The grand dame of the Amalfi Coast, Hotel Santa Caterina, is a five-star luxury hotel that has remained family-owned for more than a century. Although not technically beachfront – it doesn’t have a beach – Hotel Santa Caterina is one of very few hotels in Amalfi that has direct access to the sea.

The hotel exudes vintage glamour and sophistication, with classic interiors, Mediterranean design and Amalfi-style villas. The rooms and suites are spacious and bright, with hand-painted majolica floors, marble bathrooms, balconies and sensational views. Celebrity guests have included Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Kim Kardashian and it was a favourite for Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.

Restaurant Glicine has a Michelin star and does modern interpretations of classic Amalfi cuisine and its beach club is world famous. Located a short distance from Amalfi town centre, it’s perfectly positioned for visiting nearby towns such as Positano, Ravello, Sorrento, Capri and Pompeii.

8 of the best Italian beachfront hotels to visit this summer