Italian coastal towns expand free beach access and services

The municipality of Maiori has launched a program that reserves 30% of beach spots at selected private lidos for residents free of charge. The designated beaches – La Bussola, Stella Maris, Nettuno and Lido Adriana – allow residents to claim a spot on a first‑come, first‑served basis by presenting proof of residence, without any reservation system. Mayor Gianpiero Romano emphasized the measure as a way to protect citizens' right to the sea while supporting sustainable tourism, and Vice‑Mayor Lucia Mammato highlighted the balance between resident rights and tourist development.

In Agropoli, public showers have been installed on the free‑access sections of the coastline at Trentova, Lido Azzurro and the Lungomare, after a delayed rollout that drew criticism. Mayor Mutalipassi responded that future seasonal preparations will be better timed. The town also opened a second "solidary beach" near Lido Tre Conchiglie, equipped to improve access for people with disabilities.