HomeProtected PlacesAmalfi Coast Marine Protected Area
Amalfi Coast Marine Protected Area adventures

Amalfi Coast Marine Protected Area Adventures

The Amalfi Coast Marine Protected Area conserves the rich coastal and marine ecosystems along Italy’s famed Amalfi coastline, offering exceptional opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and coastal exploration.

37,000
Acres Protected
12
Miles of Trails
2,000,000+
Annual Visitors
2007
Year Established

About Amalfi Coast Marine Protected Area

Amalfi Coast Marine Protected Area
 

The Amalfi Coast Marine Protected Area (Area Marina Protetta Costa Amalfitana) is located along the southern coastline of the Sorrentine Peninsula in the Campania region of Italy. This protected area encompasses both marine and coastal environments that extend from Positano to Punta Campanella, covering a variety of habitats including rocky seabeds, underwater caves, and posidonia meadows, which are crucial for biodiversity. Established to protect the fragile marine ecosystem against overfishing, pollution, and unregulated tourism, the reserve preserves over 15,000 hectares of sea and coastal land. The area is famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life including groupers, moray eels, and octopuses, and diverse coral communities. Visitors are drawn to the park for activities such as scuba diving in underwater caves, guided boat tours, kayaking along sheer cliffs, and hiking on coastal trails with spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Historic landmarks within or near the area include the ancient Roman ruins of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo as well as the picturesque fishing villages of Positano and Amalfi itself. The park’s management promotes sustainable tourism practices to ensure preservation of its natural and cultural heritage, appealing to travelers who appreciate ecological and cultural richness along an iconic stretch of coastline.

Highlights

Highlight

Underwater Archaeological Park of Punta Campanella with submerged Roman ruins

Highlight

Vibrant posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows supporting diverse marine life

Highlight

Scenic cliffside hiking trails connecting picturesque coastal villages

Highlight

Clear blue waters ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving

Notable Natural Features

Punta Campanella Underwater Archaeological Park

This submerged site features remains of Roman villas and ancient shipwrecks accessible to divers, displaying the maritime history of the region.

Posidonia Oceanica Meadows

Extensive underwater seagrass beds vital for ecosystem health, serving as nurseries for many marine species and helping stabilize the seabed.

Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)

A famous hiking trail above the coastline offering breathtaking panoramas of cliffs, sea, and coastal towns.