Sorrento's beaches are so famed that they inspired a well-known Italian song that says it's impossible to leave the place without making a loved one suffer. On the border between land and sea, nestled between the inlets along the rugged coastline overlooking the beautiful islands of Capri and Ischia, there are many heavenly beaches not to be missed.
Some are wild, and some are more refined. It's often only locals who know how to reach them. Looking forward to stretching out and sunbathing where the sky meets the land and sea, or taking a dip surrounded by postcard-worthy scenery? We've picked out 10 unmissable beaches in Sorrento, including well-known and hidden-away spots.
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Baths of Queen Giovanna
History and cinema at the seaside in Sorrento
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The Baths of Queen Giovanna (Bagni della Regina Giovanna) are a natural pool set among the rocks and vegetation that you can reach from the tip of the Cape of Sorrento along a narrow and slightly hidden path. To get to this stunning beach, bring comfortable shoes and some water, and follow the directions for the Roman ruins.
Next to the natural archway, the ruins of a 1st-century Roman villa stand on the rocks overlooking the crystalline waters, proving that this heavenly spot has a history of being admired that stretches back centuries.
Locatie: Traversa Punta Capo, 80067 Sorrento, Italy
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Spiaggia della Pignatella
A reef in the midst of a thousand shades of blue
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Spiaggia della Pignatella (Pignatella Beach) is a strip of stones and rocks along the deep-blue waters. It can be reached by bus from the centre of Sorrento, or you can take a car and use the small parking area you’ll find after a short descent.
Pignatella Beach is a favourite among locals for its breathtaking views and position that makes it more private than other options. It’s a free beach, so don’t forget to bring your beach towel and lots of water.
Locatie: Via Marina di Puolo, 80061 Marina di Puolo, Italy
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Marina di Puolo
The beach favoured by families in the area
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The beach at Marina di Puolo is a favourite among families in the area for its ease of access and the gentleness of its shore, making it nice for sitting at the water’s edge. Marina di Puolo is a small fishing village hugging a bay with transparent blue waters.
The free beach here has some options for hiring umbrellas and deckchairs and relaxing alongside boats and catamarans. It can get crowded in summer, so we recommend arriving early to secure the best spot.
Locatie: Via Capo, 80061 Marina di Puolo NA, Italy
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Bay of Ieranto
A wonder of sea and rocks for hiking or boat trip fans
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The Bay of Ieranto (Baia di Ieranto) is the place for you if your idea of the beach leans more towards adventure than relaxation. Hidden among the twists and turns of Sorrento’s coastline, you can reach this bay along a hiking path that starts in the fishing village of Nerano and is fully immersed in nature. The destination is as beautiful as the journey, which is challenging but also rewarding thanks to the breathtaking views.
The beach isn’t suitable for children or those with reduced mobility, although it’s possible to reach it in a small boat. If you plan to come here, don’t forget to bring plenty of water and sun cream, as there’s nowhere to shelter from the sun.
Locatie: Massa Lubrense, Italy
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Cala di Mitigliano
A hidden beach with an incredible view of Capri
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Cala di Mitigliano, a rocky cove near the village of Termini, seems like it was purposely made to hold a surprise in its hidden location. The appeal of this cove isn’t just the beach, which is noteworthy and a bit wild, but also the perfect view of the island of Capri.
It’s quite easy to reach Cala di Mitigliano from the village square: Just take the road for Punta Campanella, then look for the sign with directions to the beach. Have your camera ready, because after doing the final fairly steep part, you’ll find yourself looking at a postcard-perfect view.
Locatie: Via Caselle, 11, 80061 Massa Lubrense NA, Italy
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Marina Piccola Beach
A small sandy beach easily reachable from the centre
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Marina Piccola Beach (Spiaggia di Marina Piccola) is the perfect spot for a slow yet convenient day by the sea. The Sorrento coast is so rich with magical places that it will make you want to discover them all, but some days are best spent in total relaxation.
Close to the historical centre of Sorrento, this small stretch of sand is lined with lidos interspersed with free beach areas. It’s a great choice for families or couples looking to set up for the day on a beach with all the amenities, including bars, showers and toilet facilities.
Locatie: Via S. Francesco, 12, 80067 Sorrento, Italy
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Conca Azzurra
Go one up from the beach with three private pools
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Conca Azzurra resort is a great place to spend a day in comfort and luxury. It's a short car ride towards Massa Lubrense, or you can take the shuttle service from the centre of Sorrento. Conca Azzurra is a private resort offering small, sandy beaches and 3 private pools where you can take a break from the briny waters. Two of these pools are great for kids, making it an ideal spot for a family day out.
The resort also includes an à la carte restaurant, pizzeria and buffet, as well as large terraces and free private parking. It's an absolute dream for those looking for convenience.
Locatie: Via Villazzano, 3, 80062 Massa Lubrense NA, Italy
Telefoonnummer: +39 081 878 9666
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Marina della Lobra
An enchanting beach in a picturesque village
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Marina della Lobra, with its pebble beach nestled among traditional fishing village houses, is a hidden pearl of the Sorrento coast overlooking Capri and Ischia. Just a few miles from Sorrento, it's an ideal spot if you like to alternate your time between the beach and going on walks. Lose yourself in the village alleyways, walk along the seafront as far as Riviera di San Montano, or dive into the crystal-clear waters of the little cove.
Beach umbrellas and deck chairs are available to rent on the beach. There's no lack of bars and traditional restaurants in the village, so why not stay a while longer and enjoy a romantic sunset?
Locatie: Marina Lobra, 80061, Massa Lubrense NA, Italy
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Fiordo di Crapolla
Rugged hidden gems
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Fiordo di Crapolla (Fjord of Crapolla) is a splendid natural cove near the town of Massa Lubrense. Here you can dive into the turquoise waters and unearth the hidden and often rugged gems of the Sorrento peninsula. One of these is the little beach that's surrounded by unspoiled nature and awaits the intrepid explorers who choose to venture there by foot.
You can only reach the fjord via a slope within a grove and hundreds of ancient stone steps. The tranquillity of the beach and the views along the way are your reward, though the route is only recommended for people who are physically fit.
Locatie: Unnamed road, 80061, Massa Lubrense NA, Italy
Kaartfoto door Lullirusso (CC BY-SA 4.0) bewerkt
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Marina del Cantone
A convenient beach with facilities and a gastronomic finale
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Marina del Cantone will blow you away if you're looking for a beach in a classic Sorrento landscape with every amenity and comfort. This small strip of sand and pebbles in Massa Lubrense is surrounded by resorts, small bars and restaurants that combine sea and social life. The beach is freely accessible, and you can rent umbrellas, loungers and deck chairs, or opt for a private beach in one of the many resorts.
To jump into deeper waters, rent a boat from the shore. Your day isn't complete without finishing off with the local speciality, spaghetti alla Nerano (spaghetti with courgettes), in one of the village's many great restaurants. They're super popular, so don't forget to book ahead.
Locatie: 80061 Marina del Cantone NA, Italy
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