Sicily is an island in the Mediterranean Sea just off the coast of southern Italy. Known for its glistening white sands, calm azure waters and magnificent mountainous backdrops, Sicily beach holidays offer a fantastic escape for every type of traveller.
Whether you’re seeking a secluded hideaway, a place to snorkel and swim or a luxurious spot near beautiful Sicily beach villas, there are endless coastal destinations to choose from. In this article, we will dive into the very best beaches in Sicily, scouring the island for the perfect place to unwind, explore and enjoy!
Best Sandy Beaches in Sicily
If you’re seeking the best sandy beaches in Sicily, you’re in luck! There are plenty of spots lined with soft golden sands where you can lay back, relax and soak in the glorious Mediterranean heat. Here are two that you should consider.
San Vito Lo Capo is a small town in the northwest of Sicily offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure on its sandy shores. It’s famous for the Monte Cofano Mountain that stands proudly in the background, as well as offering a plethora of cafes, restaurants and shops surrounding the beach. With umbrellas for rent and plenty of watersport facilities, like windsurfing and sailing, you won’t be short of things to do on San Vito Lo Capo.
Cefalù Beach is situated in the charming town of Cefalù on the northern coast of Sicily. This is one of the best sandy beaches in Sicily, with plenty of sunbeds, umbrellas and paddleboards. Besides its sandy shores, Cefalù is known for its historic Norman cathedral, narrow medieval streets and vibrant local culture, perfect for exploring.
Best Beaches in Sicily for Families
Families travelling to Sicily might be searching for beaches with child-friendly amenities, shallow waters and plenty of areas to splash and play. Luckily, there are lots of family-friendly beaches in Sicily to enjoy!
Mondello Beach is located just 10 kilometres from Palermo, the capital of Sicily, accessible by bus or taxi. This beach is very family-friendly, with a shallow bay, lifeguards, umbrellas for shade and a playground for children. Close to the Capo Gallo reserve, it’s also a great place for families to explore nearby nature trails and wildlife.
Fontane Bianche is another great beach for families in Sicily. Located near the town of Syracuse on the southwest coast, this beach is known for its white sand and clear blue waters. With beach bars and restaurants close by, families can refuel before diving back into the sea! For families who love history, the Syracuse UNESCO World Heritage Site is close by, with a Greek Theatre and archaeological park to explore.
Beautiful Beaches in Sicily Near Exclusive Villas
Whether you’re embarking on a family holiday, a romantic escape or a group trip with friends, staying in beautiful Sicily beach villas is the epitome of luxury. With incredible sea views, luxurious interior décor, private pools and spacious living areas, they are the ideal choice for a relaxing getaway. Here are two of the best beaches with private villas in Sicily to consider.
Scala dei Turchi is a quiet, serene beach on the southern coast of Sicily near Realmonte, in the province of Agrigento. Famed for its dramatic white cliffs, this beach lures visitors with magnificent views and perfect photo opportunities. Situated near the ancient Valley of the Temples, the beach is ideal for those staying in luxury villas nearby who want a blend of serenity and culture.
Isola Bella is a peaceful beach just off the coast of Taormina on Sicily’s eastern coast. This beach is famous for its natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, a surrounding nature reserve and a rocky cove where visitors can snorkel in the shallow waters. The nearby town of Taormina offers luxury Sicily beach villas, fine dining and exclusive shopping experiences.
Best Beaches in Sicily for Swimming
If you love to dive beneath the waves, there are plenty of beaches in Sicily for swimming and snorkelling. The Sicilian coastline is famous for its peaceful, clear waters, making it perfect for aquatic enthusiasts.
Lido di Noto is situated near the town of Noto on the southeastern coast of Sicily. Offering a long sandy beach with shallow, calm waters it’s the ideal spot for swimming. Surrounding the beach are restaurants, bars and showering facilities, so after a day in the water you can refuel and refresh.
Cala Rossa is located on the island of Favignana, part of the Egadi Islands off the coast of western Sicily. This beach is more secluded than Lido di Noto, offering a peaceful experience. While there are no major facilities like bars and restaurants, you can rent a boat or book guided snorkelling tours to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Best Sicily Beaches for Couples
Sicily has many beaches for couples, with various coastal locations offering the perfect romantic setting, charming nearby villages and idyllic views that are certain to set the mood.
Cala Luna is a secluded beach in Cefalù on the northern coast of Sicily, accessible via a short hike or boat ride. Whilst there are no major amenities on the beach itself, its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs and luxurious boutique hotels create a dreamy romantic vibe.
Calamosche Beach is situated within the Vendicari Nature Reserve on the island’s southern coast. This pristine, tranquil beach is ideal for romantic beach getaways in Sicily. Take a stroll to the nearby ruins of the ancient Roman villa to blend a cultural aspect to your beach trip, or simply lay back on the white sands and soak in the Mediterranean sun.
Summary
Beaches in Sicily are the golden standard when it comes to coastal getaways. Offering soft, white sands, turquoise waters and watersport activities, there’s a beach for every traveller to enjoy and explore. We hope this guide has helped you choose where to stay in Sicily by the beach for an unforgettable holiday, filled with sun, sand and bucket loads of fun!
Images courtesy of unsplash.com and pexels.com
