Macarro/Illicini/Nera
Basilicata, Italy — Excellent water quality
Macarro/Illicini/Nera is a Blue Flag-certified beach located 2.73 km from Maratea. The beach maintains high water quality and environmental standards, with the Blue Flag award renewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Macarro/Illicini/Nera
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Macarro/Illicini/Nera?
Macarro/Illicini/Nera is a Blue Flag-certified beach located 2.73 km from Maratea. The beach maintains high water quality and environmental standards, with the Blue Flag award renewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The best time to visit is April through June, when crowds are lighter. July and August draw peak visitors and can get busy. Check local water safety conditions before swimming. The beach is a solid choice for families and swimmers looking for a well-maintained coastal spot.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Basilicata, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Italy certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Macarro/Illicini/Nera faces E toward Ionian Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
| Feb | 10°C | 7°C | Low |
| Mar | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
| Apr | 15°C | 12°C | Med |
| May | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Jun | 23°C | 20°C | Med |
| Jul | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Aug | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Sep | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Oct | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Nov | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Dec | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
The best time to visit Macarro/Illicini/Nera is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 25.4°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 22.4°C in July.
How crowded does Macarro/Illicini/Nera get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Italy, Macarro/Illicini/Nera sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Macarro/Illicini/Nera open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Macarro/Illicini/Nera
Is Macarro/Illicini/Nera safe to swim?Macarro/Illicini/Nera is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Macarro/Illicini/Nera?Peak water temperature at Macarro/Illicini/Nera reaches around <span class="inline-stat">22.4°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 8.9°C.
What is the beach like at Macarro/Illicini/Nera?Macarro/Illicini/Nera on the Basilicata coast of Italy. The best time to visit is April through June, when crowds are lighter. July and August draw peak visitors and can get busy. Check local water safety conditions before swimming. The beach is a solid choice for families and swimmers looking for a well-maintained coastal spot.
Does Macarro/Illicini/Nera have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Macarro/Illicini/Nera meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Parking is available nearby.
Macarro/Illicini/Nera sits on the Ionian Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Ionian.
Planning a trip to Italy? Blue Flag Beaches Italy 2026 — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Macarro/Illicini/Nera
How do I get to Macarro/Illicini/Nera by car?Macarro/Illicini/Nera is approximately 2.73 km from Maratea. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Macarro/Illicini/Nera?The nearest airport is Salerno / Pontecagnano Airport (QSR) (QSR), approximately 100.1 km away.
Can I get to Macarro/Illicini/Nera by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Maratea.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 39.9686°N, 15.7245°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Italy |
Frequently Asked Questions
Macarro/Illicini/Nera FAQ
Is Macarro/Illicini/Nera suitable for children?
Macarro/Illicini/Nera is a Blue Flag certified beach in Basilicata, Italy. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Macarro/Illicini/Nera free to access?
Yes, access to Macarro/Illicini/Nera is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Macarro/Illicini/Nera?
The best time to visit Macarro/Illicini/Nera is April, May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 22.4°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 25.4°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Macarro/Illicini/Nera?
Macarro/Illicini/Nera is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Macarro/Illicini/Nera?
Macarro/Illicini/Nera is located in Basilicata, Italy. It is approximately 2.73 km from Maratea. The nearest airport is Salerno / Pontecagnano Airport (QSR) (QSR), 100.1 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
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