Sicily's best beaches

Punta Bianca, Monte Grande (Natural Reserve), Province of Agrigento

Punta Bianca is a beautiful rocky spur jutting out into the sea, formed from white limestone, like the well-known Scala dei Turchi. The area is characterised by a series of coves and beaches (of both golden sand and pebbles) separated by small promontories kissed by a crystal-clear sea. The area stretching from Punta Grande to Punta Bianca is of great natural and archaeological value: just behind the coastal stretch are chalky heights, inhabited since prehistoric times, such as Monte Grande

How to get there: state road 115 and follow the signs for Punta Bianca. Once there, the beaches can be reached by following a path through the Mediterranean maquis, which is not asphalted. At a certain point, you will come to a car park where you can leave your car and continue on foot.  

Torre Salsa Beach, Siculiana, Province of Agrigento

The Torre Salsa sandy beach of Siculiana is located within the Oriented Natural Reserve of Torre Salsa, which owes its name to the 16th century watchtower in the middle of the oasis. The coastline is about 6 kilometres long and consists of beaches of soft golden sand, stretching from Monte Stella to the mouth of the Salso torrent. Here, snow-white limestone cliffs alternate with vegetation-covered dunes, all surrounded by a crystal-clear turquoise sea that, together with the golden of the beaches, the green of nature and the black of the posidonia meadows, create an exceptional play of colours.

How to get there: Follow the signs for Torre Salsa (AG), Eraclea Minoa (AG) and then for the Reserve. Once parked, proceed on foot along the marked paths. 

Foce del Fiume Platani (Natural Reserve), Borgo Bonsignore, Province of Agrigento

The 'Foce del Fiume Platani' Oriented Nature Reserve was established to protect the coastal ecosystem and the numerous species of migratory birds that reside there. Dominated by the Capo Bianco cliff, the Reserve is home to a charming coastline about 4 kilometres long, with a rather low coastline and unusually golden sand. Its long series of sandy shores is characterised by dune formations, caressed by a crystal-clear blue sea. The area surrounding the beach, as well as containing a number of natural beauties, is the cradle of historical and cultural treasures, including the famous Greek archaeological site of Heraclea Minoa

How to get there: drive along the SS 115 Agrigento-Sciacca and then follow the signs for Eraclea Minoa. Once you have parked your car near the archaeological area, continue along the small path that descends towards the beach 

Scala dei Turchi, Province of Agrigento

Spiaggia Isola dei Conigli, Lampedusa Island 

Le Solette beach, Porto Palo, Menfi, Province of Agrigento

The Solette sandy beach is located on the western side of Sicily, west of Porto Palo. The stretch of coastline is set within a vast Mediterranean maquis, which intoxicates the air with its perfume, and is characterised by the presence of a crystal-clear sea and numerous sandy coves

How to get there: reach Menfi via the SS115 road and then descend to the sea along a pathway that starts on a hill.  

Villa Acquamarina, Menfi (Solette beach)

Villa Acquamarina, Menfi (Solette beach)

Foce del Fiume Belice (Oriented Reserve), Asinello beach, Selinunte, Province of Trapani

Going from Selinunte in the direction of Porto Palo di Menfi, the beach intertwines with the Foce del Fiume Belice Oriented Reserve. At its end, the reserve reaches an area known as the 'Riserva dell'Asinello', the most uncontaminated area of the entire coastline. Here, small coves of golden sand form an appendix to sparse Mediterranean scrub. A wild and authentic place far from noise and tourism

How to get there: drive along the SS 115 towards Marinella, then follow the signs for Paradise Beach Resort. Park the car in the dirt road and continue on foot towards the sea  

Villa Le Vigne, Castelvetrano, Selinunte (Foce del Fiume Belice) 

Villa Le Vigne, Castelvetrano, Selinunte (Foce del Fiume Belice) 

Baia di Santa Margherita, Castelluzzo, San Vito Lo Capo, Province of Trapani

The Baia di Santa Margherita is a small sandy beach, which owes its name to a votive chapel dedicated to the saint, located right at the entrance to the shoreline. The very fine sand, which originates from the crumbling of the surrounding rocks, becomes particularly white and shimmering when the waves refract on the shoreline, creating a very special atmosphere

How to get there: by car along the E90 and in the direction of State Road number 731  

Zingaro Nature Reserve, Cala Marinella, San Vito Lo Capo, Province of Trapani

Cala Marinella is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Zingaro Nature Reserve, located between Scopello and San Vito lo Capo. Looking like a swimming pool, the Caletta is a stretch of water with turquoise reflections, to be photographed at all angles. At low tide, the spectacle is even more impressive. The bottom of the cove is characterised by sand and a few pebbles, and is shallower than the surrounding stretches of sea. The only drawback of this little natural paradise is its width, which is decidedly limited. The reserve can be visited on foot, against payment of a ticket of €5.00 full price, €3.00 for children up to 14 years, €1.00 for schoolchildren and free for the over-65s of Italian citizenship. Animals are not allowed

How to get there: A29 Palermo - Mazara del Vallo motorway, exit Castellammare del Golfo, then follow the signs for Scopello. Cala Marinella is one of the most difficult beaches to reach (it is located in the middle of the Reserve, and it takes at least an hour's walk to get there, regardless of whether you access it from San Vito or Scopello).

The Zingaro Nature Reserve is a natural and uncontaminated paradise, which can be visited both on foot and by boat trips. The various coves on the cliff lead to beaches with clear blue waters, a perfect place for snorkeling or relaxing. It offers 7 beautiful beaches and coves: Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo, Cala dell'Uzzo and Cala Marinella (beaches closest to the north entrance, located in the San Vito area), Cala Berretta, Cala della Disa, Cala del Varo and Cala Capreria (closer to the Scopello side).

Lago di Venere, San Vito Lo Capo, Province of Trapani 

A little-known but very interesting place: a small salt water lake formed hundreds of years ago by the fall into the water of some boulders that slipped from the mountain. Today this body of water is home to numerous fish, therefore an ideal place for snorkeling.

Tonnara del Secco Beach, San Vito Lo Capo, Province of Trapani 

Wild charm, fullof mystery and suitable for lovers of snorkeling and fishwatching (the seabed is teeming with all sorts of fish species): the seabed is immediately very deep, therefore it is not very suitable for children.

Cala Grottazza, Province of Trapani 

A little north of the Zingaro Reserve, precisely about 2.8 km on foot from the parking lot, this small beach offers splendid waters to immerse yourself in

Tonnara di Scopello, Castellammare del Golfo 

Not far from San Vito Lo Capo, the famous Tonnara di Scopello, nestled between faraglioni and crystal-clearwater.

Villa Aronica, San Vito Lo Capo

Villa Palmeto, San Vito Lo Capo

Favignana Island Beaches

Cala Rossa is the most beautiful and renowned bay in Favignana, it looks like a rocky amphitheatre that slopes gently into the sea with turquoise transparent waters. The water is that transparent, that it feels like swimming in a swimming pool. Cala Azzurra & Cala Rotonda are very worth a visit it too! If you like the idea of relaxing days on the beach with lots of lying around on sand, then Cala Azzurra is the best option for that (it’s not a very large beach, so make sure you go early to pick your ideal spot), however, if you want to experience the best waters in Favignana, then Cala Rossa is the place to go!

How to get there –  In order to get to this beautiful Island, you must get a hydrofoil/fast ferry from Trapani (a lovely city on the NE of Sicily). The journey across from Island to Island takes approx. 30 minutes.

Cala del Cretazzo, Marettimo (Egadi Islands) 

Mondello Sandy Beach, Palermo

Mondello Beach is a 1.5 km stretch of fine white sand and shallow turquoise waters located in the town of Mondello, a few kilometers from Palermo (10 Km). It is one of the most popular beaches in Sicily and is known for its crystal-clear waters, lively atmosphere, and beautiful scenery. It is set in a breathtaking landscape. At either end towers Monte Pellegrino - described by Goethe as 'the most beautiful promontory in the world' - and Monte Gallo, included in the nature reserves of the same name.The Liberty Architecture in Mondello is a unique and beautiful example of this Art Nouveau style. The buildings are decorated with intricate ironwork, stained glass, and floral motifs. Can be admired in several buildings, including: The Antico Stabilimento Balneare: a wrought iron and stained glass building, built in 1902. It is one of the most beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Sicily; Villino Leto: a private villa with an Art Nouveau façade; Hotel Palace: an Art Nouveau hotel with a breathtaking view of the sea

Villa Adriana, Mondello

Villa Adriana, Mondello

Spiaggia dei Francesi, Bagheria, Province of Palermo

The Spiaggia dei Francesi or 'ai Francesi' is located in the Gulf of Mongerbino, in the Bagheria area, and is one of the most striking beaches on the entire Palermo coast. A small inlet nestled between the rocks of Capo Zafferano and Marina di Aspra, it is characterised by the presence of Mediterranean vegetation and particularly crystal-clear water. The area owes its particular name to the high percentage of French tourists who used to populate its shores

How to get there: by car, via the SS113 

Cala Muletti, Terrasini, Province of Palermo

Cala Muletti is a jewel set in the shores of the Sicilian Sea of Palermo, a stone's throw from the Bay of San Cataldo (Terrasini). The evocative images of this staircase overhanging the sea are enough to make one want to walk the steps that seem to join the sky and the sea. Once near this incomparable corner of the coast, one finds oneself in front of a World War II bunker. Past the bunker, you reach the top of the steps to the left of which you can admire San Cataldo beach, while to the right, among the rocks, is the Grotta delle Colombe, a cove of volcanic origin. 

Villa Canto del Mare, Balestrate, Terrasini

Villa Canto del Mare, Balestrate, Terrasini

Caldura Beach, Cefalù, Province of Palermo

Small and secluded, the Caldura beach - also called Kalura - is located a short distance from Cefalù and is undoubtedly among the most attractive in the area. To reach it, one has to find the access - located near a well-known tourist complex - and walk down a fairly easy flight of steps. Once down the steps, one finds oneself in the presence of a splendid pebbly beach: at its foot lies a thin strip of sand, bathed by a fantastic sea.

Villa Splendida, Cefalu 

Villa Talia, Cefalù 

Marina Beach, Tusa, Province of Messina

The Marina di Tusa beach is among the most beautiful in the Messina region. Consisting of large, colourful stones, it has the peculiar shape of a triangle jutting out into the sea. One of the vertices is represented by a striking jagged rock, now a symbol of the beach itself, bathed by a crystal-clear sea suitable for those who love swimming

How to get there: via state road 113

Testa di Monaco, Brolo, Province of Messina

The Testa di Monaco beach is located on the north-eastern Sicilian coast, enclosed between Messina and Palermo. Located below a promontory and a rock, which form two characteristic inlets, the beach consists of golden sand and is surrounded by vegetation

How to get there: the beach can be reached either by taking the citrus grove road, which crosses before reaching Capo di Orlando, or by taking the road that runs to the left of the Naso river. In both cases, the car must be parked on the state road.

Mongiove Beach, Patti, Province of Messina

Within the hamlet of Mongiove, in the municipality of Patti, lies the beach of the same name. Enclosed to the east by a rocky promontory, the predominantly sandy and long beach enjoys views of spectacular caves and stacks, located a short distance from the shore. The sea that washes the shore is particularly crystal clear

How to get there: by car, driving along the E90

Laghetti di Marinello, Patti, Province of Messina

The Laghetti di Marinello nature reserve is a protected area established in 1998 and home to numerous bird species. Situated below the promontory of the Tindari Sanctuary, the subject of many legends, the Marinello area is subject to various morphological variations of the land, which by modifying the coastline have given rise to the famous brackish lakes, with their warm and very clear water. The surrounding beach is characterised by the presence of numerous striking sand dunes

Taorminas Isola Bella in Taormina

Taorminas Mazzarò Beach

Villa Hera, luxury villa with pool, Giardini Naxos (Taormina)

Gelso Beach, Vulcano 

Forgia Vecchia, Stromboli 

Beach of Costa di Carro, Sampieri, Province of Syracuse

Situated before the village of Sampieri (Scicli), the Costa di Carro sandy beach is a very picturesque stretch of coastline. The whole area has been chosen by sea turtles to lay their eggs, and is characterised by typical dune vegetation. The sandy beach is washed by a particularly blue and transparent sea, beyond which a 4-kilometre-long coastal strip develops. There are several caves in the area.

How to get there: from Scicli along the SP 39 or the SP 40 in the direction of Sampieri. When you reach the 'La spiaggetta' campsite, turn right towards the car park, access is opposite it. La spiaggetta is located between the campsite and the locality of "Pozzu Ra Za Vanna".

Marianelli Beach, Noto, Province of Syracuse

Nestled within the Vendicatori Oasis Oriented Nature Reserve, Marianelli beach is an isolated, wild and unspoilt beach, suitable for lovers of relaxation and tranquillity. The sandy beach is set in a frame of lemon groves, almond groves and sand dunes, embellished with unique Mediterranean flora. The seabed is shallow and the water is always clear

How to get there: the beach is accessible from two entrances, both located on the SP19. From here, it is necessary to drive along a fairly narrow dirt road, not suitable for all vehicles. Cars can be parked at the end of the dirt road at both entrances. At the 'Marianeddi' entrance, parking is recommended from November to May (free of charge). In summer, on the other hand, parking requires a compulsory consumption. The 'Eloro' entrance, on the other hand, has slightly more limited space. In the summer, some of the grounds are turned into pay car parks.

Vendicari Natural Oasis, Calamosche Beach, Noto, Province of Syracuse

The most famous beach in the Vendicari Reserve. Calamosche, better known to the locals as 'Funni Musca', is a sandy cove that stretches for about 200 metres, bordered by two rocky promontories that shelter the currents, resulting in a sea that is always calm and crystal clear.

How to get there: Direct access to this beach is provided by a dedicated entrance in the reserve, which can be reached from the SP19. Once you arrive at the car park, you have to take a path of about one kilometre. 

Vendicari Natural Oasis, Marianelli Beach

Vendicari Natural Oasis, Torre Sveva

Villa Meraviglia, Noto

Villa Mercurio, Noto

Isola delle Correnti Beach, Porto Palo di Capo Passero, Province of Syracuse

Located in the extreme southern tip of Sicily, the Isola delle Correnti beach at Portopalo di Capo Passero takes its name from the small island that is connected to it by a thin strip of land, generally submerged by the waters. The coastline, particularly long and consisting of golden sand, extends to the east and west of the promontory, and is hemmed in at certain points by dune formations. The area is one of the windiest on the island, and the sea, which is blue and clear, is almost always very rough, which is why it is not suitable for children but loved by sportsmen

How to get there: it can be easily reached from Porto Palo by following the signs for Isola delle Correnti.

Randello Beach, Scoglitti, Province of Ragusa

Enclosed between Punta Craccetto and Scoglitti, Randello beach is a long strip of sand and dunes. Surrounded by a vast pine forest and bathed by the Mediterranean Sea, the beach is part of the Cava Randello Integral Nature Reserve, a well-equipped green lung, the right place for a picnic, to do sport or enjoy relaxation. Considered to be among the most beautiful in Italy, included in the Touring Club's 2014 Blue Guide, the sandy shore often presents visitors with shells of all shapes and sizes

How to get there: by car, parking just before the entrance to the Reserve in one of the two available car parks.

Villa Azulea, Ispica, Ragusa

Villa Stella Marina, Marina di Modica, Ragusa