Positano, the jewel of the Amalfi Coast, is renowned for its stunning beaches and picturesque coastline. From the popular Marina Grande Beach to secret coves away from the Positano dock, this guide will help you discover the best beaches Positano and the surrounding area have to offer. We’ll cover everything you need to know about beach clubs, free areas, and the best time to visit each spot. Whether you’re seeking a day at the beach with beach chairs and umbrellas or a secluded pebble beach, our updated 2024 Positano beach guide has you covered. Get ready to experience the best of Southern Italy coastline, from Positano to Amalfi and beyond.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Positano💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Il San Pietro di Positano
- ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Marincanto
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Montemare
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Villa Delle Palme
- 💸 Cheap: Casa Malù
- 🏡 Villa: Villa Nettuno
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Positano's Flats
- 🏩 For Couples: Villa Celentano
Favorite Beaches in Positano: Quick Overview 📃
- 👨👩👧👦 For Family: Marina Grande Beach
- 🌟 For Luxury: La Scogliera Beach:
- 🏖️ For Natural Beauty: Tordigliano Beach
- 🍽️ For Local Charm and Dining: Laurito Beach
- 🧘♀️ For Tranquility: Fornillo Beach
- ⛵ For Boat Trips and Exploration: Arienzo Beach
1. Spiaggia Grande (Marina Grande) – Best for Vibrant Atmosphere and Social Life 🌟
🏖️ Main Beach of Positano: Spiaggia Grande is the main beach of Positano, stretching for about 300 meters along the Amalfi Coast. It’s the heart of beach life in Positano, offering stunning views of the colorful houses cascading down the cliffs.
🎶 Music on the Rocks: At the eastern end of Spiaggia Grande, you’ll find the famous Music on the Rocks nightclub. This unique venue is carved into the rocks and hosts international DJs and artists during the summer months.
☂️ Beach Facilities: Spiaggia Grande offers a range of facilities including sun beds, umbrellas, and changing rooms. While there is a free beach area, most of the beach is occupied by beach clubs that charge for their services.
🏛️ Church of Santa Maria Assunta: The beach offers a stunning view of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta with its iconic majolica-tiled dome. This 13th-century church is a significant landmark in Positano and adds to the picturesque beach scenery.
⛵ Boat Excursions: From Spiaggia Grande, visitors can take boat excursions to explore the Amalfi Coast or visit nearby islands like Capri. The beach serves as a departure point for various boat tours and water activities.
Best Hotels Near Spiaggia Grande 🏨
- Hotel Il Gabbiano – Located near the main beach in Positano, Hotel Il Gabbiano offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to stay close to Spiaggia Grande and enjoy easy access to beach clubs and restaurants.
- Villa Nettuno – Situated in a prime location near Spiaggia Grande, Villa Nettuno provides a perfect base for exploring Positano’s beautiful beaches. Guests can enjoy panoramic sea views and are within walking distance of popular beach clubs.
- Hotel Montemare – Offering breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, Hotel Montemare is a short walk from Spiaggia Grande. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to be close to the main beach and Positano’s vibrant center.
2. Fornillo Beach – Best for Peaceful Relaxation 🌴
🏖️ Secluded Paradise: Fornillo Beach is a more secluded alternative to Spiaggia Grande, offering a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. Located just a short walk west of the main beach, it’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach experience.
🚶♂️ Scenic Coastal Path: To reach Fornillo Beach, visitors can take a scenic coastal path from Spiaggia Grande. This walk offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast and passes by the historic Torre Trasita watchtower.
🏊♀️ Swimming and Snorkeling: The clear waters of Fornillo Beach are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach’s relatively calm waters and rocky areas near the shore provide good conditions for exploring marine life.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Fornillo Beach offers a more family-friendly environment compared to the busier Spiaggia Grande. The calmer waters and less crowded beach make it suitable for families with children.
🍹 Laid-back Beach Bars: Fornillo Beach is home to several laid-back beach bars that come alive after sunset. These bars offer a more relaxed and authentic experience compared to the bustling scene at Spiaggia Grande.
🌿 Natural Beauty: The beach is surrounded by natural beauty, including verdant gullies and dramatic rock formations. This unspoiled setting provides a stark contrast to the more developed area of the beach.
Best Hotels Near Fornillo Beach 🏨
- Hotel Posa Posa – Located in the neighborhood of Fornillo, Hotel Posa Posa offers easy access to the quieter Fornillo Beach. It’s perfect for those seeking a more relaxed beach experience away from the crowds of Spiaggia Grande.
- Villa Celentano – Situated near Fornillo Beach, Villa Celentano provides a tranquil retreat with stunning sea views. It’s an ideal choice for visitors looking for the best one of Positano’s less crowded beaches.
- Villa Briganti – This charming villa is located close to Fornillo Beach, offering a peaceful stay away from the busier areas of Positano. It’s perfect for those who want to experience a quieter side of the Amalfi Coast.
3. Arienzo Beach – Best Positano Beach for Scenic Beauty and Sun Exposure 🌞
🏖️ 300 Steps Beach: Arienzo Beach is famously known as the “300 Steps Beach” due to the impressive staircase leading down to it. The journey down (and back up) offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast and luxurious villas along the way.
☀️ Longer Sun Exposure: Facing southwest, Arienzo Beach enjoys longer sun exposure than any other beach in Positano. This makes it an ideal spot for sunbathers and if you’re looking to maximize their beach time. Visitors can enjoy the warm Mediterranean sun well into the late afternoon.
🏡 Glimpses of Luxury Villas: On the way down to Arienzo Beach, visitors can catch glimpses of some of the Amalfi Coast’s most luxurious villas. One of these villas once belonged to the famous Italian film director Franco Zeffirelli.
🏊♀️ Crystal Clear Waters: Arienzo Beach is known for its crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach’s position in a small cove helps keep the waters calm and inviting. Visitors can enjoy refreshing dips in the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.
🍹 Arienzo Beach Club: The beach is home to the popular Arienzo Beach Club, offering sun beds, umbrellas, and excellent service. The beach club provides a more upscale beach experience with comfortable amenities and a restaurant.
🌅 Romantic Setting: The secluded nature and beautiful surroundings make Arienzo Beach a romantic spot for couples. As the sun sets, the beach takes on a magical atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening.
Best Hotels Near Arienzo Beach 🏨
- Al Barilotto Del Nonno – Situated near Arienzo Beach, this hotel offers a unique stay in Positano with easy access to one of the area’s most beautiful beaches. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the coastline beyond the main town.
- Positano's Flats – These apartments provide a comfortable base near Arienzo Beach, known for its 300 steps. They offer a more independent stay option for those wanting to explore Positano’s beaches at their own pace.
- Villa Nannina – Located in the vicinity of Arienzo Beach, Villa Nannina offers a peaceful retreat with stunning coastal views. It’s ideal for visitors looking to experience one of Positano’s most picturesque beaches.
4. Laurito Beach – Best for Local Charm and Dining 🍽️
🏝️ Hidden Gem: Laurito Beach is a small, secluded beach that remains a hidden gem in Positano. This beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic beach experience.
🚶♂️ Scenic Access: The beach can be reached via a flight of steps starting from the small square opposite Hotel San Pietro. This scenic descent offers beautiful views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.
🏖️ Intimate Atmosphere: Due to its small size, Laurito Beach offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Laurito is divided into a Positano beach free public area and a private section belonging to a small hotel. This setup ensures that the beach never feels overcrowded, even during peak season.
🌿 Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky cliffs, Laurito Beach showcases the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Nature lovers will appreciate the unspoiled environment and scenic views.
🍴 Da Adolfo Restaurant: Laurito Beach is home to the famous Da Adolfo restaurant, a local institution known for its excellent seafood. The restaurant’s boat, marked with a red fish flag, provides transportation from Positano’s main beach.
🌅 Sunset Views: The beach’s western orientation provides beautiful sunset views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. As the day ends, visitors can enjoy a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant colors.
Best Hotels Near Laurito Beach 🏨
- Grand Hotel Tritone – Perched on a cliff overlooking Laurito Beach, Grand Hotel Tritone offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. This hotel is ideal for those looking for a luxurious stay with easy access to a secluded beach via a private elevator.
- Piccolo Sant'Andrea – Located near Laurito Beach, Piccolo Sant’Andrea provides a peaceful retreat with stunning sea views. This hotel is perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway while still being close to Positano’s attractions.
- Il San Pietro di Positano – Il San Pietro di Positano is a luxury hotel situated near Laurito Beach, offering private beach access and spectacular views. This hotel is ideal for those looking for an exclusive beach experience in Positano.
5. La Porta Beach – Best for Seclusion and Tranquility 🌊
🏖️ Spacious Shore: La Porta Beach is known for its long, wide, and pebbly shore, offering ample space for beachgoers. It’s an ideal beach for those who prefer a less crowded and more relaxed beach experience.
🚤 Boat-Only Access: One of the unique aspects of La Porta Beach is that it’s only accessible by boat from Positano’s marina. This exclusive access adds to the beach’s charm and helps maintain its secluded atmosphere.
🌊 Crystal Clear Waters: La Porta Beach is renowned for its crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The pebbly shore contributes to the water clarity, creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration.
🏞️ Natural Setting: Surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush vegetation, La Porta Beach offers a more natural beach experience. The lack of development along the shore preserves the beach’s unspoiled beauty. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a beach day in a more pristine environment.
🏊♀️ Water Activities: The calm waters and spacious beach make La Porta an excellent spot for various water activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking in the tranquil waters.
📸 Photogenic Views: La Porta Beach offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and Positano in the distance. The combination of clear waters, pebbly shore, and dramatic cliffs creates a picturesque setting.
Best Hotels Near La Porta Beach 🏨
- Hotel Marina Riviera – Hotel Marina Riviera is located close to La Porta Beach, offering stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. This hotel is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quieter beach experience while still being close to Positano’s center.
- Il Duomo Amalfi – While not in Positano, Il Duomo Amalfi is a great option for those looking to explore both Amalfi and Positano. It’s situated near La Porta Beach and offers easy access to boat shuttles between the two towns.
- Amalfi Suite Boutique Hotel – Another option in nearby Amalfi, this boutique hotel offers a luxurious stay close to La Porta Beach. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore both Amalfi and Positano during their visit to the Amalfi Coast.
6. Fiordo di Furore – Best for Unique Fjord Setting 🌄
🏞️ Unique Fjord Setting: Fiordo di Furore is not just a beach, but a small, stunning fjord carved into the Amalfi Coast. This unique geological formation creates a dramatic and picturesque setting unlike any other beach in the area.
🏊♀️ Swimming in the Fjord: Swimming in the clear waters of the fjord is a unique experience. The enclosed nature of the cove creates calm waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. The dramatic cliffs surrounding the water add to the magical atmosphere while swimming.
📸 Photographer’s Paradise: Fiordo di Furore is a dream location for photographers, offering unique compositions at every turn. The interplay of light and shadow in the gorge creates stunning visual effects throughout the day.
🏡 Historic Fishing Village: Above the fjord lies the historic village of Furore, known as the “village that doesn’t exist.” This hidden village offers a glimpse into traditional life on the Amalfi Coast.
🌉 Iconic Bridge: The beach is famous for the arched bridge that spans the gorge high above the water. This bridge, part of the Amalfi Drive, adds to the dramatic scenery and is a popular spot for photographs.
🎭 Cultural Significance: Fiordo di Furore has been featured in several films and has a rich cultural history. The beach and surrounding area have inspired artists and writers for generations.
Best Hotels Near Fiordo di Furore 🏨
- La Conca Azzurra – La Conca Azzurra offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast and is just a short drive from Fiordo di Furore. It’s an ideal base for those looking to visit Positano and explore the beautiful beaches along the coast.
- Luna D'Agerola – Luna D’Agerola is a charming hotel located in the hills above Positano, offering easy access to Fiordo di Furore. With its proximity to hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, it’s a great choice for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter Positano experience.
- Hotel Bacco – Hotel Bacco is situated in a prime location for visiting Fiordo di Furore and exploring the Amalfi Coast beaches. It’s restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine, making it a perfect spot to enjoy local flavors after a day of sightseeing.
7. Marina di Praia – Best for Scenic Bay and Fishing Boats 🚤
🏖️ Picturesque Cove: Marina di Praia is a small but charming beach nestled in a cove between high cliffs. This unique setting creates a secluded and intimate atmosphere, perfect for those seeking tranquility. The dramatic backdrop of the cliffs adds to the beach’s picturesque beauty.
🚣♀️ Fishing Village Charm: The beach is part of a small fishing village, adding a touch of authentic Italian coastal life. Visitors can watch local fishermen at work and see traditional fishing boats along the shore.
🍽️ Seafood Restaurants: The beach area is home to several excellent seafood restaurants. These establishments offer fresh, locally-caught fish and traditional Amalfi Coast cuisine. Dining here provides not only great food but also stunning views of the cove and sea.
🚤 Boat Excursions: The beach serves as a departure point for boat tours along the Amalfi Coast. Visitors can take short trips to nearby beaches or longer excursions to explore hidden coves. These boat rides offer a unique perspective of the coastline’s beauty.
🏊♀️ Clear Waters for Swimming: The cove’s protected position creates calm, clear waters ideal for swimming. The beach’s pebbly shore contributes to the water clarity, making it perfect for snorkeling.
Best Hotels Near Marina di Praia 🏨
- Locanda Costa Diva – Locanda Costa Diva is a beautiful hotel nestled in the cliffs near Marina di Praia. With its romantic atmosphere and excellent restaurant, it’s one of the best Positano hotels for couples looking for a peaceful getaway.
- La Perla Praiano – La Perla Praiano is a charming hotel located just a short walk from Marina di Praia. Its proximity to the beach and local restaurants makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the best of Positano.
- Locanda degli Agrumi – Locanda degli Agrumi is a delightful bed and breakfast situated close to Marina di Praia. With its homely atmosphere and helpful staff, it’s a great option for those seeking a more authentic and budget-friendly Positano experience.
8 . Tordigliano Beach – Best for Wild and Secluded Experience 🏞️
🏝️ Hidden Paradise: Tordigliano Beach is a true hidden gem, not visible from the street and lacking signposts. This secluded location provides a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and pristine beauty, making it one of the best beaches on the Amalfi Coast for nature lovers.
🥾 Adventurous Access: Reaching Tordigliano Beach requires a bit of adventure, with a 15-30 minute hike down a trail from the main road. The path offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation.
🌊 Crystal Clear Waters: The beach is renowned for its crystal clear, turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The pebbly shore contributes to the exceptional water clarity, creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration.
🏝️ Three Secluded Beaches: Tordigliano actually consists of three gorgeous secluded beaches along a long stretch of coastline. Each beach offers a unique experience, with varying levels of accessibility and seclusion.
🏝️ Views of Li Galli Islands: From Tordigliano Beach, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Li Galli archipelago. These small islands, once owned by famous dancers, add to the picturesque scenery and mythical atmosphere.
🌿 Unspoiled Nature: The beach is surrounded by wild, unspoilt landscapes, offering a glimpse of the Amalfi Coast in its natural state. The area is rich in Mediterranean maquis vegetation, providing a lush green backdrop to the blue sea.
Best Hotels Near Tordigliano Beach 🏨
- Palazzo Marzoli Resort – Palazzo Marzoli Resort is a luxurious hotel located just a short drive from Tordigliano Beach. With its prime location, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the best beaches in Positano and the surrounding area.
- Coco's Apartments Meta – Coco’s Apartments Meta provides comfortable self-catering accommodations near Tordigliano Beach. The property is well-equipped and offers easy access to public transportation, making it convenient to visit other parts of the Amalfi Coast.
- B&B La Casa nel Giardino – B&B La Casa nel Giardino is a charming bed and breakfast situated near Tordigliano Beach. The friendly hosts can provide valuable tips on the best time to visit Positano’s beaches and local attractions.
9 . La Scogliera Beach – Best for Luxurious and Exclusive Experience 🏖️
🏖️ Private Beach Area: The resort features a private beach area with comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas for guests. This exclusive setting ensures a peaceful and uncrowded beach experience, even during the high season in Positano.
🌟 Exclusive Beach Resort: La Scogliera is a luxurious beach resort set between the rocks of the Amalfi Coast, offering an exclusive experience. It’s one of the best beach clubs in Positano, providing a high-end beach day experience with top-notch amenities.
🌅 Sunset Lounge: As the day progresses, La Scogliera transforms into a romantic lounge bar, perfect for watching the sunset. Guests can relax on sunbeds or at the bar, enjoying the changing colors of the sky over the sea.
💆♀️ Wellness and Relaxation: La Scogliera provides a range of wellness services, including massages and beauty treatments. These services allow guests to fully relax and rejuvenate while enjoying the beautiful coastal setting.
🍹 Beach Bar and Restaurant: La Scogliera offers a beach bar and restaurant service, providing guests with refreshing cocktails and gourmet meals. The culinary offerings showcase local flavors and fresh ingredients, enhancing the overall beach experience.
📸 Instagrammable Views: The resort’s unique location offers some of the best views in Positano, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts. The combination of rocky cliffs, clear blue waters, and luxurious amenities creates a stunning backdrop for photos.
Best Hotels Near La Scogliera Beach 🏨
- Positano's Flats – Positano’s Flats offers stylish apartments just a short walk from La Scogliera Beach. Guests can easily access the Positano beach club scene and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
- Gema Suites – Gema Suites is a boutique hotel located close to La Scogliera Beach. Its prime location makes it easy to explore the best beach clubs in Positano and indulge in the town’s famous coastal lifestyle.
- Hotel Marincanto – Hotel Marincanto is a luxurious property perched on a cliff near La Scogliera Beach. Guests can enjoy easy access to the beach via the hotel’s private elevator, making it one of the best options for a beach getaway in Positano.
10 . Il Fornillo Beach – Best for Quiet and Local Favorite 🌅
🏖️ Secluded Charm: Il Fornillo Beach is a quieter alternative to Positano’s main beach, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. Located just a short walk from the town center, it provides a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
🍹 Local Beach Bars: Il Fornillo Beach is home to several charming beach bars that offer a more authentic Positano experience. These establishments serve refreshing drinks and light meals in a relaxed, local atmosphere.
🏊♀️ Clear Waters for Swimming: The beach is known for its clear, turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The pebbly shore contributes to the water clarity, creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Il Fornillo Beach offers a more family-friendly environment compared to the busier Spiaggia Grande. The calmer waters and less crowded beach make it suitable for families with children.
🌿 Natural Beauty: The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a picturesque setting. This unspoiled backdrop provides a stark contrast to the more developed areas of Positano.
Best Hotels Near Il Fornillo Beach 🏨
- Hotel Villa Regina Margherita – Hotel Villa Regina Margherita is a charming property located just steps away from Il Fornillo Beach. Guests can enjoy complimentary beach towels and umbrellas, making it convenient to spend long days on one of Positano’s most beautiful beaches.
- Villa delle Palme – Villa delle Palme is a delightful hotel situated near Il Fornillo Beach. Its location in a quieter part of Positano makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful beach vacation away from the crowds.
- Casa Malù – Casa Malù is a cozy bed and breakfast located close to Il Fornillo Beach. The friendly staff can provide insider tips on the best things to do in Positano, including recommendations for beach clubs and local restaurants.
FAQs about Trip to Top 10 Best Beaches in Positano ❔
Can you swim at Positano beach?
Yes, you can swim at Positano’s beaches. The main beach, Spiaggia Grande, and other beaches like Fornillo offer clear waters suitable for swimming.
Is there a free beach in Positano?
Yes, there are free beach areas in Positano. The main beach, Spiaggia Grande, has a free section, as does Fornillo Beach. However, the majority of beaches have paid areas with beach clubs offering amenities.
What is the secret beach in Positano?
Laurito Beach is often considered a “secret” beach in Positano. It’s a small, secluded cove that’s less crowded than the main beaches and accessible by boat or a steep path.
What is the nicest beach in Positano?
Fornillo Beach is often cited as one of the nicest beaches in Positano. It’s quieter than the main beach, with beautiful scenery and clear waters. However, the “best” beach depends on personal preferences.
