coast
This is my most special place on the coast. Grotte di Nerone combines an ancient Roman villa with a unique beach reached through natural rock formations. The ruins sit right by the sea, and you can swim in crystal-clear water surrounded by the remnants of ancient life. The setting is wild and authentic, not developed or crowded.
What makes it unforgettable is the combination: history, natural beauty, swimming all together. The path down is scenic, and the water is cold and pure. It's the kind of place that makes you understand why Romans built here, why they valued this coastline.
2. Riviera di Levante, Anzio
Anzio
This is a long stretch of coast with both free beaches and private clubs. The advantage is flexibility: you can follow your mood. Some days you want the energy of a beach club with loungers and fresh drinks; other days you want to find a quiet free beach. The Riviera di Levante offers both.
What we love is that it's less crowded than other coastal spots near Rome, but still accessible. My tip: start at Riviera di Levante for sunrise, then make your way to Ponente for sunset. You'll catch the coast in different light, and the day will feel perfect.
3. Seafood by the Port, Anzio
Anzio Port
The restaurants right by the fishing port serve seafood that tastes like it came out of the water an hour ago. Turcotto serves fresh, simple seafood with genuine atmosphere. La Stanzetta is a hidden gem tucked into the neighbourhood streets, with authentic flavours and cosy rooms. L'Asticiotto offers the catch of the day prepared perfectly, with views toward the water.
This is not fancy dining — it's honest eating. You come hungry, you eat what the boats brought in, and you leave satisfied and connected to the place.
4. Nettuno Old Town and WWII Cemetery
Nettuno
Nettuno's old town is worth exploring on foot, with medieval streets that feel like you've stepped back centuries. The American WWII cemetery nearby is poignant and peaceful, a place that demands respect and quiet reflection. It's about history in a different way than Rome — more recent, more personal.
5. Boat Trips from Anzio Port
Anzio
From Anzio port, you can take boat trips along the coast to see grottoes, caves, and formations you can't reach by land. These trips are run by fishermen who know the coast intimately and share that knowledge generously. It's a way of seeing the landscape that changes everything.
Rome is unforgettable, but if you have an extra day, take the train to Anzio. The coast will give you a side of Lazio that most travellers never see — and once you've eaten port-side seafood and swum at the Grotte di Nerone, you'll understand why Romans keep this stretch quietly to themselves.
