If you want to witness the volcanic soul of Ischia firsthand, you must visit Le Fumarole. Located on a small stretch of the Maronti beach near the village of Sant'Angelo, this spot is world famous for its intense geothermal activity.
What makes this beach unique is the extreme heat rising from the earth. In certain spots, the sand can reach temperatures of 100°C (212°F) or more! You will see white steam (fumaroles) rising from the ground, creating a surreal and primordial atmosphere.
The heat is so intense that locals and visitors use the sand as a natural oven. It’s a centuries old tradition to wrap food like chicken, potatoes, eggs, or even fish in foil and bury it deep in the hot sand. After about an hour, your meal is perfectly "volcanically" cooked!
Many local restaurants nearby offer "sand cooked" specialties if you don't want to DIY.
Getting to Le Fumarole is a beautiful experience in itself:
From Sant'Angelo: It’s a scenic 10-15 minute walk along a paved coastal path. It’s an easy stroll with stunning views of the sea.
By Taxi Boat: you can take a small water taxi from the Sant'Angelo pier directly to the beach.
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Watch your feet! The sand is incredibly hot. Always wear flip-flops and pay attention to the signs indicating the hottest areas.
The Best Time: Visit at sunset or even late at night. The steam rising under the moonlight is an unforgettable sight.
It’s nature at its most powerful. There is something deeply relaxing about feeling the heat of the volcano beneath you while listening to the sound of the waves.
