A few kilometres south of the ancient city, Lido di Metaponto is the modern beach strip — a long flat stretch of fine yellow sand on the Gulf of Taranto, lined with pine groves and a string of summer-only lidos, bars, and gelato stands. The water is shallow for a long way out, making it popular with families.
Outside July and August much of it is shut. There is no historical reason to come here beyond a swim after the heat of the archaeological park.