Since my very first trip abroad, the curiosity to discover what lay beyond the borders of my homeland has often led me to overlook my own country and for several reasons.I always told myself: “There will be time, sooner or later… when I’m older, I might not have the energy for long-haul travel, so I’d better do it now.”But the main reason, and I admit this with some regret, is that Italy, in my view, has never truly invested in a modern, youthful tourism scene. It has remained anchored to an outdated idea of travel, with facilities often falling short of the standards found in other countries and prices that are too high for what you actually get. But this time, thanks to my brother, I had the chance to visit a place with him I had always heard about but had never actually been to before: the Tremiti Islands.
Set adrift in the shimmering waters of the Adriatic, the Tremiti Islands are a hidden Italian treasure that many travelers overlook and perhaps that’s their greatest charm. This tiny archipelago, part of the Gargano National Park, is made up of five islands: San Domino, San Nicola, Capraia, Cretaccio, and the tiny Pianosa. Each has its own character, yet all share the same intoxicating blend of wild beauty, layered history, and the kind of tranquillity that’s becoming rare in the Mediterranean.
Here, the sea shifts through a painter’s palette of blues, from the translucent turquoise of shallow coves to the deep sapphire of open waters. Jagged limestone cliffs rise dramatically above the waves, dotted with pine trees and fragrant Adriatic shrubs. Beneath the surface lies an underwater paradise, a dream for divers and snorkelers, where shipwrecks, coral gardens, and schools of fish tell their own silent stories.
We chose San Domino, the largest of the Tremiti Islands, a place where only around 100 people live year-round, giving it a peaceful and authentic charm with only few hotels and restaurants and only one supermarket.
Located close to the Port of Termoli, the island is popular for day trips, with the first ferry departing around 8:30 a.m. and the last around 6:00 p.m. Most visitors explore San Domino on organized tours offered by local operators, which typically include 4–5 hour boat trips around the main coves, or by renting a private boat. The island itself is rocky, with no sandy beaches, so the only way to reach its hidden coves is either via rugged paths or by boat.
We decided to explore the island on foot over six days, aiming to discover its rough, remote coves via wild trails. This allowed us to avoid the crowds of day-trippers on busy boats and spend most of our time alone, fully immersing ourselves in the beauty of San Domino’s secluded and untouched corners.
What to See in Tremiti islands
The Tremiti Islands are a hidden paradise for marine life enthusiasts, boasting a kaleidoscope of underwater wonders across 30 protected dive sites. A great way to start is on a glass-bottomed boat, which usually explores the uninhabited islands of Cretaccio and Capraia. From there, you might spot tuna slicing through the waves, groupers hiding in caves, and octopuses gliding across the rocks. Don’t miss the submerged statue of Italian saint Padre Pio near Capraia, resting on a sandy seabed about 40 feet below the surface.
For a deeper experience, local scuba operators offer guided dives that bring the underwater world vividly to life. Divers can navigate swarms of lobsters, schools of scorpionfish, and the bustling marine life along San Domino’s southern coast or Capraia’s exposed northern cliffs, home to amberjack and tuna. Beyond the shallows, expert divers can explore forests of gorgonia fans and even the rare black coral (Antipathes subpinnata), some of the largest in the Mediterranean. Roman-era amphorae, two-handled narrow-necked jars, can also be spotted on the seabed, a silent reminder of the islands’ rich history. Remember: admire, but don’t touch.
best beaches in San Domino Tremiti
- Cala Spido
- Grotta del Sale
- Cala delle Roselle
- Grotta delle Viole
- Cala Tramontana
Sunsets and Scenic Views
The wild landscapes of Tremiti offer incredible viewpoints, particularly at sunset. On San Domino, rocky cliffs drop into turquoise waters, and walking along the island’s trails during golden hour feels almost otherworldly. The islands’ isolation ensures that you’ll often find these vistas to yourself, perfect for photography or quiet reflection.
Practical Tips
- Getting There: Most ferries depart from the Port of Termoli, with the first leaving around 8:30 AM and the last returning at 6:00 PM.
- Accommodation: Staying overnight allows you to explore beyond the crowds of day-trippers and experience the islands’ calm evenings.
- What to Bring: Good walking shoes for rocky trails, snorkeling gear, and plenty of water.
Why Visit the Wild Tremiti Islands?
The Tremiti Islands are not about luxury resorts or bustling nightlife. They are about raw beauty, quiet reflection, and adventure. Whether hiking the rugged trails of San Domino, diving into crystal-clear waters, or discovering a secluded cove, these islands offer a rare chance to reconnect with nature and escape the tourist crowds.
If you’re looking for a truly wild Italian island experience, the Tremiti Islands should be at the top of your list.
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