Punta Prosciutto, also known as “Li Prisuddi< /span>” in local dialect, it is a pearl of Salento located in the municipality of Porto Cesareo, in Puglia. Set within the Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area and the Palude del Conte and Coastal Duna Regional Natural Park, this location is much loved and known for its crystal clear waters and golden sand, which extend for kilometers creating a heavenly setting.
Some people call it ham tip, others </span >ham point, who still ham tip or even punta prosciutta, confusing the name is easy but its beauty, well that is truly unmistakable.
The beach of Punta Prosciutto Puglia is renowned for its wild beauty , thanks to the presence of pristine dunes and Mediterranean scrub that surround it. The shallow waters and the transparent sea make it ideal for families with children, while nature lovers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the flora and local fauna.
Let’s find out together where it is, how to get there, what to do, </span >beaches, restaurants and much more other.
Where is Punta Prosciutto Salento
Punta Prosciutto is an enchanting seaside resort in Salento overlooking on the Ionian Sea, part of the municipality of Porto Cesareo, in the province of Lecce.
Its pristine beauty makes it a true jewel of the Palude del Conte and Duna Costiera Regional Natural Park, where the Mediterranean scrub blends with the golden sand dunes and the crystal clear waters of the sea.
Punta Prosciutto is locatedsouth of Torre Colimena, along the< /span> coastal road that connects Porto Cesareo to Torre Lapillo a short distance from the splendid town of San Pietro in Bevagna< /b>.
How to reach Punta Prosciutto in Puglia
The best way to get to Punta Prosciutto is undoubtedly by car. After arriving in Lecce it is possible to reach the beach by taking the provincial road, first SP119, then the SP21 towards Porto Cesareo and, finally, the SP359 up to Punta Prosciutto.
If you leave from Gallipoli, however, you can take the SP112 first and then the SP359 following towards Porto Cesareo. Finally, from Taranto you can get to Punta Prosciutto by taking the SP55SP54 and then the SP359.
If you don’t have the possibility to travel by car, you can reach the Punta Prosciutto Salento beach by bus. In summer the Salento by Bus service is active, usually with line 110 which serves the Porto Cesareo – Riva degli Angeli route .
The Punta Prosciutto Salento beach
The Punta Prosciutto Porto Cesareo beach extends for approximately 4 km, offering a breathtaking panorama of fine golden sand that immerses itself in a turquoise sea with Caribbean reflections. The shallow and gently sloping seabed makes it perfect for families with children, who can play safely on the shore.
Behind the beach, sand dunes rise which, together with the lush Mediterranean scrub, create an uncontaminated natural environment. A path immersed in the vegetation allows you to explore this unique ecosystem and admire the local flora and fauna.
Punta Prosciutto is the ideal place for those who want a relaxing holiday, but also for sports lovers, with the possibility of practicing windsurfing, kitesurfing and other water activities.
The Punta Prosciutto beach is equipped with beach establishments that offer rental of umbrellas, sunbeds and catering services. There are also free zones for those who prefer a wilder experience.
How is the sea in Punta Prosciutto?
The sea of Punta Prosciutto is a crystalline body of water with breathtaking colors ranging from emerald green to blue intense. The north wind amplifies its beauty and makes it irresistible for a refreshing dip.
Lidos in Punta Prosciutto
Punta Prosciutto offers a vast choice of lidos equipped to satisfy every need . From the most exclusive establishments to the most informal beach bars, you will be able to find the ideal place to spend a day at the seaside in the company of your family, friends or as a couple. Here are somerecommended beaches:
- Samanà lido
- Lido degli Angeli Punta Prosciutto
- Lido Oasis Punta Prosciutto
If, however, you prefer the free beach, the Riva degli Angeli beach it’s the perfect solution.
How much does an umbrella cost in Punta Prosciutto?
The price of an umbrella in Punta Prosciutto varies according to different factors, including:
- the type of bathing establishment;
- the period: in high season (July and August), prices are generally higher than in the months of June and September.</span >
- the position: the umbrellas in the first row or in more central areas of the beach may have a higher cost than those in the second row or in more peripherals.
In general, the cost of an umbrella in Punta Prosciutto can vary from a minimum of €15 to a maximum of approximately €50 per day.
Why is it called Punta Prosciutto in Puglia?
The origin of the name “Punta Prosciutto” is uncertain and shrouded in legend. There are several hypotheses, each with its own charm:
- The shape of the cliff: a hypothesis refers to the conformation of the cliff at the end of the beach. Its shape, similar to that of a ham, gave rise to the name “Punta Prosciutto”, in local dialect “Li Prisuddi”.
- The presence of salt pans: A further hypothesis, linked to the history of the place, it refers to the presence of salt pans in antiquity. The processing of salt, with its particular drying process, may have resembled the curing of ham, giving rise to the toponym.
- The local dialect: In Salento dialect, the word “prisuttu” means “dried up”. According to some scholars, the name “Punta Prosciutto” could derive from a deformation of “Punta Prisuttu”, to describe a shallow seabed typical of the coast.
Punta Prosciutto or Torre Lapillo?
Both belonging to Salento and overlooking the Ionian sea, Punta Prosciutto and Torre Lapillo are two authentic Apulian pearls that offer postcard-like scenery. The choice between the two, however, can prove difficult, given their unparalleled beauty.
The two locations, in fact, have similar characteristics and the choice is linked to completely personal factors. We recommend you see them both and then maybe tell us which one you liked better!
What’s around Punta Prosciutto?
Punta Prosciutto in Salento is surrounded by wonderful treasures! IF you want to explore its surroundings we advise you not to miss:
- Porto Cesareo
- Torre Colimena
- Riserva Naturale Regionale Palude del Conte e Duna Costiera
- Area Marina Protetta di Porto Cesareo
- Lecce
- Nardò
- San Pietro in Bevagna
- Aziende agricole where you can taste typical products of Salento.
Where to eat in Punta Prosciutto
There are not many restaurants in Punta Prosciutto, if you want to have a bite to eat you will find some restaurants in the beach establishments. Here are some suggestions:
- Riva Beach
- L’Ancora – Ristorante Pizzeria Bar
- Lido Teranga Bay
- Lido Oasis Beach Cafè
- Il Graffio
