Emerald Grotto Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

Emerald Grotto

The Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is a breathtaking sea cave located along the Amalfi Coast, not far from Sorrento. This magical grotto is famous for the captivating emerald green light that filters through the water, creating a mesmerizing glow inside the cave. The cave’s entrance is accessible by boat, and the experience of floating into its waters is truly unforgettable. Inside, the natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it one of the most enchanting spots on the coast. Whether you are an avid nature lover or a casual traveler, the Emerald Grotto promises a unique and stunning experience.

The Basics

The Emerald Grotto is located in Conca dei Marini, a picturesque village on the Amalfi Coast. The grotto's waters are illuminated by sunlight passing through an underwater opening, creating a greenish hue that gives the cave its name. Visitors can access the grotto via boat tours that depart from nearby ports like Amalfi and Praiano. The cave features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and clear waters, making it a photographer’s dream. Though the grotto is small, it offers an intimate and serene atmosphere for all who visit.

Things to Know Before You Go

Before visiting the Emerald Grotto, keep in mind that access is only available by boat, so it’s important to plan for a guided boat tour. The cave can only be reached in calm weather, as rough seas can prevent boat access. The boat ride itself is scenic, but be prepared for the possibility of small crowds during peak season, especially in the summer. The tour inside the grotto is brief, typically lasting 20 minutes, but it’s packed with beautiful sights. It’s also recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside the cave can be cooler.

How to Get There

To reach the Emerald Grotto from Sorrento, you’ll need to take a short boat ride from the nearby town of Positano or Amalfi. From Sorrento, it’s easiest to take a ferry to Positano or Amalfi, where boat tours depart to the grotto. Alternatively, you can join a guided boat tour that departs from Sorrento itself, which typically includes stops at other coastal highlights. Once at the grotto, the boat will dock at the entrance, where you'll transfer to a small rowboat to enter the cave itself.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the Emerald Grotto is during the spring and early autumn, when the weather is warm and the crowds are smaller. The grotto is open year-round, but summer can be busy, especially on weekends, with long waits for boat tours. To avoid the crowds, it’s ideal to visit in the morning or late afternoon, as the lighting is particularly beautiful at these times. The emerald green light in the cave is most vibrant when the sun is directly overhead, so aim to visit during midday if you want to see the color in its full glory.

Day Trips from Sorrento

A trip to the Emerald Grotto can be easily combined with other scenic spots along the Amalfi Coast. After visiting the grotto, consider exploring Positano, a beautiful cliffside village famous for its narrow streets and colorful buildings. You can also head to Ravello, known for its stunning gardens and panoramic views. If you’re interested in history, a visit to Pompeii is just an hour away by car from Sorrento. The Emerald Grotto makes for an unforgettable highlight on a full day of exploration along the Amalfi Coast.