Italy’s coastline has become the centre of a growing debate as campaigners demand greater public access to beaches, while private lido operators defend the paid services they provide. Popular seaside destinations such as Santa Severa feature stretches of privately managed beaches where visitors pay for amenities including umbrellas, sun loungers, restaurants, lifeguards and family-friendly facilities. Operators argue these services ensure safety, cleanliness and a better beach experience for visitors.

Campaigners, however, say free public beaches are often limited to less desirable locations, including rocky shorelines or areas near drainage outlets, making access unequal for those unable or unwilling to pay. They argue that public beaches should receive better maintenance and essential facilities such as showers, rubbish bins and lifeguard services from local authorities rather than relying on private operators. The issue has become increasingly visible during the busy summer tourism season as demand for affordable beach access grows.

The dispute also has legal and political dimensions. The European Union has long urged Italy to adopt a more transparent system for awarding lucrative beach concessions, but reforms have progressed slowly. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government extended existing beach licences until September 2027, with a possible extension to March 2028. Meanwhile, concession allocations in several coastal towns are under review by Italy’s highest administrative court, as campaigners continue to push for beaches they believe should remain accessible to everyone.

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