Baia del Silenzio
A perfect crescent of sand framed by pastel houses.
Overview
Baia del Silenzio is one of the most photographed beaches on the Ligurian Riviera. A shallow, sandy crescent enclosed by colourful fishermen's houses, the bay is calm, child-friendly and ideal for an unhurried swim.
Good for
Public access
Free public access from the western end of the bay
Beach clubs available: Yes — sunbeds and umbrellas can usually be rented in season.
How to get there
By train: Sestri Levante railway station - then a 10–15 minute flat walk through the historic centre to reach the bay. Very convenient option, especially in high season when traffic is heavy and parking limited
By bus: Local buses stop in central Sestri Levante, within walking distance of the old town and Baia del Silenzio - service can be less frequent in the evening or off-season
Parking: Paid parking available in Sestri Levante centre and near the station - expect high demand in summer, with spaces filling quickly by mid-morning; then a short 10-minute walk to the beach
On foot: Easy, flat walk from the old town directly to Baia del Silenzio
Facilities
Practical tips
More about Baia del Silenzio
Baia del Silenzio is one of the most beautiful beaches in Liguria and one of the best-known places to swim in Sestri Levante. Set in a sheltered bay between the historic centre and the Portobello peninsula, it is famous for its calm water, sandy shoreline and colourful Ligurian houses facing the sea. The beach is ideal if you are looking for a scenic town beach with clear water, easy swimming and one of the most photogenic views on the Riviera di Levante. Unlike wilder beaches in Liguria, Baia del Silenzio has a romantic village atmosphere, with cafés, restaurants and the old town just a few steps away, where you can enjoy an Italian aperitivo and authentic local seafood. Although the name means “Bay of Silence”, Baia del Silenzio is not a hidden beach in summer. It is one of the most popular beaches near Genoa and the Cinque Terre area, and gets very busy in July and August, especially at weekends. For fewer crowds, visit early in the morning, at sunset or outside peak season. The shoreline is mostly sandy, making it more comfortable than many pebble beaches in Liguria. The bay is usually calm and sheltered, so it is a good option for swimming, floating and relaxing by the water. Because the beach is compact, it is better for a scenic swim or a few hours by the sea than a spacious full-day beach setup in peak summer. Baia del Silenzio is easy to reach without a car. Sestri Levante train station has connections from Genoa, La Spezia, Levanto and the Cinque Terre, and the beach is around a 15-minute walk from the station. If you arrive by car, parking can be limited, so it is worth arriving early. For the best experience, visit in May, June or September, when the weather is warm but the crowds are more manageable.
Location
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