Lama Monachile, also called Cala Porto, is the image that sells Polignano: a narrow pebble cove squeezed between high limestone cliffs, with the old town rising directly above the water. From the bridge and terraces, the view is almost absurdly photogenic.
Swimming here is memorable but rarely peaceful. The beach is tiny, stony, and packed in summer, so come early or enjoy it from above. Water shoes help, and so does accepting that this is more of a dramatic plunge than a lazy beach day.