Skip the Amalfi Crowds: 6 Dreamy Italian Beach Spots You Need to Visit

Planning an Italy beach vacation but want to skip the crowds of the Amalfi Coast? You're not alone. Italy is full of equally stunning (and far less crowded) coastal destinations. In this guide, I'm sharing the best Amalfi Coast alternatives, including Ischia, Polignano a Mare, Cefalù, Monopoli, Vulcano, and Sanremo. These dreamy beach spots offering crystal-clear water, authentic Italian charm, incredible food, and unforgettable stays. If you're looking for the best beaches in Italy without the chaos, this is where you want to be.

Italy's Amalfi Coast is stunning, but it's packed with tourists. If you're craving sun, sea, and authentic Italian charm without the crowds, these hidden gems are calling your name. From volcanic islands to cliffside towns, here are five dreamy beach spots you won't want to miss.

Jump to:

• 1. Ischia - Thermal Hot Springs & Lush Gardens
• 2. Polignano a Mare - Cliffside Charm in Puglia
• 3. Cefalù - Sicily's Medieval Coastal Gem
• 4. Monopoli - Authentic Puglian Coast
• 5. Vulcano - The Otherworldly Aeolian Island
• 6. Sanremo - The Italian Riviera Without the Cinque Terre Crowds
• Final Tips for All These Spots
• Ready to Book Your Dream Italy Trip?
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1. Ischia - Thermal Hot Springs & Lush Gardens

Why Visit:

Ischia, just off the coast of Naples, is a volcanic island brimming with natural hot springs, botanical gardens, and quaint seaside villages. Think relaxing spa days, picturesque beaches, and panoramic cliffside views.

How to Get There:

Take a ferry from Naples (about 1-1.5 hours) or from Pozzuoli. Boats run frequently, and tickets can be booked online or at the port.

Where to Stay:

• Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa - Set on a secluded promontory overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Mezzatorre is one of Ischia's most iconic luxury hotels. The property centers around a historic watchtower and is surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens, giving it a private, almost estate-like feel. Guests have access to a private beach club, multiple thermal pools, and a full-service spa that draws from Ischia's volcanic waters. Rooms and suites are elegant but understated, many with sea-view terraces. This is the ideal choice for travelers seeking peace, wellness, and refined luxury.
• San Montano Resort & Spa - Perched high above the Bay of San Montano, this adults-friendly-feeling resort is known for its panoramic views and serene atmosphere. The standout feature is its collection of cascading thermal pools overlooking the sea, perfect for sunset swims. Rooms are bright and contemporary with private terraces, and the service feels warm and personal. With direct access to one of Ischia's prettiest sandy beaches below, San Montano is especially popular with couples and honeymooners.
• Regina Isabella Resort & Spa - A longtime symbol of Ischia's glamour, Regina Isabella sits right on the waterfront in Lacco Ameno. This five-star resort combines classic Italian elegance with modern wellness offerings, including a renowned thermal spa and indoor seawater pools. The property is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant, making it a favorite for travelers who value exceptional dining alongside their beach stay. Rooms range from refined garden views to stunning sea-facing suites.

Where to Eat:

• Ristorante Il Focolare - Traditional Italian dishes with local seafood.
• La Casa degli Spiriti - Romantic dining with stunning sunset views.
• Zi' Carmine - Classic pizza and seafood in a casual setting.

Insider Tips:

• Visit the gardens of La Mortella for a peaceful escape.
• Rent a scooter to explore hidden beaches and small villages.
• Try the thermal mud baths-they're rejuvenating and iconic to the island.

2. Polignano a Mare - Cliffside Charm in Puglia

Why Visit:

Perched on cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is famous for turquoise waters, dramatic caves, and narrow streets filled with charm. Its beaches feel like a secret, tucked away from crowds.

How to Get There:

• Fly into Bari or Brindisi, then take a train or drive (Bari is about 35 minutes away).
• The town is small and walkable; parking can be tricky in peak season.

Where to Stay:

• Covo dei Saraceni - This is one of Polignano a Mare's most sought-after hotels thanks to its unbeatable location perched directly above Lama Monachile beach. Rooms feature terraces overlooking the Adriatic, and the hotel's restaurant offers front-row seats to the town's iconic views. It's perfect for travelers who want to stay in the heart of Polignano while still enjoying a polished, upscale experience.
• Hotel Grotta Palazzese - Famous for its dramatic cave restaurant, Grotta Palazzese offers a truly unique stay set into the limestone cliffs above the sea. Rooms are elegant and modern, many with balconies overlooking the water. While dining here is a splurge, even staying overnight feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Best for couples celebrating something special.
• Masseria San Domenico - Located just outside town, this former farmhouse turned luxury resort offers a completely different experience-quiet, expansive, and deeply relaxing. Expect whitewashed buildings, manicured gardens, a private beach club, and a world-class spa. Ideal for travelers who want Puglia's countryside charm paired with easy access to the coast.

Best Restaurants:

• Ristorante Grotta Palazzese - Dining inside a cliff cave with panoramic views.
• Antiche Mura - Seafood-focused trattoria in the heart of town.
• Osteria dei Mulini - Casual dining with excellent local dishes.

Insider Tips:

• Watch cliff divers from Lama Monachile beach-it's iconic!
• Sunset strolls along the old town walls are unforgettable.
• Take a boat tour to explore hidden sea caves.

3. Cefalù - Sicily's Medieval Coastal Gem

Why Visit:

Cefalù combines golden sandy beaches with a medieval old town. Its Norman cathedral, cobbled streets, and charming harbor make it a perfect mix of culture and seaside relaxation.

How to Get There:

• Fly into Palermo Airport (about 1 hour drive).
• Trains from Palermo are frequent and convenient.

Where to Stay:

• Le Calette No 5 - This refined seaside resort sits just outside Cefalù's center and offers direct access to small coves and crystal-clear water. Rooms are spread throughout lush gardens, creating a peaceful retreat atmosphere. The on-site beach club, multiple pools, and excellent restaurant make it perfect for travelers who want a resort experience without feeling isolated.
• Victoria Palace Cefalù - Victoria Palace Cefalù is a refined, modern beachfront hotel that feels effortlessly elegant while still relaxed and welcoming. Located just steps from the sea and a short walk from Cefalù's historic center, it's perfectly positioned for travelers who want easy beach access without sacrificing proximity to restaurants, shops, and the iconic Norman cathedral.
• Hotel Cefalù Sea Palace - A contemporary beachfront hotel with spacious rooms and balconies facing the sea. The property offers easy access to the sandy beach and a rooftop pool with panoramic views. This is a great option for travelers who prioritize beach access and modern amenities.

Best Restaurants:

• Ristorante La Brace - Sicilian seafood specialties.
• Il Normanno - Cozy trattoria near the cathedral.
• Cefalù Seafood Market - Fresh catch cooked on site.

Insider Tips:

• Hike up La Rocca for panoramic views.
• Visit early morning for a quieter beach experience.
• Explore the medieval streets for artisanal shops and gelato.

4. Monopoli - Authentic Puglian Coast

Why Visit:

Monopoli is less touristy than nearby Polignano, with colorful harbors, quiet beaches, and a genuine Italian vibe. Perfect for a relaxed seaside escape.

How to Get There:

• Fly into Bari (about 40 minutes by car).
• Trains and buses connect Bari with Monopoli.

Where to Stay:

• Don Ferrante - Perched directly on the Adriatic cliffs just steps from Monopoli's charming old town, Don Ferrante is the epitome of refined Italian luxury. This boutique hotel blends contemporary design with traditional Apulian architecture, creating a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere. Rooms are spacious and elegantly furnished, many featuring private terraces with sweeping sea views, perfect for watching the sunset over the harbor. The property also boasts a rooftop pool and lounge area, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline, and a small, exclusive beach area for guests. Ideal for couples or travelers seeking a tranquil, upscale seaside escape, Don Ferrante combines comfort, sophistication, and an unbeatable location for exploring the authentic charms of Monopoli.
• La Peschiera - Set directly on the water just outside Monopoli, La Peschiera feels like a private seaside hideaway. This luxury boutique hotel features rooms with terraces overlooking the Adriatic, multiple seawater pools carved into the rocks, and an intimate beach club atmosphere. The on-site restaurant is seafood-focused and highly regarded. Ideal for travelers seeking romance, tranquility, and a true coastal escape.
• Masseria Torre Maizza - Part of the Rocco Forte collection, this countryside masseria offers refined luxury surrounded by olive groves. Rooms are elegant and spacious, the service is impeccable, and the overall experience is serene and polished. While it's inland, the coast is a short drive away, making it perfect for travelers who want a blend of beach days and rural charm.

Best Restaurants:

• Osteria Perricci - Traditional Puglian cuisine with local seafood.
• La Locanda di San Martino - Romantic setting, Mediterranean dishes.
• Il Guazzetto - Fresh seafood in a cozy environment.

Insider Tips:

• Stroll through the old town's narrow streets for the best photo ops.
• Try the Puglian "focaccia barese" from local bakeries.
• Visit nearby Cala Porta Vecchia beach for a quiet swim.

5. Vulcano - The Otherworldly Aeolian Island

Why Visit:

Vulcano, part of the Aeolian Islands north of Sicily, is famous for its black sand beaches, volcanic mud baths, and dramatic landscapes. Perfect for adventurous travelers.

How to Get There:

• Fly into Catania or Palermo, then take a ferry from Milazzo (~1 hour).
• Small local ferries connect the Aeolian islands.

Where to Stay:

• Therasia Resort - One of the most luxurious properties in the Aeolian Islands, Therasia Resort is perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the sea and surrounding islands. Built from volcanic stone, the design blends seamlessly into the landscape. The resort features infinity pools, a full spa, and multiple fine-dining restaurants. Rooms are elegant and minimalist, many with terraces facing the sunset. This is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking a high-end, secluded island experience.
• Hotel Aktea - A more approachable luxury option, Hotel Aktea offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and easy access to Vulcano's beaches. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a good choice for travelers who want convenience and comfort without the price tag of ultra-luxury resorts.
• Les Sables Noirs & Spa - Les Sables Noirs & Spa is a sophisticated retreat on the volcanic island of Vulcano, known for its dramatic black sand beaches and otherworldly landscapes. This boutique resort combines modern comfort with natural beauty, offering rooms and suites designed to maximize sea and sunset views. Many accommodations feature private terraces or balconies overlooking the water, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation.

Best Restaurants:

• La Forgia Vecchia - Seafood and Sicilian specialties.
• Trattoria Il Cappero - Cozy and authentic dining experience.
• Ristorante Glicine - Romantic terrace overlooking the volcano.

Insider Tips:

• Hike up Gran Cratere for incredible panoramic views.
• Soak in the natural mud baths for a unique spa experience.
• Sunset at Spiaggia di Sabbie Nere is magical.

6. Sanremo - The Italian Riviera Without the Cinque Terre Crowds

Why Visit:

Sanremo sits along Italy's Ligurian coast near the French border and offers classic Italian Riviera beauty without the intensity of Cinque Terre crowds. Think palm-lined promenades, Belle Époque architecture, clear blue water, and a laid-back elegance that feels quietly glamorous rather than chaotic. It's a favorite among Italians and French travelers, which keeps it feeling authentic and refreshingly untouristy.

How to Get There:

• Fly into Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (France), then drive about 1 hour east along the coast.
• Alternatively, take a train from Genoa or Nice - Sanremo is well connected and very easy to reach without a car.
• Once there, the town is walkable, especially along the seafront.

Where to Stay:

• Royal Hotel Sanremo - A historic grand hotel perched above the Ligurian Sea, Royal Hotel Sanremo embodies classic Italian Riviera elegance. The property features a saltwater pool set in lush gardens, private beach access, and rooms with sweeping sea views. It's refined, tranquil, and ideal for travelers who appreciate old-world glamour.
• Miramare The Palace Hotel - This Art Nouveau gem sits directly on the promenade and offers beautifully restored interiors with modern comforts. Rooms are spacious, many with balconies overlooking the water. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring Sanremo on foot.
• Hotel De Paris Sanremo - A stylish boutique hotel with a contemporary feel, Hotel De Paris offers comfort and convenience in a prime location. Ideal for travelers who want a polished stay close to beaches, shops, and restaurants.

Best Restaurants:

• Ristorante Flipper - Elegant seafood-focused dining with refined Ligurian flavors.
• Paolo & Barbara - Michelin-starred restaurant offering elevated regional cuisine.
• La Pignese - Casual, local favorite known for traditional Ligurian dishes and fresh ingredients.

Insider Tips:

• Walk or bike the Pista Ciclabile della Riviera dei Fiori, a scenic coastal path built along an old railway line.
• Visit nearby Bussana Vecchia, an artist village perched above the coast, for a unique half-day trip.
• Sanremo is ideal for travelers who want a beach-meets-city feel with great dining, shopping, and a lively evening scene - without feeling overwhelmed.

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