Visiting Copanello Beach
With its sandy coastline and crystal clear waters, the Ionian coast is home to some truly idyllic beaches. In Calabria, a region known for its well-preserved landscapes, the province of Catanzaro holds a wealth of villages with incredible shores, and Staletti is a prime example. Attached to this authentic town, the area known as Copanello is divided into two hamlets. On the Lido side, you will find the stretch of coast that earns its nickname as the perla della Jonio catanzarese (pearl of the Ionian Sea in Catanzaro): Copanello Beach.
One of the finest stretches of coast in Catanzaro
Positioned between the Alessi river and the Lamia torrent, Copanello is the ideal spot to enjoy the water. Within this array of picturesque sites, it is the shoreline along the Gulf of Squillace that captures the most attention. A wide, long strip of soft, light-colored sand provides plenty of room to lay out your towel, and there are plenty of amenities available as well. Pre-set lounge chairs and umbrellas await visitors, though they fill up quickly during the peak season. The hamlet is small, but it remains one of the most popular beach destinations in the area. Like everywhere in southern Italy, the sea is the main event here. Stretching out as far as the eye can see in deep blues and iridescent greens, its clarity gives this part of Calabria a vibe reminiscent of the Caribbean. Swimming is safe here, and the seabed is a playground for snorkelers, as the water is clear enough to see marine life with just a mask and snorkel. A rocky outcrop forms a small islet that adds distinct character to the view, known as the Copanello reef. Numerous restaurants and cafes line the beach, perfect for extending your day by the water.
Calabria is especially well endowed with beautiful beaches. In the far south of Italy, in a mountainous region, all the ingredients are there to create postcard settings.
Copanello Beach is particularly pretty. The water is warm, calm, and turquoise, which is reassuring for kids. A few rocky islets brighten up the horizon, and the white sand is fine. In short, you are right there in a vacation postcard. You can even spot some fish with a mask and snorkel if you head toward the rocky areas.
Small downside: it gets very crowded in high season!