Among the islands of the Gulf of Naples, Capri is undoubtedly the most romantic and sophisticated—a magical corner of land with idyllic scenery that has captivated Roman emperors and Hollywood stars alike for centuries. Sailing along its coastline, you can admire the Faraglioni sea stacks rising from crystal-clear waters, or the majestic Blue Grotto, a sea cave famous for its dazzling electric-blue reflections.

Everything about Capri is undeniably beautiful: its whitewashed houses, winding ancient alleys, panoramic funicular, and the famous Piazzetta, with its movie-set atmosphere and irresistible blend of luxury hotels, chic restaurants, designer boutiques, and breathtaking terraces overlooking the sea. Here’s a guide to what to do and see on the island—and why it’s such an irresistible destination for sailors.

A Tyrrhenian queen surrounded by the iconic Faraglioni

Capri rises from the Tyrrhenian Sea off the southern tip of the Gulf of Naples, facing the Amalfi Coast and Punta Campanella. From Positano, you can easily sail to Capri in just 11 nautical miles—or 16 from Amalfi. The waters surrounding the island are incredibly clear, offering a wonderful sailing experience and excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

Guarding the island like natural sentinels are the famous Faraglioni. There’s Faraglione di Terra, 109 meters high and connected to the island itself, as its name suggests; Faraglione Saetta, notable for its 60-meter-long natural arch and height of 81 meters; and Faraglione di Fuori, home to a rare species of blue lizard that lives across its 104-meter surface. Another sea stack, Scoglio del Monacone, was once inhabited by the Mediterranean monk seal until the early 20th century—a species now sadly on the brink of extinction.

Weather, ports, and anchorages in Capri

From May to September, Capri enjoys excellent sailing conditions thanks to its mild and stable climate. Typical summer winds come from the west and northwest, averaging between 5 and 15 knots. Sailing here is generally easy, suitable for both beginners and experienced sailors. However, be cautious in the afternoon, when the island’s topography can create sudden gusts from the northeast.

The island’s main harbors are Marina Grande, the primary arrival point for sailors, and Marina Piccola, a picturesque bay on the southern coast. Both are ideal for mooring, exploring the island, and reaching the town center. Marina Grande is the main anchorage area, though the sandy seabed, covered with Posidonia seagrass, doesn’t provide the best holding. It offers shelter from westerly and northwesterly winds but tends to get crowded during peak season.

A good alternative is Marina Piccola, especially on its left-hand side, though you should exercise caution due to heavy maritime traffic. This large southern inlet, descending from the slopes of Mount Scolaro, features generous depths ranging from 70 meters offshore to about 10 meters near the shore. However, if sirocco or libeccio winds begin to blow, it’s advisable to move back toward Marina Grande. Once a Roman harbor and later a small fishing village, Marina Piccola is now a true hotspot of the international jet set.

Capri: a multitude of attractions

The beating heart of the island is the Piazzetta, officially known as Piazza Umberto I, a delightful “balcony” overlooking the sea and surrounded by cafés, shops, and luxury boutiques. It’s the perfect place to watch daily life on Capri, enjoy some shopping, or simply relax. It’s also ideal for tasting authentic Caprese cuisine in local restaurants, with dishes such as Caprese salad, Caprese ravioli, and limoncello.

A visit to Capri also offers a chance to admire classical culture. For example, Villa Tiberio, perched on the eponymous hill, was once the emperor’s residence, and the excavations provide an interesting glimpse into its past. Another must-see is the Gardens of Augustus, beautifully terraced amid lush greenery and offering panoramic views of the Faraglioni and Marina Piccola bay.

Another popular excursion is to Monte Solaro. At 600 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline. There are two ways to reach the summit: a chairlift or a refreshing hike. The chairlift departs from Anacapri, which is worth visiting at least to see Villa San Michele, rebuilt on the site of an ancient convent at the request of a Swedish physician.

The natural charm of the Blue Grotto

Among Capri’s most famous and admired sites is the Blue Grotto. It gained fame in 1829 when the German artist Kopisch was struck by the light filtering through, giving the water an intense, dreamy blue hue. The grotto originates from a karst system and is accessed through a small opening on the water known as the “Duomo Azzurro.” Watch your head—the “gate to paradise” is only one meter high. To enter, an experienced boatman will show you how to lie down on the boat’s deck while guiding it inside using a chain attached to the rock.