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
Visit Sorrento Beach
Browse tours and tickets to explore Sorrento Beach
Tours & day trips
See all 513 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello Guided Tour
Shopping & fashion
See all 13 activitiesOpens in new tabPositano, Amalfi and Ravello - Group Tour from Napoli
Classes & workshops
See all 63 activitiesOpens in new tabPasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine in Sorrento
Adventure & outdoor
See all 26 activitiesOpens in new tabSmall group tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
Private & custom tours
See all 274 activitiesOpens in new tabCapri and Blue Grotto Private Tour from Naples or Sorrento
Reviews of Sorrento Beach
5/5 - Excellent
The beach is lovely and, I am sure, in season, very crowded.
4/5 - Good
We 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
Go at sunset! We had dinner at Da’ Emilia out on the water with a nice breeze! Fantastic!
5/5 - Excellent
Dinner at sunset was wonderful. Bonus was watching a fireworks display in the night sky
3/5 - Okay
weather was cold while we were there
3/5 - Okay
They'll rip you off if you let them. Our waiter demanded a tip from us or he'll charge our credit card for it.
Popular places to visit
Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea during your travels in Sorrento. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this romantic area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Sorrento Lift
Built into the cliffs of Sorrento, this elevator provides quick access from the city’s beaches and marina to the Old Town.
Villa Comunale Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Villa Comunale Park and enjoy the boating in Sorrento. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Chiesa di San Francesco
Visit an ancient church full of artistic treasures and the adjacent cloister with its mix of architectural styles.
Sorrento Foundation
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Sorrento Foundation in Sorrento. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Sorrento Cathedral
Decorative chapels and a dazzling collection of frescoes by notable Italian artists beautify the interior of this 15th-century religious monument.