Cilento Coast
Clear Tyrrhenian water and quieter anchorages
The Cilento promontory is a less-travelled gem with some of the clearest water in the Tyrrhenian. Start in the Gulf of Agropoli with its roadstead and marina—a solid base to visit the Paestum temples and the medieval village of Agropoli. The low coastline to Punta Licosa is fringed with beaches and scattered shoals worth a wide berth.
Rounding the point, the Rada di Ogliastro gives good shelter from Maestrale. South-eastward the coast alternates beaches and rocky patches, with marinas at varying stages (San Nicola, Acciaroli, Casal Velino, Marina di Pisciotta, Palinuro).
Capo Palinuro and Camerota
Capo Palinuro reaches west creating two broad bays: to the north, the Baia del Porto (lee from southerlies); to the south, the Baia del Buondormire (lee from northerlies and westerlies). The cape hides spectacular grottoes—perfect by SUP or swim. Cliffs and beaches lead to Marina di Camerota, the best-equipped port on this stretch.
Beyond Camerota the road heads inland and the coast turns wild and green. You enter the Area Marina Protetta degli Infreschi e della Masseta: anchoring is banned, but moorings are provided in the coves. Cala degli Infreschi is a magical, well-sheltered spot with icy freshwater springs seeping from the cliffs, plus numerous caves and quiet pocket beaches.
South to Policastro
Continuing south you reach the charming village of Scario with its small harbour. Entering the Gulf of Policastro, the coast lowers with long beaches toward Sapri, which offers a good marina, a well-sheltered roadstead, and high-speed rail links to the rest of Italy.
Further on, mountains press back to the sea near Maratea, also with a marina. Expect more superb beaches, grottoes, and coves all the way to Isola di Dino.
Plan your cruise
- Anchoring: Respect the no-anchoring rules in the Infreschi–Masseta reserve; use the provided moorings.
- Wind: Choose Palinuro’s bay based on breeze (southerly → Baia del Porto, northerly/westerly → Buondormire).
- Depths: Shoals near Punta Licosa; otherwise expect steep drop-offs—check swing room.
- Stops: Book Camerota early in peak season; Sapri and Maratea give reliable refuge plus shore logistics.