Marina di Puolo

Located in a picturesque hamlet, Marina di Puolo offers the sandy beach that Sorrento lacks. This almost hidden fishing village is one of the best beaches on the limestone coastline of the Massa Cape. The port is so close to Sorrento that it is easy to come here for half a day, or just for lunch or dinner.

If you are staying in Sorrento and are feeling energetic, walk past olive and lemon groves and flower-filled gardens to reach Marina di Puolo. On your way, enjoy the splendid views of the coastline. Across the Bay of Naples you can see Mount Vesuvius, Italy’s infamous active volcano. If you happen to stay in Marina di Puolo, the journey in reverse is recommended too! The walk is easy for the most part, but does have several quite steep sections.

Spend a few hours lazing on the long stretch of sand and watch the fishermen unloading their catch of the day. Sun beds and umbrellas can all be rented on the beach. You pay a small fee to use the rest rooms, dressing rooms and showers. Buy drinks and a panini from one of the cafés and enjoy the treats from the comfort of your chair.

When you feel like a refreshing dip, wade in for a swim in the clear blue sea. At low tide it takes a while before you reach waist-deep water, so it is a safe bay for children and inexperienced swimmers.

At sunset, join the locals and have dinner in one of the restaurants and sample delicious fresh seafood.

Marina di Puolo is in a bay between Capo di Sorrento and Capo di Massa. The village is just 2.4 miles (4 kilometers) west of the Marina Grande in Sorrento. If you don’t feel like walking, catch a local bus from the Piazza Tasso and ask the bus drive to stop at Hotel Dania. A glazed tile on the roadside points the way, along the orchard and down to the beach. If you are driving, pay for parking near the road above the village.