Maiori is one of the best beach holiday destinations on the Amalfi Coast, blessed with a kilometre long stretch of sand – a far cry from the tiny sandy coves this beautiful stretch of coastline is known for. This length of beach is backed by a buzzing promenade too, another unusual sight for the Amalfi Coast, and these differences make this a very popular pick for families, and sun worshippers. The best places to stay in Maiori are just as varied as you’ll find in other Amalfi Coast centres, with converted palazzos, traditional hotels, and B&Bs, but it also has some larger, newer, purpose-built resort-type hotels too.
Maiori’s beach was created during a flood, which also destroyed some of the town’s historic centre, which explains the modern hotels, and town centre. It still has some historic sights, though: the colourful, majolica-tiled dome of the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria dominates what remains of the original port town, while the headland to the east of town has the incredible Santa Maria de Olearia, which is an 11th century monastery completely carved into the cliff face there. On the cliffs above the town are the ruins of a beautiful castle, a relic from Maiori’s heyday as a powerful local port.
Just around the headland from Maiori is Minori, which also has a lovely beach. Plus a pretty harbour with pastel buildings, the remains of one of the area’s finest Roman villas, and some fantastic pasta restaurants. And with Amalfi only four miles to the east, the best places to stay in Maiori also make great bases for exploring the wider area.