If you are hesitant, it is probably because you have no idea of the sheer size of Lake Garda, or of its crystal clear waters and fresh breezes that make it seem like the sea. And better still, when you come out of the water, you’re left with the pleasant sensation that comes with swimming in fresh water. There are numerous beaches on Lake Garda, a number of which are exceptionally long, making it virtually impossible to find them crowded. Some stretches have bathing establishments, where you can rent deckchairs and parasols, while on other stretches you can lay out your towel freely. Almost all Lake Garda’s beaches are pebble beaches, making it difficult to plant a beach umbrella, yet they are also almost always fringed with large trees, making it easy to find space in the shade. There are two essential items you must take with you: sturdy water shoes for comfort walking over the stony beach (if you don’t have a pair, many shops and supermarkets near the beaches sell them), and a picnic blanket like this one, or an inflatable mattress such as this over which you can spread your towel to lie on the rocks more comfortably. Close to the beaches there are usually delightful bars and restaurants where you can take a cool break or where you can stop for dinner after a last swim at sunset: the beaches of Lake Garda are always accessible, they never close!
Baia delle Sirene
In the village of Torri del Benaco, the Baia delle Sirene (Mermaid Bay) is surrounded by lush vegetation, mainly consisting of centuries-old olive trees and cypresses. The beach has a convenient parking area, and the waters of the lake here are crystaline, with colours ranging from blue to emerald green. It is a peaceful spot, perfect for sunbathing, swimming or simply admiring the view, especially at sunset as from this side of the lake the sunsets are superlative. The bay is part of the Baia delle Sirene natural park, and offers services such as sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants and children's play areas. On the website, you can book a sunbed and umbrella, yoga sessions, you can check the programme of events and evening DJ sets and book a table for an aperitif or dinner. Warning: it’s all very exclusive, dress to impress!
Beaches (for dogs too) in Peschiera
7 km of coastline separate Peschiera from Sirmione with a succession of beaches, marinas and coves. There is so much space that even during high season you can find a quiet corner all to yourself. If you like a beach with a lovely restaurant where you can enjoy a plate of spaghetti in the shade of the trees, or if your dream is a deserted beach, the best advice is to rent an electric bicycle at the hu Altomincio Village. Take the bicycle path right outside of the Village along the Mincio River to reach Peschiera in a matter of minutes. Now all you have to do is choose the right beach for you. Following the Lungolago Mazzini the first beach you come across is the Lido Cappuccini Beach, which has sunbeds, umbrellas and a bar serving cocktails, salads, burgers and Dutch specialities. Nearby is the Bar La Perla, on a perfect lakeside location, under the trees and close to the marina. At the marina, even if you don’t have a boat licence, you can rent a boat from Benaco Charter: it is a worthwile expierence just to admire Sirmione from the water. Continuing on, you arrive at the Oasi del Lago, a stretch of pristine, natural beach, and the BraccoBaldo Beach a fantastic beach equipped for dogs and happy owners. These are just some of the options to be found along the extremely long Peschiera beach. To find your favourite spot, we advise the use of an electric bike: when you can't cycle along the lake, you can continue along the cycle path that runs alongside the road and dive down any side roads that inspire you. Happy explorations!
Jamaica Beach
A magnificent expanse of smooth white rock, surrounded by crystal-clear emerald waters: Jamaica Beach is the most famous beach on Lake Garda. It is located at the very tip of the Sirmione peninsula just below the fascinating archaeological site of the Grotte di Catullo, which we think is well worth a visit before going down to the beach. The access the beach, you need to walk through the beautiful village of Sirmione, so put your flip-flops and water shoes in your backpack and put on a pair of comfortable shoes. What makes Jamaica Beach so famous? It is the large slabs of white stone that dip just below the surface of the water, creating extraordinary shades of blues and greens, just like a Caribbean beach. Some of the beach has bathing establishments while the rest is public and there are free showers and toilet. There’s a café bar on site, but you are also free to bring your own fresh water and anything else for a perfect day out, but keep in mind that it is a 2-km walk from the car park to the beach through Sirmione.
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