Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)
Italy: Excellent water quality
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is a Blue Flag-certified beach in Italy, meaning it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The beach is open year-round, though May, June, and September offer the best conditions with fewer crowds. July and August are peak…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is a Blue Flag-certified beach in Italy, meaning it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The beach is open year-round, though May, June, and September offer the best conditions with fewer crowds. July and August are peak season, so expect larger crowds during those months. Before swimming, check current water safety conditions with local authorities. The Blue Flag designation, awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education, makes this a solid choice for families and swimmers looking for a well-maintained beach.
It is part of a wider group of certified beaches throughout Italy that meet FEE's annual standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) faces east toward Adriatic Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | 13°C | Low |
| Feb | 12°C | 12°C | Low |
| Mar | 13°C | 14°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 16°C | Med |
| May | 18°C | 17°C | Med |
| Jun | 22°C | 21°C | Med |
| Jul | 25°C | 24°C | High |
| Aug | 26°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 23°C | 22°C | Med |
| Oct | 20°C | 21°C | Low |
| Nov | 17°C | 18°C | Low |
| Dec | 14°C | 14°C | Low |
The best time to visit Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 25.1°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 23.6°C in July.
How crowded does Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Italy, Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)
Is Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) safe to swim?Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated Excellent. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach. Swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?Peak water temperature at Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) reaches around 23.6°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12°C.
What is the beach like at Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) of Italy. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) sits on the Adriatic Sea: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Adriatic.
Planning a trip to Italy? Blue Flag Beaches Italy 2026 , our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)
How do I get to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) by car?Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is located in Italy. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?The nearest airport is Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO), approximately 214.1 km away.
Can I get to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Italy. The nearest recorded bus stop is 128 m from the beach.
Is there a train to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) lists Marina Grande (Funicolare di Capri) as the nearest railway station, 3.03 km away. Check current timetables before travelling.
Map
Find Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)
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Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free: no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | June – October |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Parking | ✓ Available nearby (surface parking) |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km from the beach |
| Nearest bus stop | 128 m from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 40.5611°N, 14.2039°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Italy |
Frequently Asked Questions
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) FAQ
Is Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) suitable for children?
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) has a child-friendly score of 3/10. Facilities include toilets and parking. It is Blue Flag certified in Italy.
Is Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) free to access?
Access to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is free. There are no entry fees to enter the beach. It is a Blue Flag certified beach in Italy, recognised for meeting international standards for water quality and environmental management.
When is the best time to visit Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?
The best time to visit Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is May, June, September. The peak season typically runs High season: July, August, when weather conditions and facilities are at their best. Peak water temperature reaches around 23.6°C in July. Outside peak season, the beach is quieter but some facilities may be reduced.
What is the water quality at Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict EU Bathing Water Directive standards. Water quality is rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded and reviewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Beaches must pass water quality tests throughout the season to retain their status.
How do I get to Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)?
Gradola (Grotta Azzurra) is located in Italy. The nearest airport is Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO), 214.1 km away. By car is the most flexible option. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules to the area.
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status, from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Italy, rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore ItalyWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Gradola (Grotta Azzurra)
- FEE Italia
- European Environment Agency: bathing water quality
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.