
Area Marina Protetta Costa degli Infreschi e della Masseta
A protected marine paradise with stunning turquoise waters, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs, ideal for boat trips and nature lovers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tourist boats, more serene.

Area Marina Protetta Costa degli Infreschi e della Masseta
Best Time
Fewer tourist boats, more serene.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected marine paradise with stunning turquoise waters, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs, ideal for boat trips and nature lovers.
"This is where you can find the best cristal clear water, absolutely recommend this beach to all of you."

⛵ Arrive by Sea
Boat tours from Marina di Camerota offer the best access to hidden coves and pristine waters.
🥾 Hike Smart
Trails offer amazing views but can be challenging; wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baia degli Infreschi
Southern Cilento Coast
A hidden gem with incredibly clear, turquoise waters and pristine white pebble beaches.

Monk Seal Sightings
Coastal waters
Keep an eye out for the rare Mediterranean monk seal, a symbol of the area's protected status.

Sentiero del Marcellino
Coastal hiking trail
Trek through stunning coastal landscapes for breathtaking views of the protected marine area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Paradise: Boat or Hike?
Beat the Crowds for Crystal Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛵ Arrive by Sea
Boat tours from Marina di Camerota offer the best access to hidden coves and pristine waters.
🥾 Hike Smart
Trails offer amazing views but can be challenging; wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, especially if hiking.
🤫 Respect Wildlife
Observe monk seals from a distance and avoid disturbing marine life.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛵ Arrive by Sea
Boat tours from Marina di Camerota offer the best access to hidden coves and pristine waters.
🥾 Hike Smart
Trails offer amazing views but can be challenging; wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, especially if hiking.
🤫 Respect Wildlife
Observe monk seals from a distance and avoid disturbing marine life.
⏰ Go Off-Peak
Visit late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredibly clear, crystal-clear waters and beautiful pebble beaches, often calling it the best in the Cilento coast. However, many note that the area can become extremely overcrowded with boats, detracting from the experience and making the 50-minute walk feel not worthwhile for some. The presence of a large food boat has also been criticized for spoiling the natural beauty.
"Such a beautiful water cristal clear, if you’re looking for a calmed and see-through sea-water this is the right place to go. Additionally, after having been in many beaches of the Amalfi and Cilento coast I would firmly say that this is where you can find the best cristal clear water. Absolutely recommend this beach to all of you."
Giuseppe Carinci
"Nice bay but so overcrowded that you can't really enjoy the place. Full of people and boats anchored directly on the beach. Totally NOT worthy the 50 min walk."
Martina Stanley-Cary
"Beautiful bay with crystal clear water and white stone beaches. Worth a visit. Reach it with your own boat or join an excursion from Marina di Camerota."
Lars H. L. Vedøy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach the protected area is by boat, with numerous excursions departing from Marina di Camerota. These tours often include stops for swimming and exploring coves. Alternatively, adventurous visitors can access parts of the area via hiking trails, such as the Sentiero del Marcellino, though these can be strenuous.
Direct car access to the most pristine beaches like Baia degli Infreschi is generally not possible. The area is designed to preserve its natural state, encouraging access by sea or foot.
The Area Marina Protetta Costa degli Infreschi e della Masseta stretches between Marina di Camerota to the north and Scario to the south. Both towns serve as excellent starting points for exploring the area.
While public transport can get you to towns like Marina di Camerota or Scario, reaching the specific coves and beaches within the protected area typically requires a boat or a hike.
Many of the most beautiful and secluded beaches are only accessible by sea. Booking a boat tour is highly recommended to discover these 'secret' spots and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the marine protected area itself is generally free. However, boat tours or organized excursions will have their own costs. Some specific trails or access points might have associated fees, but the core experience of enjoying the coastline is usually without an entrance ticket.
As a natural marine reserve, there are no strict opening or closing hours. However, access via hiking trails may be limited by daylight, and boat tour operators have their own schedules, typically running from morning to late afternoon.
While specific fees can vary, anchoring in sensitive marine areas is often regulated. It's advisable to check local regulations or consult with port authorities in Marina di Camerota or Scario regarding anchoring policies within the protected zone.
Yes, swimming is a primary activity within the Area Marina Protetta. The clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and many boat tours include ample time for swimming and snorkeling.
Generally, the hiking trails themselves do not have an entrance fee. However, it's always a good idea to check with local park authorities or tourist information centers for any specific regulations or potential small fees for trail maintenance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Baia degli Infreschi is a highlight, known for its exceptionally clear water. Other beautiful coves and beaches dot the coastline. Keep an eye out for monk seals, which have been sighted in the area.
Activities include swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing on pebble beaches, boat tours, and hiking along the coastal paths. The clear waters make it ideal for observing marine life.
Yes, the area can become quite crowded, especially during July and August, with many boats anchored. Visiting on weekdays or in the late afternoon can offer a more peaceful experience.
The beaches are primarily composed of white pebbles and stones, characteristic of the Cilento coast. They offer a stunning contrast to the clear blue waters.
Facilities can be limited directly on the smaller, more secluded beaches. Some larger bays or areas accessible by boat tours might have temporary vendors or services, but it's best to come prepared with your own supplies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Direct dining options within the most natural parts of the protected area are scarce to preserve its pristine state. Some larger boats may offer food services, and the nearby towns of Marina di Camerota and Scario have numerous restaurants serving local Cilento cuisine.
Cilento cuisine emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Look for dishes featuring fresh seafood, local cheeses, olive oil, and traditional pasta. 'Fresella' with tuna is a popular local snack often enjoyed on boat trips.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, especially if you plan to spend a day on a boat tour or hiking. This allows you to enjoy picnics in scenic spots.
The focus of this protected area is on natural beauty, so you won't find typical beach clubs or bars directly on most of the pristine beaches. The experience is more about nature and relaxation.
Both Marina di Camerota and Scario offer excellent seafood restaurants. Look for establishments that highlight fresh catches of the day for an authentic Cilento dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and pebble beaches offer stunning photographic potential. Sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful light, and keep an eye out for wildlife like monk seals.
Drone regulations can be strict in protected natural areas. It's essential to check with the park authorities or local municipalities regarding permits and restrictions before flying a drone.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more atmospheric scene. The 'golden hour' can be particularly magical.
From a boat, you get unique perspectives of the coastline and coves. Hiking trails also provide elevated viewpoints overlooking the sea. Cala Bianca is often cited as a particularly picturesque spot.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky. Waterproof protection for your camera is advisable if you're on a boat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing a beach, opt for those with calmer waters and pebble shores that are easier for children to navigate. While facilities can be minimal, bringing plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection is key. The sheer beauty of the clear waters and the chance to spot marine life can be magical for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for more basic boat excursions that focus on the journey and swimming stops rather than elaborate meals. Alternatively, staying in nearby towns like Scario or Marina di Camerota and exploring accessible parts of the coast on foot can be a more economical approach.
💑 Couples
Packing a picnic basket with local delicacies and a bottle of wine to enjoy on a quiet pebble beach or aboard your boat can create a truly special experience. The dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters provide a breathtaking backdrop for romantic moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Marine Protected Area by Sea
When on a boat, you'll witness the rugged beauty of the cliffs meeting the sea, with opportunities to spot marine life. The presence of the rare Mediterranean monk seal has been noted in these waters, making any sighting a special event. The boat experience also allows you to bypass the crowds that can gather on the more accessible beaches, offering a more tranquil and intimate encounter with the area's natural splendor.
Some boat trips might even offer onboard amenities like lunch, making it a full-day adventure. The flexibility of a boat allows you to tailor your experience, perhaps focusing on snorkeling in specific spots or simply relaxing on deck while taking in the breathtaking scenery. It's an essential part of experiencing the full magic of the Costa degli Infreschi.
Hiking Trails and Coastal Vistas
Hiking here requires preparation. The terrain can be rugged and uneven, so wearing sturdy hiking boots is crucial. It's also important to carry ample water, snacks, and sun protection, as there are limited facilities along the trails. The effort is rewarded with unparalleled views of the azure sea, dramatic cliffs, and the lush vegetation that characterizes the Cilento coast.
While hiking offers a different perspective, it's important to note that reaching some of the most secluded coves might still be challenging or require further descent from the main trails. Always check trail conditions and consider your fitness level before embarking on longer hikes. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the landscape make it a worthwhile endeavor for active travelers.
Conservation and Wildlife
Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the wildlife and the environment. This means avoiding disturbing marine animals, not leaving any trash behind, and respecting the natural habitats. The clear waters are home to a variety of fish and other marine organisms, making it a great spot for snorkeling and observing underwater life responsibly.
Efforts are ongoing to monitor and protect these species, and visitors who spot monk seals are often asked to report their sightings to relevant authorities like ISPRA or the park's own monitoring bodies. This collective effort helps in the ongoing research and conservation of these vulnerable creatures.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit