Torre San Giovanni: Sandy Beach, Coast and Lighthouse

Six kilometres of sandy beach in the regional park

The beach of Torre San Giovanni stretches for six kilometres of fine sand. The coastal area lies within the Litorale di Ugento Regional Park. Behind the equipped beaches are pine groves. In the town, the open sandy shoreline is therefore followed by the vegetated areas behind the beach. For a longer stay by the sea, the extent of the sandy beach is a concrete planning factor. Those choosing the beach for a day can incorporate the six kilometres into their own time planning and consider the area behind the equipped beaches as an additional coastal area. When planning time at the shore, the length of the beach can also serve as a guide for longer stays and planned breaks.

Lighthouse and changing coastline

The Torre San Giovanni lighthouse stands on a small promontory extending into the sea. The promontory divides the Ugento coast into two sections: to the north lies a predominantly low rocky coast, while to the south, white, very fine sandy beaches begin behind the harbour. In the direction of Pazze and Gallipoli, the coast continues with low cliffs of volcanic origin and numerous bays. In front of this rocky coastal section are small islets that can be reached by swimming over shallow, fish-rich seabeds. For swimming to the islets, the shallow seabed in front of the rocky coastal section is the relevant spatial reference. The islets are not located by the sandy beach south of the harbour, but in front of the rocks.

Lighthouse with a history

The Torre San Giovanni lighthouse was built in 1565 and features a distinctive black-and-white checkerboard cladding. The striking façade defines the exterior appearance of the historic tower. Every year at Christmas, a small outdoor nativity scene is set up at the foot of the lighthouse. As a rule, the Festa dell'Emigrante also takes place during the first week of August on the small square below the Torre San Giovanni lighthouse.

Promenade and maritime courses

A weekly market with stalls takes place on the Torre San Giovanni seafront promenade from June to September. Typical local products are offered and sold at the stalls. The Torre San Giovanni section of the Lega Navale Italiana has a different focus: during the 2026 summer season, it will offer sailing and seamanship courses at its base by the Torre San Giovanni lighthouse. Those planning to spend time between the promenade and the lighthouse in summer can consider the market period and the courses' summer season separately. This places local products on the seafront promenade and maritime courses at the Lega Navale base by the lighthouse at the centre.

Getting there

Torre San Giovanni is connected to interurban public transport. Those arriving without their own vehicle can take this connection into account when planning their stay and begin the day at the promenade or sandy beach.

Discover more destinations

Morciano Di Leuca, Acaia, Alliste, Presicce, Tricase Porto, Marina Di Andrano, Maglie, Carpignano Salentino

To the higher-level travel overview: Lecce.