Positano beaches guide: best spots, prices & free areas

How to choose the right beach

Positano has pebbly beaches with a mix of beach clubs (paid) and public areas (free). Prices can be anything from ~€15 per lounger on quieter beaches to €100+ for premium deck setups.

If you're on a hostel budget, start with Fornillo (usually cheaper and calmer). If you want the classic postcard view, go to Spiaggia Grande early. For late-day sun, Arienzo or Laurito can be great — but access is trickier.

Quick picks for 2026: cheapest chill day = Fornillo; easiest \"iconic Positano\" photo = Spiaggia Grande; best late sun = Arienzo (by boat) or Laurito; most dramatic cove day trip = Fiordo di Furore.

Hostel-friendly beach day checklist

A little prep saves money (and blisters). Most beaches are pebbles, shade is limited in free areas, and some kiosks still prefer cash.

Water shoes or sturdy sandals (hot stones + easier entry)

Thicker towel or mat (thin towels feel rough on pebbles)

Refillable bottle + snacks (promenade prices add up)

Cash as backup (especially for small kiosks)

A small dry bag (phone + cash stay safe on boats)

Sunscreen + hat (free areas can be full sun)

A light book/cards (good for waiting out crowds)

A light layer for the walk back (evenings cool fast)

Positano beaches at a glance

Fornillo is the hostel favourite: calmer vibe, usually cheaper clubs (often ~€15+), and a bigger free area than the main beach. The walk back up is steep — many guests cut across to Spiaggia Grande and take the internal bus uphill. See the Fornillo beach guide for the easiest route and beach layout.

Spiaggia Grande (the main beach) is the classic postcard view. It also gets crowded and pricey. If you want to do it, go early, find the public strip, and set expectations. Use our walking directions or bus guide to get there fast.

Arienzo is famous for long afternoon sun. The catch: lots of stairs if you walk, and most people use the beach club shuttle boat. Packages with loungers + lunch + boat transfer can be good value. See the Arienzo Beach Club guide for timings.

Laurito is a small cove with boat-shuttle access. It can be a great late-day swim, but the public space is limited and timing matters. See the Laurito Beach guide before you commit.

Praiano day-trip options

Praiano's Gavitella is best in late afternoon for golden light and sunset vibes. Much of the area is platforms and clubs, and the free space (if available) is limited, so plan for a paid setup if you want comfort. Use the Gavitella beach guide for step-by-step access.

Marina di Praia is a narrow pebble cove framed by cliffs and fishing boats. It's a great change of scenery and usually feels more tucked away. See the Marina di Praia guide for transport options.

Furore's fjord-style cove

Fiordo di Furore is a tiny, dramatic cove under a bridge. It's free to enter, but space is limited, and the access route is steep (and hot in summer). Go early, pack water, and don't count on facilities.

Sorrento's Regina Giovanna Bath

Regina Giovanna is a natural swimming spot rather than a classic beach club day. It can be a fun (free) adventure if you're up for a walk and you bring supplies. Wear shoes you can get wet and keep valuables minimal.

Amalfi town beach clubs

Amalfi's Marina Grande is convenient for a half-day by the water if you're already visiting the town. Expect premium prices in peak season, and consider booking ahead for loungers.

Getting to and from the beaches

Each beach has different access options, so check the specific guide before you head out. Here are quick links to the most useful direction guides:

Positano beaches: Walk to Spiaggia Grande • Bus to Spiaggia Grande • Walk to Fornillo • Bus to Arienzo • Bus to Laurito

Return routes: Walk back from Spiaggia Grande • Bus back from Spiaggia Grande • Walk back from Fornillo • Bus back from Arienzo • Bus back from Laurito

Day-trip beaches: Fiordo di Furore • Gavitella (Praiano) • Marina di Praia • Regina Giovanna (Sorrento)

General tips: In summer 2026, plan for heat on the climbs—refill water before you head back up, and use the internal bus if you're tired. For day trips, check the last return option (ferry or bus) before you commit, and pack snacks for the ride. If the sea is rough or ferries are cancelled, plan extra time and keep your schedule flexible.

Beach comparison table

Use this table to compare beach vibe, typical lounger pricing, and whether there’s usually a free area. Prices shift by season and by beach club, so treat these as rough ranges.

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