Meta Beaches

Overview

Meta is one of the best choices on the Sorrento Peninsula for a true beach-focused holiday, offering a more relaxed and local atmosphere than its bustling neighbors. Unlike other towns in the area known for rocky coves, Meta boasts the largest beaches, with a unique shoreline divided between dark volcanic sand and smooth pebbles. This variety, combined with a more laid-back vibe, makes it an ideal base for travelers whose top priority is relaxing by the sea.

While Meta's own shores are a primary draw, the town also serves as a great starting point for exploring the region's most famous coastal spots. For an iconic day trip, visit the vibrant Spiaggia Grande in Positano to experience its world-famous cliffside views and lively energy. A quieter, more relaxed alternative is the nearby Fornillo Beach, perfect for escaping the crowds. For those who enjoy hiking, the protected bay of Baia di Ieranto offers unspoiled scenery and pristine waters with views of Capri.

The main beach in Meta is particularly well-suited for families, as its sandy sections have calm, shallow waters that are perfect for children. With its welcoming environment and superior beach access, Meta provides a classic Italian seaside experience. For a closer look at all the coves and shores in the area, be sure to explore our complete list of local beaches.

Spiaggia di Meta

The main, most accessible, and largest beach in town, offering a classic Italian lido experience with dark volcanic sand and full amenities. As one of the few and most spacious sandy beaches on the entire Sorrento Peninsula, it stands out from the area's typically rocky coves. The long stretch of dark sand, a legacy of nearby Vesuvius, is set against dramatic cliffs, creating a picturesque scene. Its shoreline is famously divided into sections, featuring both private beach clubs with their colorful umbrellas and small public areas. The water is generally calm and intensely blue, protected by a breakwater, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a quintessential day by the sea. Because the beach faces west, it enjoys sunshine late into the day, perfect for an evening swim.

Spiaggia Grande

The world-famous heart of Positano, this is the iconic regional escape worth the day trip for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning cliffside views. This main beach is the quintessential postcard image of the Amalfi Coast, set against an amphitheater of colorful houses that cascade down the dramatic cliffs to the sea. It is a hub of cosmopolitan energy, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the glamorous, see-and-be-seen ambiance. The long, wide expanse of dark sand is a center of village life, bustling with activity from the nearby ferry port. Overlooking this unforgettable scene is the majestic, majolica-tiled dome of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, completing a truly picturesque setting.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are the beaches in Meta sandy or rocky?

Meta offers both sandy and pebble beaches, which is unique for the Sorrento Peninsula. The main beach area is divided into two parts: the 'Meta Mare' or 'Resegone' section has dark volcanic sand, while the 'Alimuri' section is covered in pebbles. This variety caters to different preferences, but Meta is best known for having one of the largest sandy stretches in the area.

Are there free public beaches in Meta or do you have to pay?

Yes, there are small free public beach areas ('spiaggia libera') in Meta, located between the private beach clubs. However, these sections are quite small and can get very crowded, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. The majority of the shoreline is occupied by private 'lidos' where you pay a fee to rent sunbeds and umbrellas for the day.

Is Meta a good base for a beach holiday compared to Sorrento?

Meta is an excellent choice for a beach-focused holiday, arguably better than Sorrento if your priority is a large, sandy beach. While Sorrento is the main transport and tourist hub with more nightlife and shopping, its own 'beaches' are mostly small, pebbly coves or wooden bathing platforms. Meta offers a more relaxed, local atmosphere and a superior beach experience, while still being only a short train or bus ride from Sorrento for day trips.

How do you get to the beach from the main town of Meta?

The town of Meta is situated on a cliff above the sea. To get down to the beach, you can walk down a series of stairs or a steep road, which takes about 15-20 minutes from the upper town where the train station is. Alternatively, a local bus runs from the upper town directly to the Alimuri beach area. There is also a public elevator (lift) that connects the upper part of the town with the beach, which is a great option for the steep climb back up.

Are there hotels and restaurants right on the beach in Meta?

Yes, one of the great advantages of Meta is that there are several hotels, apartments, and restaurants located directly on or just across the street from the beach. Establishments like Hotel Giosuè a Mare and restaurants like La Conca and Golden Beach offer the convenience of staying and dining with sea views, right at the water's edge.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is Meta a good destination for families with children?

Yes, Meta is considered one of the most family-friendly beach destinations on the Sorrento Peninsula. The sandy part of the beach, Meta Mare, has calm, shallow waters that deepen gradually, making it safe for children. Many of the beach clubs, like Lido Marinella, offer amenities specifically for families, including play areas and entertainment.

Spiaggia La Marinella

What is the water like for swimming at Meta's beaches?

The water at Meta's beaches is generally calm, clear, and clean, making it great for swimming. The bay is somewhat protected, especially at the sandy Meta Mare beach which has a breakwall. The water temperature is most comfortable for swimming from June through September.

When is the best time to visit the beaches in Meta?

The best time for a beach holiday in Meta is during the shoulder seasons: May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, the water is comfortable for swimming, and the beaches are less crowded than in the peak months of July and August. Visiting in high summer means you'll face large crowds and higher prices.

What is the general vibe of Meta's beaches?

The vibe at Meta's beaches is generally more relaxed and local compared to the more tourist-heavy spots like Sorrento or Positano. While it gets busy in the summer, it attracts many Italian families and locals. It's less about glamour and more about a classic, lively Italian day at the sea, especially within the organized beach clubs.

Can you watch the sunset from the beaches in Meta?

Absolutely. Meta's beaches face west, making them a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Naples. Many visitors enjoy having an 'aperitivo' at one of the beachside bars or restaurants as the sun goes down. However, be aware that the high cliffs behind the beach can cast a shadow over the sand in the late evening, even while the sun is still visible over the water.