Can you swim in the Amalfi Coast?

The breath-taking beauty of the Amalfi Coast is mostly due to the stunning sapphire waters lapping against its shores. But can you swim on these shores?

The breath-taking beauty of the Amalfi Coast is mostly due to the stunning sapphire waters lapping against its shores. But can you swim on these shores is the question. In short, yes! Most o the time..Swimming is welcome at most of the beaches lining the coast, with majority free from rough currents and high tides. Saying that it’s important to keep safe on holiday, especially if you arrive at a beach with no else there. Before you start celebrating that you have this stretch of sand, sea and sun to yourself, you should be aware that it might be empty for a reason. Discover the very best spots to visit for your next journey to the Amalfi Coast.

• Vietri Sul Mare

  Situated in the province of Salerno, Vietri sul Mare is a little town in the Campania region of Italy and is home to an array of sandy beaches. Vietri Sul Mare has some of the largest beaches on offer and even has some hidden spots only the most well-informed traveller knows of. Vietri Sul Mare is the only town on the coast with its own train station, so visiting a beach for the day is very easy. The main beach, named La Baia is one of the longest beaches around, spanning 400 metres. It’s a favourite with families as it has a number of well-equipped bathing facilities and catches the sun for most of the day. 

• Cetara

  

  Right at the edge of town, Cetara beach is like a postcard picture, anchored by an ancient watch tower and decorated with colourful fishing boats. The town’s buildings align with the shore, leaving only a small strip of beach sand that is teeming with both locals and tourists. The colours of the water, sky, and buildings create an enchanting atmosphere, giving you the perfect photo opportunity with the family. The beach is easily reachable and the water is a clear crystalline. This town is also famous for its fresh tuna so make sure to refuel on the seafood after your beach day.

• Erchie, Maiori, and Minori

  These are the three biggest beaches around! Swarming with tourists, these beaches are perfect for families with young children. The waters are calm and soothing, with bars and restaurants lining the nearby streets. Erchie is just a few miles along from Cetara, situated amid some scented lemon trees that will make you crave a sorbet at the end of the day. Maiori is a long stretch of beach and one of the only sandy beaches on the Amalfi Coast. We should mention though that only a small portion of this beach is free, the rest being occupied by sun loungers which you need to pay for. The set up at Minori is fairly similar and smaller at just 250 metres long. Whilst you’re there, sample one of the mouth-watering delicacies at Salvatore De Riso’s pastry shop. 

• Amalfi

  At the centre of everything is Amalfi, home to fashionable beaches ranging from secluded shores to lively main stretches. After meeting the locals and other tourists in the main beach Spiaggia Grande, head to Duoglio beach to get to one of the most tranquil water spots around. Whilst being a town of cliffs and steps, your walking efforts are rewarded when you meet some of the world’s most enchanting bays. To get to some of the town’s more inaccessible coves out at sea, rent a boat or take a tour to reach these little corners of paradise. Our Blue Grotto Tour is worth checking out if this takes your fancy!

• Furore Fiord 

  

  One of the Amalfi Coast’s most hidden treasures is the Furore Fiord. A fascinating geological feature, this area is where a massive fjord has opened up to create a hidden beach. This magical beach has a long staircase that descends into the sand. With a stone bridge that spans the length of the fjord, letting you see the tranquil scenery from above. After getting your fill of the beach, take a trek along the many hidden walking tracks to arrive at the local bars and restaurants nearby.

• Positano

  Always featured in the coast’s postcards, Positano is famous for its picturesque beaches. Its massive marina Grande Beach is by far it’s most popular, with umbrellas and lounge chairs lining the shore, the town brings an air of luxury to this beach. Restaurants and bars are only steps away from the coast, giving beachgoers a chance to tuck in the local’s specialities. There is even a Music on the Rocks club, named Discotheque, which located right on the beach itself.

As beaches go the Amalfi Coast has a lot of them, and most are very safe to use, as well as being beautiful. If you’re still not sure, then look out for blue flags. Beaches which have been designated a blue flag mean they are exceptionally clean. This certification is given by the Foundation of Environmental Education (FEE) and means that the beach awarded meets the organisation’s standards of environmental management. In other words, the beach meets the standards of excellent water quality, safety, and public environmental education. This takes the stress out of beach life so you can sit back and relax.

Related article: Make the Most of the Amalfi Coast