Establishing a Marine Protected Area (MPA) is crucial not only for biodiversity conservation and coastal ecosystem restoration, but also for the sustainable development of local communities. MPA effectiveness depends on integrating protection, scientific research, and socio-economic and educational dimensions by overcoming the traditional conservation–human activities dichotomy.

We present the first activities of the Capo Spartivento MPA (Domus de Maria, Sardinia, Italy), an area of high ecological value with extensive Posidonia oceanica meadows and species of community interest, subject to substantial anthropogenic pressure like mass tourism and fishing. The establishment administrative process spanned nearly 12 years, reaching full operational status in spring 2026 with the appointment of dedicated staff. Initial activities focused on four main actions:

1. Regulation of fishing and anchoring within the MPA.
2. Assessing biodiversity status and planning restoration activities.
3. Raising awareness among residents and tourists through participatory events.
4. Assessing local perceptions of MPA-related constraints and opportunities.

Action 4 is part of a wider survey-based study covering 11 Italian MPAs, aimed at assessing public perception of MPA value among people living/visiting the MPA during summer. The study is composed of an online questionnaire for the general public and semi-structured interviews with local small-scale fisheries.

In its first months of enforcement, the MPA held 3 biodiversity and awareness events. Public receptiveness was good, but standardized, long-term, stakeholder-specific awareness and engagement programs are needed. Long-term monitoring of biocenoses and tourism, small-scale, and recreational fishing impacts is also required to define the best strategy for responsible coexistence.

This contribution shares best practices and lessons learned during this initial phase, and aims to foster collaborations with universities and research institutions for joint projects in biological monitoring, ecological economics, and social impact assessment — all essential for the MPA's long-term management and effectiveness.