Cilento’s Protected Marine Parks: Submerged Treasures to Preserve

Cilento is not only a land of temples and myths, but also the custodian of one of the Mediterranean’s richest underwater heritages. Staying at the Hotel Schuhmann in Paestum offers you a privileged location for exploring Cilento’s Protected Marine Parks, true sanctuaries of biodiversity where the crystal-clear sea meets a still-untamed nature.

These areas are not only splendid to see, but also represent a concrete commitment to the protection of rare species and delicate habitats.

The Marine Protected Area of ​​Santa Maria di Castellabate

A short distance from our hotel is one of the pearls of the Tyrrhenian Sea: the Marine Protected Area (MPA) of Santa Maria di Castellabate. Established in 2009, it extends between the Bay of Ogliastro Marina and the Bay of Sauco.

What makes this stretch of sea unique?

The seabed is characterized by extensive meadows of Posidonia oceanica, a marine plant essential for oxygenating the water and providing refuge for local fauna. Here, it’s not uncommon to spot rare red coral or encounter schools of white bream and grouper during a snorkeling session.

The focal point of the area is the Islet of Licosa, surrounded by the legend of the mermaid Leucosia. Its waters are so clear that you can see the remains of ancient Roman structures now submerged by bradyseism.

Rules to Follow in Marine Parks

Visiting the Cilento Marine Parks requires awareness. Each area is divided into zones (A, B, and C) with different levels of protection to ensure that tourism does not damage the ecosystem.

Here are the main rules for responsible boaters and swimmers:

• Anchoring: It is prohibited in the integral reserve areas (Zone A) and strictly regulated in Zones B and C to avoid destroying the Posidonia oceanica meadows. Always use mooring buoys where available.

• Fishing: Spearfishing is generally prohibited throughout the MPA. Sport fishing requires specific permits issued by the Park Authority.

• Navigation: Respect the speed limits to avoid disturbing marine wildlife and ensure the safety of swimmers.

• Litter: It seems obvious, but the golden rule is: “Leave nothing but your footprints, take nothing but photographs.” It is strictly forbidden to take sand, shells, or fragments of marine flora.

How to Get the Most Out of the Schuhmann Experience

For our guests, the excursion to Castellabate is a must. We recommend:

1. Book a glass-bottom boat tour: Ideal for those who want to admire the seabed without getting wet.

2. Rely on authorized diving centers: If you want to dive with scuba tanks in hand, contact professionals who know the most beautiful spots and comply with the MPA regulations.

3. Snorkel with Consciousness: Bring a mask and snorkel to explore the rocky coves near Punta Licosa.

Hotel Schuhmann: Your Window on the Cilento Sea

After a day spent discovering the Cilento Protected Marine Parks, Hotel Schuhmann awaits you for an evening of total relaxation. You can savor the flavors of the Mediterranean Diet on our terrace, knowing you’ve visited one of the purest places in Italy.

Protecting the sea begins with small gestures: we invite you to discover these wonders with respect and admiration.

Want to plan your excursion to the Marine Protected Area?

Contact us for information on the best partner tour operators and book your stay in Paestum!