Twin towns, twin harbors: East of town is tiny, picturesque Marina di Praia, with its small pebbly beach and clear waters, where you can rent chairs and umbrellas. West of town is the more secluded Spiaggia della Gavitella, a cove that is only accessible by boat or by footpath. The path starts from the Church of San Gennaro, off to the right from Via Masa; it also crosses the SS 163, down across from the tourist office.
From the beach of Marina di Praia, Via Torremare is a scenic footpath carved along the cliff. Keep left for the natural grotto housing the nightclub L'Africana, or head right up to the medieval watchtower Torre Asciola (also known as Torre a Mare, or tower by the sea), housing the studio of local artist Sandulli, a painter and sculptor. Note: The footpath is generally easy but becomes dangerously slippery in bad weather, when the sea has been known to wash people off the path to their possible death below.
From the trail to Spiaggia della Gavitella a long flight of steps leads to the medieval tower Torre di Grado. The walk is particularly romantic at sunset or in the moonlight.
For more serious hiking, Praiano is one of the gateways to the Amalfi Coast's most famous trail, the Sentiero degli Dei (Trail of the Gods). A ridge trail, it runs high above the sea between Nocella and Bomerano and affords magnificent views of the entire coast. The sentiero is actually a section of the longer Via degli Incanti, the Trail of Charms, which runs between Amalfi and Positano. As you walk westward from Praiano, you'll enjoy the best views. The ascent takes you first to Colle Serra and on to San Domenico, where you will start the ridge trail to Nocella and Montepertuso, before heading down to Positano. Moderately difficult and requiring some preparation, it is -- as its name suggests -- a divine trail.
In Marina di Praia you can also rent boats and sign up for excursions with La Sibilla.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
