Cinque Terre

I stayed at Relais Ca Gigante and loved it. It's a modern hotel right by the beach - 1 minute walk. It's in a very quiet part of town but only 5-8 minute walk from the center where there is the largest concentration of restaurants.

I like Mueble Agave for budget stays. It's across the street from the beach, very clean, and just one flight of stairs up from the street. It's in Rick's books.

We stayed at Hotel Margherita and were thrilled. 55-10 minute walk to the beach and there is a wonderful restaurant next door (downhill).

Dear Sharon,

Just to be clear, the term " beach " is a bit deceptive in the CT. Mostly not much of it and usually very rocky. Just don't expect any wide, white sandy expands! Have a great trip.

In response to the above post: Except in Monterosso al Mare--there is what most Americans would consider to be a beach (wide expanse with sand).

It would be hard to be far from the wide open sandy beaches in Monterosso unless you stay in a different town.