My family and I are going to Italy in August and staying in SML, we are curious what the deal is with beach clubs especially at the most crowded time of year. Do we need to reserve seats in advance? Are there beaches we can just walk into? Any advice is appreciated!
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
15441 posts
There aren't too many beach clubs in S.Margherita ligure and none in Portofino, although there is a famous (expensive) one in Paraggi, I think it's called Bagni Bosetti, just before entering into Portofino town. In August you might indeed run into a situation when all spots (umbrella+chaiz) are taken, however in SML there are some areas on the beach that are "beach club free", that is you can get in, with your own umbrella and chairs, and stay freely. In that case you must look for "Spiaggia Libera" (literally Free Beach). If you want you can book ahead, but I don't know if they have a minimum number of days/weeks they book. I'd take a chance and swing it. If full use the Spiaggia Libera. Personally I don't think those beaches are too great, but they are there. San Fruttuoso beach is nicer, I think, but that one is always packed in summer.
Posted by
Boston
1734 posts
Ask your hotel if they have an arrangement with a beach. Or switch to the Imperiale Palace hotel which has its own beach, but if you have to ask....
Posted by
OP
2 posts
thank you !