Best Beaches in Salerno and Surrounding Areas: Top Spots to Visit

by Katarzyna Fladro-Leon

Playas de Salerno | Ascea |Playa de Ascea | Spiaggia di Ascea | Salerno playas | Cilento

Salerno is an excellent starting point for exploring the Amalfi Coast. It’s located right between this famous region and the lesser-known — but equally spectacular — Cilento Coast, home to some of the best beaches in southern Italy. If you’re looking for crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, here are my top recommendations for the best beaches in Salerno and nearby, so you can pick the perfect spot depending on how much time you have.

Vietri sul Mare

Vietri sul Mare is the first town on the Amalfi Coast, just a 20-minute bus ride from Salerno, and it has a beautiful beach with free access. While you’re in Vietri, I highly recommend taking a stroll through the town center. You’ll find plenty of colorful shops selling ceramics, and it’s hard to leave without buying something.

Cetara

Cetara is another small town on the Amalfi Coast that’s easy to reach from Salerno by bus. Depending on traffic, the journey usually takes around 30 minutes. Once you head down to Cetara’s beach, you’ll find several bars and restaurants to enjoy.

La Baia di Trentova, Agropoli

Beach in Agropoli, Baiat di Trentova — Baia di Trentova, Agropoli

Baia di Trentova is one of the best beaches near Salerno. To get there, first take a direct train to Agropoli — the ride takes about 40 minutes and costs around 4 EUR. From the station, it’s a 15–20 minute walk to the bay, passing through Agropoli’s charming town center, where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants. I recommend going early, before noon — the water in the morning has a beautiful light blue color.

Ascea, one of the most beautiful beaches near Salerno

Ascea Beach is the furthest from Salerno on this list, but it’s definitely worth the trip. There’s a direct train from Salerno that takes about an hour to get there. If you’re looking for the best beaches in Salerno, Ascea is a hidden gem on the Cilento Coast that’s definitely worth the trip. If you enjoy hiking, you can walk the Sentiero degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Trail), a scenic 60-minute route that leads you straight to the beach.

Beach in Ascea, White Sand beach near Salerno. — Beach in Ascea

Ascea Beach is the largest beach in the Salerno area and one of the few with white sand. It also has a section with large rocks.

Ascea Beach, Cilento Coast. One of the beaches near Salerno. — Ascea

Mercatello Beach, the best beach in Salerno

The best beach in Salerno - the Mercatello Beach — Mercatello Beach in Salerno

When I lived in Salerno, I’d sometimes head to Mercatello Beach. It’s not the most stunning spot, but it’s a convenient place for a quick swim without going too far, and it’s easy to get there by public transport. That said, if you want to spend a full day at the beach, I’d recommend Vietri sul Mare or Cetara instead — they’re part of the Amalfi Coast and have much clearer waters.

Best Beaches in Salerno and nearby

Salerno is a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, but if you’re staying in town a little longer, it’s worth checking out the best beaches in Salerno and nearby. Whether you’re after a quick swim or a full beach day, there’s something for everyone. Let us know which one you visited and if you enjoyed it!

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