Capo Vaticano

Capo Vaticano is a beach destination in Vibo Valentia province of Calabria. Its beaches are said to be among the cleanest in Europe.

Capo Vaticano is a common name describing the area that lies between the small town of Ricadi and the sea. It is the westernmost tip — hence the name — of the province of Vibo Valentia.

Some guides and local maps use the name Capo Vaticano for the town of Ricadi itself or use both names somewhat interchangeably.

Take a train on the line from Lamezia Terme to Rosarno to the 'Ricadi-Capo Vaticano' station. Despite the name, the station is rather distant from both Ricadi and the Capo so be ready to walk around 2 km to get to the Capo Vaticano lighthouse.

There is a public bus connection with stops better situated than the train station.

• 38.61942715.828541 Capo Vaticano lighthouse. Although not one of the exemplary models of lighthouses, it is a functional lighthouse, built in 1870. Access to the building is not allowed.  (updated May 2026)

• 38.62299115.8287992 Belvedere dei Cannoni. A beautiful small public garden situated on a high rock over the sea with various species of plants and trees and small botanical labels for each. free entry.  (updated May 2026)

• 38.62092315.8308763 Museum of the Sea.  (updated May 2026)

• 38.6306615.839844 The Red Onion Museum (Located somewhat surprisingly at the Ricadi-Capo Vaticano train station).  (updated May 2026)

The area is mostly famous for sandy beaches with very clean water and bright blue colours.

• 38.6166115.835531 Grotticelle beaches.  (updated May 2026)

• 38.61115.84792 Santa Maria beach.  (updated May 2026)

• 38.631615.83113 del Tono beach.  (updated May 2026)

There are also multiple small beaches right under the lighthouse, but access to them is very hard or impossible due to the steep cliff.

There is a small local grocery shop 38.623315.839441 Market Calabrisella in the central part of the Capo area. Other than that, you will be left with several eateries and café/bars.