Marina Grande is a small traditional fishing port that sits underneath the limestone cliffs on which the old town of Sorrento is perched. Away from the traffic of the streets above, this sheltered bay enjoys a much gentler pace of life. Come here for a swim or watch local fishermen at work.
Despite its name, Marina Grande (great marina) is actually the smaller of Sorrento’s two main harbors. It is also the older marina. A large stone wall once stood between the city and the tradesmen and noblemen who came to Sorrento by sea. Despite this fortification, Turkish pirates invaded Sorrento in 1558 and ransacked the city. Most of the old city wall has gone, but its gate and the reinforced Bastion of Parsano still stand.
Have an alfresco breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of the harbor-side restaurants. Then stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sights. Fishing boats come and go, so there is always something to see. One of the nicest times to visit is around sunset when fishermen are cleaning their nets and tending to their wooden boats. The wider views across the Bay of Naples from here are splendid at sunset too.
On a sunny day, lounge on the shore and wade in the sea from the harbor’s small beach. It is rocky and consists of volcanic sand, so bring a mat or camping chair for comfortable relaxation.
To escape the sun or rain, browse the small collection of shops and visit the Church of St. Anna. The holiday for this patron saint is July 26 on the Sunday following this date the entire marina becomes a fairground. Join the crowds during the festival to see the fireworks and processions.
To reach Marina Grande, take a bus from the city center or, if you are feeling energetic, walk the long series of stone steps that lead from the old town to the hamlet. You’ll pass through the arched Greek Gate, a good photo opportunity.
Sorrento Beach Tours
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Cruises & boat tours
See all 309 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Sorrento/Nerano: Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour
Activity duration is 8 hours
4.2 out of 5 with 10 reviews
Free cancellation available
History & culture
See all 378 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello Guided Tour
Activity duration is 8 hours
4.6 out of 5 with 250 reviews
Free cancellation available
Shopping & fashion
See all 38 activitiesOpens in new tabCapri: Guided Capri and Anacapri Experience
Activity duration is 4 hours
Free cancellation available
Adventure & outdoor
See all 83 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast Full-Day Tour from Sorrento
Activity duration is 7 hours
3.0 out of 5 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Weddings & honeymoons
See all 54 activitiesOpens in new tabWellness Day in Positano Private Activity
Activity duration is 5 hours
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Reviews of Sorrento Beach
4.4
Top Destination
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveler
Oct 10, 2019The beach is lovely and, I am sure, in season, very crowded.
4/5 - Good
Verified traveler
Jul 31, 2019We took a cruise excursion (8 hours long) from the port to Capri and the Blue Grotto. It was amazing and worth the expense. I could not recommend it more highly.
4/5 - Good
Verified traveler
Jul 21, 2019Go at sunset! We had dinner at Da’ Emilia out on the water with a nice breeze! Fantastic!
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveler
May 29, 2019Dinner at sunset was wonderful. Bonus was watching a fireworks display in the night sky
3/5 - Okay
Verified traveler
May 27, 2019weather was cold while we were there
3/5 - Okay
Verified traveler
Nov 9, 2018They'll rip you off if you let them. Our waiter demanded a tip from us or he'll charge our credit card for it.
Best Lodging Options Near Sorrento Beach
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Hotel Villa Maria
Via Capo 8, Sorrento, NA
Imperial Hotel Tramontano
Via Vittorio Veneto 1, Sorrento, NA
Hilton Sorrento Palace
Via Sant' Antonio 13, Sorrento, NA
Majestic Palace Hotel
Corso Marion Crawford 40, Sant'Agnello, NA
Hotel Belair
Via Capo, 29, Sorrento, NA
Grand Hotel President
Via Colle Parisi, 4, Sorrento, NA
Parco dei Principi Hotel
Via Rota, 44, Sorrento, Campania
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Vico III Rota 3, Sorrento, NA
Hotel Antiche Mura
Via Fuorimura 7 - P Zza Tasso, Sorrento, NA
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