Top 10 beaches in Campania
Campania is famous for its dramatic coastline, but some of its most beautiful beaches lie far beyond the busiest stretches of the Amalfi Coast. From secluded coves in Cilento to tiny beaches beneath towering cliffs, these are 10 of the best beaches to visit in Campania.
10. Spiaggia di Trentova
Just outside Agropoli, Spiaggia di Trentova marks the beginning of the beautiful Cilento coastline. The sheltered bay combines clear, shallow water with green hills and rocky headlands, making it an easy escape from the historic town nearby.
Why visit: Clear water, a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views along the Cilento Coast.
Hidden Italy tip: Stay until late afternoon and combine your beach day with an evening walk through Agropoli’s historic centre.
9. Maronti Beach
On the southern coast of Ischia, Maronti is one of the island’s longest and most impressive beaches. Dark volcanic sand, steep green hills and thermal activity beneath the surface give this stretch of coastline a completely different character from mainland Campania.
Why visit: Volcanic scenery, thermal springs and one of Ischia’s most distinctive coastal landscapes.
Hidden Italy tip: Walk towards the quieter eastern end of the beach and look for the natural thermal areas hidden between the rocks.
8. Marina di Praia
Hidden between towering cliffs below Praiano, Marina di Praia is a tiny pebble beach tucked into a dramatic natural inlet. Traditional fishing boats, clear blue water and restaurants built directly into the rocks create one of the Amalfi Coast’s most atmospheric seaside settings.
Why visit: Towering cliffs, crystal-clear water and a beautiful traditional fishing-village atmosphere.
Hidden Italy tip: Arrive early in the morning, when the small beach is at its quietest and the light between the cliffs is especially beautiful.
7. Fornillo Beach
Just around the headland from Positano’s famous Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo offers a slightly calmer side of one of Italy’s busiest coastal towns. Pebbles, clear water and colourful buildings climbing the surrounding hills create a classic Amalfi Coast setting.
Why visit: Iconic Positano scenery with a more relaxed atmosphere than the main beach.
Hidden Italy tip: Follow the coastal path from Spiaggia Grande instead of approaching through the town. The views along the way are beautiful.
6. Fiordo di Furore
Hidden beneath a dramatic bridge on the Amalfi Coast, Fiordo di Furore is one of Campania’s most unusual beaches. A narrow gorge cuts deep into the cliffs before opening onto a tiny pebble beach surrounded by towering rock walls.
Why visit: One of the most dramatic and recognisable coastal settings in southern Italy.
Hidden Italy tip: Parking is extremely limited, so avoid arriving by car. Visit early and use public transport or combine it with a coastal hike.
5. Baia di Ieranto
At the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula, Baia di Ieranto feels remarkably wild for somewhere so close to the Amalfi Coast and Capri. The bay is surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and rocky cliffs, with spectacular views towards the Faraglioni of Capri.
Why visit: Untouched nature, clear water and unforgettable views towards Capri.
Hidden Italy tip: Reach the bay on foot from Nerano. The walk is part of the experience, so bring water and suitable shoes.
4. Punta Licosa
South of Castellabate, Punta Licosa is surrounded by pine forest, rocky coves and beautifully clear water. Small beaches and secluded swimming spots are scattered along the coastline, while the tiny island of Licosa sits just offshore.
Why visit: Peaceful coves, clear water and one of the wildest sections of the northern Cilento Coast.
Hidden Italy tip: Explore the coastline on foot rather than staying in one place. Some of the prettiest swimming spots are hidden between the rocks.
3. Spiaggia del Buondormire
Near Palinuro, Buondormire is a small golden-sand beach enclosed by steep green cliffs and brilliantly clear emerald water. Its secluded position gives the bay an almost tropical appearance, especially when viewed from the sea.
Why visit: Emerald water, golden sand and a spectacular hidden-cove setting.
Hidden Italy tip: Reach the beach by small boat from Palinuro and go early before the main summer excursions arrive.
2. Cala Bianca
Hidden along the protected Costa degli Infreschi, Cala Bianca is one of Cilento’s most beautiful secluded beaches. Pale pebbles, intensely turquoise water and rugged Mediterranean cliffs create a wild setting that feels far removed from Campania’s famous resorts.
Why visit: Exceptional water clarity, untouched scenery and a wonderfully remote atmosphere.
Hidden Italy tip: Reach Cala Bianca by boat from Marina di Camerota or hike the coastal trail if you want to turn the visit into a full-day adventure.
1. Baia degli Infreschi
At the heart of the protected Costa degli Infreschi, this tiny natural harbour is surrounded by limestone cliffs, caves and Mediterranean vegetation. Crystal-clear water flows into the sheltered bay, while the largely undeveloped coastline makes it feel like one of Campania’s last truly wild coastal corners.
Why visit: Crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs and one of Campania’s most unspoilt coastal landscapes.
Hidden Italy tip: Take a small boat from Marina di Camerota rather than one of the larger excursions, or hike the spectacular coastal trail to reach the bay on foot.
Plan your Campania trip
Want to see more than just the beaches? Explore Campania’s ancient cities, dramatic coastlines, colourful villages and hidden gems with our regional guide and seven-day road trip itinerary.
7-day roadtrip
Explore Campania in seven days, combining Naples, ancient ruins, coastal villages, hidden beaches and the wild landscapes of Cilento.
Campania Travel Guide
Discover Campania’s most beautiful villages, historic cities, spectacular coastline and hidden gems beyond the usual tourist trail.