The hype
Everyone agrees the view is world-class, but the isolation and 'grumpy' service make it a polarizing stay.
Megamare
$50-100/ night
Book this if You have a rental car, a tight budget, and crave a million-dollar Amalfi Coast view without the price tag.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius
- Free private parking (a rarity on the Amalfi Coast)
- Extremely affordable rates compared to nearby Sorrento
Quick Take: A spectacular view attached to a budget motel that is logistically stranded on a cliff highway.
Reviewed by @Giuliadileva: I honestly couldn't believe this was my balcony. Waking up to the Bay of Naples framed by those beautiful stone arches was the highlight of my trip. It’s peaceful, stunning, and totally worth the climb for these views.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You will feel trapped without a car; the bus is unreliable and the walk is a death wish.
- You are driving the Amalfi Coast and need free parking
- You plan to be out all day and just need a cheap bed with a view
- You are immune to highway noise and thin walls
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Hit or miss. Some guests report daily refreshing, others find dust bunnies and missed trash.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally acceptable, though grout can be dingy and water pressure varies.
- Maintenance: Aging property. Expect peeling paint, stiff door handles, and worn furniture.
- Linens & towels: The biggest complaint: towels are thin, rough, and resemble dish rags.
- Odors & scents: Occasional musty/damp smells in rooms, likely due to sea air and old ventilation.
Sleepability™
5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Neighboring rooms (poor soundproofing)
- Highway traffic noise from the busy SS145 road
Before you book
Good to know
- City tax is €2.00 per person/night (cash only upon arrival)
- Breakfast is often €5 extra and consists mainly of sweet packaged items
- Check-in is strictly 3:30 PM - 9:00 PM; late arrivals are problematic
What to pack
- Your own beach towel (hotel towels are thin/small)
- Earplugs (mandatory for the thin walls)
- Snacks (hidden in your luggage due to the food policy)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Classic Double with Sea View (ensure it's not on the ground floor for better privacy)
- Any room with a 'terrace' rather than just a balcony for more space
Rooms to avoid
- Connecting rooms (noise transfer is worse)
- Rooms near the reception/bar area (noise from check-ins)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and kindly request a top-floor room away from the reception area. A quiet room with a sea view is my priority.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a shuttle to Sorrento or Vico Equense?
No. You must use the unreliable public bus (Line 009) or pay €30-50 for a taxi.
Can I walk to the beach or town?
No. The hotel is on a cliff highway with no sidewalks. Walking is extremely dangerous.
Is the pool open year-round?
No, the pool is seasonal, typically open from May 15 to September 30.
Is there a restaurant on site?
No full restaurant. There is a snack bar serving paninis and drinks, but no dinner service.
Is the WiFi good for working?
No. WiFi is strong in the lobby but often non-existent or very weak in the rooms.
Are pets allowed?
No, the hotel has a strict no-pets policy.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'private beach' access is actually a long, steep trek or requires a separate shuttle/lift fee at a nearby lido.
- ✨
Don't rely on the bus schedule; it often runs on 'Italian time' (late or never).
- ✨
The 'breakfast' is very basic—mostly pre-packaged cakes and rusks. Don't pay extra for it if you can drive to a bakery.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Food Police': Staff have been known to scold guests for eating outside food in common areas.
💡The towels are essentially large napkins—thin, waffle-weave cotton that doesn't dry much.
💡You might find 'used' items from previous guests due to rushed housekeeping (e.g., leftover soap).
💡The AC is often centrally controlled, meaning you can't cool your room if the management decides it's not 'summer' yet.
💡Taxi drivers know you are stranded and will charge a 'tourist tax' premium to take you up the hill.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Megamare is located and what's nearby.