Vico Equense Beaches

Overview

Nestled on a dramatic clifftop overlooking the Bay of Naples, Vico Equense offers a more relaxed and authentic Italian beach experience than its bustling neighbors. The coastline here is not defined by wide sandy shores, but by picturesque coves with distinctive dark sand and pebble beaches. This setting provides a stunning backdrop for swimming in the famously clear waters, creating a tranquil escape for those looking to unwind away from the biggest crowds.

The town's main beach, Marina di Vico, offers convenient access for a refreshing dip with classic views. For the more adventurous, the area reveals true hidden gems like the unspoiled Spiaggia di Tordigliano and the stunning Baia di Ieranto, a paradise for hikers. Many locals also cherish spots like Spiaggia della Tartaruga, a small cove named for its turtle-shaped rock, which is charmingly accessible only by a short boat ride from the main marina.

Beyond its immediate shores, Vico Equense serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region. A short trip can take you to iconic destinations such as Fornillo Beach in Positano, offering a quintessential Amalfi Coast day trip without the constant hustle. From easily accessible town beaches to secluded coves, there are many more beautiful spots to discover. Be sure to explore our complete guide to find the perfect beach for your visit.

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FAQ

Are the beaches in Vico Equense sandy or pebbly?

The beaches in and around Vico Equense offer a mix of surfaces. Marina di Vico, the town's main beach, has characteristic black sand and pebbles. Other beaches like Scrajo are pebbly, while some, such as Marina di Aequa (Seiano), feature a combination of sand and pebbles. You won't find wide, purely golden sand beaches here; the coastline is more rugged and picturesque, with many beaches set in small coves.

Marina di Vico

Are there free public beaches in Vico Equense, or do you have to pay?

Vico Equense has both free public beaches (spiaggia libera) and private beach clubs (lidi). The free sections, like the one at Marina di Vico and a larger area at Seiano known as 'Le Calcare', are popular but can get very crowded, especially in summer. For a fee, private clubs offer amenities like sun loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, and restaurants. Some areas, like the famous Turtle Beach, are best accessed by a small boat shuttle for a nominal fee.

Marina di Vico

Is Vico Equense a good base for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Vico Equense can be a great choice for a family holiday. It's generally considered more relaxed and less crowded than Sorrento or Positano. The beach at Marina di Aequa (Seiano) is often recommended for families due to its wider stretch of sand and pebbles and calmer atmosphere. Many hotels in the area cater to families, and the town's location on the Circumvesuviana train line makes it easy to take day trips to places like Pompeii.

How do you get to the beaches from the town center of Vico Equense?

Vico Equense sits on a clifftop, so reaching the beaches at Marina di Vico below requires a walk down a steep road or taking a local bus. The walk down is manageable, but many people prefer taking the bus for the steep return trip up the hill. For beaches in the nearby hamlet of Seiano, you can take a staircase from the town center or drive down. The Circumvesuviana train station also provides easy access to the area.

Marina di Vico

Are there hotels with private beaches in Vico Equense?

Yes, several hotels in Vico Equense are perched on the cliffs and offer guests access to private beach areas or bathing platforms. Hotels like the Hotel Sporting and Hotel Mary provide this amenity, often with an elevator to take guests down the cliff to the sea. These private areas typically include sunbeds and umbrellas, offering a more exclusive and convenient beach experience.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is it better to stay in Vico Equense or Sorrento for beaches?

Choosing between Vico Equense and Sorrento depends on your priorities. Vico Equense is generally quieter and has more spacious beaches compared to Sorrento, which has very small pockets of volcanic sand and relies heavily on bathing platforms. However, Sorrento offers more restaurants, shops, and direct transport links (especially ferries) to other destinations like the Amalfi Coast and Capri. Vico Equense provides a more authentic, relaxed town feel with good beach access, while Sorrento is a more convenient but busier tourist hub.

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

Yes, you can definitely swim in the sea at Vico Equense. The water is known for being clear and clean, earning the area Blue Flag awards for water quality. The coastline is dotted with coves and cliffs, offering beautiful swimming spots with views of Mount Vesuvius. Some areas, like the Scrajo beach, are near natural sulfuric springs, which can affect the water temperature locally.

What is Turtle Beach (Spiaggia della Tartaruga) and how do you get there?

Turtle Beach, or 'Spiaggia della Tartaruga', is a small, picturesque pebble beach named after a large rock offshore that resembles a turtle. It's a beloved local spot known for its lovely water. The beach is only accessible by sea. From the main beach at Marina di Vico, you can take a small shuttle boat (often called a 'turtle taxi') for a few euros per person to reach it.