Beach getaway in Aviano’s backyard

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Michael Battles
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  With the summer months coming to a close, tourists and Italians alike are beginning to evacuate the sun-kissed beaches and warm ocean water of Italy's many beach getaways. There are many beaches to choose from near Aviano, but there is one town tucked away from many tourists - the city of Caorle.

Located less than an hour from the gates of Aviano, the otherwise average Italian town comes to life for four months out of the year. From June through September, the city of Caorle and its beaches are full of children's laughter and the loud sound of waves crashing into the sand.

Visiting the town for the first time, my friends and I decided to explore the city center before hitting the beach. The streets of Carole offer numerous clothing, jewelry, antique stores and also a large amount of tourist souvenir shops that you would find in any beach town in the U.S.

As you walk the streets, there is an aroma that fills the area from the local restaurants that overtake the city. Brought in by local fisherman, the catch of the day in Caorle is fresh seafood,. As you sit in one of the restaurants adjacent to the ocean, you can watch as the fishing boats come in with their newest catch.

With our stomachs full and ready to go, we headed toward our final destination: the beaches of Caorle. With more than 10 miles of beach to enjoy, it's almost impossible to decide on a location. If you want a good seat or a lounge chair, arrive at the beach before 10 a.m. on nice days otherwise you'll end up in the sand near the water.

For those who plan ahead, there are a variety of lounge chairs, umbrellas and cabana tents to rent for a small fee. If you're an avid beach-goer, you can rent one for the whole summer. There are also numerous beach hotels for the one-time trip or weekend getaway.

If you're not into catching some sun by the ocean, there are also a variety of entertainment options around the beach. Scattered alongside are: beach chairs, volleyball nets, children playgrounds and boat rentals to include paddleboats.

Whether you're looking for some fun in the sun, or just a weekend getaway, the town of Caorle has something for everyone. While stationed overseas, traveling is at your fingertips, but while at Aviano, finding an Italian beach paradise is practically in your backyard.