Spiaggia Santa Maria di Ricadi, Calabria, Italy

Spiaggia Santa Maria di Ricadi is located near the village of Santa Maria di Ricadi in the municipality of Ricadi. The beach lies along the famous Capo Vaticano coastline, one of the most scenic areas of southern Italy, about 12 km from Tropea. Facing the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the beach sits in a beautiful bay surrounded by rocky cliffs, Mediterranean vegetation, and small seaside villages.

The Beach and the Sea

Spiaggia Santa Maria is known for its light-colored sand mixed with small pebbles and its exceptionally clear water. The bay is relatively wide compared to many small coves along the Capo Vaticano coast, creating a comfortable beach area for swimming and relaxing. The sea here is famous for its bright turquoise and emerald colors, with excellent visibility under water. On clear days visitors can even see the distant Aeolian Islands on the horizon, adding to the dramatic coastal scenery.

Water Temperature

The Tyrrhenian Sea along the Calabrian coast warms significantly during the summer months. On average the water is about 23–26 °C in June, 26–29 °C in July, 26–30 °C in August and 25–29 °C in September, making swimming very comfortable.

How to Get to Santa Maria di Ricadi

The beach is located near the village of Santa Maria di Ricadi on the famous Capo Vaticano coastline. The easiest way to reach the beach is by car. From Tropea it takes about 20 minutes (around 12 km) along the coastal road. From Lamezia Terme International Airport the drive is roughly 70 km and about 1 hour 20 minutes. There are public parking areas near the beach, but in high season they can fill quickly. The closest railway station is Ricadi-Capo Vaticano railway station. From there it takes about 10–15 minutes by taxi or car to reach the beach.