Sunsets from the Sea: Where to Catch the Best Golden Hours on a Portofino Boat Tour

The Ligurian Riviera is stunning at any time of day—but as the sun begins to dip behind the hills and the sea turns gold, this stretch of coast transforms into something truly unforgettable. Watching the sunset from the water, surrounded by cliffs, colorful villages, and the soft sound of the waves, is one of the most magical experiences Italy has to offer.

A Portofino Boat Tour at sunset offers more than just a scenic ride. It’s an invitation to slow down, to connect with the landscape, and to experience Liguria at its most peaceful and poetic moment. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or simply in search of beauty, a sunset at sea is the perfect way to end the day.

In this article, we explore the best places to watch the sunset by boat near Portofino—and why doing it with Orange Wave turns it into an experience you’ll never forget.

Why See the Sunset from the Sea?

Sunsets along the Riviera are beautiful from land—but from the sea, they are breathtaking.

Here’s why:

• Unobstructed views of the sun setting behind the Ligurian hills or dipping into the sea
• Shifting reflections on the water that change by the minute—from gold to amber to pink
• Peace and privacy, far from crowded beaches or viewpoints
• The chance to toast the evening with a glass of wine or local aperitivo on deck
• A natural show that transforms the coast into a living painting

Boat tours during golden hour also offer perfect lighting for photography, proposals, or simply quiet reflection after a day of exploring.

Best Sunset Viewing Spots on a Portofino Boat Tour

1. Off the Coast of San Fruttuoso

Hidden between cliffs and forest, San Fruttuoso is already a secret treasure during the day. But as the sun lowers, this protected cove becomes bathed in warm light that glows against the stone walls of the abbey and the surrounding rock faces.

From a boat just outside the bay, you’ll see:

• The Abbey of San Fruttuoso glowing in the last light of day
• Light playing across the cliff tops and water surface
• A gradual stillness as the bay empties and night begins to fall

This is one of the most peaceful and spiritual places on the coast to watch the sunset by boat. Most ferry traffic has stopped by this time, so you’ll likely have the cove to yourself.

2. Paraggi Bay

Close to Portofino but away from the crowds, Paraggi Bay offers soft, shallow waters that reflect the colors of the sunset like a mirror.

The emerald tones of the bay shift into gold, orange, and deep blue as daylight fades. With its curved coastline and surrounding pine trees, it’s one of the most atmospheric places to anchor your boat, enjoy a swim in the golden light, or sip an aperitivo as the sun disappears.

Ideal for:

• Romantic couples looking for a private setting
• Photography lovers capturing the changing colors of the water
• A final swim bathed in light before nightfall

3. Between Punta Chiappa and Camogli

West of Portofino, the rugged coastline near Punta Chiappa offers dramatic cliffs and uninterrupted views toward the open sea.

This is where you’ll see the sunset drop directly into the horizon, rather than behind hills or villages. It’s a completely open view—the kind of sunset that paints the entire sky.

From the water, you can enjoy:

• The silhouette of Camogli in the distance
• The sun sinking behind the sea, with nothing in the way
• A rugged, cinematic feel that’s both wild and romantic

This area is especially beautiful for sunset boat tours that return to Portofino or Santa Margherita after dark, with the lights of the coastline slowly appearing as night sets in.

4. Just Outside Portofino Harbor

You don’t need to go far to see an incredible sunset. Anchoring just outside Portofino offers a unique angle where the golden light spills across the pastel-colored buildings of the harbor.

As the sun lowers, the entire village is lit up in soft orange and pink hues. The water stays calm, the harbor glows, and the hillside behind begins to darken, creating a stunning contrast.

This is perfect for:

• Toasting the evening with a drink
• Taking iconic photos of Portofino in golden light
• A short sunset cruise that ends with dinner in the harbor

5. Santa Margherita Ligure Waterfront

For those beginning or ending their boat tour in Santa Margherita, the waterfront and port offer a wide view westward—making it another prime spot for sunset from the sea.

As you sail away or return to port, you can watch:

• The sun lowering behind the hills of Camogli and the western Riviera
• Light reflecting off the harbor and villas on the hills
• A calm transition into evening as the town lights come on

Sunset boat tours that include Santa Margherita often include a slow cruise past the elegant villas and promenades, with the option to stop for dinner on land or return quietly by sea.

What Makes Orange Wave Sunset Tours Different

At Orange Wave, a sunset cruise isn’t just about watching the sun go down—it’s about creating a moment that’s completely yours.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Private or semi-private boats with comfortable seating and expert captains
• Flexible itineraries, based on your preferences and weather conditions
• Aperitivo onboard: prosecco, wine, and local snacks available on request
• Local guides who know the coastline’s rhythms, lighting, and best viewing angles
• Boarding available from Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, or Rapallo
• Peaceful cruising at your own pace, away from noise and crowds

Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to see Liguria at its most beautiful, Orange Wave delivers a sunset tour that feels personal, relaxed, and unforgettable.

Ideas for Sunset Boat Tour Experiences

A Portofino Boat Tour at sunset can be part of a larger experience, including:

• A romantic evening ending in dinner in Portofino or Camogli
• A surprise proposal with the sea and sky as your backdrop
• A photo shoot with natural golden lighting
• A relaxing aperitivo cruise after a day exploring villages
• A private family moment, far from screens, noise, or crowds

Each itinerary is customizable, and our team is happy to help you shape the perfect end to your day on the Riviera.

Book Your Sunset on the Sea Today

Some of the best moments in Liguria aren’t found in guidebooks. They happen at sea, as the sun fades behind the cliffs, the air cools, and the coast glows in golden silence.

With a Portofino Boat Tour by Orange Wave, you’ll experience this natural spectacle not as a tourist, but as a guest of the sea. Whether you’re sailing past Paraggi, anchoring off San Fruttuoso, or watching Portofino light up from the water, you’ll understand why locals say the Riviera is at its most beautiful just before nightfall.

Reserve your sunset cruise today and let the Ligurian light leave a lasting memory.

Book your Portofino Sunset Boat Tour with Orange Wave