The Cinque Terre offer an uncontaminated sea that includes a large protected marine area, under the protection of the Cinque Terre Park, which boasts an extraordinary variety of animal and plant species. But where are the beaches of the Cinque Terre?
Monterosso, the westernmost and most inhabited municipality of the Cinque Terre, has the main beaches in the area. The beach of Fegina, which unlike the typical rocky beaches of the Riviera is formed by a long sandy strip, offers free beach sections and well-equipped bathing establishments. A perfect setting for children and families. The other beach of Monterosso is right in front of the historic center of the town. Vernazza has two small free beaches, reachable in a few minutes on foot from the center.
In Corniglia there are some of the most beautiful beaches of the Cinque Terre. That of Guvano, enclosed in a splendid bay, is mainly frequented by naturists and it is not recommended to reach it by land, the path is dangerous and demanding; it is preferable to do it from the sea. Much more within reach are the Spiaggione di Corniglia, near the train station, and Marina di Corniglia, both narrow and stony.
In Manarola there are no beaches: to swim the only solution is to dive from the rocks that surround the access to the sea for boats.
To access the beach of Riomaggiore you have to get to the marina and take the road along the cliff. A very beautiful beach, made of stones and pebbles, but crowded in summer. For lovers of the wildest and most authentic sea near Riomaggiore there is the Canneto beach. A paradise: crystal clear waters, stones and pebbles and a pool of fresh water. Located between Punta Castagna and Punta del Cavo, it can only be reached by boat.
After Riomaggiore, in the direction of La Spezia, from the wonderful village of Campiglia it is possible to go down to the sea with a walking path lasting about forty minutes up to the Spiaggia del Persico: a beach, also isolated, made up of sandstone pebbles, a real wonder of nature. But remember that then you have to go back up.
Cinque Terre Ferries is new shipping company that offers original excursions to reach and get to know the Cinque Terre and Portovenere.