Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
The road above clings to the mountainside, eucalyptus and carob trees leaning over the asphalt. Park in the gravel turnout—easy to miss, marked only by tire ruts and a gap in the guardrail—and pick your way down a footpath that smells of wild fennel and sun-hot rock. The beach materializes in sections: first the rustle of leaves, then a wedge of blue between branches, finally the whole crescent, pebbles clicking softly under the surf. The stones underfoot are a lesson in geology—smooth ovals of limestone, flint, and basalt, each worn to satin by centuries of wave action. Wade in and the bottom falls away fast, the pebble bed giving way to sand at three meters, then rock shelves draped in Neptune grass. Visibility reaches fifteen meters on calm days. You'll see bream nosing along the rocks, the occasional flash of an octopus changing color as it jets between crevices. A handful of locals come in the early morning, retired fishermen mostly, who swim fifty strokes straight out and back, then sit on the shore in their briefs, smoking and talking in dialect. By eleven they're gone. You'll share the bay with a few Italian families who've learned to skip the crowded southern end, their children hunting hermit crabs in the tidal pools where fresh water seeps from the cliff.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Baia di Mattinatella Nord.
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Yes, this beach is generally safe for swimming when conditions are calm. The pebble seabed and clear turquoise waters make it ideal for snorkeling, with good visibility to observe marine life. However, as with any Adriatic beach, check weather forecasts and local conditions before entering the water. The rocky bottom can be slippery, so water shoes are recommended. During summer months, the sea is typically calm and suitable for families and snorkelers of moderate skill levels. Avoid swimming during rough weather or strong winds.
The optimal time to visit is during shoulder seasons—late May to June and September to early October—when crowds are minimal and the water remains warm enough for swimming. These periods offer the quieter atmosphere this beach is known for, while still providing excellent weather. July and August bring more visitors and higher temperatures, though it remains less crowded than nearby popular beaches. Early morning visits year-round offer the most peaceful experience and best light for photography of the turquoise waters.
Baia di Mattinatella Nord is located along the coastal road SP53 south of Mattinata town center. By car, it's approximately 5-10 minutes drive from central Mattinata. Parking is available along the roadside, though spaces can be limited during peak season. Some visitors arrive by boat from Mattinata harbor or neighboring beaches. There's no regular public transport directly to this beach, so having a car, scooter, or bicycle is advisable. A steep path leads down from the road to the beach.
The beach itself has limited facilities, reflecting its quieter, more natural character. For dining and accommodation, visitors typically stay in Mattinata town, which offers various hotels, B&Bs, agriturismos, and vacation rentals within a short drive. The town center has numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood and Apulian specialties. Some visitors bring picnic supplies for the day. A few beach clubs and seasonal restaurants operate along the Mattinatella coast, though availability varies by season. Book accommodation in advance during summer months.
This beach represents the quieter, northern section of the Mattinatella coastline, offering a more secluded experience compared to busier beaches near Mattinata center. Its exceptional water clarity and turquoise color make it particularly popular with snorkeling enthusiasts. The pebble beach and relative lack of commercial development preserve a more natural, unspoiled atmosphere. While neighboring beaches may have more services and beach clubs, Baia di Mattinatella Nord appeals to those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and excellent swimming conditions without crowds or extensive tourist infrastructure.
