Sight
Grotta dello Smeraldo
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Discovered in 1932 by a local fisherman, Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto) is a natural sea cave about 24 meters deep and 60 meters long. The cave's water glows an intense emerald green due to sunlight filtering through an underwater opening, reflecting off the white sand floor. Inside, you'll find stalactites and stalagmites, and a small nativity scene submerged during Christmas. Visitors enter by small rowboats, gliding silently through the luminous water. The experience is serene and magical, especially when the guide demonstrates the water's color by dipping an oar. The cave is less crowded than the Blue Grotto in Capri, offering a more intimate visit.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the brilliant emerald-green water created by sunlight refraction
- Take a guided rowboat tour inside the cave to see stalactites and stalagmites
- Look for the submerged nativity scene, placed underwater at Christmas
- Enjoy the cave's acoustics and the guide's songs or demonstrations
- Visit the small souvenir shop and museum at the entrance
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Grotta dello Smeraldo
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inSmall Group Tour to Positano by Boat at Sunset4.5★ · 228 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$82 per personSee dates →
Best full dayPositano: Amalfi Coast Small-Group Boat Tour with Swim and Drinks4.8★ · 203 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$156 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleTransfer Naples to Positano (stop Pompeii option) or vice versa5★ · 31 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$114 per personSee dates →More attractions in Positano
