San Giovanni Beach
A charming, smaller shingle beach on Lake Como, offering clear waters, panoramic views, and a relaxing atmosphere with a convenient beach bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
San Giovanni Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, smaller shingle beach on Lake Como, offering clear waters, panoramic views, and a relaxing atmosphere with a convenient beach bar.
"Lovely beach just past the villa in Bellagio. Shingle and pebble beach but very warm and clear water perfect for swimming."
🥾 Bring Water Shoes
Essential for comfort on the shingle and pebble beach, and to avoid stepping on scattered wooden branches.
☀️ Seek Shade Early
Shade is limited, primarily available along the wall. Arrive early if you need consistent shade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Clear, Warm Waters
San Giovanni Beach
Enjoy swimming in the inviting, warm, and clear waters of Lake Como. Perfect for a refreshing dip on a sunny day.
Panoramic Lake Views
San Giovanni Beach
Soak in the spectacular and panoramic views of Lake Como from this charming lakeside spot.
Beach Bar & Amenities
San Giovanni Beach
Relax at the beach bar, offering drinks and a place to unwind with ample seating and customer-only restrooms.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Beach Access & Vibe
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Bring Water Shoes
Essential for comfort on the shingle and pebble beach, and to avoid stepping on scattered wooden branches.
☀️ Seek Shade Early
Shade is limited, primarily available along the wall. Arrive early if you need consistent shade.
☕ Enjoy the Beach Bar
A great spot for drinks with a panoramic view. Customer bathrooms are available here.
🛥️ Consider a Boat Trip
See the beach and other Lake Como sights from the water for a different perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Bring Water Shoes
Essential for comfort on the shingle and pebble beach, and to avoid stepping on scattered wooden branches.
☀️ Seek Shade Early
Shade is limited, primarily available along the wall. Arrive early if you need consistent shade.
☕ Enjoy the Beach Bar
A great spot for drinks with a panoramic view. Customer bathrooms are available here.
🛥️ Consider a Boat Trip
See the beach and other Lake Como sights from the water for a different perspective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
San Giovanni Beach is appreciated for its clear, warm waters and stunning panoramic views of Lake Como, making it a pleasant spot for swimming and relaxation. While it's a smaller, shingle beach and shade is limited, the presence of a beach bar and its suitability for families add to its appeal. Visitors recommend water shoes for comfort on the pebbly shore.
"Pass by the beach via a boat, this a smaller beach, looking at the Como lake. Might be worth going to visit villas along the lake instead."
胡佳恩Jia En
"It’s not great but considering the beach situation in Bellagio, it’s all you got. Definitely not the cleanest but nothing horrible either. Recommend water shoes but can do without them if careful. There is a bar on the beach with ample seating. For shade, only available along the wall. Beautiful view"
Martin Ed
"Lovely beach just past the villa in Bellagio. Shingle and pebble beach but very warm and clear water perfect for swimming. Jetty for jumping in and little cafe bar for drinks etc."
Craig Belshaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Milan Central Station, take a train to Varenna. From Varenna, you can take a ferry to Bellagio. San Giovanni Beach is a short walk from the main villa area in Bellagio. +1
Yes, it's a lovely beach just past the main villa in Bellagio. It's accessible by a walk from the town center.
Yes, passing by the beach via boat offers a unique perspective of Lake Como.
Walking is the best way to explore Bellagio and its surrounding areas, including San Giovanni Beach.
Yes, explore other nearby beaches like Lido di Bellagio or Onno Beach for different experiences.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
San Giovanni Beach is a free stone beach, meaning there is no admission fee to access it.
As a public beach, San Giovanni Beach does not have set opening hours and is generally accessible during daylight hours.
No, tickets are not required for San Giovanni Beach as it is a free public access beach.
While generally open, be mindful of any local regulations. It's advised to wear water shoes due to the rocky terrain.
Yes, it's quite suitable for families with kids due to its shallow and deep regions.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
It's a smaller, shingle and pebble beach with clear, warm water. It offers beautiful views of Lake Como. +1
Absolutely! The water is warm and clear, making it perfect for swimming. A jetty is available for jumping in.
There's a nice little restaurant/bar on the beach with ample seating. Customer-only bathrooms are available at the bar.
Shade is limited and primarily available along the wall. It's best to arrive early if shade is a priority.
Water shoes or flip-flops are highly recommended due to the rocky and pebbly nature of the beach. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a nice little restaurant/bar directly on the beach offering drinks and a place to relax.
The beach bar offers food and drinks, making it convenient to grab refreshments while enjoying the lake.
While specific menus aren't detailed, beach bars typically offer snacks, light meals, and beverages.
Bellagio offers a variety of restaurants and cafes within walking distance of San Giovanni Beach.
Yes, it's highly recommended by visitors for its convenient location and pleasant atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the panoramic views of Lake Como, the clear water, and the charming beach bar. The jetty also offers great photo opportunities. 
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the lake. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be stunning.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Always check for any restrictions before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for water activities.
Look for the reflections on the water, the textures of the pebbles, and the charming details of the beach bar.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While shade is limited, families can find spots along the wall. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a comfortable position. The proximity to Bellagio's main attractions also means that a beach visit can easily be combined with exploring the town, making for a well-rounded family day out on Lake Como.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own snacks and water can further reduce costs. The availability of a beach bar means you don't necessarily need to venture far for refreshments, but comparing prices with other establishments in Bellagio might be worthwhile. Overall, San Giovanni Beach offers a beautiful and affordable way to experience the charm of Lake Como.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lake Como's Beaches
Despite its size, San Giovanni Beach provides essential amenities, including a beach bar that serves drinks and light fare, and customer-only restrooms. Shade is limited, typically found along the retaining wall, so arriving early is advisable if you plan to spend an extended period basking in the sun. The beach's charm lies in its simplicity and its direct connection to the serene beauty of the lake, making it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Bellagio.
For those seeking a more varied beach experience around Lake Como, exploring other nearby options is recommended. Lido di Bellagio offers a more established lido experience, while Onno Beach provides a wilder, more natural setting. These alternatives cater to different preferences, ensuring that visitors can find a lakeside spot that suits their ideal day out.
Getting to Bellagio and Lake Como
Upon arriving in Varenna, the next step is to catch a ferry to Bellagio. This ferry ride itself is a highlight, offering breathtaking views of the lake and its surrounding villas. It's important to note that ferry lines can get long, especially during peak season, so booking tickets in advance or arriving early is a wise strategy to avoid lengthy waits.
Once in Bellagio, getting around is best done on foot. The town is compact and walkable, allowing visitors to easily discover its charming streets, shops, and attractions, including San Giovanni Beach. For those looking to explore further, boat tours are also available, providing a different perspective of the lake and its picturesque shoreline.
Social
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