beaches in the costa merlata area - ostuni


historic coast with lovely beaches

The beaches at Costa Merlata are situated within  Puglia, in the Province of Brindisi. The belong to the inland community of Ostuni, which is a distance of 12 kilometres away.  Costa Merlata  means the serrated coast, thanks to the many small coves and bays, This is a beautiful coastal area, offering crystal-clear waters, stunning golden sand beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and those seeking a relaxing vacation. You can relax on the shores, take a refreshing swim, or do some water sports like snorkeling and windsurfing.

Coast full of history
Like many coastal areas in Puglia, ​Costa Merlata has a history dating back to ancient times. This aerea was inhabited by various civilizations, including the Romans, Greeks, Messapians and Byzantines. Over the centuries, it witnessed periods of prosperity and invasions, shaping its cultural heritage.

Photo of Costa Merlata beach in Ostuni - Brindisi

Dotted with caves and grottoes
This shining coastline is dotted with intriguing grottoes and caves, carved by sea water over time. These natural formations enrich the area's beauty and will give you great opportunities for exploration and photography.

Photo of rocky coast Costa Merlata

countless little coves in the south

From South to North,  you can choose between spiaggia Lamaforca, free beach without any bars. A bit further North, you will find spiaggia di Torre Pozelle.  Another stunning public beach, with a big parking area. Take the time to walk or cycle from here along the coast, you will experience one surprise after another through the countless mini romantic bays. Between Spiaggetta Patruno and Spiaggetta Caletta you can relax at quality beach club La Dolce Vita.

la dolce vita beach club

Photo of Beach club La Dolce Vita in Ostuni Brindisi

At the Dolce Vita Beach Club, an elegant location in Ostuni,you can have a relaxing time. The club is part of the nearby Masseria Santa Lucia. As a paid service they offer tents, gazebos, umbrellas, massages on the beach, fine cuisine and lovely drinks. After sunset it transforms into a chic venue for sparkling aperitifs, colorful cocktails and fun-filled evenings. They also organize parties, concerts, DJ sets, etc. Parking is possible at parcheggio Santa Lucia. Reservations can be made online.

costa merlata center and northen part

Towards the center of Costa Merlata you will come across a few cute bays such as il Ritrovo dei Poeti and the Caletta dei Tuffi; the diving bay, made for a dive into the water. The main beach of Costa Merlata, also called spiaggia Grande or La Darsena, is also publicly accessible and there is a snack bar and bakery along it.

Continuing towards Spiaggia Gorgognolo you will come across a chain of small bays again. Gorgognolo itself is also a nice public sandy beach, but in an area where some algae regularly wash up, which does not detract from the water quality.

how to reach costa merlata

Several options are available.  By car, you can take the SS 379 until the exit for Torre Pozzella, if you want to go to the southern part of Costa Merlata.  Otherwise, for the center you take the exit Costa Merlata and for the northern part you take the next exit Gorgognolo. Once you arrive, you can park your car along the main road and then walk for about 10 minutes to the beach or use one of the parking plots below. There are also busses that leave from Brindisi or Ostuni. For those arriving by train, the closest station is Ostuni, from where you can take public transport or take a taxi.  Once you arrive, any short walk to the beach is absolutely worth it!

locations

Public parking Torre Pozzelle

Parking Santa Lucia  - beachclub La Dolce Vita 

Parking Lamasanta - central Costa Merlata 

Parking Gorgognolo