Fornillo Beach - a sandy beach next to a forest covered hillside
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Fornillo Beach

4.4
·483 reviews·, Italy

A tranquil pebble beach in Positano, offering clear waters, scenic walks, and a more relaxed vibe than the main beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

September mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Fornillo Beach - a sandy beach next to a forest covered hillside

Fornillo Beach

Best Time

September mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil pebble beach in Positano, offering clear waters, scenic walks, and a more relaxed vibe than the main beach.

4.4
(483 reviews)

"Much better than the Arienzo tourist trap beach club! Here you will find locals and beautiful beach."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walk to Fornillo

Take the 10-minute walk from Positano's main beach; it's more peaceful and offers great views.

💰 Beach Club Costs

Beach clubs can be expensive (€35+ per person), but offer great service and comfort.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Waters

Tranquil Waters

Fornillo Beach

Enjoy the clear, calm waters of Fornillo, a welcome respite from the heat and bustle of Positano.

Instagram
Scenic Walk

Scenic Walk

Path to Fornillo Beach

The 10-minute walk from Positano's center to Fornillo Beach offers stunning views.

Reddit
Beach Club Experience

Beach Club Experience

Fornillo Beach

Relax on sunbeds and enjoy food and drinks at one of Fornillo's beach clubs.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Escape the Crowds: Choose Fornillo

While Spiaggia Grande is iconic, Fornillo Beach offers a more tranquil experience. A short, scenic walk from the main Positano ferry terminal leads you to this gem, perfect for those seeking peace and beautiful waters without the intense crowds. Instagram

Beach Club vs. Public Access

Fornillo Beach offers both beach clubs with amenities and a public area. Beach clubs can be pricey, but many find the service and comfort worth the cost. Research options like Da Ferdinando for a good balance of quality and price. Reddit

Best Times

When
September mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👇🏻BEST FREE BEACH IN POSITANO👇🏻 When visiting Positano on the Amalfi Coast, skip the main public beach… it’s right by the ferry terminal and it’s not giving cute vibes ❌. Instead, take the 10 minute walk from the ferry terminal to Fornillo Beach (you can search this on Google Maps)🏝️ ... it’s so much more peaceful here and the water is beautiful. It’s a pebble beach and pretty safe for swimming....
emilyunedited
0 likes • 122.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walk to Fornillo

Take the 10-minute walk from Positano's main beach; it's more peaceful and offers great views. InstagramReddit

💰 Beach Club Costs

Beach clubs can be expensive (€35+ per person), but offer great service and comfort. Reddit

Positano, the gem of the Amalfi Coast ✨ ☀️ Relax on Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach 🌸 Wander through the colorful narrow streets full of boutiques 🍝 Taste local flavors in seaside restaurants 🌅 Enjoy sunset views from Montepertuso or Nocelle 🚤 Take a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast A timeless mix of sea, elegance and dolce vita 🇮🇹 #Positano
gmarcod91
4K likes • 43.3K views
September days in Fornillo beach 🌞 🎥: @positano.official #positano #amalficoast #salerno #costieraamalfitana #campania #italia #italianvacation #italianholiday #italiansummer #estateitaliana #traveltheworld #travelgram #traveladdict #traveldeeper #traveldestination #traveller #travelphotography #travelblogger #traveladdict #travelgirl #honeymoondestination #discoverunder5k #discovertheworld #di...
positano.official
10.4K likes • 187.4K views

🍽️ Dining Options

Enjoy excellent seafood and drinks at beachside restaurants like Da Ferdinando. Reddit

☀️ Public Beach Area

Fornillo has a public section, offering a more budget-friendly alternative to beach clubs. Reddit

Fornillo Beach is my favorite beach in Positano, it’s a bit secluded which is nice during the busy summers. They have great restaurants and beach clubs where you can enjoy a spritz, seafood and authentic Italian food🍝🥂🏖 Pick up: main beach by shuttle boat #positano #amalficoast #italytraveltips #positanotraveltips #italybeachclubs #southofitaly #vitalenta #turqoisewater #authenticitaliancuisin...
italia_with_grecia
205 likes • 8.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walk to Fornillo

Take the 10-minute walk from Positano's main beach; it's more peaceful and offers great views. InstagramReddit

💰 Beach Club Costs

Beach clubs can be expensive (€35+ per person), but offer great service and comfort. Reddit

🍽️ Dining Options

Enjoy excellent seafood and drinks at beachside restaurants like Da Ferdinando. Reddit

☀️ Public Beach Area

Fornillo has a public section, offering a more budget-friendly alternative to beach clubs. Reddit

💧 Bringing Your Own

Check beach club policies; some may allow water bottles, but full picnics are usually not permitted. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(483 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Fornillo Beach is widely praised as a more peaceful and beautiful alternative to Positano's main beach, offering clear waters and a scenic walk. While beach clubs can be expensive, many find the service and ambiance worth the cost, and the public beach area provides a budget-friendly option. The dining at beachside restaurants is also a significant draw.

"Even though it is quite expensive to get a chair inside one of the clubs that have control of most of the beach, it makes sense why they charge. It has a lot of pebbles, and it is a nice service overall.

The beach is fantastic and so gorgeous! The colors, the views, the temperature (a bit cold but very welcome in this heat) the black sand, and the fact that it is not as busy as the main Positano beach makes it an unique spot.

Bear in mind, the prices in this brach from the beach clubs are for the well-off or rich tourists. I came prepared so it would not take me by surprise (35 euro per person), but, I promise, it is worth it."

Miguel Rojas

"A secluded beach away from the hustle and bustle of Positano but only 10mins or so walk away. Worth the visit as there is a public beach area and beach club option too. The water is lovely and has a designated swimming area. It is not as busy as the main beach in Positano so feels a bit more special. The views on the short walk are incredible too."

Krishna Mistry

"So much better than the Arienzo tourist trap beach club! Here you will find locals and beautiful beach, public beach and also beach clubs that are half the price but still amazing vibes!!! Our favorite beach day was here.
With a beautiful walk to the Beach from the town, worth it and not
Too
Long at all"

Heather Tazza

What People Like

More peaceful than main beach
Clear, calm waters
Scenic walk

What People Dislike

Expensive beach clubs
Pebble beach

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fornillo Beach is a pleasant 10-minute walk from the main Spiaggia Grande in Positano. Follow the signs from the ferry terminal area. You can also take a shuttle boat from the main beach to Fornillo. Instagram+1

Yes, the walk is relatively easy and offers beautiful coastal views. It's a great way to experience the scenery of Positano. Reddit

Driving directly to Fornillo Beach is not recommended due to limited parking in Positano. Walking or using local transport is the best option. Instagram

Spiaggia Grande is Positano's main beach, closer to the ferry and often more crowded. Fornillo Beach is a short walk away, generally more peaceful and favored by those seeking a quieter atmosphere. InstagramReddit

While taxis are available in Positano, walking is the most common and recommended way to reach Fornillo Beach due to its proximity and the scenic route. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Fornillo Beach has a public area that is free to access. Beach clubs on Fornillo Beach charge for sunbeds and umbrellas. Reddit

Prices for beach clubs can vary, but expect to pay around €35 per person for a sunbed and umbrella. It's advisable to check directly with the club for current rates. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to reserve spots at beach clubs in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your place. Instagram

Beach clubs typically open in the morning and close in the late afternoon or early evening, aligning with typical beach hours. Specific times vary by establishment. Instagram

Yes, Fornillo Beach offers a public section where you can lay your towel on the pebbles without charge. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Fornillo Beach is characterized by its pebbles and clear, calm waters. It's nestled between rocks, offering a more secluded feel than the main beach. Reddit

While it can get busy, Fornillo Beach is generally less crowded than Spiaggia Grande, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. InstagramReddit

Fornillo Beach has beach clubs offering sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants, and bars. There are also public areas. Reddit

Yes, the water is clear and calm, making it suitable for swimming. There are often designated swimming areas. Reddit

Fornillo Beach, like most beaches in Positano, has dark pebbles rather than sand. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Fornillo Beach has several beach clubs with restaurants serving fresh seafood and local Italian dishes. InstagramReddit

Il Fornillo restaurant is known for its excellent food and service, offering a great dining experience right on the beach. Reddit

While you can bring water, bringing substantial outside food or drinks to beach club areas might not be permitted. It's best to check their specific policies. Reddit

Da Ferdinando is highly recommended for its food and service. Many beach clubs also offer good dining options. Reddit

Dining at beachside restaurants can be on the pricier side, reflecting the prime location and quality of service. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic walk to the beach offers stunning panoramic views of Positano. The beach itself, with its colorful umbrellas and clear water, is also very photogenic. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the beach and its surroundings. Instagram

From Fornillo Beach, you get beautiful views looking back towards the colorful cliffside houses of Positano. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for beach shots. Instagram

Drone regulations can be strict in Italy, especially in populated tourist areas. It's best to check local rules before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fornillo Beach is a great option for families looking for a more relaxed beach experience in Positano. The waters are generally calmer than at Spiaggia Grande, making them more suitable for children to swim and play. The walk to the beach is manageable, and the presence of beach clubs means easy access to facilities like restrooms and food. Instagram

Consider opting for a beach club that offers family-friendly packages or has a more relaxed atmosphere. While the pebbles can be a bit uncomfortable for little ones, bringing water shoes can help. The public beach area also provides a space for families to spread out without the pressure of paying for loungers. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, though beach clubs do offer convenient dining options. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Fornillo Beach offers a more accessible experience than some other Positano hotspots. The key is to utilize the public beach area, where you can lay your towel on the pebbles for free. This allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery and clear waters without the significant cost of a beach club. Reddit

While beach clubs can be pricey, some Redditors have noted that Fornillo's clubs are often more affordable than those found elsewhere on the Amalfi Coast. Bringing your own water bottles and snacks can also help save money. The scenic walk to Fornillo is also a free activity that adds to the overall experience. Instagram

couples

Fornillo Beach offers a more intimate and romantic setting compared to the bustling main beach. The scenic walk to get there sets a lovely tone, and the beach itself, with its clear waters and picturesque surroundings, is ideal for a relaxing day together. Reddit

Splurging on a sunbed at one of the beach clubs can enhance the romantic experience, allowing you to enjoy cocktails and a leisurely lunch with a view. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light, perfect for photos and a serene end to the day. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Fornillo Beach Experience: Beyond the Main Beach

Fornillo Beach is often lauded as a superior alternative to Positano's bustling main beach, Spiaggia Grande. The journey there is part of the charm; a relatively easy 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal leads you along a scenic path with breathtaking views of the coastline. This walk itself provides ample photo opportunities and a sense of anticipation for the more serene atmosphere that awaits. InstagramReddit

Upon arrival, visitors find a beach characterized by its dark pebbles and crystal-clear waters. Fornillo offers a dual experience: a public beach area for those who prefer to bring their own towels and enjoy the sun for free, and several beach clubs that provide loungers, umbrellas, and full service. While the beach clubs can be a significant expense, many reviewers find the comfort, amenities, and attentive service justify the cost, especially for a full day of relaxation. Reddit

Dining at Fornillo is a highlight, with restaurants like Da Ferdinando receiving high praise for their delicious seafood and excellent service. These establishments offer a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch or refreshing drinks with a view. The overall vibe at Fornillo is one of a more relaxed, perhaps slightly more local, experience compared to the high-energy main beach, making it a favorite for many visitors seeking a peaceful slice of Positano's beauty. Reddit

Navigating Beach Clubs and Costs

The beach club scene at Fornillo Beach is a significant draw, offering a comfortable and well-serviced beach day. Establishments like Pupetto and Da Ferdinando are popular choices, providing amenities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and direct access to the water. These clubs are ideal for visitors who want to fully immerse themselves in relaxation without the hassle of setting up their own spot. Reddit

However, it's crucial to be aware of the costs associated with these beach clubs. Prices can range from €35 per person upwards, covering the rental of a sunbed and umbrella. While this might seem steep, many visitors feel the experience—including the attentive service, the quality of the food and drinks available for purchase, and the overall ambiance—makes it a worthwhile splurge for a special vacation day. It's advisable to check the latest pricing directly with the beach club before your visit, as rates can fluctuate. Reddit

For those on a tighter budget, Fornillo Beach also features a public section. This area allows visitors to enjoy the beach and sea without the cost of a beach club. While it lacks the amenities and service of the private clubs, it still offers access to the beautiful waters and the charming atmosphere of Fornillo. Some Redditors have noted that the beach clubs at Fornillo are often more reasonably priced than those in other popular Amalfi Coast locations, making it a good value proposition. Reddit

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