Cala Porta Vecchia
Tucked immediately below the old city walls, Cala Porta Vecchia is a small natural cove where the sea turns an almost implausible shade of turquoise. Because you reach it on foot through the old town, it stays calmer than the larger free beaches further along the coast.
A beach inside the city
The cove sits at the base of the medieval sea walls, so you swim with centuries of history literally above your head. The water is shallow and clear enough to see the rocky bottom at four metres depth, making it ideal for snorkelling among sea grass and small fish.
There is no lido here — no sun-loungers for hire, no bar — just flat rocks and a small pebbly strip. Bring your own towel, water shoes and a picnic from the Monday market or a nearby focacceria.
Practical tips for the perfect visit
Access is via a steep flight of steps descending from the sea-wall promenade near the castle. The path is unmarked on most tourist maps; locals call it the 'scalo' (slipway). Look for the gap in the wall just east of Castello Carlo V.
Morning visits before 10:00 reward you with glassy water and almost no other swimmers. The cove faces east, so morning light is also best for photography.
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