Hidden Beaches of the Amalfi Coast
If you're looking to escape the crowds, this guide covers the best hidden beaches on the Amalfi Coast, including how to reach them, what to expect and practical tips to help you enjoy these beautiful coastal gems.
6/26/20269 min read
Hidden Beaches of the Amalfi Coast: 10 Secret Beaches Most Tourists Never Find
The Amalfi Coast is famous for glamorous towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Every summer, millions of visitors flock to its colourful villages and busy beaches. While these iconic destinations deserve their reputation, many travellers never discover another side of the coastline.
Hidden between dramatic limestone cliffs are secluded coves, tiny pebble beaches, and crystal-clear swimming spots that remain surprisingly peaceful. Some can only be reached by boat, while others require a scenic hike down hundreds of stone steps. The effort is almost always rewarded with turquoise water, incredible scenery, and a much quieter atmosphere than the main beaches.
If you're looking to escape the crowds, this guide covers the best hidden beaches of the Amalfi Coast, including how to reach them, what to expect, and practical tips to help you enjoy these beautiful coastal gems.
Table of Contents
Why Visit the Hidden Beaches?
Map of the Hidden Beaches
Fiordo di Furore
Spiaggia di Arienzo
Laurito Beach
Marina di Praia
Duoglio Beach
Santa Croce Beach
Spiaggia di Tordigliano
Cala Bellavaia
Erchie Beach
Cavallo Morto Beach
Tips for Visiting Hidden Beaches
Where to Stay
FAQ
Final Thoughts
Why Visit the Hidden Beaches?
Most visitors spend their holiday between Positano, Amalfi, and Capri, often sharing the same stretches of sand with hundreds of other tourists.
The hidden beaches offer something completely different.
Instead of rows of umbrellas and packed restaurants, you'll often find:
Crystal-clear water perfect for swimming
Peaceful surroundings
Incredible cliff scenery
Excellent snorkelling
Authentic local beach clubs
Small seafood restaurants
Fewer crowds, especially early in the morning
Many of these beaches feel like secret escapes despite being only minutes from the coast's busiest towns.
1. Fiordo di Furore
One of the most photographed places on the Amalfi Coast is also one of its most unique beaches.
Instead of a wide bay, Fiordo di Furore sits beneath a dramatic stone bridge inside a narrow fjord carved into the cliffs.
The tiny pebble beach is surrounded by towering rock walls that create an unforgettable setting.
The water here is exceptionally clear, making it popular for swimming and snorkelling.
Highlights
Stunning natural gorge
Iconic stone bridge overhead
Crystal-clear water
Fantastic photography location
How to Get There
Take a SITA bus to Furore and walk down the steep staircase.
Alternatively, arrive by boat or kayak from nearby beaches.
Best Time to Visit
Arrive before 9:00 am.
By late morning, tour groups begin arriving and space becomes limited.
2. Spiaggia di Arienzo
Known as the "300 Steps Beach," Arienzo is one of Positano's best-kept secrets.
Although it sits only minutes from the town centre, relatively few visitors make the climb down.
The reward is a much larger beach with significantly fewer people than Positano's famous Spiaggia Grande.
Because of its position, Arienzo receives afternoon sunshine longer than many other beaches along the coast.
Highlights
Much quieter than Positano
Beautiful emerald water
Excellent beach clubs
Afternoon sunshine
How to Get There
Walk down approximately 300 steps from the coastal road.
During summer, some boat taxis also stop here.
Insider Tip
Wear comfortable shoes for the return climb.
The stairs feel much longer on the way back!
3. Laurito Beach
Just east of Positano lies Laurito Beach, a tiny cove surrounded by steep cliffs.
Many visitors only discover it because of the famous seafood restaurant overlooking the water.
The beach itself is small but incredibly picturesque.
Bright blue water laps against smooth pebbles while fishing boats gently float offshore.
Why Visit?
Laurito combines spectacular scenery with one of the Amalfi Coast's most memorable seaside lunches.
Many travellers arrive by boat for fresh seafood before spending the afternoon swimming.
How to Reach It
You can:
Walk down the cliff path
Take a seasonal boat shuttle
Arrive by private boat
4. Marina di Praia
Hidden between towering cliffs, Marina di Praia feels more like a natural harbour than a traditional beach.
Colourful fishing boats line the shore while restaurants serve seafood just metres from the water.
Unlike many beaches on the Amalfi Coast, Marina di Praia has a relaxed local atmosphere.
The surrounding cliffs also provide welcome shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Perfect For
Families
Couples
Sunset dinners
Paddleboarding
Kayaking
If you're staying nearby in Praiano, this is one of the easiest hidden beaches to visit several times during your trip.
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5. Duoglio Beach
Located just outside Amalfi, Duoglio Beach remains one of the coast's best swimming spots.
Reaching it requires descending more than 400 steps, which naturally keeps visitor numbers lower.
The effort is rewarded with crystal-clear water that regularly ranks among the cleanest along the Amalfi Coast.
Unlike the busy beach in Amalfi town, Duoglio feels wonderfully peaceful.
What You'll Find
Beach club
Umbrella rentals
Kayaks
Snorkelling
Paddleboards
Deep blue water
Local Tip
Bring snorkelling equipment.
The rocky seabed attracts plenty of colourful fish.
Planning Your Amalfi Coast Adventure
Many of these beaches are difficult to visit using public transport alone, especially if you're hoping to combine several hidden gems in one day.
A private driver or small-group tour gives you much more flexibility, allowing you to stop at scenic viewpoints, enjoy leisurely lunches, and explore beaches that most visitors simply pass by.
If you're planning a longer holiday, our 6-Day Elite Amalfi Coast, Capri, Pompeii & Private Driver itinerary combines famous highlights with lesser-known locations like these hidden beaches, giving you the best of both worlds without the stress of driving the famously winding coastal roads.
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6. Santa Croce Beach
Just a short boat ride west of Amalfi lies one of the coast's most peaceful hidden beaches. Santa Croce Beach feels like a secret Mediterranean paradise, tucked beneath towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat or a long staircase.
Unlike the bustling waterfront in Amalfi, you'll find a calm atmosphere here, where colourful fishing boats gently bob on the water and locals spend lazy afternoons swimming in the remarkably clear sea.
The beach is made up of smooth pebbles, and the water deepens quickly, making it ideal for confident swimmers.
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Why You'll Love It
Much quieter than Amalfi Beach
Beautiful turquoise water
Fantastic snorkelling
Two excellent beachfront restaurants
Perfect for a relaxing afternoon
How to Get There
The easiest option is to take one of the small shuttle boats that regularly depart from Amalfi harbour during the summer months.
More adventurous visitors can reach the beach by descending the steep staircase from the road above.
Best Time to Visit
Visit before lunchtime if you'd like a quieter experience. Many visitors arrive in the early afternoon after exploring Amalfi.
7. Spiaggia di Tordigliano
If you're searching for a truly wild beach, Spiaggia di Tordigliano is one of the Amalfi Coast's best-kept secrets.
There are no beach clubs.
No cafés.
No umbrellas for hire.
Just a spectacular stretch of pebbles, emerald water, and dramatic cliffs.
Because reaching the beach requires a hike of around 30–40 minutes, very few visitors make the journey.
The reward is one of the most untouched coastal landscapes in southern Italy.
Highlights
One of the quietest beaches on the Amalfi Coast
Incredible panoramic hiking trail
Crystal-clear water
Perfect for nature lovers
Excellent photography
What to Bring
There are no facilities here, so remember to pack:
Plenty of water
Snacks or a picnic
Sunscreen
A beach umbrella
Swimming shoes
A dry bag for your valuables
Best For
Couples, hikers, photographers, and travellers looking to escape the crowds.
8. Cala Bellavaia
Hidden beneath steep cliffs near Maiori, Cala Bellavaia is one of the least-visited beaches on the Amalfi Coast.
Many visitors pass nearby without ever knowing it exists.
The cove is small but incredibly scenic, with transparent water that glows brilliant shades of blue and green throughout the day.
Because access is limited, you'll often share the beach with only a handful of other visitors.
Why Visit?
Peaceful atmosphere
Excellent snorkelling
Beautiful cliff scenery
Fantastic for paddleboarding
Ideal for relaxing away from busy tourist towns
If you're renting a kayak or joining a small boat excursion, Cala Bellavaia makes an excellent stop for a swim.
9. Erchie Beach
The charming village of Erchie is often overlooked by travellers rushing between Amalfi and Salerno.
That's a shame, because it has one of the prettiest small beaches along the entire coastline.
Colourful umbrellas line part of the beach, while traditional fishing boats add to the village's authentic charm.
The medieval watchtowers overlooking the bay provide a dramatic backdrop that's instantly recognisable in photographs.
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Highlights
Authentic Italian seaside village
Relaxed atmosphere
Family-friendly swimming
Great seafood restaurants
Less crowded than Amalfi and Positano
Spend an afternoon exploring the village before enjoying dinner overlooking the water as the sun begins to set.
10. Cavallo Morto Beach
Few places feel more remote than Cavallo Morto Beach.
Accessible only by boat, this hidden cove sits beneath towering cliffs between Maiori and Minori.
The lack of road access means visitor numbers remain extremely low, even during the height of summer.
The water here is exceptionally clear, making it one of the best places on the Amalfi Coast for swimming and snorkelling.
Perfect For
Private boat tours
Kayak adventures
Snorkelling
Photography
Couples seeking complete tranquillity
If you're booking a private boat excursion from Amalfi or Positano, ask your captain if it's possible to stop here for a swim.
Many local skippers know the area well and can recommend the calmest conditions.
Tips for Visiting the Hidden Beaches
A little preparation can make your beach-hopping adventure much more enjoyable.
Wear Suitable Footwear
Many beaches are reached via long flights of uneven stone steps. Comfortable walking shoes are much safer than flip-flops.
Arrive Early
Even the quieter beaches become busier during July and August. Arriving before 9:00 am often rewards you with peaceful surroundings and the best choice of spots.
Pack Light
Many hidden beaches involve carrying everything yourself. A lightweight backpack is far more practical than a large beach bag.
Bring Cash
Some beach clubs, cafés, and boat shuttles may not accept cards, particularly at smaller beaches.
Check Sea Conditions
Strong waves occasionally make boat access difficult. If you're planning to arrive by water, check the local weather forecast before setting out.
What to Pack
For a comfortable day exploring the Amalfi Coast's hidden beaches, consider bringing:
Reef-safe sunscreen
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Reusable water bottle
Polarised sunglasses
Snorkelling mask
Water shoes
Quick-drying towel
Dry bag for phones and valuables
Portable power bank
Light picnic or snacks
You'll need insurance for your trip. Click here for the best option.
Where to Stay
Choosing the right base makes it much easier to explore several hidden beaches during your trip.
Positano
Ideal if you want easy access to Arienzo Beach, Laurito Beach, and nearby boat excursions.
Perfect for first-time visitors looking for luxury hotels, boutique accommodation, and lively evenings.
Hotels in Positano
Budget: Hotel Villa delle Palme
Mid-range: Hotel Casa Albertina
Praiano
A quieter alternative between Positano and Amalfi.
Praiano provides convenient access to Marina di Praia, Fiordo di Furore, and several excellent hiking trails.
Hotels in Praiano
Amalfi
An excellent choice for exploring Duoglio Beach, Santa Croce Beach, and the eastern section of the coastline.
Regular ferries and buses also make day trips very easy.
Hotels in Amalfi
Mid-range: Hotel Residence - Amalfi
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hidden beach is the quietest?
Spiaggia di Tordigliano and Cavallo Morto Beach are usually the least crowded because they're more difficult to reach.
Which hidden beach is closest to Positano?
Laurito Beach and Spiaggia di Arienzo are both just a few minutes from Positano.
Are the hidden beaches free?
Most beaches have free public sections, although some also offer beach clubs where you can rent loungers and umbrellas.
Can you reach them by public transport?
Some beaches can be reached by bus followed by a walk, while others are only accessible by boat or via hiking trails.
Are they suitable for children?
Marina di Praia and Erchie Beach are generally the most family-friendly thanks to their calmer water and nearby facilities.
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Final Thoughts
The Amalfi Coast is much more than its famous towns and postcard-perfect viewpoints. Beyond the bustling streets of Positano and Amalfi lies a collection of hidden beaches that offer a quieter, more authentic side of southern Italy.
Whether you're hiking down to the wild shores of Spiaggia di Tordigliano, snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of Duoglio Beach, or enjoying a long seafood lunch beside Laurito Beach, these secluded coves provide unforgettable experiences that many visitors never discover.
If you have the flexibility to explore beyond the main tourist hotspots, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery, peaceful swimming spots, and memories that last long after your holiday ends.
Planning Your Amalfi Coast Escape?
If you'd rather avoid the stress of driving the winding coastal roads, consider booking a multi-day private tour that combines the region's famous highlights with hidden gems like these beaches.
Our recommended 6-Day Elite Amalfi Coast, Capri, Pompeii & Private Driver itinerary includes spectacular coastal drives, charming villages, breathtaking viewpoints, and plenty of opportunities to discover the quieter side of this unforgettable destination.
