Looking for the perfect beach day along Italy’s famous Cinque Terre coastline? I discovered that Monterosso al Mare offers the most expansive sandy beach experience in the entire region. Unlike the typical rocky shores found elsewhere in Cinque Terre, Monterosso boasts a wide, sandy stretch that’s consistently ranked among Europe’s top beaches.
During my visit last summer, I spent a blissful day at Fegina Beach in the newer part of Monterosso. The beach is divided between free public areas and sections with loungers and umbrellas for rent.
I arrived early to claim a spot on the free beach, then cooled off in the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea before grabbing a cone of freshly fried fish from Il Bocconcino for lunch.
What makes Monterosso’s beach particularly special is how it combines traditional beach relaxation with the charm of Cinque Terre. After soaking up the sun, I took a short walk to explore the colorful old town, then returned to watch the sunset paint the water golden. The perfect blend of swimming, sunbathing, and authentic Italian coastal culture made it my favorite day in Cinque Terre.
Getting to Monterosso
Reaching Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost gem of Cinque Terre, is straightforward once you understand the local transportation system. The town is well-connected by rail, making train travel the most convenient option for most visitors.
Arriving by Train
The easiest way to reach Monterosso is by train. I found the regional trains that run along the Ligurian coast to be frequent and reliable.
If you’re coming from larger cities like Genoa or La Spezia, simply board a regional train headed toward La Spezia Centrale or Genoa respectively.
When traveling from Sestri Levante or Levanto, take the regional train going toward La Spezia Centrale and get off at the Monterosso stop. The station is conveniently located just a short walk from Fegina Beach, the town’s main sandy shore.
Train tickets are affordable and can be purchased at station kiosks or online. I recommend buying a Cinque Terre Card if you plan to hike between villages, as it includes unlimited train travel between all five towns.
Exploring Regional Transportation Options
Beyond trains, there are several other ways to reach this picturesque coastal town.
During the summer months, ferry services connect Monterosso with other Cinque Terre villages, La Spezia, and Portovenere. These boat rides offer spectacular views of the coastline that you can’t get any other way.
If you’re driving, note that Monterosso has limited parking, and the Cinque Terre National Park discourages car use. I suggest leaving your vehicle at La Spezia or Levanto and taking the train in.
For those seeking adventure, hiking into Monterosso from neighboring Vernazza provides stunning panoramic views. The trail takes about 2 hours and requires moderate fitness levels.
Buses from La Spezia also serve Monterosso, though they’re less frequent than trains and follow a winding route through the mountains.
Monterosso Al Mare: The Heart of Sandy Beaches
Monterosso stands out among the five Cinque Terre villages as the only one with a truly expansive sandy beach. The crystal-clear waters and soft sand make it the perfect destination for beach lovers seeking both relaxation and recreation.
The Allure of Monterosso’s Beach
I fell in love with Monterosso’s beaches the moment my feet touched the soft sand. Unlike the rocky shores of neighboring Cinque Terre villages, Monterosso boasts genuine sandy beaches that stretch along its coastline.
The main beach, Spiaggia di Fegina, offers calm, crystal-clear waters with gentle waves—perfect for swimmers of all levels. The shallow entry point makes it especially family-friendly.
What makes these beaches truly special is the stunning backdrop. Imagine lounging on golden sand while colorful houses and rugged cliffs frame your view. The contrast between the turquoise Mediterranean and the vibrant village creates a postcard-perfect setting.
During my visits, I’ve found early mornings and late afternoons offer the most peaceful beach experience, with fewer crowds and softer light for photos.
Beach Amenities and Facilities
Monterosso’s beaches offer excellent facilities that make beach days comfortable and convenient. Most of the shoreline is divided between free public areas and private beach clubs.
At the private sections, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for around €15-25 per day. Though not cheap, the comfort is well worth it for a full day of sunbathing. Many clubs also provide changing rooms, showers, and secure lockers.
Food options abound near the beach. Small cafés and restaurants line the promenade, serving everything from quick sandwiches to fresh seafood. I always pack a water bottle, but love grabbing a gelato or espresso from the beachside vendors.
Water activities are plentiful too. Rental stands offer kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear for those wanting to explore the clear waters actively.
Outdoor Activities Beyond the Beach
While Monterosso’s beaches are certainly the star attraction, stepping away from the shore reveals a world of exciting activities that showcase the true beauty of Cinque Terre. The rugged coastal landscape offers perfect terrain for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Hiking Cinque Terre’s Scenic Trails
I discovered that hiking is truly the soul of the Cinque Terre experience. The famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects all five towns, with the stretch from Monterosso to Vernazza being particularly stunning.
This moderate 2-hour hike rewards you with breathtaking views of terraced vineyards cascading down to the sea.
For a less crowded experience, I recommend the higher-altitude trail called Sentiero Rosso (Red Trail). It offers panoramic vistas without the crowds. Make sure to wear proper shoes and bring water, especially during the summer months.
The trails between towns vary in difficulty:
- Monterosso to Vernazza: Moderate, 2 hours
- Vernazza to Corniglia: Moderate, 1.5 hours
- Corniglia to Manarola: Easy, 1 hour (when open)
- Manarola to Riomaggiore: Easy, 20 minutes (Via dell’Amore)
Water Sports and Coastal Exploration
Beyond swimming, Monterosso offers the most diverse water activities in Cinque Terre. I spent an unforgettable morning kayaking along the rugged coastline, exploring hidden coves unreachable by foot.
Rental shops by the beach offer kayaks for around €15-20 per hour.
From a different perspective, boat tours depart regularly from the harbor. These tours provide spectacular views of all five colorful villages from the water – a photographer’s dream! I opted for a sunset cruise (€25) which included a glass of local wine.
Stand-up paddleboarding has also gained popularity here. The calm morning waters are perfect for beginners, while afternoons often bring enough waves to keep things interesting for more experienced paddlers.
Diving and snorkeling opportunities exist too, with equipment rentals available in town. The protected marine area features diverse underwater landscapes with surprising clarity.
Exploring the Charm of Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre captivates visitors with its five distinct coastal villages perched along the rugged Italian Riviera in Liguria. Each colorful village offers its unique character while sharing the region’s spectacular sea views, winding pathways, and rich maritime heritage.
Visiting Neighboring Villages
When I’m in Monterosso, I always make time to explore the other gems of Cinque Terre. Vernazza, just a short train ride away, enchants with its natural harbor and colorful houses climbing up the hillside. Its small piazza opens right to the sea, creating a perfect spot for an aperitivo.
Manarola might be my favorite for its romantic atmosphere. The tiny harbor is lined with fishing boats, and the sunset views are breathtaking. The famous lovers’ walk “Via dell’Amore” (though partially closed for restoration) once connected it to Riomaggiore.
Corniglia sits uniquely atop a high cliff, requiring a climb of 382 steps from the train station. The effort rewards you with magnificent panoramas and fewer crowds than its neighbors.
Riomaggiore, the easternmost village, charms with its tower houses painted in traditional Ligurian colors. I love wandering its main street, Via Colombo, sampling local seafood and the sweet Sciacchetrà wine.
Cultural Landmarks and Historical Sites
Beyond the stunning beaches, Cinque Terre holds remarkable historical treasures. In Monterosso, I always visit the 14th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista with its distinctive black and white striped façade. The medieval castle that once protected the village from pirates now offers spectacular viewpoints.
Vernazza’s Doria Castle remains partially intact, with its cylindrical tower providing a glimpse into the area’s defensive past. From here, you can see how these villages adapted to their precarious coastal position.
The ancient terraced vineyards surrounding all five villages are themselves living monuments. These hand-built stone walls date back centuries and are still used today for wine production.
Local traditions remain strong throughout Cinque Terre. I’ve learned that each village celebrates its patron saint with festivals featuring processions, music, and regional foods that highlight the area’s cultural heritage.
Accommodation and Dining in Monterosso
Finding the right place to stay and eat in Monterosso can make your beach getaway truly unforgettable. The town offers a range of lodging options from beachfront hotels to charming old town stays, alongside authentic Ligurian cuisine that will delight your taste buds.
Selecting the Perfect Lodging
Hotel La Spiaggia is one of my top recommendations for beach lovers. I stayed there last summer and woke up to stunning Ligurian Sea views every morning. The hotel sits right on the beachfront promenade, making it perfect for early morning swims.
For a more authentic experience, I suggest exploring accommodations in the old town. Albergo al Carugio captures the essence of Monterosso with its picturesque medieval setting. The narrow streets outside your window will transport you back in time.
Hotel Porto Roca and Hotel Marina are also excellent choices based on recent traveler reviews. If you’re planning a 2025 visit, expect rates starting around $103, though prices vary by season.
Some travelers I met preferred Monterosso over other Cinque Terre villages specifically because of its wider accommodation options and easy transportation connections.
Local Cuisine and Dining Experiences
Monterosso’s dining scene blends seaside charm with authentic Ligurian flavors. Restaurants along the beach promenade offer the freshest seafood. Try the anchovies – they’re a local specialty caught daily in the waters you’ll be swimming in!
The traditional pesto in Monterosso is unlike any I’ve tasted elsewhere. Made with locally grown basil and pine nuts, it’s typically served over trofie pasta. Pair it with a glass of the local white wine for a perfect meal.
For a truly special experience, I recommend dining at one of the family-run restaurants in the old town. These hidden gems serve recipes passed down through generations. Most restaurants offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal while people-watching.
Dinner options are more plentiful in Monterosso compared to smaller Cinque Terre villages. That’s why many travelers choose it as their home base.
