I suppose you could take a cab using Route SPS30 which connects the two towns. Might be expensive but convenient.You might want to look into a ferry or private boat transfer as well. Didn't see a beach in Portovenere but the harbor front and surrounding area had a lot to do. You might want to take a day trip to Monterossa a Mare, one of the Cinque Terre, as they have a nice beach. You can get there from Portovenere via ferry which picks you up right on the harbor. Good Luck!

Best not to try to enter Portovenere with a car. It’s just a small town with one way road all the way around. Better to take train to La Spezia and take the bus 11p. If you must come by car, There is parking lot at the town entrance, go left at the roundabout and then immediately left into the parking lot entrance on the left. Careful not to go past the entrance or you will be going the wrong way. Then take the GiroBus (goes around Portovenere) or walk if you have comfortable shoes as you are a good 15-20 walk to the main center/port area, but it’s all downhill. Price should be 1.50€ per hour 8:00 to 21:00. There may be spots on the street if you can find it but it’s 1.50€ close to top then 2.50€ when you get closer to the main town center area.

Many of the Ferries start in La Spezia before coming to Portovenere so careful you don’t take the bus then to get on the same ferry. Check the ‘incinqueterre’ website, it’s also in English for the schedule of stops.

I’m sure they would be happy to store your bags until check-in. We had lovely customer service and friendly desk help always.

Not a lot of parking. There are no roads in the township, lots of steps though. Take the ferry much more to see.

Eletra is also good, reasonable but more expensive than El Gabbiano. If you go to Fezzano which is a town near Portovenere don't miss La Bitta the best! More expensive but a gastronomic delight!

I have to disagree with those that told you go via Genova. More congested and delays likely! Many more accidents also go via Parma...