Santo Stefano al Mare: Beaches, Towers and Pelagos Sanctuary

Beaches and the sea in various forms

Santo Stefano al Mare offers several possibilities for a day by the sea along its coast. The beaches include equipped bathing establishments, while there are also free beaches. In addition, the seabed is shallow, making it suitable for less experienced swimmers. For time spent by the water, Santo Stefano al Mare therefore offers both equipped and free beach options.

Marina degli Aregai complements the maritime area. It is an equipped marina located just over half a kilometre from Santo Stefano al Mare. Alongside the beaches, it adds its own harbour landscape to the townscape.

Pelagos and the protection of the sea

The town's character includes its connection with the Pelagos Sanctuary. Santo Stefano al Mare signed the sanctuary's partnership charter in August 2015. The Pelagos Partnership serves to protect marine mammals and their habitat.

It also promotes environmentally sustainable activities, particularly in tourism and the economy. In this partnership, engagement with the sea therefore places the habitat of marine mammals alongside an environmentally sustainable approach to tourism and the economy.

Historical traces in the townscape

History is also present in the townscape. Santo Stefano al Mare has small, colourful houses in its historic centre. There is also a 16th-century tower there. The nonagonal tower of Santo Stefano al Mare served to defend against Saracen pirates. The tower in the centre and the Torre Argai therefore belong to different historical periods: the 16th and 17th centuries.

The Torre Argai, also called la vedetta, is a 17th-century fortification on Via Aurelia Levante in Santo Stefano al Mare. Its Italian designation is part of its connection with the town, as is its location on Via Aurelia Levante. The MURR is an exhibition and educational space dedicated to the Roman shipwreck. The view of history therefore extends from defence to Roman seafaring.

Festivals and activities by the sea

Santo Stefano al Mare hosts a nighttime Ferragosto fair featuring lights on the sea and the blessing of the boats. This event combines religious tradition, boats and the nighttime seascape in a distinctive local form. The Parco costiero also has equipped areas for team sports. In addition to the nighttime event, daily planning can therefore include areas for a sporting activity.

Flowers and fish cuisine

The numerous magnificent flowers grown in Santo Stefano al Mare every year contribute to its everyday and culinary character. The local cuisine includes appealing small restaurants offering fish-based menus. The annual cultivation of flowers is part of the townscape, while the small restaurants complement the culinary side with fish menus.

You can discover further destinations via Seborga, Moltedo, Vallebona, Soldano, Castellaro, Prela Castello, San Biagio Della Cima and Pairola.

For the overarching travel overview: Imperia.