7 Sea Caves To See While Visiting The Amalfi & Sorrento Coast
The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. While the coastline itself is a marvel to behold, one of its most enchanting features lies hidden behind the rocks of its cliffs – the mesmerizing sea caves. The good news? Intrepid adventurers can explore these natural wonders. Here, we take a journey into the depths to discover the best sea caves to visit in and around the Amalfi Coast.
1. Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)
Located near the village of Conca dei Marini, the Emerald Grotto is perhaps the most famous sea cave along the Amalfi Coast. As its name suggests, this enchanting cave is characterized by its dazzling emerald-green waters, which are illuminated by a submerged cavity.
Visitors can embark on a boat tour to venture into the heart of the grotto, where they’ll be treated to a spectacle of light and color that is nothing short of magical. The cave’s interior is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, further adding to its otherworldly charm.
2. Praiano Sea Caves
Stretching between the charming towns of Positano and Amalfi, the coastline is dotted with a series of hidden sea caves waiting to be discovered.
Accessible only by boat, these secluded grottos offer a sense of adventure and exploration that is unparalleled. From small, intimate caverns to larger, more expansive chambers, each cave has its own unique character and charm. Snorkeling enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to discover the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface, while photographers will find endless inspiration in the natural beauty that surrounds them.
3. Fiordo di Furore
While not technically a sea cave, Fiordo di Furore is a natural fjord-like inlet that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Carved into the cliffs by the relentless force of the sea, this stunning geological formation is a sight to behold. The turquoise waters of the fjord contrast starkly with the towering limestone cliffs that surround it, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Visitors can swim in the sheltered waters of the fjord or simply soak in the breathtaking views from above, making Fiordo di Furore a must-see attraction along the Amalfi Coast. For the more intrepid, the Fjord of Furore often hosts one of the largest high diving competitions.
4. Sapphire Grotto (Grotta dello Zaffiro)
Let’s move away from the Amalfi Coast to the nearby Sorrento Peninsula, where the protected area of Punta Campanella is located.
Among the most beautiful caves to visit is the Sapphire Cave, an underwater cave that can be reached with an easy dive even by free diving: the entrance is about 3-4 meters deep.
The cave contains a small lake rica 40 meters in diameter, not very deep, whose water covers all shades from dark blue to deep blue. All around, the cave has stalagmites, some of which reach the floor. Various species of marine life can be seen during the visit.
A small curiosity about Sapphire Cave concerns its history: a number of fragments of worked stone have been discovered inside, suggesting that in ancient times the cave was not submerged at all and rather inhabited.
5. Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
The most famous cave in and around the Amalfi Coast is located on the island of Capri – the Blue Grotto.
Accessible by boat from the Marina Grande, this iconic cave is renowned for its stunning azure-blue waters, which are illuminated by the sunlight streaming through an underwater cavity. As visitors glide through the narrow entrance of the cave, they are greeted by a scene of unparalleled beauty, with the water glowing in radiant shades of blue. The ethereal atmosphere of the Blue Grotto has captivated artists, poets, and travelers for centuries, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of the Amalfi Coast and its surrounding islands.
6. White Grotto (Grotta Bianca)
Not far from Punta della Chiavica, again on the island of Capri, is the Grotta Bianca. This cave is the result of the erosive action of water on karst rock, which has produced several landslides over the centuries. The name comes from the light color of the rock.
It is said that in ancient times the Romans used this cave to protect boats, while in the 17th century people used to take refuge inside it to protect themselves from pirates. Even today, signs of human activities are still visible on the walls of the cave.
As sunlight filters through the translucent waters, the cave is bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Exploring the White Grotto is like stepping into a realm of tranquility and beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
7. Green Grotto
Staying on Capri, on the southern side of the island is the Grotta Verde. Known since the 16th century, the Green Grotto has long been a place linked to the vicissitudes of pirates and privateers, especially the privateer Khayr al-Din (known as Barbarossa). The cave is amazing, with the water taking on a deep green color due to the sun filtering through the underwater threshold.
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