Every summer, the Adriatic coast of Le Marche fills with people. Tourists come from all over Italy and abroad, while locals from nearby towns head to the beaches. For many, this busy season is also a chance to find work. One of the most common jobs? Becoming a bagnino, the Italian lifeguard.
Believe me if I tell you that I have first-hand experience! In fact, I’ve recently spent the entire summer working on the Adriatic as a lifeguard, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding seasonal jobs I’ve ever done. Here’s what the experience looks like, how to get started, and what you can expect.
⸻
How Seasonal Lifeguard Work Works in Le Marche
To work as a lifeguard in Italy, you need a brevetto (a license that qualifies you for working in swimming pools, along with a license extension for open waters if working at the beach is what interests you). After completing the certified course, you can start applying for jobs.
There are three main ways to find work:
• Contact resorts or beach clubs directly
• Respond to job listings online
• Work through a cooperativa, which manages large sections of coastline
I personally worked with a cooperative, and that meant flexibility (and sometimes, a little chaos). They oversee multiple beaches across different towns, and each day you might be sent to a new spot. This ensures resorts always have coverage, even on busy weekends or when other lifeguards take time off.
⸻
A Day in the Life: My Personal Experience
Most of my colleagues were teenagers looking for summer income, so being a bit older gave me an advantage. I quickly became someone the cooperative could rely on for responsibility and versatility.
The typical shift? 10:00 to 18:00, sometimes longer if the season peaks or the beach is packed. Working under the sun for eight hours requires focus and patience, but the job isn’t just about sitting in a chair—it’s about being alert, approachable, and ready to act if something happens.
And then there are the unexpected moments: giving tourists directions, chatting with locals, or helping a family find their lost child. It’s a job that teaches calm under pressure—and makes you part of the summer rhythm in Le Marche.
⸻
How Much Can You Earn?
Here’s the part everyone asks about: the pay. Recent updates have made wages more competitive for coastal work. For full-time availability (6 days a week), you can expect around €1,300–€1,500 per month during high season. This is the average salary for most jobs in this region.
If you only work part-time or a few days a week, you might make half that, but you’ll have some pocket money and plenty of free time to enjoy the summer atmosphere.
It’s not a fortune, but for students, young adults, or anyone looking for extra income, it’s a solid seasonal job—especially when you factor in the sun, sea, and social life.
⸻
Pros and Cons of Lifeguarding on the Adriatic
Pros:
• Being outdoors by the sea all day
• Meeting new people from Italy and abroad
• A meaningful role—helping people, ensuring safety
Cons:
• You need to stay fit and alert
• Long hours in the sun can be tiring
• Working weekends and holidays is almost guaranteed
⸻
Would I Do It Again?
Absolutely. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re responsible, like being active, and want a summer experience beyond a typical job, lifeguarding in Le Marche is worth considering. It taught me patience, focus, and gave me stories I’ll keep forever.
So if you’re thinking about a summer job next season, get your brevetto, pack sunscreen, and prepare for a summer on the Adriatic.
