Porto Scario is a tourist port located along the Gulf of Policastro, in the village of the same name in the municipality of San Giovanni a Piro.
The port consists of a 260-meter breakwater pier and an approximately 80-meter inner pier, plus a 210-meter quayside. The final 60 meters of the breakwater pier are reserved for recreational boating, in addition to other areas managed by several private mooring cooperatives.
A white lighthouse located on the beach to the south facilitates access to the port, although it is not clearly visible to those approaching from the west.
Among the various services offered is a boat ramp, a feature that makes the marina very popular with inflatable boat owners as well.
The harbor is well sheltered from westerly winds but is exposed to the sirocco and grecale winds, even during the summer.
The port is very busy in the summer period, both by those who land by sea and by scuba diving enthusiasts, who can find equipment rental outlets here.
Scario is also the starting point for pleasant mini-cruises (organized by some private companies operating in the port) to Palinuro, Marina di Camerota and the charming Porto degli Infreschi, a small corner of Cilento tranquility.
Ample parking is provided for those arriving by car.
There is no fuel pump directly in the port area, but one can be found 400 meters away.
Scario is the backdrop to the course of several Cilento coast regattas, such as the Gulf of Policastro regatta and the Forabosco regatta, organized by the local Naval League club.
San Giovanni a Piro is part of theMarine Protected Area Costa degli Infreschi e della Masseta, within the National Park of Cilento and Vallo di Diano.
The maritime area of Scario is therefore subject to special regulations.
Strolling along the seafront is pleasant and gives the opportunity to find bars, restaurants and commercial activities on one’s path.Within the port area it is still possible to stock up on foodstuffs.
Departing from Scario, the coast descends toward Punta degli Infreschi and hides an infinity of small beaches and enchanting coves that will delight any sailor.
The landings at Ascea, Casalvelino and Acciaroli are slightly further away but remain easily accessible.
While the coast is renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear sea, the Cilento hinterland is certainly no less worthy of attention.
Those who wish to venture out on a roughly 45-minute hike through the lush greenery of centuries-old olive groves can reach the center of San Giovanni a Piro, at the foot of Mount Bulgheria, to enjoy a beautiful view of the Gulf of Policastro. For those wishing to drive there, the trip takes only about ten minutes.
Hiking enthusiasts can also choose to set out along one of the many mule trails that wind through the Mediterranean scrub.
By renting a car, you can reach many sites of historical interest in less than an hour, such as the ruins of the ancient town of Velia, the famous excavations at Paestum, and the beautiful medieval village of Teggiano, home to the famous Castle of the Princes of San Severino.
If you decide to head inland toward the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, it’s definitely worth making a stop at the Certosa di Padula, the largest Carthusian monastery in Italy.
