Mark G.
Yelp
monterosso al mare is the birthplace of pesto. when visiting italy, you must go there. along the cinque terre, the finest place to stay is the hotel porto roca. it is a castle, on the waterfront, up a steep, narrow drive, close to the train station.
ask for a room with a view. walls of rock are not much fun to look at.
the food, staff, and accommodations here are fantastic.
buy wine in town. it is cheaper than water, and much better, according to my excellent wife.
the view and weather is similar to monterey bay.
tip well, try to say some italian words and phrases, snack often, and enjoy the pesto, the train rides, hikes, people, absence of vehicles, and plentiful good music.
the cross from the nearby monastery is lit up at night, and appears to float. pretty cool.
dress in black, wear good shoes. avoid jeans/fanny packs/tennis shoes, loud or abrasive language and/or behavior, pointing.
everything is within walking distance. it is all up hill, but worth the walk.
try walking the cinque terre.