Area Marina Protetta Costa degli Infreschi e della Masseta

The Costa degli Infreschi and della Masseta Marine Protected Area follows a rugged stretch of the Gulf of Policastro between Marina di Camerota and Scario. Limestone cliffs, sea caves and sheltered coves frame a marine landscape with Posidonia meadows and coralligenous reefs.

Why it matters

Established by decree in 2009, the protected area covers 2,332 hectares of sea and more than 13 kilometres of coastline. It is managed by the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park and is also designated as a special area of conservation. The name Infreschi refers to the freshwater springs that emerge along the coast and mingle with the sea.

What to notice

The coastline includes the Grotta degli Infreschi, Grotta del Noglio and Grotta Azzurra, as well as Cala Bianca and the inlets of the Masseta. Porto Infreschi is a sheltered natural harbour with traces of the area's tuna-fishing history. Underwater, Posidonia oceanica meadows and coralligenous formations support a diverse marine environment. On shore, the Sorgente di Santa Caterina, the chapel of San Lazzaro and the small botanical garden at Marcellino add cultural and natural landmarks to the landscape.

Context and history

The area was identified for marine protection under Italy's 1982 framework law on the sea before its formal establishment in 2009. A further regulation was issued in 2015. Fishing and maritime activity have long shaped the coast: the tower at Zancale formed part of a coastal warning system, while the tonnara at Baia Infreschi processed tuna. The protected area preserves this working landscape alongside its marine habitats.