The Amalfi Coast is not known for long sandy beaches — the dramatic cliffs that make the coastline so beautiful also mean that beaches are small, often pebbly, and sometimes only accessible by boat or steep staircase. But that is part of their charm. The best beaches on the Amalfi Coast reward the effort to reach them with crystalline water, stunning scenery, and a sense of discovery that flat, easy beaches simply cannot offer.
Positano Beaches
1. Spiaggia Grande (Positano) — The main beach, right below the village. Wide by Amalfi Coast standards, with a mix of free sections and private beach clubs (sunbed and umbrella from 20 euros). The water is clean and the views up to the village are iconic. Crowded in summer — arrive early.
2. Fornillo Beach (Positano) — A 10-minute walk east from Spiaggia Grande via a cliffside path, Fornillo is smaller, quieter, and feels more local. There are a couple of beach clubs and a free section. The water is slightly clearer than the main beach. One of the best beaches on the Amalfi Coast for a relaxed morning.
Praiano Beaches
3. Marina di Praia — A tiny cove wedged between two high cliffs, reached by a staircase from the coastal road. The beach is small (perhaps 30 metres of pebbles), but the setting is dramatic and the water is excellent for snorkelling. There is a beachfront restaurant, Il Pirata, which is reason enough to visit.
4. Gavitella Beach (Praiano) — A concrete bathing platform with ladders into deep, clear water. The sunset from here — facing directly west — is one of the best on the coast. Reached by about 400 steps down from the centre of Praiano. The climb back up is the price you pay.
Amalfi and Atrani
5. Amalfi Beach — The main beach in Amalfi town, right in front of the promenade. A mix of fine pebbles and sand, with beach clubs on one side and a free section. It is busy but convenient, and the backdrop of the cathedral and town is beautiful.
6. Atrani Beach — Just a 5-minute walk from Amalfi through a short tunnel, Atrani is a genuine fishing village with a small, charming beach. Far fewer tourists than Amalfi, and the village square behind the beach has excellent cafes. This is a local favourite and one of the best beaches on the Amalfi Coast for atmosphere.
Conca dei Marini and Furore
7. Conca dei Marini — The beach near the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is a small, peaceful cove reached by a long staircase from the road or by boat. The water is a deep emerald green, and the grotto itself (entry 5 euros) is worth a visit.
8. Fiordo di Furore — A narrow fjord carved into the cliffs, with a tiny strip of beach at the bottom. The setting is extraordinary — sheer rock walls on both sides, a stone bridge arching overhead, and perfectly clear water. Reached by a steep staircase from the SS163 coast road. Not for the faint-legged.
Maiori and Minori
9. Maiori Beach — The longest beach on the Amalfi Coast — nearly a kilometre of sand. It is less scenic than the smaller coves, but if you want space, easy access, and the ability to build sandcastles, this is your beach. Beach clubs charge around 15 to 20 euros for a sunbed.
10. Minori Beach — Similar to Maiori but smaller and quieter. The village of Minori is known for its pastry shops (try the local lemon delizia), so combine a beach day with a food tour of this overlooked gem.
Beaches Reachable Only by Boat
11. Duoglio Beach (Amalfi) — Technically reachable by a long staircase, but most people arrive by water taxi from Amalfi harbour (5 euros). Pebbly beach, crystal water, and far fewer people than the main Amalfi beach. There is a simple restaurant serving grilled fish and cold beer.
12. Santa Croce Beach (Amalfi) — Only reachable by boat. A small, sheltered cove with no facilities — bring your own water, snacks, and shade. The water is some of the clearest on the coast. Water taxis from Amalfi cost around 10 euros per person.
The best way to explore the secret coves and boat-only beaches is on a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast. BlueKeys offers both group and private boat charters that stop at the most beautiful swimming spots — places you simply cannot reach from land. Departures are available from Positano, Sorrento, and Amalfi. Prefer to explore at your own pace? Consider a boat rental on the Amalfi Coast.
Getting Around the Beaches
The SITA bus connects all the main towns on the coast, but in summer it is packed and slow. A scooter rental gives you the freedom to hop between beaches on your own schedule — park at the top, walk down, swim, and ride to the next cove. BlueKeys offers scooter rental in Sorrento with delivery to your accommodation.
Practical Tips
- Water shoes: Essential. Most beaches on the Amalfi Coast are pebbly, and the rocks can be sharp.
- Sunscreen: The cliffs reflect heat and the water reflects UV. You will burn faster than you expect.
- Arrive early: The best beaches on the Amalfi Coast are small, and space runs out quickly in July and August.
- Bring cash: Many beach clubs and water taxis do not accept cards.
- Off-season: September and early October offer warm water, fewer crowds, and golden light. The best time for beach days on the coast.
Explore the Coast by Boat
Discover hidden beaches and coves on a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast, book a sailing excursion, or rent a scooter to explore the coast at your own pace. Browse all private boats.
