Punta della Penna Beach.

Punta della Penna offers a rare, undeveloped slice of the Adriatic coast, set entirely within the Punta Aderci Regional Nature Reserve. Unlike the highly commercialized beach clubs found elsewhere in Abruzzo, this wide crescent of fine, pale sand is backed only by wild dunes, myrtle bushes, and low clay cliffs. The shallow, remarkably clear turquoise water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the lack of beach bars and umbrella rentals keeps the atmosphere quiet and natural. A wooden staircase leads down to the shore, which is famously overlooked by the towering Faro di Punta Penna—Italy’s second-tallest lighthouse. It is a completely self-service beach, meaning visitors should pack their own shade and water to enjoy a day of raw, protected coastal scenery.