Porto Cesareo isn't just sea and relaxation: it's a district of experiences made to be shared by two. From adrenaline-filled adventures to food and wine tours, here's a detailed list of the best activities for couples, with booking tips.
🌊 Sports and Adventure (For active couples)
Sunset SUP (Le Dune Beach / Tabù)
Paddle on the flat waters of Porto Cesareo as the sun sets on the horizon.
Details: Board rental at Le Dune Ritual Beach or Tabù. Very romantic to do as a couple towards Isola dei Conigli.
Booking: Recommended for guided tours; for free rental just turn up (except high season).
Horse riding (I Sette Nani Ranch)
An immersive experience in nature through Mediterranean scrub and coastal paths.
Details: On the road towards Torre Lapillo. Sunset rides are the most popular.
Booking: Essential (at least 2–3 days in advance).
Trekking in Porto Selvaggio Park
A scenic path through the pines leading to unspoilt bays.
Details: About 20 minutes on foot. Ideal for a romantic picnic at the Torre dell'Alto viewpoint.
Booking: Not required (free access).
🍷 Food and Tradition (For gourmet couples)
Tasting at Cantina Vecchia Torre (Leverano)
A dive into Salento's wine culture.
The experience: Winery tour and tasting of Negroamaro and Primitivo with local taralli and zero-kilometre products.
Booking: Essential. Guided visits run at set times.
Cooking class at a Masseria
Try your hand at making orecchiette and pizzica.
Details: Several estates between Porto Cesareo and Nardò offer private lessons for couples followed by dinner in the garden.
Booking: Essential (at least 48 hours ahead).
Aperitivo by boat (Porto Cesareo)
See the coast from the sea while sipping a glass of rosé.
Details: Many local fishermen and agencies offer tower tours with a swim stop and aperitivo on board.
Booking: Essential.
💃 Evening and fun (For those who don't want to sleep)
Beach party at Bahia del Sol (Porto Cesareo)
For a vibrant but informal atmosphere right on the beach.
Details: Famous for happy hours that turn into dancing as the sun goes down.
Booking: Recommended to reserve a table in the private area.
Romantic dinner and stroll in Santa Maria al Bagno
Details: This hamlet of Nardò has a beautiful square overlooking the bay. Perfect for a fish dinner followed by artisan gelato on the seafront.
Booking: Recommended for sea-view restaurants.
Rio Bo Fashion Club (Gallipoli)
If you're looking for a real nightclub to dance until dawn.
Details: On the San Mauro hill, it's one of Salento's historic venues, with careful attention to design and greenery.
Booking: Highly recommended (advance ticket or table).