Santa Maria al Bagno

Santa  Maria  al  Bagno​

Latest page update: 31 March 2025
By: Dion Protani
The beach resort of Santa Maria al Bagno is situated in the heart of the Salento in Puglia and officially under the comune of Nardò.

This is one of the prettiest locations in the whole region, a beach enclosed on three sides by the village's shops, cafes and restaurants. Of particular interest is the colour of the water here which is a beautiful display of turquoise.
Santa Maria al Bagno is relatively little-known compared to the headline-grabbing resorts of the Salento such as Otranto or nearby Gallipoli with which it shares the Gulf of Taranto. The water in this part of the Ionian Coast is breathtakingly beautiful and just around the headland to the north of Santa Maria is another hidden gem: Santa Caterina with its own dazzling display of coastal beauty. 

What People Ask About Santa Maria al Bagno

Where is Santa Maria al Bagno?
Santa Maria al Bagno is a seaside village on the Ionian coast of Puglia, between Gallipoli and Porto Cesareo. It’s part of the municipality of Nardò and is known for its small beach and waterfront promenade.
Is there a beach in Santa Maria al Bagno?
Yes, there is a small sandy beach in the centre of Santa Maria al Bagno, popular in summer for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is right in front of the main square and is backed by bars and restaurants.
What is the history of Santa Maria al Bagno?
After World War II, Santa Maria al Bagno hosted a transit camp for Jewish refugees heading to Israel. The Museum of Memory and Welcome tells the story of the town’s role during that period and displays historical documents and murals.
How do you get to Santa Maria al Bagno?
The closest train station is in Nardò, about 7 km away. From there, local buses or taxis can be used to reach Santa Maria al Bagno. The village is also easily reached by car from Lecce, Gallipoli, or Porto Cesareo.
Is Santa Maria al Bagno a good place to stay?
Yes, it’s a popular summer destination with holiday rentals, beach bars, and a relaxed atmosphere. Its location makes it a good base for visiting Gallipoli, Nardò, and the Ionian beaches of southern Puglia.
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Santa Maria al Bagno • Puglia • Salento • Beach Resort
Santa Maria al Bagno, located in the Apulia region, is a charming seaside village situated along the Ionian coast, just a short distance from the town of Nardò. Known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, Santa Maria al Bagno is a popular destination for those seeking a coastal retreat with a blend of natural beauty and local culture. The village offers a peaceful environment, perfect for beach lovers and those wanting to unwind by the sea.

Santa Maria al Bagno is renowned for its beaches, particularly Spiaggia di Santa Maria al Bagno, a long stretch of golden sand that gently slopes into the turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The village also offers several seafront restaurants where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Apulian dishes.

​For those looking to explore the area, the nearby Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Selvaggio provides a protected natural area with hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching and swimming in the clear, calm waters of the bay. Santa Maria al Bagno’s proximity to the historic town of Nardò allows visitors to experience more cultural attractions, including ancient churches and piazzas, while enjoying the relaxed pace of coastal life.
Must-see and do in Santa Maria al Bagno:
  • Santa Maria al Bagno Beach: The main attraction in Santa Maria al Bagno is its beautiful beach, which offers golden sand and clear, calm waters. This small but picturesque beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a leisurely walk along the shore. The beach is framed by rocky cliffs and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline, making it a popular spot for visitors to relax and unwind.
  • Torre Santa Maria: The Torre Santa Maria is a historic watchtower built in the 16th century, once used to defend the coastline from pirate invasions. Situated on the edge of the beach, the tower offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area. The tower is an iconic feature of the village and serves as a reminder of the area's rich maritime history.
  • Lido Conchiglie Beach: A short distance from Santa Maria al Bagno, Lido Conchiglie is another beautiful beach known for its soft sand and clear waters. This beach is perfect for those looking to enjoy water sports or simply relax in a more tranquil setting. It’s a great spot for families and offers beach bars and restaurants where visitors can enjoy local seafood dishes.
  • Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Selvaggio: The Porto Selvaggio Natural Regional Park is located just outside Santa Maria al Bagno and offers visitors the chance to explore unspoiled nature. The park features scenic walking trails, rocky coves, and beautiful stretches of coastline. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
  • Excursion to Gallipoli: A short trip from Santa Maria al Bagno, Gallipoli is a historic town known for its old town on a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Visitors can explore its narrow streets, visit the impressive Gallipoli Castle, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of its waterfront. Gallipoli also offers excellent seafood restaurants and beautiful beaches.
  • Day Trip to Porto Cesareo: Another nearby destination is Porto Cesareo, a coastal town famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore the town’s lively harbour, relax on its sandy shores, or take a boat tour to nearby islands. Porto Cesareo is also home to the Marine Protected Area of Porto Cesareo, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and snorkelling enthusiasts.
Santa Maria al Bagno - frazione di Nardò
Comune: Nardò

Province: Lecce

Region: Puglia

Highlights: Spiaggia di Santa Maria al Bagno, turquoise sea

​​​​​​​​​​​​​Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025

Close by: Santa Caterina, Porto Selvaggio, Galatina, Gallipoli
My recommended accommodation options for Santa Maria al Bagno:
  • Hotel Riviera Situated just a short walk from the beach, this popular hotel offers comfortable rooms, many with sea views, a restaurant serving regional dishes, and a terrace overlooking the coastline. Guests appreciate the peaceful location, proximity to the beach, and the welcoming atmosphere. €€€ (high-end)
  • B&B La Terrazza sul Mare Located close to the seafront, this charming bed and breakfast features modern rooms with balconies, a homemade breakfast served on the terrace, and a relaxing lounge area. Visitors enjoy the friendly service, the convenient location near the beach, and the stunning sea views. €€ (mid-range)
  • Villa Otranto Resort A family-friendly resort set in a tranquil location just outside Santa Maria al Bagno, offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant. Guests value the resort’s peaceful setting, the wide range of facilities, and the short drive to the beach and nearby towns. €€ (mid-range)
  • Residence Santa Maria al Bagno Located a short stroll from the beach, this self-catering accommodation offers apartments with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and private terraces. Guests appreciate the independence of apartment living, the outdoor space, and the proximity to local shops and the beach. €€ (mid-range)
  • Masseria Celsito A little further inland, this charming farmhouse offers a mix of rooms and apartments, a garden with a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving locally-sourced produce. Guests enjoy the tranquil rural setting, the authentic Puglian cuisine, and the short drive to the coast and nearby attractions. €€ (mid-range)

Santa  Maria  al  Bagno​​​  Gallery

Close  to  Santa  Maria  al  Bagno

  • Santa Caterina (approx. 3 km east of Santa Maria al Bagno): A charming seaside village known for its crystal-clear waters and quiet beaches. Santa Caterina offers a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, as well as a few local restaurants and shops to explore.
  • Porto Selvaggio (approx. 5 km northeast of Santa Maria al Bagno): A natural park and beach area known for its rugged coastline, clear waters, and scenic walking trails. Porto Selvaggio is a protected area, ideal for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Mediterranean vegetation and coastal cliffs.
  • Galatina (approx. 20 km west of Santa Maria al Bagno): A historic town known for its Baroque architecture, Galatina offers attractions such as the Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town also features charming streets, local markets, and a rich cultural heritage.
  • Gallipoli (approx. 15 km southwest of Santa Maria al Bagno): A popular coastal town known for its historic old town, Gallipoli offers attractions like the Castello di Gallipoli and the Cattedrale di Sant'Agata. The town is also famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Spiaggia della Purità, and its vibrant nightlife.
Puglia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Puglia

1. ​Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. ​Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. ​Vieste 
8. ​Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia

Santa  Maria  al  Bagno  Travel

By Rail: Santa Maria al Bagno does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Nardò, approximately 7 km away. From Nardò, local buses or taxis are available to reach Santa Maria al Bagno, with the journey taking around 15 minutes.​
​
By Road: Santa Maria al Bagno is approximately 20 km north of Gallipoli, with a driving time of around 30 minutes via the SP90 road. From Gallipoli, follow signs to Santa Maria al Bagno along the SP90.
​
Nearest International Airport:
​
  • Brindisi Airport (Aeroporto del Salento): Located about 75 km northeast of Santa Maria al Bagno, the drive takes approximately 1 hour via the SS613 road. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a train to Lecce, then proceed as described above.

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