Maiori with Kids: A Family-Friendly Gem on the Amalfi Coast
Last Updated on August 18, 2025 by Polly Dimitrova
Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast with kids is not always as picture-perfect as the postcards suggest. While the coastline is undeniably stunning, many towns are built vertically into the cliffs, with steep staircases, narrow alleys, and limited stroller access. For families with kids, this can make even the most beautiful destinations feel overwhelming. That is why choosing the right home base is essential—and we have found the perfect one: Maiori, Italy.
Tucked between dramatic cliffs and the sea, Maiori is one of the few towns on the Amalfi Coast that is actually flat, spacious, and easy to navigate. It offers all the charm of the coast, but without the logistical headaches—making it the ideal choice for families exploring the Amalfi Coast with kids.
Why is Maiori, Italy Ideal for Families?
The Longest Beach on the Amalfi Coast
Most Amalfi Coast beaches are small and pebbly—but not in Maiori, Italy. Its wide stretch of dark sand is the largest on the coast, giving kids plenty of space to run, swim, and play. There are numerous beach clubs, playgrounds and kid-friendly facilities.
Flat & Stroller-Friendly Streets
Unlike the steep stairs of Positano or Ravello, Maiori is mostly flat. This makes it perfect for strollers and toddlers—a rare and underrated perk on this part of Italy’s coastline. Shockingly, I also loved the lack of cobblestone streets, since it was extremely easy to roll a stroller around without all the usual bumps and jolts.
Affordable Accommodation Options
Compared to other towns, hotels and vacation rentals in Maiori tend to be more affordable. Not only can you find bigger family-sized apartments with kitchens, but you will also have a better chance booking last minute.
Easy Access to the Rest of The Coast
Ferries and buses connect Maiori with Amalfi, Minori, and even Positano. You can take short day trips without packing and unpacking constantly. Minori is just a 10-minute seaside walk away—ideal for a morning stroll or dinner outing.
Things to Do in Maiori with Kids
What I loved the most about staying in Maiori is how laid-back and easygoing it feels. You don’t have to pack your days full of activities to have fun—kids will love just exploring the town, enjoying the beach, and soaking in the Italian lifestyle. But if you are looking for ideas to keep everyone happy, here are a few of our favorite Maiori kid-friendly things to do:
Hit the Beach
As home to the largest and widest beach on the Amalfi Coast, hitting the beach is an absolute must when in Maiori with kids. The sand is darker and soft (not rocky like other coastal towns), and the shallow shoreline is great for younger kids to safely splash and play.
Between the numerous private lidos (which offer umbrella rentals, changing rooms, and bathrooms) and the public beach area, it is easy to spend a few hours—or even a full day—soaking up the sun, swimming in the calm waters, and building endless sandcastles. It is a simple, low-stress activity that is enjoyable for all ages. It also requires very little preparation for parents, which I love!
Walk Along the Promenade
Maiori’s wide seafront promenade is one of the best features for families. With stunning views of the sea and the dramatic Amalfi coastline, it is the ideal setting for a relaxing sunset stroll or an early morning walk before the day heats up. The best part is that it is so spacious and flat that it is perfect for strollers, scooters, or just letting kids run off some energy while you enjoy the scenery. The playground right along the walkway was a huge hit with our 2-year-old and we spend quite a lot of time there.
Do not skip on grabbing some gelato at one of the many nearby cafés or gelaterias. We particularly liked the gelato from Ristorante Lounge Bar Lido Eldorado, which we ordered to go and blissfully enjoyed on a bench along the promenade, soaking in the beautiful sea views. Nothing says “Italian vacation” better than that—kids happily eating gelato, parents relaxing, and the sound of waves in the background.
Hike The Path of Lemons (Sentiero dei Limoni)
For families who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Path of Lemons is a beautiful and manageable (even for the youngest) hike between Maiori and Minori. The trail winds through terraced lemon groves, offering incredible views of the coast and a glimpse into the region’s agricultural history. Keep in mind there are lots of stairs and some uphill sections, but it is only 1.5 miles long (one way) and incredibly scenic—doable in under an hour at a kid-friendly pace.
We truly loved this walk, the views along the way were absolutely spectacular. Since we did the hike in the late afternoon, we were almost the only “hikers” on the trail and the peace and tranquility were truly unmatched. While our 2-year-old was initially eager to climb the stairs on his own, he quickly got tired and we popped him in a backpack carrier. Strongly recommend having a carrier of some sort for the little ones. Click here for my full article on Hiking Path of Lemons.
Note: If you are looking for a more paved and stroller-friendly way to reach Minori from Maiori, you can take the scenic walk along the seafront path. It takes about 10–15 minutes, with gorgeous views of the coastline. Keep in mind that it runs along the road, which can be heavy with traffic, especially during peak-season.
Check out the Little Hidden Gem: Palazzo Mezzacapo Gardens
I have to admit that we found Palazzo Mezzacapo Gardens completely by chance, when our 2-year-old just randomly decided to run into a big courtyward behind what looked like the police building. We were pleasantly surprised to find a peaceful hidden oasis that many tourists may not even know that exists—the Palazzo Mezzacapo Gardens. Tucked away behind the historic buildings, these lush gardens offer a quiet retreat from the busier parts of town.
It is a small and peaceful spot, but it offers shaded paths lined with benches, perfect for resting and escaping the ever-present glow of the Italian sun. The sweet aroma of lemon trees mingles with the scent of blooming flowers, creating a sensory moment that feels almost like stepping into a quiet garden from a storybook. I found this to be a great spot for little ones to explore safely while parents are taking a breather. The gardens are stroller-friendly and provide a lovely backdrop for a family picnic or a calm break between beach time and sightseeing.
Hop on a Ferry
One of the best things about choosing Maiori was a base to exploring the Amalfi Coast is how well connected it is with the other towns along the coast. Hopping on a ferry is also such as exciting and enjoyable experience for families visiting the Amalfi Coast with kids. From Maiori, you can hop on a ferry or join a short boat tour to nearby towns like Amalfi or Positano.
While you as parents will be using the boats as transportation, your kids, it see it as a mini adventure. It is usually much easier to bring a stroller on the ferry, than it is on the bus. Make sure to bring a stroller, each folds very small, though, or just pack a carrier for younger kids. We found the ferries to be always on time (something which is quite uncommon in Italy), making them a reliable option for families dependant on their children’s schedule.
We could easily plan a half-day trip to Amalfi—just a 20-minute ferry ride from Maiori—and spend the morning exploring the town. And we were still back in time for an afternoon nap.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider a private boat tour, which allows you to customize your route and stop for swims along the way. Some tours even provide snorkeling gear or snacks, and you will get a more personal view of the coastline.
Tip: Morning rides are usually calmer and less crowded—ideal if you have younger kids or just want a smoother trip.
Where to Stay in Maiori with Kids
One of the things families will love is the variety of family-friendly accommodation options in Maiori —from beachfront hotels to spacious apartments. Whether you are traveling with toddlers, teens, or a mix of ages, you will be able to find something comfortable, convenient, and well-suited for kids.
Some hotels in Maiori offer family rooms, cribs on request, and even kitchenettes, which can be a game changer when traveling with little ones:
- Hotel Club Due Torri – Spacious rooms with balconies and stunning views; a short walk from the beach.
- Hotel San Francesco – Family-friendly atmosphere, great location near the promenade, and excellent service.
- Pietra di Luna Hotel – Right across from the beach with a pool and restaurant on-site.
If you prefer more space and flexibility, apartment rentals are a great option in Maiori. Many come with full kitchens, washing machines, and separate sleeping areas, which make longer stays or traveling with small kids much easier. We loved our stay at La Dimora di Nonna Maria.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Maiori with Kids
- Book early, especially if you are visiting during summer or school holidays. Family rooms go fast!
- Look for accommodations with kitchen or at least a fridge—ideal for storing snacks, milk, and leftovers.
- Double-check for crib or pack and play availability if you are traveling with a baby or toddler.
- Staying near the waterfront or the main street means everything—beach, playground, restaurants—is within easy walking distance.
- If you will be traveling by car, make sure your accommodation offers on-site parking or reserved parking nearby. Street parking can be extremely limited in high season, and garages can be costly.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Maiori with Kids
Bring a Baby Carrier
While Maiori is stroller-friendly compared to other Amalfi Coast towns, there are still some stairs and uneven paths—especially if you plan to walk to Minori or hike the Path of Lemons. A lightweight baby or toddler carrier is a lifesaver for those moments.
Plan for Downtime
The most important to remember is to not overpack your itinerary. One of the best things about Maiori is its relaxed pace. Build in plenty of downtime—lazy beach mornings, long lunches, evening strolls. The kids will be happier, and so will you.
Use Ferries Over Buses
While buses are budget-friendly, they can be crowded, unreliable (not always on time) and uncomfortable with kids, especially during peak season. The ferries that run from Maiori are spacious, stroller-accessible, and offer amazing views.
Accommodation with a Kitchen or Fridge
Having access to a kitchen or even just a mini-fridge has been super important ever since we started traveling with a child. Store milk, yogurt, and some berries has made it easy to pull together a quick afternoon snack or light breakfast before heading out on another Italian adventure.
Getting to Maiori, Italy
Unfortunately, Maiori isn’t connected by train. It is still easily reachable with a bit of planning—and much more accessible than some of the cliffside towns nearby.
- By Car: Driving from Naples takes about 1.5–2 hours. Maiori is one of the more car-friendly towns on the coast, but parking is still limited—be sure to check if your accommodation includes a space.
- Naples Airport (NAP) is the nearest airport. You can rent a car, take a train to Salerno, or book a private transfer straight to Maiori—perfect if you are traveling with little ones and luggage.
When to Visit Maiori
The Amalfi Coast is beautiful year-round, but some seasons are much better suited for family travel.
- Spring (April–early June): One of the best times to visit with kids. The weather is warm but not too hot, flowers are in bloom, and the crowds are still manageable. Great for beach time, boat rides, and easy walks.
- Fall (September–October): Another ideal time to visit. The sea is still warm, the crowds thin out, and the weather remains pleasant. It’s perfect for outdoor adventures like the Path of the Lemons hike or day trips by ferry.
The Amalfi Coast may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a family trip to Italy—but Maiori proves it absolutely can be done, and done well. With its wide beach, flat walkways, family-friendly pace, and easy access to other towns, it offers all the beauty of the coast without the stress.
From the easily accessible playground along the promenade to scoops of gelato under the lemon trees, Maiori is perfect for families with kids. A fabulous opportunity to slow down, soak up the Italian magic, and create memories everyone—big and small—will treasure.
So if you are dreaming of an Italian getaway that works for both kids and parents, don’t think twice and visit Maiori – a family-friendly gem you didn’t know you were looking for!
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