Emerald Grotto
A natural sea cave on the Amalfi Coast, famous for its surreal emerald-green water illuminated by sunlight.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunlight creates best glow
Emerald Grotto
Best Time
Sunlight creates best glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural sea cave on the Amalfi Coast, famous for its surreal emerald-green water illuminated by sunlight.
"The Emerald Grotto's green light is simply surreal, a must-see natural wonder!"
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking is extremely limited. Consider taking the bus or a boat tour from Amalfi to avoid stress. :bus:
💰 Ticket Combo
Confirm boat ticket prices from Amalfi and cave entry fees separately to budget effectively. :euro:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Emerald Light Show
Inside the Grotto
Witness the surreal, emerald-green water illuminated by sunlight filtering through the cave's opening. A truly otherworldly spectacle.
Stalactite and Stalagmite Formations
Inside the Grotto
Marvel at the intricate natural sculptures carved by water over centuries, adding to the grotto's unique geological beauty.
Intimate Boat Tour
Within the Grotto
Glide through the serene waters on a small boat, guided by a local who shares insights and navigates the cave's hidden corners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Emerald Glow
Navigating Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking is extremely limited. Consider taking the bus or a boat tour from Amalfi to avoid stress. :bus:
💰 Ticket Combo
Confirm boat ticket prices from Amalfi and cave entry fees separately to budget effectively. :euro:
☀️ Afternoon Glow
Visit in the afternoon for the most vibrant emerald reflections on the cave walls. :city_sunset:
🚶♀️ Access Details
Be prepared for stairs and an elevator to reach the grotto entrance. Comfortable shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking is extremely limited. Consider taking the bus or a boat tour from Amalfi to avoid stress. :bus:
💰 Ticket Combo
Confirm boat ticket prices from Amalfi and cave entry fees separately to budget effectively. :euro:
☀️ Afternoon Glow
Visit in the afternoon for the most vibrant emerald reflections on the cave walls. :city_sunset:
🚶♀️ Access Details
Be prepared for stairs and an elevator to reach the grotto entrance. Comfortable shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🛶 Kayaking Option
For an adventurous approach, consider a kayaking tour on the Colorado River to reach a similar 'Emerald Cave'. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Emerald Grotto's stunning natural green light and unique geological formations. The short, guided boat tours add a personal touch, though some find the grotto's size comparable to a pool. Parking is a significant challenge, making bus or boat travel highly recommended.
"Small grotto with a beautiful blue/green light filtering through. Amazing natural stalactite and stalagmite formations. Had a fun Italian guide who rowed the boat and took us to all the corners of the cave. We won’t forget you, Ernesto!"
Adrienne Lim
"Arrived by bus.
Follow the indications. You have to go down stairs and then take an elevator to the lower level.
10€/ person for entry ticket
The tickets are bought directly before the cave opening.
Would recommend going in the afternoon for the reflection of the light on the walls."
florence Loranger
"This area had needed to come from Amalfi pear. Not enter from here directly.
Please confirm boat ticket shop at Amalfi pear.
For me, not so bad not so good to come here. Because of just one cave and like a pool area, not so deep and large cave, just hotel pool size.
Boat round trip : 15euro/person
Cave trip : 10euro/person
If you have a time , just check at boat ticket center and join this."
Takahiro Maniwa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is located in Conca dei Marini on the Amalfi Coast. Many visitors arrive by bus, as parking is very difficult. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour from Amalfi that includes a stop at the grotto.
Parking is notoriously difficult and expensive near the Emerald Grotto. It's often recommended to park further up the road and walk or take public transport.
Yes, you can reach the Emerald Grotto from Amalfi. Boat tours often depart from Amalfi's pier and include a visit to the grotto. You can also take a bus from Amalfi towards Positano and get off at Conca dei Marini.
The SITA bus is a popular and cost-effective way to travel along the Amalfi Coast. Be prepared for winding roads and potential crowds, especially during peak season.
Some tour operators, like OutdoorsterLV, offer shuttle services from hotels for kayaking tours that lead to a similar 'Emerald Cave' near Las Vegas. For the Italian Emerald Grotto, public transport or boat tours are more common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry tickets for the Emerald Grotto typically cost around €10 per person. If you're arriving by boat from Amalfi, there might be an additional boat round-trip fee of about €15 per person. It's best to confirm current prices on-site.
Tickets for the Emerald Grotto are usually purchased directly at the cave entrance before you go in. It's advisable to buy them just before the cave opens to ensure availability.
The Emerald Grotto is generally open every day from 10 am to 4 pm. However, hours can vary seasonally, so it's a good idea to check in advance.
Advance booking is usually not required for the Emerald Grotto itself, as tickets are bought on-site. However, if you're planning a boat tour from Amalfi, booking that in advance is recommended.
Yes, access to the Emerald Grotto involves going down stairs and then taking an elevator to the lower level where the cave entrance is located.
🎫 💎 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll experience a breathtaking natural light show as sunlight filters through the water, creating an emerald glow. You'll see impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and enjoy a short, guided boat ride within the cave.
The actual boat ride and exploration within the Emerald Grotto typically lasts about 10 minutes. However, factor in time for travel, ticket purchase, and potential waiting.
Access involves stairs and an elevator, which can accommodate some mobility issues. However, the boat ride itself requires some ability to step into and out of the boat. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs.
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the stairs. You might want to bring a light jacket as caves can be cooler. If you're kayaking to a similar grotto, swimwear is essential.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Emerald Grotto, but be mindful of the boat operator and other visitors. The lighting can be dramatic, so experiment with your camera settings.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The afternoon is often recommended for the most dramatic emerald reflections on the cave walls due to the angle of the sunlight.
Given the low light and water reflections, a tripod can be helpful for sharper images. Experiment with higher ISO settings or a wider aperture to capture the glow.
The boat tour itself offers the primary viewpoints. Listen to your guide, as they often point out the best spots for photos within the grotto.
Expect stunning shots of the vibrant green water, unique rock formations, and the interplay of light and shadow within the cave.
While not strictly necessary for the grotto tour, if you're prone to splashing or taking a kayaking tour, a waterproof camera or case is a wise precaution.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the travel time to the Amalfi Coast. If arriving by bus, ensure children are comfortable with winding roads. For a more relaxed experience, a boat tour from Amalfi might be preferable. Pack snacks and drinks, as options within the immediate vicinity of the grotto might be limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for combined boat tour packages from Amalfi that might offer better value than purchasing separate tickets for the boat and grotto entry. Always confirm the exact costs for both the boat trip and the grotto entrance fee beforehand to avoid surprises.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of the confined space within the boat and the grotto itself. Your guide will likely point out the best angles, but be ready to capture quick shots. Experiment with different exposure settings to balance the bright water reflections with the darker cave walls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Emerald Glow
Inside, visitors are treated to a spectacle of stalactites and stalagmites, natural limestone formations that have been sculpted over millennia. These formations add to the cave's dramatic beauty and geological significance. The experience is often enhanced by a short, guided boat tour, where a local guide rows visitors through the grotto, pointing out interesting features and sharing insights into its history and formation.
While the Italian Emerald Grotto is a famous attraction, similar natural wonders exist. For instance, the Emerald Cave on the Colorado River near Las Vegas offers a comparable experience, accessible via kayaking tours. This highlights the allure of these naturally illuminated water caves for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Navigating the Amalfi Coast to the Grotto
The most recommended way to visit is by public bus (SITA bus) that runs along the scenic Amalfi Drive. While offering stunning views, be prepared for winding roads and potential crowds, particularly during peak tourist season. Another popular option is to take a boat tour from Amalfi. These tours often include a stop at the Emerald Grotto, providing a more relaxed and picturesque journey.
For those looking for a more active adventure, kayaking tours are available, though these often lead to similar 'Emerald Caves' in different locations, such as the one on the Colorado River. Regardless of your chosen method, confirming ticket prices for both the boat trip and the grotto entry is advisable to manage expectations and budget.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit