10 Best Positano Beaches: What You Need to Know
Uncover the best Positano Beaches and find the perfect place to spend a day swimming and sunbathing along the Amalfi Coast.
Positano, with its colorful buildings, towering mountains, and iconic beaches, is easily one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Located along the Mediterranean Sea, Positano offers a beautiful coastline with a diverse selection of beaches, each offering its unique charm.
The abundance of choices might seem overwhelming but fear not, I’m here to guide you through selecting the perfect Positano beaches to enhance your visit!
I have visited Positano 3 times. Once in the spring and twice in the summer, and can confidently say it is every bit as beautiful in real life as it looks online. There are so many amazing things to do in Positano, but spending a day on the beach tops them all. There are busy beaches, beach clubs, and hidden beaches all with their own charm.
Below is a complete guide on the best Positano beaches and some answers to some frequently asked questions about Positano!
(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See disclosure for more information.)
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➡️ The best beach in Positano: Spaggia Grande
The best hotels in Positano:
➡️ Le Sirenuse
➡️ Il San Pietro di Positano
➡️ Hotel Le Agavi
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In This Post
Does Positano have a beach?
Yes! Positano does have a beach and it is called Spiaggia Grande. This is the main beach that sits at the base of the colorful village of Positano. However, as you will see there are quite a few beaches around Positano as well that are stunning and beyond enjoyable.
💡 The majority of beaches in Positano are rocky beaches. Therefore, prepare yourself for a pebbly journey to the water instead of a sandy one. The pebbles are a little bit uncomfortable barefoot, and they can get very hot, but they do make less of a mess than the sand.
Is Positano Beach free?
Yes. The main beach in Positano is free to enjoy. However, the sunbeds that sit in rows on the beach do cost a fair fee to rent for a day. But there is a small free section where visitors are permitted to lay out a towel and enjoy the scenery and water without a sunbed.
➡️ CLICK HERE to book the top rated Private Day Boat Trip to Capri and Blue Grotto from Positano
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Top 10 Positano Beaches Overview
If you are in a rush and want a quick summary of the top beaches check out the below summary
🐳 Easiest to reach: Spiaggia Grande
🐠 Most Luxurious: La Scogliera Positano
🤿 Most Unique Experience: Laurito Beach Positano
🐬 Local / Less Touristy: Fornillo Beach Positano
Spiaggia Grande Positano
Spiaggia Grande is the main beach in Positano and the most famous. It stretches 300 meters and has a rentable sunbed section as well as a free section. Its colorful umbrellas are a beach staple and make it ultra-recognizable from above.
However, the most enduring and enticing aspect of this beach is the view! Looking away from the water you get a full view of the classic Positano houses on the hill. This view is stunning and will leave you awestruck.
This spot is very popular among Instagram influencers and travel bloggers due to the iconic views of the city. If you want the perfect photo here I suggest you get there early in the morning so there are fewer people in the background of your photos and you can take photos without interruptions.
Want to see more of the Amalfi Coast?
➡️ CLICK HERE to book a private boat tour beyond Positano!
Due to the beaches’ small size, there is only one lido to sell beach beds and umbrellas and it is called L’Incanto. Here you can purchase a sunbed and umbrella for the day for ~20 euros – this price changes year by year and depending on which row you get a sunbed in.
The middle of the beach is called the Spiaggia Libera, which means free beach. This is where you can lay down a towel and enjoy your beach day for free.
This beach also has showers, changing rooms, and a restaurant. The best thing about this beach is its close proximity to the city center. You need not travel to get to this beach, unlike other Positano beaches and this ease of accessibility is unmatched.
La Scogliera Positano
For those seeking a blend of luxury, comfort, and an exclusive beach experience, La Scogliera in Positano is an exceptional choice.
La Scogliera in Positano is a beach resort known for its unique location set between the rocks of the Amalfi Coast. It’s a place that combines beauty, relaxation, and high-quality services.
During the day, it’s a paradise perfect for relaxation and enjoying full-quality service. By sunset, La Scogliera transforms into a lounge bar perfect for a relaxing evening.
This beach resort provides a range of services such as a private terrace with sea views, sunbeds, sofas, and high-quality restaurant service. With this luxury comes a price.
Sunbed prices at La Scogliera start at €200, which includes a bottle of water, customized towels, showers, and free Wi-Fi access.
Laurito Beach Positano
Laurito Beach is a Positano hidden gem. It is a tiny beach embedded right into the rocky cliffs along the Amalfi coast. For years locals have escaped the busy shores of the touristy Positano beaches to this stunning oasis.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a bit of privacy and a chance to enjoy the local scenery and cuisine in a more relaxed setting. The beach’s secluded feel and natural beauty and excellent dining options, make it an ideal choice for those seeking a more authentic and peaceful beach experience in Positano.
💡 Despite its distance from Positano, this beach does get quite busy (it’s not such a secret anymore), therefore, arriving early is your best option for getting a good spot in the limited beach area.
At Lauritro Beach you will find two restaurants/beach clubs:
- TREVILLE Beach Club: Restaurant, lounge bar, hotel. Sunbeds cost €100 for the second row or €120 for the first row.
- Ristorante Da Adolfo Di Bella Sergio ⭐️ BEST OPTION ⭐️ : Restaurant, beach chairs. Sunbeds for rent €15 (this price may have increased).
For both restaurants, you must book in advance. I suggest booking at Da Adolfo as the prices are better and the food is (arguably) better than at Treville.
How to Get There:
- By Stairs: You can access Laurito Beach via a staircase that starts from the state road. However, be prepared for about 450 steps, which means a big climb back up when leaving the beach.
- Free Shuttle Boat ⭐️ BEST OPTION ⭐️: Make a reservation at Ristorante Da Adolfo and get a free transfer from Positano to Laurito Beach.
- Water Taxi: Call a water taxi for €30-40.
Is Laurito Beach Free?
There is a free area on Laurito Beach but it fills up quickly. Alternatively, you can book a lunch reservation at Da Adolfo for a free boat shuttle from Positano to Laurito.
Fornillo Beach Positano
Fornillo Beach is a quick walk from the main village of Positano. The walk is on a very romantic coastal path away and it is worth every step.
The neighborhood of Fornillo is much quieter than Positano and only a short 15-minute walk away. Fornillo offers an off-the-beaten-path feel without having to travel a far distance.
This beach is significantly less touristy and feels like an authentic Mediterranean beach. The water is crystal clear, there are beach clubs that rent towels and chairs, multiple restaurants, clean bathrooms, and an amazing atmosphere.
Fornillo is great for sitting back with a cold drink, a nice snack, and watching the people and distance boating activities. If you are craving an escape from the tourism swarm in Positano and want to spend a few hours relaxing in paradise this is a great option!
Arienzo Beach Club Positano
Arienzo Beach is one of the top-rated beaches among visitors. Like most beaches, there is both a free section and a section with paid sun beds. It’s a little way from Positano but easily reachable by boat from the main port in Positano. The boat ride is quite short and also gives you an amazing view of the whole village of Positano.
Contacting the beach club beforehand to reserve sunbeds is the best option. They are 20 euros each and 100% worth the money. If you have reserved a sun-bed arrival is very smooth, and you don’t have to rush to get there before the free spots fill up.
Once at your chairs, you can order smoothies or cocktails for around 8 euros each. There is also a restaurant on this beach and the food is delicious. When you reserve your sunbed I suggest you also reserve a table at the restaurant.
This beach is a rocky beach and the rocks get shockingly hot. Make sure you wear flip-flops or sandals so your feet don’t burn. More so, the seawater here is beautiful and there is even a little dock for people to sit and chill on. The beautiful beach and towering mountains are great for taking photos too!
Arienzo Beach Club offers an exceptional experience for all kinds of travelers and offers the perfect spot for relaxing in the Italian sun. Also, due to its location, it gets the most sun out of all other Positano beaches! If you want to maximize your sunshine hours, this is optimal.
Want to see more of the Amalfi Coast?
➡️ CLICK HERE to book the ultimate private boat tour!
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La Porta Beach Positano
La Porta is a beach that is both long and wide. Meaning there is a plethora of space for people to lay out in the sun and enjoy a beach day.
In addition, this beach is only accessible by boat, therefore it is never crowded. A ferry departing from the Positano marina will bring you here with no problems.
The beach is pebbly – like most in this area – and is surrounded by white rocks and blue waters. It’s a lovely spot to swim and relax in a spacious setting. There are no sunbeds here so make sure you bring towels and accessories to make the beach comfortable for you.
Fiordo Di Furore
Fiordo di Furore is located under the highway between Amalfi and Positano. It is not within walking distance of Positano and requires you to drive or take the bus to get here. However, this stunning and unique beach is well worth the journey.
This is the perfect secluded beach that offers a more private beach experience and some of the most stunning surroundings in Southern Italy. The beach can be reached by descending the cliffside stairs from the highway down into the swimming area.
The beach itself is quite small, which leads to a more intimate beach day experience and the views from your beach towel are unmatched.
In the warmer months, you can enjoy swimming in the vivid blue waters here or hiking and admiring this unique rocky area. In the colder months, you can walk around and enjoy the stunning views.
Marina di Praia Beach
Marina di Praia Beach near Praiano, Italy is a hidden gem known for its beautiful, pebble-filled shoreline and clear turquoise waters. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a less crowded and peaceful beach experience, with the added charm of huge mountains and a stunning cave nearby.
The beach offers a mix of free areas where you can lay down your towel, and sun loungers with umbrellas available for rent at around €45. Additionally, the beach is surrounded by restaurants, perfect for pairing your beach day with delicious dining options.
To reach Marina di Praia Beach, you can use the SITA bus service, which has a stop right at the top of the road leading down to the beach. Or take a taxi/transfer to this location.
This is one of the top Positano Beaches that takes a little effort to reach but is 100% worth the journey.
Fiordo di Crapolla
Fiordo di Crapolla is located 30 minutes from Positano but this distance means fewer people and a more authentic beach day experience. It lies at the base of a cliff and is lined by white rock walls.
This beach is a challenging one to get to, as you need to take a path down the side of the cliff to access it. Fiordo di Crapolla is a secluded and private oasis that offers beauty and intimacy. It can be quite difficult to find this beach so be prepared to search.
Torre di Clavel Beach
Torre Di Clavel is a charming beach that is beside the remains of a 16th-century watchtower. The tower is in pretty good condition considering its age, and it even has a staircase! This provides a very unique beach backdrop you won’t find anywhere else.
This secluded cove always has boats nearby wanting to see the beautiful surroundings. There is even a small area of the beach that sells umbrellas and chairs. If you are looking for another picturesque beach, this is a top option.
Beaches by Boat
Renting a boat in Positano is an amazing way to explore the Amalfi Coast and its beautiful beaches. You can rent a boat with or without a skipper in all the towns along the coast.
If you don’t have any experience at sea, it’s best to opt for a boat rental with a skipper or an organized boat tour. Most boats available for rental in Positano don’t require a boating license, but some experience at sea is advisable if you choose to rent without a skipper.
You have the option of either a private boat tour, which offers the freedom of having a boat all to yourself, or a small-group boat tour, where you share the boat with other passengers, usually with a maximum of 10 to 15 passengers.
It’s recommended to book your boat rental or tour well in advance, especially during the busy months of July and August when demand is high.
When to Visit Positano
The best time to visit Positano depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Here are some things to consider:
- High season: The high season in Positano is from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are busy. However, the prices are also higher, and there are more tourists.
- Shoulder season: The shoulder season in Positano is from April to May and September to October. The weather is still warm, but the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.
- Low season: The low season in Positano is from November to March. The weather is cooler, and some hotels and restaurants may be closed. However, this is a good time to visit if you want to experience the town’s authentic charm, enjoy the quieter beaches, and explore the nearby hiking trails.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Positano depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Keep in mind that the peak season can be crowded and more expensive, while the low season may have limited options for accommodations and activities.
Positano Beach Day Tips
Arrive early: Positano beaches can get crowded during peak season, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a good spot. You can also enjoy the cooler morning temperatures and take advantage of the early morning light for photography.
Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be quite strong in Positano, even in the early morning hours. It’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen and a hat, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach.
Wear comfortable shoes: Positano’s beaches are pebbly, so wearing comfortable shoes is essential. Sandals or flip-flops are good options for the beach, but you might want to consider wearing comfortable sneakers if you plan on exploring the town or hiking the nearby trails.
Rent a beach chair and umbrella: Most of the beaches in Positano offer beach chairs and umbrellas for rent. It’s a good idea to rent them, especially if you plan on staying on the beach for a while. You can also find restaurants and bars nearby where you can grab a bite to eat and a refreshing drink.
Bring a towel and a beach bag: It’s a good idea to bring your own towel and beach bag, as well as any other essentials you might need, such as water, snacks, and a good book.
Take a dip in the sea: The waters off the coast of Positano are crystal clear and perfect for swimming. Take a dip in the sea to cool off and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline.
Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated, especially in the hot sun. Make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
Where to Stay in Positano
Discover the best hotels in Positano.
📌 QUICK TIP: If you are in a hurry and don’t want to scroll through all the suggestions for the best hotels in Position, check out these options:
➡️ Le Sirenuse
➡️ Il San Pietro di Positano
➡️ Hotel Le Agavi
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Best Tours in Positano
Evidently, Positano is more than just beautiful buildings and tasty pizza. It is surrounded by stunning beaches that will blow you away. These Positano beaches all offer something different that will make your Italian getaway something to remember.
If you are heading to other magical places in Italy like Cinque Terre, know where the best Cinque Terre beaches are!
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