Translated and adapted with permission from an article on Guideslow
Summer rhymes with sun and sea, and when it comes to holidays, Molise offers a wealth of seaside destinations to choose from for a pleasant and unforgettable stay on the renowned Costa Verde, the 35 kilometers of coastline between the mouth of the Trigno River (on the border with Abruzzo) and the Saccione River (on the border with Puglia). The main summer resorts in Molise are undoubtedly those in the municipalities of Montenero di Bisaccia, Petacciato, Termoli, and Campomarino.
Discover a few interesting facts about these welcoming beaches below, in anticipation of your next vacation.
At the northernmost tip of the Molise coast, Marina di Montenero di Bisaccia is a popular seaside resort for those seeking a quiet and relaxing stay. Clear waters and shallow waters make it a perfect destination for families, thanks also to the numerous campsites, hotels, residences, and agriturismi offering a wide range of amenities. Unlike other beaches in Molise, Montenero beach features short stretches of rocky cliffs, creating a truly picturesque landscape.
From its hilltop location, a couple of kilometers from the sea, the small village of Petacciato overlooks Petacciato Marina. With its azure waters and fine, clear sand, it’s a true nature reserve thanks to the presence of maritime dunes that have created an ideal habitat for certain types of plants. Along with the other beaches in Molise, it’s a popular summer destination. From the historic center, you can admire a panorama that encompasses the Gargano and the Majella Mountains, while the coastline is bordered by a pine forest that provides a refreshing coolness, invaluable on the hottest days.
The Molise coast is interrupted by a promontory dominated by the mighty walls of the ancient town of Termoli, with its Swabian castle. Just north of the promontory lies Sant’Antonio Beach, the quintessential summer symbol of the city, being the oldest seaside resort in central and southern Italy. It’s a destination brimming with opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. During the day, the sea offers a variety of sports, while at night, the beach buzzes with nightlife and the lively atmosphere of the clubs in the town and in the more modern area of Termoli.
Rio Vivo Beach, located south of the town of Termoli, is the ideal place for an active vacation, suitable for anyone who enjoys sand sports, from beach volleyball to tennis to beach soccer, and adrenaline-fueled water sports like sailing, as it’s a stretch of coastline well exposed to winds and relatively low seas. It’s a beach dedicated to fun, but, like Sant’Antonio, it’s also suitable for those who simply want a relaxing holiday.
The crystalline blue of its waters, the vivid green of its cool pine forests, the characteristic Marina di Santa Cristina tourist port, and a beach of fine, golden sand have earned Campomarino Lido the Blue Flag for the tenth consecutive year. This prestigious international award is given by the FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) to coastal towns that guarantee clean and sustainable waters. Campomarino’s historic center offers lovely evening strolls through its narrow streets and small squares, while nature lovers can visit the Bosco di Ramitelli Wildlife Oasis, where they can admire unique trees that have grown halfway between land and water.
Far from traditional mass tourism, the Molise coast, though confined to a short stretch of coastline, offers moments of tranquility combined with plenty of fun, clear seas, and unspoiled nature. With welcoming and well-organized accommodations, you can enjoy a stay that will satisfy every interest and need. All that’s left to do is take advantage of the warmer weather to experience the beauty of the destinations suggested on these pages and discover the Adriatic’s Costa Verde.