Located on the Tyrrhenian coast, Maratea is a hidden gem of the Italian region of Basilicata. With its stretch of coastline over 30 kilometers long and its splendid beaches, Maratea is a perfect destination for a seaside holiday. Basilicata, a region little known to tourists, offers a variety of fascinating landscapes, from the Apennine mountains to the hills full of olive groves and vineyards. A trip to Maratea is a unique opportunity to discover the beauty of this uncontaminated land and immerse yourself in its rich culture and history.
Despite its privileged position on the coast, Maratea is still a hidden treasure, far from the most popular tourist routes. This makes the city and its beaches even more fascinating for those looking for a holiday of relaxation and tranquility, away from the crowded seaside resorts. This article will guide you to discover the best beaches in Maratea and the secrets that this fascinating city has to offer.
The beaches of Maratea – Downloadable guide
Why visit the beaches of Maratea in Basilicata?
The beaches of Maratea are among the most beautiful and uncontaminated in all of Italy. The coast is characterized by a great variety of landscapes, ranging from sandy beaches to rocky coves and suggestive rocks. Each beach has its own particularity and charm, making Maratea an ideal destination for those who love the sea and want to live a unique and authentic experience.
Basilicata, with its privileged geographical position, offers a mild and sunny climate for most of the year, ideal for enjoying splendid days at the seaside. Furthermore, the region is rich in history and culture, and a trip to Maratea is also an opportunity to discover the traditions and testimonies of the past of these lands. Finally, Lucanian gastronomy, with its authentic and genuine flavours, is another reason to visit Maratea and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this fascinating city.
The best beaches in Maratea
Maratea boasts a great variety of beaches, each with its own characteristics and peculiarities. If you are looking for the seafront of Maratea, you are off track because the peculiarity of the "pearl of the Tyrrhenian" is its jagged coast full of coves, some of which can only be reached by sea. Therefore there is no seafront in Maratea. Among the most famous beaches loved by visitors are:
- Black beach: located in the southern part of the coast of Maratea, the Black Beach is one of the most fascinating in the entire region. Its name derives from the particular color of the sand, of volcanic origin, which creates a unique contrast with the crystalline sea. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
- Cala Jannita: this small cove, reachable only by sea or via a path, is one of the most evocative of Maratea. Surrounded by high cliffs and with a sea of unique transparency, Cala Jannita is the ideal place for a day of nature and relaxation.
- Fiumicello beach: one of the largest and most equipped beaches in Maratea, Fiumicello offers fine sand and a clear, shallow sea, ideal for families with children. The beach is surrounded by a pine forest which offers shade and coolness on the hottest days.
- Cala del Porto: located near the tourist port of Maratea, this beach is characterized by pebbles and a deep, crystalline sea. The proximity to the port makes it easily accessible and offers numerous services, such as rental of sunbeds and umbrellas.
- The Secca: it is the kingdom of snorkeling, thanks to the presence of rich vegetation and marine fauna, favored by the shallow waters. It is a unique and silent place despite two small exclusive beaches. On site there is the possibility of having a fresh and quick lunch.
Hidden jewels: the lesser-known beaches of Maratea
In addition to the most famous beaches, Maratea also offers small coves and less well-known but equally fascinating stretches of coast. Among these, we can mention:
- Cala S. Pietro: this small beach, located near the church of San Pietro, is a real hidden jewel. Surrounded by cliffs and vegetation, it offers an intimate and evocative atmosphere, far from mass tourism.
- Cala della Grotta: accessible only by sea, this cove is characterized by a rocky inlet and a cave, which can be explored by swimming. The sea, of an intense blue, offers a unique and unforgettable spectacle.
- Macarro beach: this small pebble beach, located in the northern part of the coast of Maratea, is a still little-known corner of paradise. The crystal clear sea and the tranquility of the place make it ideal for those looking for an authentic experience away from the crowds.
The best activities to do on the beaches of Maratea
The beaches of Maratea offer numerous opportunities to have fun and enjoy unique experiences. Among the activities most practiced by visitors, we can mention:
- Snorkelling and diving: the crystal clear sea of Maratea is ideal for exploring the seabed and admiring the rich marine fauna and flora. Numerous diving centers offer courses and equipment to dive in the waters of Maratea and discover its hidden treasures.
- Boat excursions: to fully appreciate the beauty of the Maratea coast, there is nothing better than a boat excursion. Several companies offer guided tours along the coast, with the possibility of stopping in the most suggestive coves and swimming in the crystal clear waters.
- Trekking and walking: Maratea offers numerous paths and routes that wind along the coast and inland, allowing you to discover breathtaking views and hidden corners. Walks along the coast are an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and admire the beauty of the landscape.
Exploring the coastal culture and history of Maratea
The city of Maratea, in addition to its splendid beaches, also offers a historical and cultural heritage of great value. Among the places of interest to visit, we can mention:
- The historic center of Maratea: characterized by narrow streets and stone houses, the historic center of Maratea is a fascinating place to immerse yourself in the tradition and history of the city. Among its streets you can admire numerous ancient buildings, churches and suggestive squares.
- Christ the Redeemer: located on the top of Mount San Biagio, the Christ the Redeemer of Maratea is one of the tallest statues in the world and offers a breathtaking view of the city and the coast. The climb to the mountain is an unmissable experience for those visiting Maratea.
- The caves of Maratea and surroundings: the coast of Maratea is characterized by numerous caves and natural cavities, some of which are also accessible by sea. Among the most famous, we can mention the Grotta della Madonna, the Grotta delle Meraviglie and the Grotta dell'Arco Magno in San Nicola Arcella. These caves have been inhabited since prehistoric times and contain evidence of human presence in the area.
We recommend you book withImmaTravel, the tour operator of authentic trips to Basilicata.
What to do in Maratea – Downloadable guide
Tips for a perfect beach holiday in Maratea
Per godersi al meglio le spiagge di Maratea, è importante seguire alcuni consigli utili:
- Portare l’attrezzatura giusta: le spiagge di Maratea sono in gran parte non attrezzate, quindi è importante portare tutto l’occorrente per il proprio comfort, come ombrelloni, lettini, teli mare e cibo e bevande.
- Proteggersi dal sole: il sole può essere molto forte nella zona di Maratea, quindi è importante proteggere la pelle con creme solari ad alta protezione e indossare un cappello e occhiali da sole.
- Scoprire la gastronomia lucana: la cucina lucana offre numerosi piatti prelibati, come la pasta fatta in casa con i peperoni cruschi. la cucina lucana è soprattutto di terra che a Maratea si fonde con quella di mare. Principe indiscusso, tuttavia, della cucina lucana, rimane il peperone che viene utilizzata in tantissimi piatti.
- Prenotare con anticipo: Maratea è una meta turistica sempre più popolare, quindi è consigliabile prenotare alloggi e attività con anticipo per evitare sorprese dell’ultimo minuto. Ti consigliamo di prenotare con ImmaTravel, il tour operator con viaggi autentici della Basilicata.
The best time to visit the beaches of Maratea in Basilicata
The best time to visit the beaches of Maratea is from June to September, when the climate is mild and sunny and the days are long. However, even in spring and autumn it is possible to enjoy the beauty of the Maratea coast, with milder temperatures and fewer tourists.
How to get to Maratea and its beaches
Maratea is easily reachable by car, via the A3 Salerno-Reggio Calabria motorway, Lagonegro north or south exit. Alternatively, it is possible to arrive by train at Maratea station, located on the Tirrenica railway line. From Lamezia Terme airport, in Calabria, you can reach Maratea by car or train.
Conclusions: your unforgettable seaside experience in Maratea
The beaches of Maratea and the beauty of Basilicata will leave you speechless. Maratea is a fascinating and authentic place, where nature and culture come together in a unique and unforgettable experience. Choose the beach that's right for you, explore the coast and discover the history and tradition of this wonderful Lucanian village.
We recommend you book withImmaTravel, the tour operator of authentic trips to Basilicata.
