How to Do Amalfi Right

Who's it for: Anyone with romance on their mind.

Why we love it: High upon Positano’s cliff face, Le Sirenuse claims the most gorgeous view of the Amalfi Coast—and nearly every room has a private terrace overlooking the bay. Other lovely notables? The vaulted ceilings, the Italian chocolates that appear at turndown and La Sponda, the Michelin-starred, fairy tale–beautiful restaurant.

Who's it for: Design lovers who dislike crowds.

Why we love it: Perhaps the most contemporary hotel on the coast, Casa Angelina Lifestyle is located in the under-the-radar village of Praiano, less congested—but no less charming—than its neighbors Positano and Amalfi. The hotel’s impressive art collection is vibrant and whimsical. Don’t forget your sunglasses: the all-white interiors shine bright. In fact, there’s a staff member whose sole job is keeping the white paint—all 12 shades of it—as pristine as can be.

Who's it for: Low-key classicists.

Why we love it: First opened in 1880 and run by the same family for over a century, Santa Caterina is the coast’s original grande dame, but its lush traditionalism exudes warmth, not stiffness. Lemon and orange trees scent the air, the floor tiles are hand-painted and the suit-clad staff welcomes you like you're part of the family. The hotel is perched at the top of a cliff, but the town of Amalfi is 15 minutes away, and the private beach club is just a quick ride in the hotel's cut-into-the-rock glass elevator.

• PEDALÒS: These paddle boats—for hire everywhere—are our favorite way to see the coast.

• IL PIRATA: Praiano's laid-back local spot. Cold wine + fresh fish = perfection.

• PALAZZO AVINO: The Lobster & Martini Bar. Pick from a list of 65 martini's and enjoy the view.

• Da Adolfo: Da Adolfo is what you think of when you think of the Mediterranean. Get the grilled mozzarella served on a lemon leaf.
• Casa Mele: This is possibly the one place in Positano where the view doesn't matter. Facing away from the coast, all the attention is rightly focused on the plates. 
• Lo Scoglio: Sea urchin, sweet clams, the freshest local gamberetti —paired with the view, it's unmissable.

• POMPEII: It's a bit of a stretch to make a visit to the ancient ruins a quick day trip. However, it's easy to do while you're en route to the coast from the airport.  When you land in Naples, leave enough time to make a detour so you can check out the city Mount Vesuvius blanketed in AD 79.
• CAPRI: Skip the Blue Grotto and instead take the chairlift up to Monte Solaro for an unbelievable view. If you're not a lover of heights, visit the marvelous Villa San Michele. Either way, end the day at Ristorante Da Tonino (and get the Polpo alla plancia).