Situated in northern Italy, Lake Como is famous for its breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and clear, inviting waters. Known locally as Lario, this glacial lake, with an area of 146 square kilometers (56 square miles), is the third-largest in Italy, following Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore. Surrounded by lush hills and elegant villas, Lake Como offers a picturesque backdrop for various outdoor activities, including swimming in Lake Como, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety when swimming.
Can You Swim In Lake Como?
You may be wondering If you can swim In Lake Como? Yes, swimming is possible in Lake Como. However, you must exercise caution. It can be dangerous to swim in Lake Como as the water in Lake Como is generally colder than the sea, owing to its proximity to the mountains and cold underwater currents.
During the summer, temperatures typically offer ideal conditions for a swim. Be mindful that certain areas of the lake can have eddies, which can make it more difficult to stay afloat. Always follow safety warnings and consider swimming at a lido with a pool for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Lake Temperature: Lake Como’s water temperature remains generally low throughout the year, making swimming unsafe in Lake Como. Whereas, from June to September, the temperature generally ranges from 20.4°C to 30°C, offering warm and safe conditions for swimming according to seatemperature.info
Beaches & Lidos In Lake Como
Public Beaches In Lake Como
These beaches are accessible to the public and are free beaches on Lake Como.
San Giovanni, Bellagio
San Giovanni Beach is a beloved public beach on the shores of Lake Como. Located close to the city center of Bellagio, this beach offers a relaxing atmosphere perfect for both locals and tourists. The area is surrounded by a range of luxury hotels, providing stunning views of the lake and easy access to the water. Whether you’re there for a leisurely swim or to soak up the sun, this charming beach is an ideal spot to unwind.
Abbadia Lariana Beach, Lecco
Abbadia Lariana, located in the province of Lecco on Lake Como, offers a fantastic beach experience with its long, inviting white-stone shoreline. Easily accessible from the town of Lecco via the Ulisse Guzzi Park pay car park, the beach features white pebbles and ample space for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy sunbeds, picturesque views of the lake and mountains, and a lakeside trail ideal for leisurely walks. The beach area also includes a shaded park and nearby restaurants, enhancing the charm of this serene destination.
Riva Bianca Beach, Lierna
Riva Bianca Beach, located in the charming village of Lierna, is a delightful spot featuring smooth white pebbles and clear water with beautiful lake and mountain views. The beach offers amenities like parasol and sunbed rentals and is surrounded by lush vegetation providing some shade. The nearby grassy areas and children’s playground add to its family-friendly appeal. Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach, but there are adjacent grassy areas for pets.
Nearby, you’ll find bars, cafes, and restaurants for dining, with a bar right by the beach offering drinks and lounger rentals. Parking can be limited, but it is available just behind the beach. The area is also well-connected by numerous paths, making it convenient to explore both the natural beauty and the unique local attractions.
Lerai Beach, Como
Spiaggia Lerai, situated on Lake Como, located just 26.7 km from Como’s city center. This beach boasts stunning mountain views and features natural shade provided by the surrounding trees, creating a charming and relaxing environment. Visitors will find a kiosk on-site that provides essential amenities such as toilets and showers. For those looking to explore the lake further, the nearby Camping Europa offers rentals for pedal boats, canoes, and rowing boats
Dongo Beach, Como
Dongo Beach, is located on the northern coast of Lake Como. This small but charming pebble beach features clear, inviting water and ample space for relaxation. It’s a fantastic spot for families, with plenty of shade provided by trees and grassy areas where you can unwind. The beach is equipped with essential amenities including showers, toilets, and a bar that also offers sunbed rentals. For an active day, you can enjoy kite surfing, jet skiing, or stand-up paddleboarding, with equipment rentals available at the bar. There is also a nearby playground available for kids and a shallow stream perfect for play.
Dongo Beach is easily accessible by car, with parking options available near the beach and by following signs to the campsite area. There is also free parking available at the church nearby if you prefer a longer stay.
Lidos (Swimming Spots with Amenities)
These locations often offer additional facilities like pools, sunbeds, bars, and restaurants. Access to these amenities may require an entrance fee. These spots would definitely be a better choice to visit if visiting Lake Como during the winter or cooler seasons, when swimming in the lake will not be possible.
Lido di Bellagio
Lido di Bellagio offers a luxurious lakeside retreat with a sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Guests can enjoy cocktails and diverse dishes at the beach bar, with stunning lake views and docking assistance for boaters.
The Bistrot del Lido serves pizzas, burgers, salads, and desserts, complemented by a selection of wines and cocktails, all with panoramic lake vistas. The venue is also perfect for private events, including parties and corporate gatherings, with options for exclusive beach or terrace areas. On Tuesday and Saturday nights, the Lounge Bar features vibrant music and upscale cocktails for a chic lakeside evening.
Lido di Menaggio
Lido di Menaggio, located on the western shore of Lake Como, is an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. It has a sandy beach and two swimming pools (adult and toddler). You can also enjoy dining at three on-site restaurants and even a brewery. Families will appreciate the kids’ activities and volleyball courts. Ample parking is available for convenience.
Lido di Cadenabbia
For another top swimming destination on Lake Como, visit Lido di Cadenabbia. This popular spot offers a pool, sunbeds, a bar, and a renowned restaurant. Sunbathe by the pool or beach, and enjoy stunning views of Bellagio. The Lido is family-friendly with lifeguard-supervised swimming and swim lessons for kids.
The restaurant serves classic Italian dishes, including fresh fish specialties, with breathtaking lake views. The Niki Grill offers a unique dining experience every Saturday night, featuring grilled fish and meat dishes prepared in front of customers, either on the private beach or the rooftop with a spectacular view of Bellagio.
You can also book private cruises directly from the Lido. Options include a romantic sunset cruise with prosecco and Italian meats and cheeses, or a one-hour lake cruise showcasing the most prestigious villas and picturesque landscapes of Lake Como.
Lido di Villa Geno
Lido di Villa Geno is another stunning beach located in the heart of Como, It’s surrounded by lush greenery and perfect for relaxation. The beach offers limited amenities, including bathroom access and a bar. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. There is a small paid parking lot available, Nearby attractions include the Como-Brunate funicular, offering stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding area, and Villa Olmo, which is just a short walk away from the beach.