Escape the Crowds: Ischia’s Hidden Coves
While Ischia is famous for its thermal baths and popular beaches, the island hides a handful of spectacular coves that remain blissfully untouched by mass tourism. These secret spots are tucked away along rocky coastlines and down narrow paths — places that are practically impossible to reach by bus or on foot from the main roads. A rental scooter is your key to unlocking these hidden gems.
1. Cala di Carta Romana
Just south of Ischia Ponte, beneath the shadow of the Castello Aragonese, lies Cala di Carta Romana. This sheltered cove features crystal-clear turquoise water and a mixed sandy-pebble shore. What makes it special is the underwater volcanic vents — in some spots, you can feel warm bubbles rising from the seabed as you swim. Ride your scooter to the parking area near Ischia Ponte and take the short footpath down to the coast. Early morning visits reward you with almost total solitude.
2. Spiaggia di Cava Grado
Hidden on the south coast between Serrara Fontana and Sant’Angelo, Cava Grado is a small rocky cove accessible via a steep trail. With your scooter, ride to the marked trailhead along the road above Sant’Angelo and park safely off the road. The 15-minute walk down is moderately challenging but absolutely worth it. The cove is surrounded by towering cliffs that create a natural amphitheatre, and the water is an impossibly deep shade of blue. Bring snorkelling gear — the underwater rocks are teeming with marine life.
3. Baia di Cartaromana (South Side)
Most visitors know the main Cartaromana beach, but few venture around the rocky headland to the wilder southern pocket of the bay. This secluded stretch has no facilities — just rocks, clear water, and silence. The easiest approach by scooter is from Via Nuova Cartaromana, where you can park and then scramble over the rocks for about ten minutes. The reward is a private swimming spot with views of the castle that you’ll have almost entirely to yourself.
4. Caletta di Punta Caruso
At the extreme northwestern tip of the island, Punta Caruso is a wild, rocky swimming spot that feels like the edge of the world. The ride there by scooter is an adventure in itself — the road narrows as it passes through the village of Zaro, eventually becoming a track that leads to a small clearing where you can park. From there, a footpath winds through Mediterranean scrub to the rocks. There’s no sand here — just flat volcanic rocks perfect for sunbathing and ladders of natural stone descending into the deep blue sea. On a clear day, you can see Ventotene island on the horizon.
5. Spiaggia di Scarrupata
The name means “landslide beach” in the local dialect, and you’ll understand why when you see the dramatic cliff face that towers above this remote strip of coastline on the southeastern side of the island. Scarrupata is reached by scooter via a road from Barano that ends at a viewpoint parking area. The descent to the beach is steep and requires good footwear, but at the bottom you’ll find a pristine beach of dark volcanic sand. The water drops off quickly to depth, making it excellent for snorkelling along the cliff base.
Why a Scooter is the Only Way
None of these coves have bus stops or large parking lots. The access roads are narrow and sometimes unpaved, making cars impractical. A scooter gives you the agility to navigate tight turns, park in small spaces, and reach trailheads that would be impossible to access otherwise. Plus, the journey is half the fun — riding along Ischia’s coastal roads with the wind in your hair and the sea glittering below is an experience that defines an island holiday. Pick up your scooter at the port, pack a towel and some provisions, and set off to discover the Ischia that most tourists never see.