Amalfi Coast 
The Spiaggia Grande of Positano, also known as Marina Grande, represents the beating heart of this enchanting village on the Amalfi Coast.
As a beautiful description found online states: “this beach is Positano’s introduction if you arrive by sea… Large, crowded, well-equipped, it has the entire village behind it like an amphitheater full of colorful houses and a magical sea in front!”.
Cover photo: Spiaggia Grande di Positano, Vito Fusco
A vital center from past to present
Once, when Positano was still a quiet fishing village, the Great Beach was the hub of the town’s commercial activities.
Today, it has become one of the most famous beaches in the world, attracting visitors from every corner of the planet.
This fame brings positive aspects, such as vibrancy and high-level tourism offerings, but also some disadvantages, such as overcrowding during peak seasons.
Services
On the beach and in its immediate surroundings, you’ll find the highest concentration of restaurants, bars, and boutiques in the village. Prices in the center are slightly higher but still within Positano’s average.
From here, a few minutes’ walk will take you to the center of town, specifically to Piazza dei Mulini.
This path runs alongside the famous Palazzo Murat, former summer residence of Joachim Murat (King of Naples and Napoleon’s brother-in-law), in an area considered the “artists’ street”, where you can meet numerous local craftsmen who transform the alley into a true open-air gallery.
The beach, like many others on the Amalfi Coast, has volcanic origins and is characterized by dark pebbles. It is largely occupied by beach clubs, including the renowned Lido Incanto and the exclusive Beach Resort: La Scogliera.
It’s no coincidence that the beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for over twenty years, a recognition given to beaches for sea cleanliness and the quality of services offered.
photo: Vito Fusco Studio
A maritime transportation hub
Visitors arriving by sea disembark at the pier dedicated to Leonide Massine, the famous Russian dancer and choreographer who once owned the Li Galli archipelago.
From here, ferries depart and arrive connecting Positano with other towns along the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Salerno, and Naples, making travel convenient for those arriving by train or plane.
At the pier, you’ll also find “porters”, specialized services that welcome tourists and deliver their luggage directly to their chosen accommodation, helping visitors enjoy a stress-free experience despite the vertical layout of the town (The perfect luggage to visit the Amalfi Coast).
Attractions
From the beach, you can admire the famous “pyramid of houses” that artists in the 1950s described as “cubist” due to its natural formation. This area is considered one of the most romantic spots in Positano, particularly popular for photo shoots and marriage proposals.
Just steps from the pier is “Piazzetta della Rotonda”, where you can admire two bronze lions, gifts from Amalfi in a symbolic exchange linked to the legendary figure of Flavio Gioia, credited with inventing the compass. These lions likely inspired the title of the 1970s film “Leoni al sole” (Lions in the Sun), which captures the carefree spirit of Italy during that era.
From Spiaggia Grande (Main Beach), a short walk along the “Positanesi d’America” path takes you to the quieter Fornillo Beach. Alternatively, continue east beyond the roundabout to explore less crowded corners of the coast.
Culture and Shopping
Beyond the beach, Positano offers numerous cultural and historical attractions, including:
- The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its iconic majolica dome and Byzantine Black Madonna, connected to an ancient legend deeply revered by locals;
- The Roman Archaeological Museum (MAR), opened in 2017, a museum route that includes the Church, crypts, and remains of an ancient Roman villa (read The Roman Villa of Positano);
- Boutiques specializing in beachwear and sandals representing the renowned “Positano Fashion,” (here an article about the history of Positano Fashion) as well as numerous shops selling handcrafted ceramics, perfumes, and limoncello;
- Art galleries showcasing works by international artists and “open-air galleries” featuring local crafts along Via dei Mulini.
photo: Vito Fusco Studio
Experience Positano between sea and relax
Water activities are abundant: daily boat tours, sunset excursions, kayak and SUP rentals.
The presence of various private maritime transport companies makes it easy to organize trips to nearby islands or other locations along the Amalfi Coast or Capri.
Positano, with its Spiaggia Grande (Main Beach) and timeless charm, remains one of the most coveted destinations in the Mediterranean. Whether for a luxury stay or simply a day of relaxation, this pearl of the Amalfi Coast never fails to enchant visitors.
Spiaggia Grande in a nutshell
ATTRACTIONS
- Paid Beach
The Spiaggia Grande (Main Beach) is partly free and partly managed by private establishments. “L’Incanto” is one of the main beach clubs, with different price ranges and an exclusive area called “La Scogliera” Beach Resort. - Volcanic Sand and Stones
A characteristic of many beaches along the Amalfi Coast, the dark color of this sand creates a striking contrast with Positano’s pastel-colored houses. - Church of Santa Maria Assunta
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is recognizable from any point in Positano thanks to its imposing majolica dome. Inside, you’ll find the Byzantine icon of the “Black Madonna” which connects Positano to an ancient legend. - The MAR – Roman Archaeological Museum
This museum tells the “layered history of Positano,” starting from the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, going back to the medieval era with two crypts, and finally reaching the fascinating Roman Villa. Inside, you’ll also find a museum path showcasing various artifacts. - Tourist Office Located just steps from the pier, it’s useful for information on events, transportation, and tickets. During summer, it hosts exhibitions by various artists with works sharing a common theme: Positano.
- The Lions of Flavio Gioia and the “Lions in the Sun”
The two bronze lions donated by Amalfi and placed at the foot of the rotunda stairs are tied to local stories and legends related to Flavio Gioia, inventor of the compass. The lions are also mentioned in the 1970s film “Leoni al Sole” (Lions in the Sun), which immortalized Positano’s summer charm.
- Via dei Mulini and its Artists
A short walk brings you to Piazza dei Mulini, the commercial heart of the town. Along the way, you’ll encounter fashion boutiques, restaurants, ceramic shops, art galleries, and perfumeries, and pass by Palazzo Murat, the former residence of Joachim Murat. Often called “Artists’ Street” for the small workshops and numerous artisans displaying their creations along this charming path. - Via Positanesi d’America
A pleasant panoramic walkway leading to a quieter, less crowded beach compared to Spiaggia Grande, at the foot of the impressive Castel Clavel.
- Shopping
Near the beach, you’ll find numerous boutiques selling handcrafted clothing, leather sandals, ceramics, and lemon-scented perfumes. Many family-run businesses keep local traditions alive. - Art Gallery
There are numerous small galleries along the main streets. Via dei Mulini, considered the artists’ street, is an open-air gallery-workshop.
SERVICES
- The pier and ferries
The Léonide Massine pier is dedicated to the famous Russian dancer and choreographer who once owned the Li Galli archipelago. It serves as the arrival and departure point for Capri, Amalfi, Salerno, and other locations. - Porters
Local porter service that transports luggage from the pier and up the staircases to reach accommodations. Very useful if you have heavy suitcases or don’t want to struggle through the narrow streets. - Restaurants
Located both along the seafront and up toward the center, prices are often high but in line with the area’s tourist reputation. Tip: always check the menu to avoid surprises. - Boat companies
Offer private tours, boat rentals, and connections to other beaches for day experiences along the coast.
- Opportunities for kayak or SUP excursions
INFORMATION AND INTERESTING FACTS
- The pyramid view
Looking up from the beach, you can admire the houses forming a colorful pyramid. In the evening, with the lights on, it creates a romantic and evocative setting.
- Romantic evening visit
Positano transforms as the sun sets: soft lighting, live music, elegant restaurants. The atmosphere becomes perfect for couples to stroll.
- Engagements and marriage
proposals The “pyramid of houses” and the Spiaggia Grande (Main Beach) are often the setting for romantic moments. Many choose to propose here, thanks to the beauty of the place and its magical atmosphere.
- FEE Blue Flag
The most prestigious recognition in Italy for beaches and coastlines, awarded based on cleanliness and efficiency of services. Positano is the only town on the Amalfi Coast to have received it since its establishment in 1987.
