This coastal resort town near Venice draws visitors to its 15-kilometer sandy beach and lively summer nightlife along Via Bafile, Italy's longest pedestrian street.
Jesolo, a seaside town near Venice, draws over 5 million visitors annually to its 15-kilometer stretch of sandy beaches along the Adriatic coast. What began as a small fishing village has grown into a modern beach destination where you can cool off at Caribe Bay water park, admire intricate sand sculptures at the summer festival in Piazza Brescia, or take a quick ferry ride to Venice. The town sits between the Sile and Piave rivers, with Blue Flag beaches and an extensive network of cycling paths connecting the coast to the countryside.
Swimming and Sunbathing at Jesolo's Beaches
The 15-kilometer coastline stretches out with fine sand reaching 30 to 100 meters in width. Lifeguards watch over designated swimming areas from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM during summer. You'll find freshwater showers, changing rooms, and rental stations for sunbeds and parasols along the beach sections. Dog owners can head to Bau Bau Beach, which includes a shaded running area and washing stations for pets. If you visit during autumn (September to October), you can enjoy swimming and beach walks with fewer crowds, with water temperatures staying around 20°C (68°F).
Cycling Through Jesolo's Landscapes
You can explore 500 kilometers of marked cycling routes that wind through the town and surrounding areas. Ride past wooden casoni fishing huts, through the Pineta pine forests, and along the banks of the Sile River. Rent a bike from local shops for €10-15 per day, or check if your hotel includes free bike use. Stop by the tourist office to pick up detailed cycling maps that show route difficulty levels and key landmarks.
Water Parks and Family Activities
At Caribe Bay, you'll walk on imported white sand beaches and swim in multiple pool areas. Kids can splash in the wave pool and race down water slides, while younger children have their own dedicated play zones. Inside Tropicarium Park, walk through three climate zones to see Antarctic penguins, tropical fish, and reptiles up close. The Science Factory lets children experiment with interactive displays about energy and space, while the Wheel of Venice lifts you high above the coast for views of the lagoon.
Exploring the Lagoon Environment
Between Venice Lagoon and the Piave River Delta, you'll discover salt marshes where water birds gather during spring and autumn migrations. Walk through the shaded paths of Pineta pine forest to escape the summer heat. Join a kayak or canoe tour through the lagoon waters to watch local fishermen use traditional nets and traps to catch fish, just as their ancestors did centuries ago.
Planning Day Trips from Jesolo
Take a 90-minute ferry ride from the tourist port to Venice, with more frequent departures during summer. Visit Chioggia to the south, where you can walk along quiet canals without Venice's crowds. Head to nearby Eraclea to walk its 3-kilometer shoreline, where natural dunes and pine trees create a backdrop to the beach.
Shopping and Evening Activities
Walk the 13-kilometer shopping street from Piazza Marconi to Via dei Mille, lined with fashion stores, souvenir shops, and cafes. From May through September, the city center becomes car-free each evening, creating space for relaxed dining and shopping. Browse the Friday market in Jesolo Paese for local produce, clothing, and handmade items. In summer evenings, listen to open-air concerts along the beach or join food festivals celebrating local seafood and Veneto dishes.
