Porto Badisco

What to See in Porto Badisco

Grotta dei Cervi

One of the main attractions of Porto Badisco is the Grotta dei Cervi, a prehistoric cave discovered in 1970. The cave contains rock paintings dating back to the Neolithic period, depicting deer, hunting scenes, and stylized human figures.

Although the cave is not open to the public to preserve its condition, it is possible to learn about its history through guided tours organized in the surrounding area.

Porto Badisco Beach

Porto Badisco is known for its small bay set between rocky cliffs, creating an intimate and protected environment. The bay offers a mix of sandy stretches and rocky areas.

This beach is characterized by fine golden sand and clear, shallow waters, making it perfect for families with children. During the summer, the beach can become quite crowded, so it is advisable to arrive early to find a good spot.

Access to the beach is quite simple thanks to well-maintained paths leading directly from the main road.

At the local beach clubs, it is possible to rent umbrellas, sunbeds, and snorkeling equipment.

What to Do in Porto Badisco

Swimming and Snorkeling

The waters of Porto Badisco are clear and crystalline, making this location ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The bay, protected by cliffs, offers calm conditions for exploring the seabed. During snorkeling, you can observe numerous marine species, such as fish, sea urchins, starfish, and sometimes even small octopuses.

Scuba Diving

Porto Badisco offers several opportunities to explore underwater caves and admire the rich marine fauna. Diving here is particularly fascinating due to the transparency of the water and the presence of caves and crevices that host various marine species.

Hiking and Trekking

The cliffs and paths surrounding Porto Badisco are ideal for hikers. You can go trekking along the coastal paths, enjoying breathtaking views of the Adriatic. The trails lead through Mediterranean scrub, offering the opportunity to see typical plants and flowers of the region, in addition to enjoying spectacular panoramas.

Visit to Grotta dei Cervi

The Grotta dei Cervi is one of the main archaeological attractions in the area. Discovered in 1970, this cave contains rock paintings dating back to the Neolithic period, representing deer, hunting scenes, and stylized human figures. Although the cave is not open to the public for conservation reasons, you can participate in guided tours in the surrounding area to learn about the history and significance of this archaeological site.

Seafood Tasting

One of the pleasures of Porto Badisco is the opportunity to taste fresh seafood, particularly sea urchins. The local restaurants offer seafood specialties, prepared with fresh and local ingredients. Salentine cuisine is known for its simplicity and authentic flavor.

Birdwatching

The area is a good spot for birdwatching, thanks to the variety of seabirds and migratory birds that populate the area.

Fishing

You can fish directly from the cliffs or participate in organized fishing trips. The variety of fish present makes every fishing trip interesting and fun.

Boat Trips

One of the best experiences in Porto Badisco is a boat trip along the coast. This allows you to explore the sea caves and hidden bays that are not accessible by land. Boat trips offer a unique perspective of the Salento coast, with the opportunity to snorkel in even more tranquil and unspoiled waters.

Where to Park in Porto Badisco

• Parking along the Main Road: Along the main road leading to the bay, there are several areas where you can park your car. These parking spots are generally free, but they can fill up quickly during peak season, so it is advisable to arrive early in the morning.
• Private Parking Lots: Near the bay and main tourist attractions, there are some paid private parking lots. These parking areas offer the advantage of being closer to the beach and having more available spaces compared to the free parking along the road.
• Restaurant and Beach Club Parking: Some restaurants and beach clubs have reserved parking for their customers. If you plan to have lunch or spend the day at one of these places, you can inquire about parking when making your reservation.

Some parking lots offer additional services such as shuttles: During peak season, there may be a shuttle service from the more distant parking lots to the bay.

Conclusion

Porto Badisco is one of the hidden gems of Salento, and there are many reasons to visit. This small coastal location offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, fascinating history, and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to discover an authentic corner of Puglia.