Experience Portofino through kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and water activities in the marine protected area—book your adventures online.
Portofino is a small cove nestled between the Mediterranean scrub and the crystal-clear waters of the marine protected area. An iconic destination in Liguria where nature, the sea, and panoramic views come together in perfect harmony.
If you’re wondering what to do in Portofino or what to see in the surrounding area, here you’ll discover scenic trails, iconic bays, and outdoor activities to enjoy year-round, set against the backdrop of the sea and the headland.
The origins of Portofino – remembered by Plinio as “Portus Delphini” – date back to the Roman age. After the possession of the Benedictines, in 1414 it passed to the Republic of Genoa and later was subjected to various invasions, until it was included in the Kingdom of Sardinia in 1815.
The Castello Brown and the castle of San Giorgio (now private) were in past the fortresses in the protection of Portofino. Inside the church of San Giorgio, which dominates the village from above are preserved the relics of the Saint that recall the participation of the people from Portofino to the Crusades.
The Park of Portofino, which includes the cities of Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino and, with the neighboring area, Rapallo and Recco, is the northernmost protected coastal area of the western Mediterranean and shows scenarios and landscapes among the most famous in the world.
The promontory overlooks the Tigullio Gulf to the east and the Golfo Paradiso to the west. Composed of gigantic conglomerate deposits overlying limestone banks, it has geomorphological and microclimatic characteristics that offer extremely varied environments in a limited territory. This strip of coastline is unique for its breathtaking landscapes and incredible nature.
The richness and density of animal and plant species, of particular geological conformations and the presence of history and tradition make it a particularly evocative place. Protected since 1935, the Park is home to one of the major floristic concentrations of the Mediterranean, a remarkable variety of birds and invertebrates as well as important historical-architectural testimonies.
Among Portofino’s main attractions are the village overlooking the marina, the Portofino Regional Nature Park, the marine protected area, and Paraggi Bay.
Scenic trails connect Portofino to San Fruttuoso and Camogli, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of Tigullio. If you’d like to explore these trails with expert guides, you can join guided hikes in Portofino Park.
Nature, the sea, and history make this region one of the most fascinating destinations in Liguria.
In addition to exploring the village, Portofino offers a wide range of outdoor activities that allow you to experience the area in an active and authentic way.
Among the most popular experiences are:
Exploring Portofino through guided tours allows you to discover hidden corners of the headland and admire the coastline from unique vantage points, amid cliffs, coves, and crystal-clear waters.
The Outdoor Portofino marina is located in Niasca, in Paraggi Bay, about one kilometer from the center of Portofino when coming from Santa Margherita Ligure.
From here, we organize boat trips, outdoor activities, and guided tours, offering experiences suitable for all skill levels.
The sandy beach is nestled within the greenery of the Mediterranean scrub, which, only at this spot—thanks to its shelter from storm surges—reaches right down to the water’s edge.
The entire bay, located within the Portofino Marine Protected Area, is famous for the intense green color of its waters and is marked by buoys within which navigation is prohibited, ensuring safety and environmental protection.
The facility is open to the public during the summer months from May to September. During the rest of the year, we are open by appointment only.
Live as a local, visit the most authentic spots and learn the local traditions coming into contact with nature and sport.
