Located along the rugged and breathtakingly beautiful coastline of southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast hotels, beach clubs, and restaurants welcome travelers with beauty and captivating charm. As the world seeks solace in serene escapes, this iconic destination remains a sanctuary for those in search of natural splendor, cultural richness, and Mediterranean allure. In this article we explore the best luxury hotels, fun restaurants, and beach clubs along the Amalfi coast.
Getting To The Amalfi Coast
The nearest airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport (NAP), also known as Capodichino Airport. From Naples, the Amalfi Coast is accessible by various means:
By Car: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, be prepared for narrow, winding roads, wild drivers, and limited parking.
By Train and Bus: You can take a train from Naples to Sorrento or Salerno and then a bus to your destination on the coast.
By Ferry: During the summer months, ferries operate between Naples, Sorrento, and several towns on the Amalfi Coast, offering a scenic and relaxing way to arrive.
The 5 Best Amalfi Coast Hotels – Where To Stay
Let’s explore the best hotels in the Amalfi coast worthy of visiting when you travel to Italy. Few places compare to the stunning southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. The colorful towns and winding roads along the Amalfi Coast have been beloved by the rich and famous for centuries. Securing a beautiful room with an ocean view along these revered shores, in summer, is considered one of the ultimate summer holiday achievements.
Most Amalfi Coast hotels open from April thru October, and in our opinion, June is the ideal time to visit these resorts and boutique hotels. Here, accommodations are not high-rise, high-tech cement structures but rather charming, age-old villas or palazzos in various stages of modernization, offering timeless terrace views.
Anantara Convento Di Amalfi Grand Hotel
Housed in a former 13th-century monastery, Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel blends historical architecture with contemporary elegance. Located in Amalfi, this hotel offers a spa, outdoor gym, infinity pool, beach club and ocean view dining options such as Dei Cappuccini and La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria by Gino Sorbillo. The beautifully presented breakfast buffet offers an array of delicious options. The tranquil gardens provide a peaceful escape, perfect for relaxation and reflection. The hotel provides a shuttle for the few minute drive into town for shopping or to the ferry stop.
Hotel Santa Caterina
Located in Amalfi, Hotel Santa Caterina a luxury hotel set in a 19th-century villa, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. This hotel offers an array of amenities, including a private beach club, a heated saltwater oceanfront pool, gorgeous restaurants and lush gardens. The rooms, elegantly decorated with vintage furnishings and hand-painted tiles, provide a perfect blend of comfort and chic style. It’s a 10-minute stroll to the town of Amalfi for shopping and restaurants. The hotel room balconies offer views of the famous coastline. It is also one of the few hotels with direct access to the sea via a terrace that extends down from the rocky hillside. This is widely considered one of the best luxury hotels on the Amalfi coast and the location of a popular television show.
Caruso, A Belmond Hotel
Perched high above the town of Ravello, Caruso offers breathtaking views of the coastline. This 11th-century palace meticulously restored to combine historical charm with modern luxury provides the ultimate guest sanctuary. Guests enjoy the infinity pool, terraced gardens overlooking the Amalfi coast and gourmet dining at the on-site Ristorante Belvedere or Caruso Grill, all while taking in the panoramic vistas. Almost all rooms feature private terraces or gardens, and the original frescoes and vaulted ceilings enhance the sense of absolute splendor. The standalone guesthouse, Villa Margherita, offers a private terrace with stunning sea views, giving a whole new meaning to breakfast in bed.
Il San Pietro Di Positano
Il San Pietro di Positano a hideaway nestled into the cliffs of Positano beckons luxury travelers. This five star Amalfi hotel features a private beach, tennis courts, and beautiful restaurants such as Carlino and Zass Restaurant. Each room captivates with a private terrace with sea views, providing a serene retreat from the bustling town below. The rooms are spacious, with most offering panoramic views of Positano. The terraced gardens provide tranquility. Their Michelin-starred restaurant highlights local seafood and produce from the hotel’s kitchen garden. This luxury hotel offers an elevator that swiftly transports you through the rock face to the private beach on the Amalfi coast, which is wonderfully convenient.
Le Agavi Hotel
Situated in Positano, Le Agavi Hotel offers stunning views and rare direct access to their private beach. This luxury resort features a sparkling pool, multiple dining options, such as La Serra Restaurant and Remmese, and complimentary shuttle service to the town center. The Le Agavi bedrooms are spacious and stylish, each with their own private balcony or terrace overlooking the Amalfi coast.
The 5 Best Amalfi Coast Restaurants – Where To Dine
Al Mare
Located within the Hotel Santa Caterina in Amalfi, Al Mare an elegant seaside restaurant offers delicious seafood among other options. The gorgeous iconic decor takes a backseat only to the spectacular sea views. Al Mare offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. The setting provokes thoughts of decades past and elegant splendor. Some tables are set on a terrace overlooking the Amalfi coast, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Lido Azzurro
Also in Amalfi, Lido Azzurro a family-run restaurant on the harbor, is known for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes. The restaurant offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere. The menu features local specialties such as spaghetti alle vongole and fresh fish grilled to perfection.
La Sponda
La Sponda, located in the Le Sirenuse Hotel in Positano, a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its exquisite cuisine and romantic ambiance. Their most spectacular dining room is adorned with hundreds of flickering candles, creating a romantic and luxurious atmosphere. The menu showcases the best of Italian and Mediterranean flavors, with dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Lo Scoglio
Lo Scoglio is a renowned seafood restaurant located in Marina del Cantone, near Nerano. The restaurant, famous for its fresh catch and simple, yet delicious preparations won’t disappoint. Diners enjoy dishes like spaghetti with zucchini and fresh fish grilled with olive oil and lemon while taking in the stunning coastal views.
Maria Grazia
Also in Marina del Cantone, Maria Grazia is a historic restaurant serving traditional dishes since the 1900’s. Known for its Spaghetti Alla Nerano, made with zucchini and local cheeses, Maria Grazia offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s terrace provides a perfect setting for a leisurely meal by the sea.
Exploring The Towns Of The Amalfi Coast
Amalfi
Amalfi, the namesake of the coast, is a historic town with a rich maritime history. The town’s centerpiece is the stunning Amalfi Cathedral, a 9th-century structure. Wander through the narrow street’s mom and pop shops, visit the Paper Museum to learn about Amalfi’s papermaking heritage, and relax in the Piazza del Duomo with a gelato.
Positano
Positano is perhaps the most iconic town on the Amalfi Coast, known for its colorful cliffside houses and pebble beaches. The town’s steep streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. A visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its distinctive dome, is a must.
Ravello
Perched high above the sea, Ravello is a tranquil town renowned for its gardens and cultural heritage. The town’s main attractions include Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, both offering stunning gardens and panoramic views. Ravello is also famous for it’s annual music festival, held in the beautiful gardens of Villa Rufolo.
Praiano
Praiano is a quieter alternative to Positano and Amalfi, offering a more relaxed pace. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Marina di Praia and Gavitella Beach. The Church of San Gennaro, with it’s colorful majolica-tiled dome, is a highlight. Praiano also offers excellent hiking opportunities.
Atrani
Atrani is one of the smallest towns on the Amalfi Coast but boasts a charming and authentic atmosphere. This town is characterized by it’s narrow alleys, archways, and staircases. The Church of San Salvatore de’ Birecto, with its unique bell tower, is a notable landmark. Atrani’s central piazza is a perfect spot to enjoy an espresso and watch the world go by.
Minori and Maiori
Minori and Maiori are neighboring towns that offer a more laid-back experience. Minori is known for its Roman Villa, an archaeological site dating back to the 1st century AD. Maiori boasts the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and frolicking in the Sea. Both towns are famous for their lemon groves and delicious lemon-based products such as limoncello.
Vietri Sul Mare
Vietri sul Mare is the gateway to the Amalfi Coast and is renowned for its ceramics. The town is filled with shops selling beautiful, hand-painted pottery. The Church of San Giovanni Battista, with its colorful tiled dome, is must-see. Vietri’s beach is also a great place to relax and enjoy the abundant sun.
Furore
Furore is a unique village known for its fjord, the Fiordo di Furore, a narrow inlet with a small beach and picturesque fishing village. The town is also home to the Church of San Michele, which features beautiful frescoes. Furore offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the busier coastal towns.
The Amalfi Coasts Enticing Beach Clubs
Arienzo Beach Club
Take the clubs private boat to Arienzo Beach Club, located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Positano. Celebrate the real Positano Beach Club lifestyle. Enjoy traditional cuisine, blue crystal clear water, a professional beach attendant, an amazing selection of famous signature cocktails, music and big rock cliff jumping.
La Scogliera Beach Resort
La Scogliera Beach Resort is so beautiful with it’s views of the dramatic cliffs of Positano. With its stunning location, La Scogliera offers an exclusive beach experience. The club also features a restaurant.
The Maya Beach Experience
The Maya Beach Experience is a luxurious club situated in Massa Lubrense, between the towns of Amalfi and Sorrento. Maya Beach Experience lets you soak in breathtaking views of the sea and is one of the best places to take in a sunset. The beach club boasts a stunning pool and provides vibrant nightlife with music. A blend of luxury, relaxation, and entertainment, Maya Beach Experience promises fun in the sun.
Takeaways On Where To Stay On The Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi coast is a destination that offers something for every traveler, from luxurious hotels and gourmet dining to historic towns and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, explore charming villages, or indulge in world-class cuisine, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to this enchanting coastline and discover why it continues to be a favorite among travelers from around the world.
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