Don’t go on the word of the very first person who stops to give you advice, but there’s a rather nifty trick you can use to confirm our declaration that Santa Marinella is perhaps the most popular beach near Rome. Simply ask around, not divulging any specific details, how to get to ‘the beach.’

A willing helper will likely confirm if you’re referring to Santa Marinella, otherwise they might ask you which beach in particular you’re referring to. Santa Marinella is not popular for nothing, among visitors flocking to the Eternal City as well as locals themselves. Taking into account the overall experience you’d be getting, along with the time it takes to get there, this is certainly the best beach near Rome.

To get there, catch a train from your nearest major station to S. Marinella. You’ll then just enjoy an easy five-minute walk from the station to reach the beach. The list of major stations you’re likely to be directed to from your hotel include Ostiense, San Pietro, Trastevere, or Roma Termini (Roma Station).

Okay, so perhaps a more pragmatic local you ask might conclude that you’re referring to Ostia if you simply ask them how to get to the beach from Rome, because this is indeed the closest of all the beaches to the Eternal City. But then again they’ll probably make sure to confirm with you, since the stabilimenti littered along the Ostia beach boardwalk only allow access through membership, which you’re not likely to have if you’re a visitor. There is a however quite a big public beach area available, so ask away in any case and then confirm when prompted to do so.

Getting there is as easy as taking the metro (Metro B) to Piramide, from whence you should follow the signs that will point you in the direction of available trains to Roma-Lido. Lido Centro is where you must make sure to get off, and NOT Ostia Antica…

If Santa Severa takes your fancy, with its impressive view of the castle to go with concealed rocky alcoves, that’s just one stop before Santa Marinella.

To get to Fregene, which is distinguished by its somewhat hippy-vibe (but still cleaner than the likes of Ostia), head to the Cornella stop, taking the Metro A in the direction of Battistini. You’ll then have to take a small bus that heads to Fregene, passing by every 10-15 minutes.

Ladispoli is a great option if you want to explore a beach option in the north of Rome, featuring a stretching coastline that pretty much guarantees you a spot to enjoy some beach action. The beach is an easy 15-minute walk from the Cerveteri-Ladispoli Station, which you will get to by train from nearly all the stations in Rome.

There are about three other beaches you’d probably want to check out to complement all the historical sightseeing in Rome, but you’ll get more information if you check here for more Rome tips which cover beach access among many other aspects of planning what is sure to be a memorable trip to the Eternal City.