Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
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.
