Every summer we set off to our favorite slice of heaven on the Amalfi Coast, to the little town of Praiano located between Positano and Amalfi. Less touristic than its neighbors, it offers a more authentic, quieter experience but with all of the Amalfi Coast charm and beauty.
After flying into Naples, we drive down the coast to reach Praiano, roughly an hour and a half drive. Once you reach Amalfi Drive, you'll find a twisting and turning road along the most stunning cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. We opt for a driver from the airport as we don't rely on a car while we're in Praiano.
Where to stay in Praiano
For a more upscale stay, Ca'Pa offers secluded, rustic glamour right on the water. Its interiors are stylish and sophisticated, with a sense of authentic Italian charm. The private gardens feel like a serene escape, giving you the sense of being worlds away while still just a short walk from town.
Hotel Tramonto D'Oro is centrally located, just off the main road, and features modern, updated interiors. It's also close to the beautiful San Gennaro Church, where you can follow a scenic path to La Spiaggia and descend a 400-step staircase to reach Gavitella Beach.
Another excellent option is Hotel Onda Verde, which sits near Marina di Praia. This hotel is beautifully maintained and offers a lovely setting by the sea.
Our favorite way to spend a day in Praiano is by the sea—whether lounging on a sun-warmed rock or relaxing at a nearby beach club. There’s nothing better than whiling away the hours diving in and out of the Mediterranean under the southern Italian sun.
Where to swim in Praiano
Il Pirata
A refined beach club carved into the rocks just beside Marina di Praia, on the northern edge of Praiano. Elegant in style and serene in atmosphere, it’s one of our favorite spots to spend the day—lounging on their sunbeds and enjoying a leisurely lunch at the cliffside restaurant. The swimming here is exceptional, offering views of the marina while remaining tucked away in a quieter, less crowded corner of the cove.
La Gavitella
La Gavitella is a dual beach club and restaurant nestled directly above the sea in Praiano, right next to the more lively 'One Fire' beach, but with more charm. La Gavitella offers sweeping views toward Positano and a serene lunch atmosphere with some of the freshest fish. Its cliffside terrace invites relaxed sunbathing on lounge chairs, with ocean access for refreshing dips.
Da Adolfo
Tucked into the hidden cove of Spiaggia Laurito, Da Adolfo is hands-down our favorite beach club. Still family-run and wonderfully untouched by time, it retains a laid-back authenticity that’s increasingly rare. Settle in for one of our favorite plates of spaghetti alle vongole, followed by a dip in the crystal-clear water—ideally after a sun-soaked, limoncello-laced lunch. This enchanting spot has completely stolen our hearts, and it’s easily reached by water taxi or local bus from central Praiano.
Where to eat in Praiano
The town of Praiano is small and charming, offering a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. Its restaurants are mostly intimate and locally loved, with a neighborhood feel that sets them apart from the more polished, tourist-driven spots in nearby Positano—just one more reason we love it here.
For an in town experience, try Kasai, just off the main road where you can enjoy curbside dining with a view of the sea. Located within Marina di Praia you'll find family owned Trattoria Da Armandino. An unpretentious and local italian spot located within an old boatyard right by the water. Ths is one of our favorite places to visit just off a water taxi heading back into Praiano before embarking on the steps up into town. Located a bit further from the center of Praiano, you can walk on the main Amalfi Drive or take the local bus to the very charming Taverna Del Leone. We find ourselves coming back here night after night while in town for the pillowy ravioli and incredible wine selection. This restaurant has a very special touch to it and it is hard to beat.
