Things to do in Santa Maria

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Port of Tropea

The Port of Tropea is the main spot for boats pulling into and out of town. Park your boat here while in the region and discover a range of facilities, including water and electricity supply stations, toilets, a bar and other amenities.
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Port of Tropea

2. Santa Maria dell'Isola Monastery

The medieval Santa Maria dell’Isola Monastery has a dramatic setting on a rocky island connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Climb up the steps to reach the clifftop church where you’ll find fantastic photo opportunities as well as a small museum.
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Santa Maria dell\'Isola Monastery

3. Grotticelle Beach

Grotticelle Beach is a secluded bay at the foot of large rock formations on the Capo Vaticano of Ricadi. It offers stunning views of white sand, blue-green water and verdant cliffs. Find your own section of sand and rent a deck chair and a colorful umbrella for the afternoon.
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Grotticelle Beach

4. Riaci Beach

With gleaming blue-green water and an attractive backdrop of cliffs and grottoes, Riaci Beach is one of the loveliest waterfront stretches in the region. Come here to swim, snorkel or boat around the clear and warm waters.
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Riaci Beach

5. Norman Cathedral

Tropea’s Norman Cathedral is a historic landmark and is of great symbolic importance to the town. Admire the beautifully restored Romanesque structure and learn about the significance of the town’s patron saint, the Madonna of Romania, who is represented here by a prized 14th-century icon hanging above the altar.
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Norman Cathedral

What to do in Santa Maria

Popular places to visit

Torre Marrana

Torre Marrana

Inspect the vestiges of this important medieval watch tower and attend a musical or dramatic show at the adjacent theater.

Torre Marrana

Capo Vaticano Lighthouse

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Learn about the local history of Ricadi with a stop at Capo Vaticano Lighthouse. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Capo Vaticano Lighthouse

Spiaggia Santa Maria

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Spiaggia Santa Maria during your trip to Santa Maria?

Spiaggia Santa Maria

Museum of the Sea

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Museum of the Sea during your travels in Ricadi. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Museum of the Sea

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Maria worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Santa Maria is visit Grotticelle Beach. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's underwater activities and watersports.
How do I spend a day in Santa Maria?
Once you've visited major attractions like Grotticelle Beach, spend some time discovering the retail and food options in Santa Maria.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Maria?
Grotticelle Beach is ranked the top tourist attraction near Santa Maria, so don't go home without exploring it.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Maria?
Three days in Santa Maria is plenty of time to experience the nearby attractions. A traveller favourite is Grotticelle Beach and Capo Vaticano Beach, so why not put them on the to-do list while you're in the area?
Is Santa Maria a walkable neighbourhood?
Exploring Santa Maria on foot is easy, with top sights like Grotticelle Beach and Capo Vaticano Beach just a short walk away. Well-known neighbourhoods like Turiano and San Nicolò are also located only 3 kilometres and 3 kilometres from the centre of Santa Maria, so you can easily extend your adventure — no car needed.
What are some activities to do in Santa Maria with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Santa Maria with kids.

What to do in Santa Maria for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor adventurer, there are lots of things to do in Santa Maria for adults including Museum of the Sea.
Are there free things to do in Santa Maria?
One of the most popular free things to do in Santa Maria is Capo Vaticano Beach. You can also walk around nearby neighbourhoods and spend time in parks and other green spaces in the area. For more ideas, just chat with a local tour guide.