A guide to the best beaches in Neapolitan Riviera
With one of the most striking coastlines in Italy, the Neapolitan Riviera is perfect for those wanting to combine fantastic food, stunning hilly coastal scenery and beautiful beaches. Although not a traditional beach holiday destination, the region – which includes Amalfi, Sorrento, Ischia and Ravello – has plenty of sandy beaches, pebbled coves and clear waters to explore. Amalfi Coast holidays have suntanning and paddling space galore, and these are some of the best beaches around.
Arienzo Beach, Positano
Located a little way outside of Positano, Arienzo Beach is not as busy as the main beach in the village. It gets the sun all day long and there’s a beach club serving food and drinks, where you can rent sunloungers if you’re feeling lazy or kayaks if you want something a little more active.
Arienzo beach is a short trip in the sea taxi from Positano. This small fleet of boats also takes visitors to secluded bays such as Cavone, which is only accessible by sea.
Maronti Beach, Ischia
The island of Ischia, just off the Amalfi coast, is home to several lovely sandy beaches and, at three kilometres long, Maronti is one of the best. The beach features a thermal spring that runs into the sea and can be reached by a water taxi or via a steep and winding road. While relaxing on Maronti Beach, you can enjoy views of picturesque Sant’Angelo and its harbour, or walk to the nearby Cavascura Natural Springs.
Fornilla Beach, Positano
Just a 10-minute walk from Positano, Fornilla is the far quieter alternative to the central Marina Grande beach. You can rent chairs and umbrellas on this pebbled beach, while enjoying a snack or drink from one of the beach bars. Swim in the blue Mediterranean waters, or rent a kayak or pedalo to work up an appetite for lunch.
Lannio Beach, Cetara
This sandy beach is just outside the picture-perfect fishing village of Cetara and is popular with tourists and locals alike. The beach has clear waters deep enough for swimming and, once again, offers amazing scenery.
Gavitella Beach, Praiano
As with many beaches on the Neapolitan Riviera, Gavitella is reached via a steep flight of stairs. Any walking is well worth it though, as Gavitella has amazing views of Positano and the Island of Capri – particularly gorgeous when the sun is setting. It’s tiny – just 30 metres – but additional sunbathing space has been created by concrete platforms and a lido with a lovely restaurant.
Puolo Beach, Sorrento
Sorrento’s beaches are mainly small but perfectly formed. Try heading to Puolo, which has shallow water so is a great option for families. There’s a private beach here run by Blumare Beach Club, but the public area includes both a rocky and sandy area, plus sunloungers to rent and a selection of restaurants.
Duoglio Beach, Amalfi
Duoglio Beach is just outside the town of Amalfi, and you won’t be able to resist a dip in the beautifully clear water. Reached by a steep walk of 400 steps, there’s a free area and also a paid-for part of the beach. Visitors can also rent diving and kayaking equipment from the Lido degli Aristi.
Although this is not the place to head if you’re looking for somewhere to build sandcastles on your holiday to Italy, Furore is worth a visit for its uniqueness as it’s home to a fjord, a museum and a beautiful bridge. Halfway between Positano and Amalfi, Furore beach is just 25 metres long and is only accessible by bus, but it’s surrounded by pretty cottages nestled in the hills.
Although this is not the place to head if you’re looking for somewhere to build sandcastles on your holiday to Italy, Furore is worth a visit for its uniqueness as it’s home to a fjord, a museum and a beautiful bridge. Halfway between Positano and Amalfi, Furore beach is just 25 metres long and is only accessible by bus, but it’s surrounded by pretty cottages nestled in the hills.