Capri Beaches

Overview

Capri offers a unique seaside experience, though perhaps not in the way one might first imagine. If you are dreaming of long, sandy shores, it is helpful to know that the island is defined by its dramatic and rocky coastline. Most swimming spots are found in charming pebbled coves or on stylish platforms set upon the rocks, allowing you to dive directly into the famously clear, brilliant blue water. This rugged landscape is precisely what gives Capri its unforgettable and exclusive coastal charm.

The island’s main beaches each provide a distinct experience. For a classic family day with easy access, Spiaggia Marina Grande is the largest and most convenient pebble beach, located right at the port. To capture the most iconic photograph of the Faraglioni rocks, head to Marina Piccola on the island's southern coast. History enthusiasts can swim among ancient Roman ruins at Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio, while those chasing the sun will find the best and latest rays at Lido del Faro, perfectly positioned for spectacular sunsets.

While Capri has small, free public areas for swimming, much of the coastline is home to exclusive beach clubs that are a core part of the island's culture. These clubs offer sun loungers and amenities for a daily fee, providing a quintessential Capri experience. For an iconic day club with direct views of the Faraglioni, spots like La Fontelina are world-famous. Whether you prefer a historic cove, a glamorous lido, or a simple patch of pebbles, our full guide explores every option to help you find your perfect place on the water.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are the beaches in Capri sandy or rocky?

If you're dreaming of long, sandy beaches, Capri might not be the right fit. The island is famous for its dramatic, rocky coastline. Most of Capri's 'beaches' are small, pebbled coves or platforms set on the rocks where you dive directly into the sea. The largest is Marina Grande, which is a pebble beach. It's a good idea to bring water shoes for comfort.

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Are there free public beaches in Capri, or do you have to pay?

Yes, there are free public beaches in Capri, though they are small and can get very crowded, especially in high season. You can find free areas at Marina Grande, Marina Piccola (on either side of the Siren's Rock), and a rocky area at Punta Carena Lighthouse. However, the majority of the coastline is occupied by private beach clubs ('stabilimenti balneari') where you pay an entrance fee for a sun lounger, umbrella, and access to facilities.

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

How much does a day at a beach club in Capri cost?

The cost of a beach club in Capri varies significantly. Entrance fees can start from around €35-€50 per person, which typically includes a sun lounger. More exclusive clubs, like those near the Faraglioni, can have a minimum spend requirement per person, which can be €100-€200 or more, covering your lounger, food, and drinks. Prices are highest during the peak season of July and August.

Is Capri a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Capri can be challenging for a traditional family beach holiday, especially with young children. The lack of sandy beaches, the steep terrain with many stairs, and the deep water at the rocky ledges are key considerations. However, Marina Grande is the most family-friendly beach as it's made of pebbles and has some shallower areas. Some beach clubs, like Bagni di Tiberio, are also known to be more accommodating to families.

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio

Are there hotels in Capri with their own private beach?

While some hotels have the words 'beach club' in their name, very few have a truly private, exclusive beach in the traditional sense due to the island's geography. More commonly, luxury hotels like the Jumeirah Capri Palace and Hotel La Palma have exclusive beach clubs in Marina Piccola or other locations, which may be a short drive from the hotel itself. Some hotels near Marina Grande or Marina Piccola offer direct access to the sea or are located just steps from the public beach and nearby beach clubs.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

Marina Piccola Beach

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Can you swim in the sea in Capri and what is the water like?

Absolutely. The water around Capri is renowned for being exceptionally clear, clean, and a brilliant shade of blue, making it fantastic for swimming. Most swimming spots have you entering the water from rocky ledges or pebble beaches. The water gets deep quickly in most areas. The sea is warmest for swimming from June to September, but many locals enjoy a dip even in May and October.

What's the best time of year to visit Capri for a beach holiday?

For the best beach experience with warm sea temperatures and all facilities open, visit between June and early September. May and late September are also excellent choices, offering pleasant weather, warm enough water for swimming, and fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August. Keep in mind that most beach clubs close for the winter season around mid-October.

How do you get to the beaches in Capri?

It depends on the beach. Marina Grande is easily accessible as it's right at the main port. Marina Piccola can be reached by a short bus ride from Capri town or on foot via Via Mulo. Other beaches, like those at the Faraglioni or Bagni di Tiberio, are best reached by a footpath from a scenic overlook or by a dedicated shuttle boat service, which many beach clubs offer.

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio

People Also Ask

Which is better for beaches, Capri or Positano?

It depends on your preference. Capri is known for its dramatic rocky platforms, exclusive beach clubs, and deep, clear water, but it has very few traditional beaches, and none are sandy. Positano, on the Amalfi Coast, has larger, pebbly beaches like Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo that are more accessible. If you want a more classic 'beach day' experience with more space, Positano is a better choice. If you prefer a glamorous, unique swimming experience from the rocks with stunning scenery, Capri excels.

Fornillo Beach

Which beach has a view of the Faraglioni rocks?

The beaches in the Marina Piccola bay offer the most famous and direct views of the Faraglioni rocks. You can enjoy the scenery from the small public beaches there or from the private beach clubs like La Canzone del Mare. For an even more exclusive experience, the two beach clubs located right at the base of the Faraglioni, La Fontelina and Da Luigi, provide the closest possible views, though they are rock platforms, not beaches.

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

Marina Piccola Beach

Is it better to stay in Capri town or Anacapri for beach access?

Neither town is directly on a major beach. However, Capri town is closer to Marina Piccola (a short bus ride or walk) and the funicular down to Marina Grande. Anacapri is located higher up the mountain and is closer to the Punta Carena lighthouse (for sunset swimming off the rocks) and the Gradola area near the Blue Grotto. Generally, Capri town offers slightly more convenient connections to the main beach areas.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

Marina Piccola Beach

Spiaggia Marina Grande

Which beach in Capri gets sun the latest?

The beach at the Punta Carena Lighthouse (Il Faro) on the western tip of the island is the only spot where you can enjoy the sun until it sets. Most other beaches, particularly those on the south side like Marina Piccola, lose direct sunlight in the early to mid-afternoon as the sun goes behind the cliffs.

Spiaggia di Marina Piccola