The 7 Best Hidden Gems in Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast: A place where crystal clear water meets jutting cliff faces awash with a sea of vibrant pastels. Locals enjoy peaceful fishing spots and lively trattorias, while tourists flock to the cobbled streets – it’s truly magical. But, while the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most prized possessions, it hides some very well-kept secrets. Hidden amongst the colours and the crowds of tourists, a whole new world awaits. From quiet fishing villages to secluded beaches, here are our top picks for the best hidden gems on the Amalfi Coast:

7. Conca dei Marini

If there’s one thing Amalfi Coast is famous for, it’s quaint little towns that are full of life. Conca de Marini oozes with rustic charm – it’s quiet, yet fulfilling. While its neighbours are enjoying the buzz of tourists, Conca dei Marini’s locals are enjoying a more peaceful life. Its Grotto dello Smeraldo sits at the top spot, with its jagged cave walls and sun-speckled water rivalling the more universally known Blue Grotto in Capri. 

The beautiful Marina di Conca cove and historic sites give the town its appeal, while moored boats line the shores. Conca dei Marini is the perfect middle ground between thriving and secluded. To further its seclusion, it’s notoriously difficult to reach, but we’ve got the answer. You can take a ferry from Amalfi, hop in a taxi at Positano, or get your steps in and walk. 

6. Agricola Fore Porta 

If you’re seeking an authentic, family-run farm-to-table restaurant, then look no further. This charming establishment provides its guests a masterclass in cultivation, farming and ambience. Here, the drinks and chatter never run dry, and every mouthful is savoured to the very last crumb. Located in Valle delle Ferriere, it’s a short walk to Amalfi. In fact, this restaurant can only be reached on foot, so it’s a good destination for keen hikers. 

Agricola Fore Porta is a popular pit-stop for hikers and avid walkers who need to refuel or enjoy a refreshing drink. As the chatter of guests echoes through the canopy-shaded terrace, you feel an overwhelming sense of satisfaction wash over you. Not just from the organic produce you’ve just been served, but from the unparalleled atmosphere. 

5. Scala

Amalfi Coast’s oldest town, Scala, stakes its claim as one of the coastline’s gems. Perched atop rolling greenery, Scala is authentic, charming and quiet. It’s the perfect respite amid the tourist buzz. A walking tour through the town will see historic churches and cobbled pathways lead to undisturbed landscapes and mountainous hiking trails. 

Scala is often a jumping-off point for the surrounding towns and hiking trails, its quiet beauty providing the perfect backdrop or pit stop. It’s truly a world away from its lively neighbours. Would you rather visit a place that sees a high tourist footfall, or would you rather try something a little different? How do you get here, though? Well, you can either bike, hike, train or bus it from most of Amalfi’s main towns, like Amalfi or Positano. 

4. Spiaggia del Cauco

Sheltered from the bustle and bother of the more heavily touristed spots, Spiaggia del Cauco is perfect for those seeking a laid-back excursion. This secluded little beach is only accessible by boat – whether canoe, paddle or sailboat. To reach this little beach, you can rent boats at Erchie Beach, which is the gateway to this quiet little paradise.  

Frequented by locals and well-initiated tourists, it sees much fewer crowds than the busy towns above. Spiaggia del Cauco’s crystal clear waters are enough to attract anyone who stumbles across it – it really is like your own private tropical island. 

3. Marina de Praia 

Exploring the rocky limestone cliffs of Praiano will lead you to this peaceful little haven. If there’s one thing Amalfi Coast is famous for, it’s tiny secluded beaches with a whole load of heart. Marina de Praia isn’t itself without a fleet of boats approaching its signature pebbled shore, or its signature colourful umbrella and sunlounger combos that provide ample relief for those working on their tans.

Marina de Praia strikes the perfect balance between hearty and unpretentious – it’s fulfilling, but in a calming and pleasant way. Shuttle buses and water taxis transport you to this little slice of paradise. 

2. Fiordo di Furore

A secluded cove with a gorgeous archway backdrop – what more could you want? The narrow gorge conceals this unique, minuscule beach, its turquoise waters simulating the feeling of your favourite tropical paradise. We say beach, but not quite in the usual way – it’s more of an inlet, with pebbles instead of the quintessential sand. And yet, you still get that same familiar feeling. 

And voila, you have the perfect hidden bolthole that is one of the Amalfi Coast’s and the locals’ best-kept secrets. Take the SITA bus from Positano/Amalfi to get here – conveniently, it’s not totally secluded, as you can easily reach it with public transport.

1. Atrani 

Although its reputation is growing, Atrani remains a hidden treasure on the Amalfi Coast. Often overlooked in favour of its neighbours, Positano and Amalfi, Atrani provides a tranquil yet thriving escape. Quaint, cobbled alleyways lead into the picturesque town, while churches and historic architecture paint a vivid picture of the past. 

At surface level, Atrani is a peaceful, unassuming town. But locals and those lucky few tourists will see a deeper appeal – its history, culture, and the sense of escapism from its crowded counterparts is what keeps it firmly cemented in their hearts, and in yours too. To enhance the feeling of seclusion, to reach Atrani from Amalfi, you have to head through a tunnel that connects the two towns. Despite being so well connected to Amalfi Coast’s largest town, it’s still a whole different world.