Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy, shaped like an inverted "Y" located between Milan and the Southern border of Switzerland and the Alps. This exclusive destination has become a residence for Hollywood movie stars such as George Clooney and Sylvester Stallone.
If you want to swim in the lake it is better to stick to the Northern part of the region as there are more beaches and the water is cleaner here. The towns of Domaso and Gravedona both feature several small sandy and pebbly beaches to sunbathe upon. There are also water sport facilities dotted around here as this region tends to be more windy, making it a great playground for windsurfing and sailing.
Lidos
There are not many beaches here as this is not a seaside resort; however there are plenty of lidos found around Lake Como which come equipped with sun beds, parasols and refreshments for a small fee.
If you are staying in Bellagio you must visit the exclusive Lido di Bellagio which is open during the summer months. Sun beds, deck chairs and even gazebos are available to hire here, and if you fancy taking a dip in the lake or a boat ride, there are a number of boat services which set off from here, whether for pleasure or for transport. Whilst in front of the Bellagio peninsula is Lido di Cadenabbia. Why not take a dip in the large outdoor pool here or sunbathe on the beach. Or if you would rather stay cool there's a well stocked bar on site which serves refreshing drinks.
Lido di Lenno is one of the most popular lidos with the locals and for just five Euros you can enter this sandy paradise. You will find a small sandy golden beach, complete with shower and toilet facilities. If you get peckish there's also an elegant restaurant which serves sophisticated international cuisine.
You can enjoy a romantic atmosphere at Lido di Villa Geno, which is also situated in the city of Como. On site there's a solarium, American bar and pizzeria which comes alive at night. Or if you are staying in the commune of Dongo you must spend the day at Lido di Dongo, where you can play some beach volleyball or relax by the lakeside.
Water sports
Even though there may be a lack of sandy beaches in Lake Como there are a lot of exhilarating water sports to make up for it.
Adrenaline junkies will love Tabo Surf Centre in Gera Lario. Take to the skies here on a kite surf or why not have a go at wakeboarding, windsurfing, sailing and canoeing on the pristine waters of Lake Como. Or if that's not enough to get your heart racing why not try the JetLev Flyer, where you will be strapped to a jet pack and fly over the lake.
If you have a passion for sailing then it's certainly worth visiting Skiff Sailing in Dongo. This well known business offers courses in drift and skiff sailing or if you are more experienced there's always the option to rent out a boat.
However, if you would rather go for a gentle paddle around the lake, head to Bellagio Water Sports. Don't worry if you are a beginner as there are a variety of guided tours which take you past picaresque sites such as Villa Balbianello and the Pescallo Coast.
Secluded beaches
There are a number of quiet shingle beaches dotted around Lake Como if you look closely.
If you head to the waterfront of Argegno Beach you will find a small shingle beach and waterside promenade complete with a ferry port and boat dock to take you to the other major towns in Lake Como. On a Monday morning there's also a market here where you may be able to find some souvenirs to take back home.
Another place to relax and unwind on a hot day is Gravedona Beach, located at the entrance to the commune. Here you will find a small clean beach with two outdoor swimming pools. However, if this is not enough for you, some hotels even have their own private beaches including Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Hotel Villa Aurora which supplies water sports facilities.