Italy’s Best Beach You’ve Never Heard Of
You know the hype about the beaches of the Amalfi coast, and Naples, and Sicily, but Italy’s best beach is actually one that you’ve never even heard of. If you make it to Italy, you have to include a stop to this beach in your itinerary.
Welcome to San Fruttuoso! This hidden gem is the best beach I have ever been to, anywhere that I’ve traveled. Able to be accessed only by boat, it’s definitely worth the trip to get there. To find it, first you have to go to Camogli. (Insider tip: find a way not to have to drive in Camogli; what a mess to try and find parking!)
While in Camogli, I’d definitely recommend spending time to grab gelato, shop around, and watch the fishing boats. It’s a great little town with stunning colorful buildings covering the cliffside. To reach San Fruttuoso, head to the marina in Camogli, where there are numerous ferries where you purchase a ticket to get to the beach. A relaxing 30 minute boat ride later, you’re docked in San Fruttuoso and welcomed by the most insane view you could imagine (see above). This Mediterranean beach is highlighted by its historic abbey, and surrounded by cliffs and forests with incredible hiking trails. San Fruttuoso really has everything you’re looking for, no matter what type of vacationer you are.
For the beach bums, I recommend renting a chair by the water (the rocky Mediterranean beach is not kind to laying out), grabbing lunch at one of the local restaurants on-site, and swimming in the warm water.
For the thrill-seekers, you have a bounty of options. Hike the mountains behind you, jump off rocks into the crystal blue water, or even take a boat to dive down to the Christ of the Abyss statue.
If you’ve never considered a beach day on your European adventure, here is the case for scheduling one in. San Fruttuoso is non-touristy, and immerses you in local culture and cuisine like no other. If you’re still not convinced, scroll through the photos below and imagine yourself there- I think you’ll change your mind!
