One of Salento’s most recognisable rocky landscapes, shaped by stacks, caves and small inlets. Since February 2026 the view has changed: the Lovers’ Arch has completely collapsed.
This is a rocky natural attraction rather than a large sandy beach, so cliff edges, access points and sea conditions deserve extra care.
The regional tourism portal describes a rugged coast with isolated rocks, small caves and clear water. The sea stacks are the main attraction rather than a large sandy beach.
Choose a bathing point only after checking access, waves and depth.
After heavy rain and storm surges, Sant’Andrea’s famous natural arch completely crumbled into the sea. Older photographs therefore show a formation that no longer exists.
Do not approach debris, unstable edges or cliffs to recreate old photos.
The 2026 collapse prompted official inspections and renewed attention to erosion along high rocky coasts.
Stay on open paths, respect barriers and avoid standing below unstable rock faces.
Rocky descents, steps and small openings are found in different places. Old online descriptions may be outdated after storms and collapses.
Use only access points that are visibly open and safe on the day.
For 2026 Melendugno Municipality launched procedures for temporary summer parking areas in its seaside resorts.
Arrive early and follow current signs; availability and prices can change.
Around the sea stacks the bottom is rocky and depth does not behave like a gradual sandy beach.
Water shoes can help; weak swimmers and children should use only simple entry points in calm conditions.
Rock, cliff edges, irregular access and limited sand require more attention than Alimini or Torre dell’Orso.
With very young children, consider Sant’Andrea as a scenic stop and use a sandy beach nearby for a long swim day.
Cliffs, rocks and sea descents make many sections difficult for wheelchairs and reduced mobility.
For specific needs, verify a concrete viewpoint or equipped sea-access point before travelling.
Sant’Andrea is particularly attractive to young visitors and photographers because of its shapes and clear water.
Avoid cliff jumps, climbing and risky passages for photos or videos.
Wave action against rock and sea stacks increases risk, and the famous 2026 collapse followed severe storms.
With rough sea, enjoy the view from a safe point and postpone swimming.
Distance, depth, waves and local boat traffic can all change the real difficulty.
Stay within your ability and near an exit point; there is no need to reach a stack to enjoy the place.
Water, sun protection, stable footwear, water shoes and a mask only when the sea is calm.
Avoid slippery flip-flops on rock and travel light.
At Torre Sant’Andrea, on Melendugno’s Adriatic coast. Access routes and barriers can change after storms or safety works.
Archive images may show the Lovers’ Arch before its February 2026 collapse; those photos now document the former landscape.
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Return to this seaside resort or continue to nearby places.
Updated practical information after the landscape changed in 2026.
