The Best Places To Dive On The Amalfi Coast And Sorrento Peninsula
The Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula, renowned for their breathtaking landscapes and charming towns, also offer some of the finest diving spots in the Mediterranean. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and fascinating underwater topography, these locations provide unforgettable experiences for divers of all levels. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to dive in this stunning region.
1. Punta Campanella Marine Reserve
Punta Campanella Marine Reserve, located at the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula, is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and pristine waters. The reserve covers approximately 30 kilometers of coastline, offering numerous dive sites with varied marine life and underwater landscapes.
Expect to see octopuses, moray eels, and various species of fish. But remember that the reserve is also known for occasional sightings of dolphins and sea turtles.
The underwater topography is quite interesting. The area features dramatic cliffs, caves, and drop-offs. The Grotta dello Zaffiro (Sapphire Cave) is particularly famous for its mesmerizing blue light.
2. Li Galli Islands
The Li Galli Islands, also known as the Sirenuse, are a small archipelago off the coast of Positano. These islands are steeped in mythology and are believed to be the home of the sirens from Homer’s “Odyssey.”
The allure of diving in a place associated with ancient myths adds a layer of enchantment to the experience, don’t you think?
The waters around Li Galli are teeming with marine life, including barracudas, groupers, and colorful nudibranchs. Moreover, the waters around the islands boast excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 meters, making it a paradise for underwater photographers.
3. Baia di Ieranto
Located within the Punta Campanella Marine Reserve, Baia di Ieranto is a secluded bay that offers tranquil diving conditions and an abundance of marine life.
As part of a marine reserve, the bay is well-preserved and boasts a diverse ecosystem. One of the highlights are the underwater Posidonia oceanica meadows which are vital to the local marine environment and support a wide range of species.
The bay’s crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting make it an ideal spot for both diving and relaxation.
4. Scoglio del Vervece
Scoglio del Vervece, near the town of Massa Lubrense, is famous for the bronze statue of the Madonna at a depth of about 12 meters. This site is not only a popular pilgrimage spot for divers but also a haven for marine life.
In addition to the spiritual dimension to the dive, the area around the rock is rich in marine life, including sponges, corals, and various fish species.
It is good to know that an annual underwater mass is held here in September, attracting divers from all over the world.
5. Punta Carena
Located on the island of Capri, Punta Carena is known for its dramatic underwater cliffs that drop steeply, providing a thrilling experience for divers. The area supports a wide variety of marine species, including groupers, octopuses, and various types of algae.
The clear waters around Capri offer excellent visibility, enhancing the diving experience, and the site is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers.
6. Marina di Puolo
Marina di Puolo, situated between Sorrento and Massa Lubrense, is a charming fishing village with great dive sites nearby. The area is known for its calm waters and diverse marine life. Indeed, the sheltered bay provides ideal conditions for diving, making it a great spot for beginners.
Divers can encounter seahorses, crabs, and various types of fish in the rocky underwater landscape. And its proximity to Sorrento makes it a convenient location for those staying in the area.
7. Positano Reef
The Positano Reef offers an exciting underwater environment with a variety of marine species and interesting topographical features.
The reef consists of rocky formations and drop-offs, providing numerous nooks and crannies to explore. These are home to a wide array of fish, including wrasses, damselfish, and occasionally larger predators like barracudas.
The visibility is typically excellent, allowing divers to fully appreciate the vibrant colors and dynamic environment of the reef.
8. The Cave of the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
While the Blue Grotto on Capri is famous as a tourist attraction, diving near this area offers a different perspective of its beauty. The underwater caves and tunnels around Capri are both intriguing and beautiful. The area is rich in marine species, including various types of crustaceans and small fish.
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