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.
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See all 303 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Sorrento/Nerano: Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour
History & culture
See all 376 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello Guided Tour
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See all 37 activitiesOpens in new tabCapri: Guided Capri and Anacapri Experience
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See all 83 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast Full-Day Tour from Sorrento
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See all 551 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast Self-Drive Boat Rental
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
Wander through the salons of an 18th-century home to see wonderful examples of Sorrentine artisanship and to learn about the city’s past.
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
Marvel at the gorgeous views across the Bay of Naples from this attractive park perched on top of Sorrento's cliffs.
Chiesa di San Francesco
Visit an ancient church full of artistic treasures and the adjacent cloister with its mix of architectural styles.
Sorrento Foundation
Attend cultural events and browse an exhibition of Sorrento music boxes in a city center villa from the early 20th century.
Sorrento Cathedral
Decorative chapels and a dazzling collection of frescoes by notable Italian artists beautify the interior of this 15th-century religious monument.
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