Minori Beaches

Overview

Nestled on the Amalfi Coast, Minori offers a refreshingly authentic and relaxed beach holiday. It stands out as an excellent choice for visitors, especially families, seeking to escape the larger crowds of its more famous neighbors. The town's charm lies in its laid-back pace and accessible waterfront, making it a serene base for enjoying the clean, calm waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The local Minori Beach is the heart of the town, a crescent of dark sand and pebbles that offers both private lidos and free areas. A short, pleasant walk leads to the neighboring town and its Spiaggia di Maiori, home to the longest continuous sandy beach on the entire coast and a favorite for families. For those craving the iconic Amalfi Coast scene, the vibrant and world-renowned Spiaggia Grande, Positano is an essential day trip, buzzing with energy against a spectacular cliffside backdrop.

Beyond these popular spots, the coastline is dotted with smaller, more secluded coves, some of which are best reached by boat for a true sense of discovery. Whether you prefer the convenience of a town beach or the adventure of finding a hidden gem, Minori serves as an ideal starting point. For a comprehensive look at all the seaside options, from the most famous stretches of sand to the quietest coves, be sure to explore our full guide to the region's beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Minori a good base for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Minori is considered one of the most family-friendly towns on the Amalfi Coast. Its beach is easily accessible from the town center without many stairs, which is a significant advantage for those with small children. The beach itself has a mix of sand and fine pebbles, and the calm, clean waters are cordoned off from the ferry area, making it safe for splashing and swimming. The town also has a relaxed atmosphere, a pleasant seaside promenade, and several family-friendly restaurants and accommodations.

Minori Beach

What's the difference between the beaches in Minori and Maiori?

The main difference is size and composition. Maiori has the longest continuous sandy beach on the Amalfi Coast, nearly a kilometer long, which is a result of a landslide in 1954. It's wider and has more beach clubs (lidos). Minori's beach is much smaller, about 250 meters long, and is often described as having dark sand mixed with pebbles. While both are popular, Maiori's larger size means it can accommodate more people and has more extensive facilities, whereas Minori offers a more compact and quaint beach experience.

Minori Beach

Spiaggia di Maiori

Can you swim in the sea at Minori and what is the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim in the sea at Minori. The water is known for being very clean and clear, often described as having a beautiful deep blue color. The swimming area is protected from boat traffic from the nearby pier, creating a safe and calm environment. The water temperature is generally comfortable for swimming from late spring through early autumn, typically from May to October.

Are the beaches in Minori free, or do you have to pay?

Minori's beach has both options. There are private sections, called 'lidos' or 'stabilimenti', where you pay to rent sunbeds and umbrellas for the day. These are typically in the center of the beach. However, there are also 'spiaggia libera' (free beach) areas on either side of the private establishments where you can lay down your own towel at no cost.

Are there hotels in Minori with direct beach access?

While many hotels in Minori are located very close to the beach, just across the promenade, direct private beach access is rare in the town itself. Some hotels have arrangements with local beach clubs for their guests. For true private beach access, you might look at properties in the immediate vicinity, such as the Ravello Art Hotel Marmorata, located in a nearby cove between Minori and Atrani.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is the beach actually like? Is it sandy or pebbly?

Minori's beach is composed of dark, coarse sand mixed with small pebbles, especially closer to the water's edge. While some sources refer to it as a sandy beach, it's not the fine, golden sand you might find elsewhere. It's recommended to wear water shoes or sandals for comfort when walking on the beach and entering the sea.

Minori Beach

How do you get to Minori's beach from other Amalfi Coast towns?

The easiest ways to reach Minori's beach are by ferry or SITA bus. Ferries operate frequently during the high and shoulder seasons (roughly April to October) and connect Minori with towns like Amalfi, Positano, and Salerno; the ferry dock is right next to the beach. The SITA bus also stops in Minori along its Salerno-Amalfi route. For those staying in the neighboring town of Maiori, it's a flat, easy walk of about 10-15 minutes.

Minori Beach

Is Minori a good choice for a quiet, relaxing beach holiday?

Yes, Minori is an excellent choice for a more relaxed and authentic beach holiday compared to its more famous neighbors like Positano and Amalfi. It generally has fewer tourists, a more laid-back atmosphere, and a less crowded beach. This allows visitors to experience a more local vibe while still enjoying the beauty of the Amalfi Coast.