The 5 Most Beautiful Beaches of Western Liguria: Our Top Picks for Crystal-Clear Waters and Stunning Coastal Scenery

Articolo del July 12, 2026. Pubblicato in SEA & BEACHES

The coastline of the Province of Imperia stretches for just over 70 kilometres, yet it offers an impressive variety of landscapes. From sandy beaches perfect for families to hidden coves beneath dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling, Western Liguria has something to offer every type of tourist. We've selected five beaches that stand out for their spectacular scenery, exceptional sea quality and unforgettable atmosphere, representing the very best of the Riviera dei Fiori.

1. Balzi Rossi – Ventimiglia

If there is one beach that symbolises the far western coast of Liguria, it is undoubtedly Balzi Rossi. Just a few metres from the French border, this beautiful bay lies beneath striking reddish limestone cliffs, whose warm colours contrast with the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. Its waters are among the clearest in Liguria, while the rocky seabed, rich in marine life, makes it one of the region's best snorkelling spots. The area is also renowned for its exceptional archaeological importance. Nearby stands the Balzi Rossi Prehistoric Museum, home to remarkable Paleolithic discoveries that testify to one of Europe's earliest human settlements.

2. Calandre Beach – Ventimiglia

Calandre Beach is one of the few natural sandy beaches in the Province of Imperia. Its soft sand and gently sloping seabed make it particularly suitable for families with children, especially during the early morning hours when the sea is usually calm and the atmosphere absolutely peaceful. Today the beach is even easier to reach thanks to the reopening of the scenic Calandre Trail, which connects the new Cala del Forte Marina to the beach, offering magnificent views of the coastline. It remains one of the most popular seaside destinations in Western Liguria.

3. La Galeazza – Imperia

Dominated by its iconic offshore rock rising dramatically from the sea, La Galeazza Beach is one of the most photographed coastal landscapes along the Riviera dei Fiori. Its crystal-clear waters are rich in marine life, making it an excellent destination for swimming and snorkelling. The beautiful panorama overlooking Porto Maurizio becomes particularly magical at sunset, when the golden light reflects across the sea and the colourful waterfront.

4. The Beaches of Bordighera

Bordighera offers a long stretch of pebble beaches washed by exceptionally clear Mediterranean waters. Its proximity to the historic centre, the elegant sea promenade Passeggiata Argentina  and numerous cafés and seaside restaurants allow tourists to combine a relaxing beach day with an aperitif or dinner enjoying stunning sunsets. On particularly clear days, the views extend all the way to the French Riviera, making Bordighera one of the most scenic seaside towns in Western Liguria.

5. Arma di Taggia

Among the favourite beaches for families is undoubtedly Arma di Taggia. Its sandy shoreline, wide open spaces and gently sloping seabed make it one of the most comfortable and accessible seaside resorts in the Province of Imperia. The lively waterfront promenade, lined with restaurants, ice cream parlours and beach clubs, completes one of the most popular summer destinations along the Riviera dei Fiori.

Other Beaches Worth Visiting

Of course, the Riviera dei Fiori offers many more beautiful beaches waiting to be discovered. In Sanremo, Tre Ponti Beach is the favourite destination for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. In Ospedaletti, small coves and an elegant seaside promenade create a peaceful and refined atmosphere. San Lorenzo al Mare is particularly popular with cyclists arriving via the spectacular coastal cycling path, while Santo Stefano al Mare offers well-kept beaches and exceptionally clear waters. Bussana, Riva Ligure, Diano Marina and Cervo are also excellent alternatives, each offering its own unique character and the perfect combination of seaside relaxation, local gastronomy and authentic Ligurian charm.

Which Beach Should You Choose?

If you're travelling with children, Calandre Beach and Arma di Taggia are probably your best options. If you enjoy snorkelling, colourful marine life and crystal-clear waters, Balzi Rossi and La Galeazza are sure to impress. If you're looking for a beach day combined with seaside promenades, cafés and sunset aperitifs, Bordighera is difficult to beat. The true beauty of Western Liguria lies in its incredible diversity. Within just a few kilometres, you can move from wild hidden coves to long, fully equipped beaches, from charming fishing villages to elegant waterfront promenades, always with the Ligurian Alps rising behind you and the Mediterranean Sea stretching out before your eyes. Whatever your ideal beach holiday looks like, you're certain to find your perfect stretch of coastline somewhere along the Riviera dei Fiori.