I am visiting the Amalfi coast in Sept with my girlfried but am unsure as to where to stay. I have heard so many great things written about Positano/Ravello/Amalfi, but the one thing we are after is a good beach, so that we can lazily enjoy the sun as well as exploring. Anybody who knows this coastline, I would love to hear from you. Thank you.

We stayed in Praiano at the Hotel Onda Verde. Their website is what won me over! It's wonderful. The hotel is set in a cliff overlooking the sea. Very peaceful and relaxing. There are lots of small towns all down the mountain path. You can explore the towns and even catch a boat to Capri.
They leave from the hotel, so you don't have to go anywhere to catch it!

I second Onda Verde. Spectacular.

Not familiar with Onda Praiano but as a caveat if your looking for a sandy beach, the Amalfi Coast is not it--imagine lying on landscaping stones. It's gorgeous, I love it, but not your typical sandy Fla/CA type beach.

The Amalfi Coast is definitely not the place to go for beach. I love the beach and have never even been tempted there. It IS very beautiful and romantic. Go on to Sicily for beach.

My husband and I loved our stay at the Santa Caterina in Amalfi. There is not
a beach but there are two pools and a great area to easily get into the Mediterrean from that level. Also,
the hotel and staff are wonderful.
We are counting the months until we can return there. Have a good trip.
Kay

Amalfi Coast doesn't really have great beaches, BUT do check out Paestum. Its around 30 miles south of Sorrento and has what you are looking for.

Great beaches, clean water, very mellow atmosphere. The town also sports some Greek ruins.

FYI, At the San Pietro they test the water and put out a notice on the days that the water is too "dirty" to get in.

If you want the beach, I suggest taking the ferry to Ischia and spending a few days there. You'll find great beaches and less crowds.