Benvenuti. I’m Elena, and if you are anything like me, you know that a family holiday is a beautiful dance between organized planning and the wonderful, messy chaos of childhood. Today, I want to take you by the hand and lead you to a corner of Italy that feels like a warm embrace: Santa Maria di Castellabate. As my colleague Luca recently explored in his article about a beautiful secret village, there are many hidden gems in Italy that embody this sense of beauty and warmth, making them perfect destinations for a family getaway.
While many families flock to the crowded cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, those of us “in the know” head just a little further south to the Cilento region. Here, the pace slows down, the beaches open up, and the atmosphere is perfect for families with kids, who want to experience the “real” Italy without the stress of overwhelming crowds, much like I discovered when researching destinations that are ideal for families.
Update: I’ve since written a guide to Sperlonga, a hidden coastal gem perfect for your next family holiday, and I’m excited to share that it remains one of my top recommendations. However, I’d like to introduce you to another incredible destination - Santa Maria di Castellabate, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Campania region that embodies the essence of a perfect family getaway. The town is famous for the movie Benvenuti al Sud, and the hospitality here is just as warm as the film suggests.
What makes it so special for us mothers? It’s the safety and the accessibility. The main town area is largely pedestrianized, meaning your little ones can roam a bit more freely while you enjoy a morning caffè.
Update: I’ve since written a guide to Sicily’s best child-friendly beaches, where you can find the best spots for unforgettable family fun, and I’ve discovered more hidden gems. The beaches are still a draw for families, but Santa Maria di Castellabate boasts long stretches of golden sand and, most importantly, shallow, crystal-clear water, making it an ideal spot for little swimmers.
- Spiaggia Marina Piccola: This is right in the heart of the town. It is sheltered and the water remains shallow for several meters, making it incredibly safe for toddlers to splash around while you keep a watchful eye from your beach towel.
- Zona Lago: Just a short distance away, this area offers larger beach clubs (stabilimenti) with umbrellas, showers, and play areas. My children loved building sandcastles here while I finally managed to read a few pages of my book!
Exploring the “Borgo Incantato” (Enchanted Village)#
While the beach is the star, you mustn’t miss the medieval village of Castellabate, perched high on the hill overlooking the sea.
Pro Tip: Don’t try to push a heavy stroller up the hill! There is a local bus or a quick taxi ride that takes you to the top. Once you are there, the views of the Mediterranean are breathtaking. Walking through the narrow, cool stone alleys is a great way to make memories as a family. We spent an afternoon “treasure hunting” for the best-hidden courtyard, ending with a visit to the castle (Castello dell’Abate) which fire up any child’s imagination.
Nurturing Your Little Foodies#
Cilento is the birthplace of the Mediterranean diet, so the food is not only delicious but incredibly healthy.
- Mozzarella di Bufala: You are in the heart of buffalo mozzarella country! Even the pickiest eaters usually fall in love with the creamy, mild flavor.
- The Gelato Stop: After our evening passeggiata (walk), we always stop at the local gelaterias along the seafront. Look for the “Gelato al Fico del Cilento” (Cilento Fig) for yourself, while the kids stick to the classic crema.
- Family-Friendly Dining: Restaurants here are very welcoming. They won’t blink an eye if your toddler drops a breadstick. Ask for “pasta al pomodoro” or “cotoletta,” and they will be more than happy to accommodate.
Practical Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday#
- When to go: May, June, and September are the “sweet spots.” The weather is warm enough for swimming, but the town isn’t as busy as it is in August.
- Getting around: If you fly into Naples, I recommend renting a car. It’s about a two-hour drive. Having a car allows you to visit the nearby Greek temples of Paestum—a flat, grassy archaeological site that is surprisingly kid-friendly!
- Naptime Logistics: The town has plenty of benches and shaded squares. I found that a lightweight umbrella stroller was perfect for navigating the seafront promenade while the baby napped.
Santa Maria di Castellabate isn’t just a destination; it’s a place where time slows down enough for you to actually enjoy your children’s laughter. It’s about the simple joy of a sandy hug and a sunset that turns the sky pink. It is truly a nurturing environment for a family getaway.
Buon viaggio, and may your trip be filled with magic! As you explore the enchanting region of Veneto, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the unique charm of the Carnevale di Venezia. My colleague Marco has a wonderful guide to planning a road trip for the Venice Carnival, which can be found in our latest article: Discover the Secrets of Venice Carnival Road Trips.