Surfing in Italy
Including Buggerru, Capo Mannu, and Levanto. On the map.
The vibe
Riding waves here has a distinct, windswept character, catching sudden Mediterranean swells that bounce between islands and steep coastal cliffs rather than endless ocean breaks. Autumn and winter bring the most consistent swells, transforming quiet seaside towns into lively hubs for a dedicated community of local chargers. The vibe is decidedly unpretentious and local-led, requiring you to read the mood of the break and respect the lineup rather than relying on commercial surf camps.

Buggerru, Sardinia
Sardinia
Giorgio Galeotti / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
Known as the 'Little Paris' of Sardinia, Buggerru offers high-quality beach and reef breaks that attract surfers looking for powerful waves. The rugged coastline provides a dramatic setting for some of the most consistent surf in the Mediterranean.
Access. Accessible by car from Cagliari; local surf schools provide equipment and guidance for the various breaks in the area.
Notes. Some breaks are reef-based and require caution at low tide.

Capo Mannu, Sardinia
Italia (ang, via D'Acquisto)
Hans Hillewaert / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Widely considered the premier surf spot in Italy, Capo Mannu offers powerful, hollow reef breaks that work best with the Mistral wind. It is a high-performance destination for experienced surfers seeking consistent Mediterranean swells.
Access. Accessible by car from Oristano; the breaks are reached via dirt tracks leading to the cliffs.
Notes. Rocky entry and exit; the reef can be sharp and the currents strong during large swells.

Levanto, Liguria
Liguria
and-co / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Levanto is the premier surf destination in Northern Italy, offering a consistent beach break that picks up swells from the Ligurian Sea. It is an ideal spot for intermediate surfers, featuring a sandy bottom and a vibrant local surf culture.
Access. Accessible by train from La Spezia or Genoa; several surf schools and rental shops operate directly on the main beach.
Notes. Can get crowded during summer weekends and peak swell days.

Marina di Ragusa, Sicily
Sicily
trolvag / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This southern Sicilian spot is a premier destination for kiteboarding and wingfoiling, benefiting from the reliable thermal winds that blow across the Mediterranean. The wide sandy beaches and shallow entry make it perfect for progression.
Access. Located near Ragusa; several kite schools offer lessons and gear rental during the windy season.
Notes. Best wind conditions occur from spring through early autumn.

Poetto Beach, Cagliari
Italia (ang, via D'Acquisto)
Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Poetto is a massive stretch of sand that serves as the urban playground for Cagliari's wind-sports community. It is excellent for kiteboarding and wingfoiling, especially when the Scirocco wind kicks in.
Access. Located just minutes from Cagliari city center; easily accessible by public transport or bike.
Notes. Very popular in summer; kite zones are strictly regulated to separate riders from swimmers.

Porto Ferro, Sardinia
Italia (ang, via D'Acquisto)
Carlo Pelagalli / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A stunning, wide sandy bay that serves as one of the most reliable beach breaks in Sardinia. It catches swells from the west and northwest, providing fun, punchy peaks for intermediate surfers.
Access. Located a short drive from Alghero; ample parking is available near the beach entrance.
Notes. Can get crowded on weekends; watch for rip currents during high surf days.

Porto Pollo / Coluccia, Sardinia
Sardinia
Alessandro Addis / Spexi.eu / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This is arguably the most famous wind-sport destination in Italy, featuring a unique peninsula that creates two distinct bays for kiteboarding and wingfoiling. The consistent Mistral wind makes it a legendary spot for flat-water speed and freestyle.
Access. Located near Palau; numerous professional kite and wingfoil schools and rental centers operate on the beach.
Notes. Strict zoning exists for swimmers vs. wind-sports; follow local beach flags.

Puzziteddu, Sicily
Sicily
Emanuela Meme Giudic… / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Puzziteddu is a world-class wave spot for both surfing and wind-sports, known for its consistent side-onshore winds and quality reef breaks. It is a primary hub for the Sicilian wave-riding scene.
Access. Located near Mazara del Vallo; best reached by car. Several surf and kite schools operate directly on the beach.
Notes. The reef is shallow in sections; best suited for intermediate to advanced riders.

Santa Severa, Lazio
Lazio
Yellow.Cat from Roma, Italy / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Located just north of Rome, Santa Severa is famous for its consistent beach break set against the backdrop of a medieval castle. It is a hub for the central Italian surf scene, suitable for all levels depending on the swell size.
Access. Easily reached by car or regional train from Rome; multiple surf schools and rental facilities are located right on the beach.
Notes. Very popular with locals from Rome; expect crowds on weekends.

Talamone, Tuscany
Tuscany
trolvag / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Talamone is a premier destination for flat-water kiteboarding and wingfoiling, protected by a natural bay that creates ideal conditions for progression. The steady thermal winds make it a reliable spot throughout the warmer months.
Access. Located in the Maremma region; accessible by car with dedicated kite beaches and launch zones.
Notes. Requires a permit or membership with local clubs to access the designated kite zones.

Torre di Gaffe, Sicily
Sicily
Davide Mauro / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A hidden gem for surfing in Sicily, Torre di Gaffe offers a consistent beach break that works well with southern swells. It is a favorite among local surfers for its long, clean lines and relatively uncrowded atmosphere.
Access. Located near Licata; best accessed by car. Local surf clubs provide community support and gear.
Notes. Check local forecasts as the break is swell-dependent.

Varazze, Liguria
Liguria
Davide Papalini / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5)
Varazze is home to one of the best point breaks in the Mediterranean, offering long, peeling rights that are highly sought after by experienced surfers. It is a high-performance wave that works best during autumn and winter swells.
Access. Located on the Ligurian coast; surf shops in town provide gear and local knowledge.
Notes. The break is over a rocky bottom and is reserved for experienced surfers; local etiquette is strictly enforced.
