Spiaggia di Riaci

This picture-perfect sand-and-pebble beach has grabbed a prime position on Calabria’s west coast, around 10 minutes’ drive from more touristy Tropea.

If you prefer chilled and laidback to loud and lively, then this is the spot. The sands are sprinkled with sun loungers and parasols, and there’s a family-first feel here.

The water’s calm and colourful, and the rocky surroundings here make for some outstanding photo opportunities.

Activities tend to sit on the easy-going side, with things like snorkelling and diving proving popular. If you are planning to dive, then take extra care as there are lots of rocks in and around the water, so it’s best to exercise caution. 

On that note, you may wish to invest in a pair of water shoes, as the seabed is covered with pebbles, which can prove uncomfortable.

On the facilities front, there are plenty of parking spots right next to the beach, plus a beach bar for grabbing drinks and snacks.

And after a day’s sunbathing, you can head into the nearby town of Santa Domenica for food and drink - it’s just a five-minute drive away, or a 20-minute stroll, and there are plenty of places to grab some munch and snap up some souvenirs.