Where to Stay on the Cilento Coast: Finding Your Perfect Base

Your guide to where to stay on the Cilento Coast – from beachside villages to hidden inland gems for an unforgettable Italian escape.

If you’re planning a trip to the Cilento Coast and wondering where to stay, you’re in the right place. After exploring this stunning stretch of Southern Italy ourselves, we’re telling you: it’s big. Like, “you-can’t-see-it-all-in-a-weekend” big.

Choosing where to stay on the Cilento Coast can feel overwhelming. There are sleepy villages, beach towns, inland gems, and cliffside hideaways. And unlike the Amalfi Coast (where one base can cover a lot), the Cilento is best enjoyed by picking one or two home bases depending on what kind of trip you’re after.

In this guide, I’ll help you find the best area to stay in Cilento based on your travel style – whether you’re in it for lazy beach days, cute town vibes, cultural sites, or a little bit of everything.

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Quick List: Best Places to Stay on the Cilento Coast

Here’s a snapshot of the top areas to stay, with more details below:

• Santa Maria di Castellabate – charming, family-friendly beach town
• Marina di Ascea – easy beach access + Paestum proximity
• Palinuro – nature lovers and beach explorers
• Acciaroli – elegant and low-key with a local feel
• Marina di Camerota – lively base for coastal adventures
• Agropoli – larger town with good transport links
• Sapri – far south, chill town with local charm
• San Giovanni a Piro – for hikers and off-the-beaten-path explorers

Where Is the Cilento Coast, Exactly?

The Cilento Coast runs from Paestum to Sapri, a 100km stretch along Italy’s Tyrrhenian Sea in the Campania region. It’s part of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, a UNESCO-listed area known for its dramatic coastline, ancient ruins, and preserved nature.

Compared to the more famous Amalfi Coast to the north, the Cilento Coast is less crowded, more affordable, and arguably just as beautiful – but with more of a local, authentic feel.

8 Beautiful Places to Stay On the Cilento Coast

1. Santa Maria di Castellabate

Best For: Families, charming village vibes, and beach lovers

If you’re wondering where to stay on the Cilento Coast for that perfect mix of beach time, old-town charm, and family-friendly fun – Santa Maria di Castellabate is a top contender.

It’s where Italians go on holiday when they want something a little more low-key than the Amalfi Coast, and that says a lot. Expect sun-kissed piazzas, long beach days, and enough gelato options to fuel an entire week of taste-testing.

📍What makes it special?
You get the best of both worlds here: a relaxed beach town (Santa Maria) and a fairytale hilltop village (Castellabate) just 10 minutes away by car – or if you’re feeling ambitious, a scenic uphill hike. The beaches are sandy and swimmable, the water’s incredibly clear, and there are plenty of family-run trattorias and cafes right by the sea.

Things to Do in and Around Santa Maria di Castellabate:

• Beach time, obviously – The beaches here are clean, calm, and Blue Flag-rated. Perfect for families or lazy afternoons with a book and spritz in hand.
• Visit medieval Castellabate – Head up the hill to the historic village of Castellabate. The 12th-century castle (yep, where the town gets its name) has sweeping views of the sea and is surrounded by charming stone alleys, cafes, and one very photogenic main piazza.
• Hiking – Castellabate is one of the top spots for hiking in Cilento. You’ll find trails that wind through olive groves, pine forests, and up to viewpoints that will make your camera work overtime.
• Boat tours & snorkeling – Local operators run half- or full-day boat trips from nearby harbors, and some even include stops for swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. A great way to explore the coast without needing to drive.
• Sunset strolls & aperitivo – Evenings here are made for walking the promenade with a cone of gelato or grabbing a spritz at one of the outdoor cafes. Kids run free, grandparents chat on benches, and the whole thing feels delightfully timeless.

🛌 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Santa Maria (9.2 Rating)

Getting There by Train:

Take a regional or Intercity train to Agropoli-Castellabate station. From there, it’s about a 15- to 20-minute drive to Santa Maria di Castellabate. You can hop in a taxi, rent a car (we recommend it for flexibility), or catch a local bus, though service can be hit or miss.

🦐 Where to Eat: Osteria Petrosine

2. Marina di Ascea

Best For: Nature lovers, history buffs, beach days with space to breathe, and travelers craving a relaxed pace

If you’re looking for where to stay on the Cilento Coast that’s both beachy and steeped in ancient history, Marina di Ascea deserves a spot on your shortlist. It may not be the flashiest name on the coast, but it delivers on peace, nature, and that “hidden gem” feeling.

Oh, and did we mention it sits right next to one of the most important archaeological sites in all of southern Italy? Yep – hello, ancient Velia.

📍What makes it special?
Marina di Ascea feels like one of those places that hasn’t let tourism overrun its identity. The beaches are wide, sandy, and seriously uncrowded compared to better-known coastal towns.

It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear the waves, not just someone’s Bluetooth speaker. And having ancient Greek ruins basically in your backyard? That’s just Cilento showing off.

Things to Do in and Around Marina di Ascea:

• Beach days for days – The stretch of beach here is long, sandy, and rarely packed. You’ll find a mix of public access points and lido-style beach clubs with umbrellas and loungers for rent. Perfect for families or anyone who likes their personal space.
• Explore the ruins of Velia (Elea) – Just a short walk or bike ride inland, the ancient city of Elea (known today as Velia) is a UNESCO-listed archaeological site. Think preserved roads, city walls, and the iconic Porta Rosa, one of the oldest known examples of a Greek arch.
• Hiking and biking – Marina di Ascea makes a great base for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re climbing up to the ridge-line villages above or pedaling between countryside olive groves, there’s no shortage of scenery.
• Day trips to nearby towns – Ascea is centrally located, so day trips to other Cilento gems (like Pisciotta, Palinuro, or even inland to Vallo della Lucania) are super doable by car.
• Evening passeggiata – The seaside promenade comes alive in the evenings with families, couples, and street performers. Grab a gelato and join the slow-moving crowd.

🛌 Where to Stay: Villa Maredona (9.5 Rating)

Getting There by Train:

Marina di Ascea has its own train station (woohoo!). You can catch a regional or Intercity train from Naples or Salerno, and hop off right in town. From the station, the beach and most accommodations are a 10–15-minute walk. No taxi drama, no transfers – just step off and start your vacation.

By car? Easy. The SS18 highway connects Ascea to the rest of Cilento and makes it a convenient base for exploring the coast.

🍷 Where to Eat: La Scogliera

3. Palinuro

Best For: Adventurous travelers, beach lovers, couples, active families, and anyone chasing sea caves and secret coves

If your dream day includes swimming in surreal blue grottos, beach-hopping by boat, and grabbing dinner with a sea view – you’ll want to have Palinuro at the top of your list.

This laid-back coastal town has just the right amount of everything: stunning natural beauty, swimmable beaches, rugged cliffs, a harbor full of boats, and enough gelato to keep morale high. It’s less polished than Amalfi but way more relaxed (and affordable).

📍What makes it special?
Palinuro is basically nature’s playground. It’s surrounded by hidden coves, sea caves, and the kind of coast that begs to be explored by boat. But it’s also got sandy beaches and a little village buzz. You can spend your morning kayaking to secret inlets, your afternoon napping on the beach, and your evening sipping wine with a killer sunset backdrop.

Things to Do in and Around Palinuro:

• Explore the Grotta Azzurra – Not to be confused with Capri’s version, Palinuro’s own Blue Grotto is a showstopper. Hop on a boat tour to glide through the glowing water and explore other caves like the Grotta del Sangue (yep, the Blood Cave) and Grotta dei Monaci.
• Beach-hop by boat or kayak – This is the place for getting off the beaten path. Some of Cilento’s most beautiful beaches (like Baia del Buondormire) are only accessible by water. Rent a kayak or join a local boat tour to spend a day living your best mermaid life.
• Capo Palinuro hike – If you can peel yourself away from the water, there’s a trail that winds out to the tip of the promontory. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline and maybe even spot a dolphin or two.
• Relax on Saline Beach – Big, easy-to-access, and great for kids. Shallow, calm water makes it ideal for a beach day when you just want to chill. There are beach clubs here too if you want loungers, umbrellas, or a mojito delivered to your seat.

🛌 Where to Stay: L’Antico Portone B&B

Getting There by Train:

Take the train to Centola-Palinuro-Marina di Camerota station. From there, you’re about a 10–15 minute drive from the town of Palinuro. Taxis are usually waiting outside, and some hotels will pick you up if you arrange it ahead of time.

Pro tip: If you’re planning to explore more of the Cilento Coast, renting a car is a smart move and Palinuro makes a great base for short day trips.

🍴Where to Eat: U Brigante

4. Acciaroli

Best For: Elegant beach days, laid-back luxury, foodies, and travelers craving an authentic Italian vibe (without the crowds)

This is the place to stay on the Cilento Coast for golden beaches, a postcard-perfect harbor, and that sweet spot between rustic charm and a touch of elegance. Acciaroli might just be your dream base.

Beloved by Italians (Ernest Hemingway allegedly fell for it too), Acciaroli is that rare mix of tidy fishing village and upscale coastal escape. It’s small, stylish without being showy, and known for its pristine Blue Flag beaches. Oh, and the seafood? Next-level.

📍What makes it special?
Acciaroli somehow feels like a secret that everyone’s in on but no one’s talking about. It has some of the cleanest beaches in Italy, a charming old town with pastel-colored buildings, and a marina that looks like a movie set. It’s especially ideal for slow-paced, beach-heavy days with sunset dinners and wine-fueled strolls along the waterfront.

Things to Do in and Around Acciaroli:

• Beach all day, every day – The beach here is long, golden, and clean, with gentle water and a relaxed vibe. It’s often quiet even in high season, and several sections are well-equipped with lidos (beach clubs) for extra comfort.
• Wander the old town – The historic center is compact but full of charm. Think flower-draped balconies, narrow stone alleys, and tiny boutiques where you’ll want to buy unnecessary-but-irresistible linen clothing.
• Marina strolls + aperitivo hour – The harbor area is a lovely place for a pre-dinner passeggiata. Grab an aperol spritz and watch the boats bob in the sunset glow. You’ll feel very main character.
• Try the local cuisine – Acciaroli is known for high-quality, hyper-local food. Think: fresh anchovies, handmade pasta, and olive oil so good you’ll be tempted to drink it straight. The locals live long here—and their diet might have something to do with it.
• Boat trips + watersports – From paddleboarding to small-group boat tours, Acciaroli’s calm, clear waters are perfect for getting out on the sea. Some excursions also take you to nearby coves or include snorkeling stops.

🛌 Where to Stay: La Pineta Hotel Beach & Spa (9.0 Rating)

Getting There by Train:

Take a train to Vallo della Lucania-Castelnuovo station. From there, it’s about a 30–35 minute drive to Acciaroli. You’ll want to arrange a taxi in advance or consider renting a car for easier logistics.

Note: Public transport to Acciaroli is limited, especially on weekends or holidays. If you plan to explore beyond town, a rental car is highly recommended.

🐟 Where to Eat: ‘a Tartana

5. Marina di Camerota

Best For: Lively beach town, great for couples and active families, nature lovers, and anyone chasing Cilento’s wilder side

This buzzy town has everything. It’s a perfect mix of stunning beaches, coastal hikes, and that “hidden Italy” energy, all reasons why Marina di Camerota should be high on your list.

Tucked into the southern stretch of the coast, this fishing village has a laid-back charm and some of the most jaw-dropping beaches in the region. It’s a bit more off-the-beaten-path than places like Agropoli or Castellabate, which is exactly why people fall for it.

📍What makes it special?
Marina di Camerota is where Cilento gets wild (in a good way) – think secret coves, cliff-backed beaches, and boat-access-only bays with names like Cala Bianca and Baia Infreschi. The coastline here is part of the protected Infreschi and Masseta Marine Park, which means the water is absurdly clear and the scenery untouched. You can hike, swim, boat, and snorkel – all in one day if you’re feeling ambitious.

Things to Do in and Around Marina di Camerota:

• Hit the beaches – You’re spoiled for choice here: Cala Bianca (once voted Italy’s most beautiful beach), Baia degli Infreschi, Spiaggia Pozzallo, and Spiaggia Calanca are all postcard-worthy. Some are reachable only by boat or footpath – which keeps them peaceful.
• Take a boat tour – Seriously, don’t skip this. Boat trips leave from the marina daily and take you along the rugged coast, weaving into sea caves (like Grotta Azzurra and Grotta del Pozzallo) and stopping for swims in wild coves. Some include snorkeling stops too.
• Hike the Infreschi Trail – One of the top coastal hikes in southern Italy, this trail hugs the cliffs from Marina di Camerota to Baia degli Infreschi. You’ll pass Mediterranean scrubland, olive groves, and views that’ll make you consider relocating permanently.
• Evening passeggiata + seafood dinners – The town itself is mellow and friendly, with a small harbor, promenade, and plenty of restaurants serving up fresh catches (anchovies, swordfish, calamari – you name it). Bonus: fewer crowds than the northern towns.
• Explore inland – If you’re here longer, it’s a great base for day trips into the Cilento National Park or the mountain village of San Giovanni a Piro.

🛌 Where to Stay: Hotel Calanca (9.3 Rating)

Getting There by Train:

Take the train to Centola (also listed as Centola-Palinuro-Marina di Camerota). From there, it’s about a 15–20-minute taxi ride into town. There are occasional local buses, but they’re infrequent – so again, renting a car gives you more freedom, especially if you want to beach-hop or hike.

🍴Where to Eat: La Cantina del Marchese

6. Agropoli

Best For: First-time visitors, beach + city combo, history lovers, and those relying on public transport

If you’re wondering where to stay on the Cilento Coast and want somewhere that’s easy to reach, full of conveniences, and still serves up that classic Italian coastal charm – Agropoli might be your perfect match.

It’s the gateway to Cilento: large enough to have everything you need (restaurants, train station, shops), but still small enough to feel like you’ve stepped into a sun-drenched southern Italian postcard. Plus, it’s one of the best bases if you’re not renting a car.

📍What makes it special?
Agropoli blends beach vibes with historical character. You’ll get sandy shores, a vibrant marina, and an atmospheric old town perched on a promontory with a medieval castle that looks straight out of a fantasy film. It’s also one of the easiest towns in Cilento to get to – bonus points if you’re coming from Naples or Salerno by train.

Things to Do in and Around Agropoli:

• Relax on Trentova Beach – One of Cilento’s most popular beaches, and for good reason. It’s Blue Flag-rated, clean, family-friendly, and ideal for swimming. There are both free and equipped sections (so you can choose between “laid-back towel life” or a rented sunbed and spritz).
• Wander the old town + castle – Climb up to the historic center, pass through the scenic medieval gate, and explore the narrow streets leading to Castello Aragonese, with sweeping views of the coast. Sunset here? Unreal.
• Explore nearby Paestum – Just a short drive (or bus ride) away, Paestum is home to some of Italy’s most impressive Greek ruins. The temples and on-site museum are an absolute must for history buffs or anyone who loves an Indiana Jones moment.
• Hop on a ferry – During the summer months, Agropoli has ferry connections to places like Salerno and Capri, which means day-tripping is not only possible – it’s encouraged.
• Waterfront evenings – The promenade and marina area come alive in the evenings with gelato shops, seafood restaurants, and relaxed passeggiata energy. Perfect for people-watching and digesting your third helping of pasta.

🛌 Where to Stay: Villa Malandrino Guest House (9.0 Rating)

Getting There by Train:

Agropoli has its own train station (Agropoli-Castellabate) on the regional and Intercity line between Naples and Sapri. Trains are frequent, and the station is walkable to the town center (or a quick taxi to the beach). This makes it one of the most accessible spots along the Cilento Coast, especially for travelers without a car.

🍤 Where to Eat: Friggitoria Pesciolino

7. Sapri

Best For: Quiet stays, far south explorations, train access

Sapri might just steal your heart and the best part is, most people dreaming of Italy have never even heard of it! Tucked at the southern tip of the Cilento region, it’s calm, authentic, and ideal if you’re craving coastal beauty without the crowds.

Sapri is a town that feels like it’s quietly minding its own business – beautiful, slow-paced, and surrounded by dramatic hills and turquoise sea. It’s also the last stop on the regional train line before you cross into Basilicata, making it a convenient choice if you’re continuing south or just want easy train access without the chaos.

📍What makes it special?
Think fewer tourists, more relaxed coastal charm. The waterfront is framed by mountains, the sunsets are dreamy, and the vibe is very much “pull up a chair, order a coffee, and stay awhile.” Sapri isn’t a place to rush through – it’s where you slow down and breathe.

Things to Do in and Around Sapri:

• Beach days, without the crowds – Sapri’s beach isn’t the widest, but it’s clean, swimmable, and rarely packed – even in peak season. It’s great for relaxed swims and sunset dips, with beach clubs and free sections side-by-side.
• Stroll the waterfront promenade – The palm-lined seafront path is the heartbeat of the town. Join the locals for a pre-dinner passeggiata, or just post up at a cafe and enjoy the views.
• Day trip to Costa della Masseta – Just up the coast near Scario, this stretch of protected shoreline is one of Cilento’s most spectacular spots, with hidden coves, sea caves, and wild beaches. You can reach it by boat from Sapri or drive up and take a short hike to reach some beaches.
• Hiking & nature – Sapri is surrounded by lush hills and coastal trails. The Apprezzami l’Asino path offers panoramic views over the Gulf of Policastro and is great for an afternoon adventure.
• Catch the train south (or north) – Want to visit Maratea or Calabria after Cilento? Sapri’s train station connects directly to both, making it an excellent springboard for extended trips.

🛌 Where to Stay: Bed & Breakfast Spigolatrice (9.4 Rating)

Getting There by Train:

Sapri has one of the most connected train stations on the Cilento Coast, served by regional, Intercity, and high-speed trains. It’s about 2 hours from Naples and just a bit more from Rome if you’re coming down. You won’t need a car to get here, and the station is just a short walk to the town center and beach.

🍕 Where to Eat: Pizzeria La Nuova Fregata

8. San Giovanni a Piro

Best For: Hikers, off-grid explorers, panoramic views, and a rural base near the sea

Looking for where to stay on the Cilento Coast that feels completely different from a beach town – but still gives you access to some of the most jaw-dropping coastline in the region? Say hello to San Giovanni a Piro, a hilltop village with views for days and hiking trails that lead to hidden beaches like secret treasure maps.

Tucked into the slopes of Mount Bulgheria and overlooking the Gulf of Policastro, this village is a breath of fresh mountain air, literally. It’s quiet, authentic, and ideal for travelers who want to feel immersed in nature while still being just a short drive from the coast.

📍What makes it special?
San Giovanni a Piro is your gateway to the Costa della Masseta, a protected stretch of rocky coast famous for its wild beauty and secret coves. Unlike other places where you can just drive to the beach, here you earn it via trails that zigzag through forests, past goats, and down to white-pebble shores where there’s not a beach club in sight. It’s Cilento in its rawest form.

Things to Do in and Around San Giovanni a Piro:

• Scenic viewpoints galore – Head to the Pianoro di Ciolandrea, a wide panoramic terrace above the sea. It’s one of the most famous viewpoints in all of Cilento, and honestly, sunset here is next-level.
• Explore the inland trails – This is prime hiking territory. The Monte Bulgheria trails offer stunning inland and coastal views and plenty of photo ops.
• Day trip to Scario – The tiny port town of Scario is just a short drive down the hill and offers restaurants, boat tours, and access to the sea. It’s a great way to pair mountain serenity with coastal charm.

Getting There:

San Giovanni a Piro is best reached by car. It’s not served by train, and public buses can be infrequent – especially outside of summer or on weekends. You’ll want wheels if you plan to explore the beaches and surrounding trails freely.

Closest train station: Sapri, which is about a 30–40 minute drive away. From there, you can grab a taxi, but for maximum flexibility, renting a car is the way to go.

Where to Stay: 🛌 Il Casale del Barone (9.4 Rating)

How to Get to the Cilento Coast

Getting to Cilento isn’t hard, but it’s not exactly a hop-off-the-plane-and-you’re-there situation either.

• By Train: Regional trains connect Naples to Paestum, Agropoli, Ascea, Palinuro, and Sapri. The ride from Naples to Sapri takes about 2 hours.
• By Car: Renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore beyond one town. Best pickup spot: Salerno.
• By Bus: Available but infrequent, especially inland. Don’t count on it for a tight itinerary.
• By Ferry (Summer Only): Ferries from Salerno and Capri stop at some Cilento towns like Agropoli and Acciaroli.

Closest airport: Naples Capodichino Airport, with a smaller regional airport in Salerno opening soon.

FAQ: Where to Stay on the Cilento Coast

Is Cilento better than Amalfi Coast?

It depends! Cilento is quieter, cheaper, and more laid-back. If you’re into authenticity and fewer tourists, Cilento wins.

Can I explore the Cilento Coast without a car?

You can, but it’s limiting. Stick to train-connected towns or coastal ferries in summer.

What’s the most family-friendly town in Cilento?

Santa Maria di Castellabate is ideal for families – walkable, safe, with gentle beaches.

Where should couples stay on the Cilento Coast?

Palinuro or Marina di Camerota offer romance, adventure, and great dining.

Is the Cilento Coast expensive?

It’s much more budget-friendly than Amalfi. Great food, wine, and stays at a lower price.

Final Thoughts

The Cilento Coast is like the Amalfi’s laid-back cousin – a little quieter, a little wilder, and a whole lot more real. Whether you’re traveling with your kids, your partner, or solo with a camera and curiosity, there’s a perfect base for you. Just don’t try to do it all in one trip (trust me, I tried). Pick your spot, soak it in, and let Cilento work its quiet magic.

Related Travel Posts:

• Calabria vs. Puglia – Which is Better?
• The Best of Puglia Beaches
• Best Beach Towns in Calabria
• Where to Base Yourself in Puglia
• Amalfi Coast vs. Cilento Coast