11 Best Beaches In Sicily
Sicily, one of the largest island in the Mediterranean, is home to a stunning array of beaches. The island offers something for everyone, from pristine white sands and hidden coves to dramatic cliffs and charming costal towns. The best time to visit Sicily’s beaches is from May to September, with July and August being the busiest months. For a quieter experience, visit during the shoulder months of May, June, or September. The sea is suitable for swimming throughout most of the year, though from December to April, it is generally cooler so you might prefer just a brief dip.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the best beaches in Sicily along with the best hotels to stay in to make the most of the stunning Sicilian beaches and why they deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1San Vito lo Capo, Trapani

Best For: Families, snorkelling, and hiking
Located roughly 2 hours away from Palermo airport, in the northwestern coast of Sicily in the Trapani province, the sun-kissed haven of San Vito lo Capo is a tropical paradise that outshines other Sicily beaches. This crescent-shaped beach is blessed with long stretch of fine white sand, turquoise waters and framed by dramatic mountains, it’s a paradise for beach goers, families, water sports enthusiasts and hikers.The beach is located adjacent to the town, which is a charming fishing village known for its laid-back vibe, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit towards the end of September for the region’s famous Cous Cous festival. San Vito lo Capo is not only a coastal gem but also a vibrant cultural hub offering a delightful blend of natural beauty and Sicilian traditions with a charming town and beach that is consistently ranking it amongst best beaches in Sicily.
Where To Stay: Hotel Capo San Vito – Located right on the beach, with direct access to the beach from the hotels small garden.
2Mondello, Palermo

Best For: Families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and activity
Mondello is a coastal paradise located just 30 minutes from Palermo renowned for its long, crescent-moon beachfront regarded as one of the best beaches in Sicily with pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters. This Mediterranean beauty offers the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, water sports, additionally its calm waters and family-friendly amenities make it perfect for those with children.
The picturesque backdrop of Mount Pellegrino adds to its charm creating a stunning contrast against the electric blue of sea whilst the art nouveau pavilion is an exquisite centrepiece of Mondello’s stunning pier. Mondello is not only an impressive beach but also a vibrant hub hosting events and festivals. In addition, the town itself, particularly along the beach front, features numerous beach clubs, mouth watering street food and seafood restauarnts offering the ideal blend of relaxation and excitement.
Where To Stay: Mondello Glam Hotel & Terrace – 500 metres from Mondello beach, with fantastic sea views over of the bay of Mondello from the rooms as well as the rooftop restaurant.
3Isola Bella, Taormina

Best For: couples, families, water activities like snorkeling and boat excursions
Offering some of the most exquisite scenery in Sicily, the beach of Isola Bella (known as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea) sits on the Taormina coastline looking out to the island of the same name. The beach offers access to the tiny isle of Isola Bella, connected to the mainland by a narrow beach during low tide, a Mediterranean jewel famous across the world for its Baroque Italian garden.
Isola Bella beach is also the famous beach which featured in HBO series The White Lotus (Season 2). The beach’s iconic pebble shoreline, set at the foot of the town, forms a crescent moon with calm turquoise waters lapping against the shore. A popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, it is regarded as the most beautiful beach in Taormina, and even one of the best beaches in Sicily.
Where To Stay:
La Plage Resort – La Plage Resort is located right inside the Isola Bella Nature Reserve in Taormina, ideal for Isola Bella beach and Island.
Villa Sant’Andrea – A Belmond Hotel, just a 5-minute drive from Taormina’s centre. It features a private beach, whilst being in close proximity to explore the Isola Bella beach and island.
Related Read: 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Taormina
4Scala dei Turchi (Turkish Stairs) , Agrigento

Best For: Sicily’s most spectacular natural wonders, combining stunning beaches, unique geology.
A natural wonder renowned for its stunning white limestone cliffs, Scala dei Turchiis is home to unique formations resembling a grand staircase, hence its name which translates to Stair of the Turks. The brilliant white cliffs contrast beautifully against the deep blue sea creating mesmerising scenery that attracts visitors from around the globe. This geological masterpiece is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and is one of Sicily’s most photographed destinations. As the sun sets, the cliffs take on a golden hue, adding to the allure of this coastal gem, and it is at this time of day that you can truly see why it is regarded as one of Sicily’s best beaches.
5Lungomare Beach (Spiaggia di Cefalù), Cefalu

Best For: Families, couples, and travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and culture.
With a picturesque beachfront promenade offering an unparalleled Mediterranean experience, Lungomare di Cefalù is the very essence of the Sicilian seaside. Located just over an hour from Palermo by train, Lungomare Beach, or Spiaggia di Cefalù, is the main beach in the picturesque town of Cefalù. Renowned for its golden sands and clear, calm waters, the beach is located at the foot of Cefalù’s historic town. Its convenient location makes it easy to transition from a day at the beach to exploring the town’s narrow streets, vibrant restaurants, and rich history.
Boasting a scenic walkway running along the coastline, you can admire stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the town’s captivating skyline, which is especially magical at sunset. With a soothing sea breeze and breathtaking vistas, Lungomare di Cefalù is amongst the best beaches in Sicily.
Where To Stay: Hotel Le Calette – Beautiful hotel located overlooking the sea, a short distance from the centre of Cefalù also offers a private beach. Some rooms offer views of the sea and others of the garden.
6Cala Azzurra, Favignana Island

Best For: Families, couples, relaxation-seekers, swimmers
Largest of the Egadi Islands off Sicily’s western coast, just a short ferry ride from Trapani, Favignana is famous for its rich marine life, traditional tuna fishing culture, and home to some of the best beaches in Sicily that draw visitors from around the world. Bicycles and scooters are the primary modes of transport, which are perfect for discovering the island’s stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches. Cars are less common on the island, and many visitors opt for the eco-friendly alternatives to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and avoid traffic congestion.
Cala Azzurra is one of Favignana’s most beloved beaches. It is a shallow sandy beach, the calm and clear waters make it an excellent spot for swimming, especially for families with children. Just a short distance away is Bue Marino, renowned for its striking azure waters, and dramatic limestone formations. This spot is especially popular among snorkelers and divers, as the underwater visibility is excellent, offering the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life.
Some of the other beaches worth exploring on the island of Favignana are Lido Burrone which is one of the most-visited beaches on Favignana, as it is large, wide, and totally sandy. It is also one of the only beaches on the island with facilities such as sunbeds, restaurants. Cala Rossa is another great option however, it is a rocky beach, so if you’re after sandy beach Cala Rossa might not be suitable.
Where To Stay: Mangia’s Favignana Resort – Located in close proximity to Cala Azzurra, the Resort boasts a privileged position on the island, thanks to its wide open spaces and guarantee of privacy.
7Cala Dogana (Spiaggia di Cala Dogana), Levanzo

Best For: Low-key beach day, experience the quiet beauty of Levanzo, swimming and snorkeling.
Located on Levanzo, the smallest and most tranquil of the Egadi Islands, Spiaggia di Cala Dogana is a Mediterranean gem known for its serene beauty and pristine waters. This secluded cove features pebble-strewn shores and glistening waters ideal for a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by the picturesque village of Levanzo, with its whitewashed houses and vibrant blue shutters providing a postcard-perfect backdrop. The clear, turquoise waters of Cala Dogana are incredibly inviting, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling.
The fishing village nearby showcases the island’s maritime heritage and adds to the serene environment. Accessible only by boat or on foot, Cala Dogana is a hidden paradise with an unspoilt ambience and is the most untouched of Sicily beaches.
Where To Stay: Dolcevita Egadi Eco Resort – Beautiful property in a mountain top with a beautiful view of Levanzo, while being in reaching distance of Cala Dogana.
8 Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), Lampedusa

Best For: Nature Lovers, couples, snorkelers, adventurous travelers
Often referred to as Rabbit Beach, Spiaggia dei Conigli is famous for its soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters that consistently rank it amongst the best beaches not just in Sicily but also in the world. This stunning natural haven is located on Lampedusa (the largest of the Pelagie Islands), its charm lies in its natural unspoiled state, to preserve its pristine environment facilities are limited, so it is recommended to bring essentials such as water, snack, umbrellas for shade.
The name, Rabbit Beach, is derived from its historical connection to rabbit breeding on the island and staying true to its wildlife connection, the beach is part of a protected marine reserve offering and is particularly notable as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, adding an element of ecological importance. It is also an incredible underwater paradise for snorkelers and divers, thanks to its clear waters. It is worth noting that Spiaggia dei Conigli is only accessible by boat or on foot with a 20-minute downhill walk from the car park.
Where To Stay: Hotel Sole – Located just 250 metres from the sandy beach on Lampedusa Island whilst being accessible from the must visit beach Rabbit Beach on the island.
9San Lorenzo Beach (Spiaggia di San Lorenzo), Noto

Photo: Lido San Lorenzo Beach
Best for: Families, snorking
San Lorenzo Beach (Spiaggia di San Lorenzo), located just 10 minutes from the town of Noto in southeastern Sicily, is a breathtaking beach known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine golden sand, and serene ambiance. Situated close to the Vendicari Nature Reserve, the beach combines pristine natural beauty with a tranquil atmosphere, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the region.
The beach offers a mix of public areas and private lidos, here you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas or enjoy refreshments from nearby snack bars. Its shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming and safe for families with children, while snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the clear waters and abundant marine life. For nature lovers, the proximity to the Vendicari Nature Reserve provides opportunities to explore trails, ancient ruins, and diverse wildlife. San Lorenzo Beach is ideal for families, couples, and anyone seeking a relaxing retreat with a touch of natural charm, offering an unforgettable experience on Sicily’s southeastern coast.
10Sampieri Beach

Best for: Families, swimming, sunbathing, or taking leisurely walks along the shore
Sampieri Beach, located near the quaint village of Sampieri in southeastern Sicily, is a stunning 2 kilometer stretch of golden sand lapped by the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Its soft sands and gently sloping seabed make it an excellent choice for families with children. One of the beach’s most distinctive features is the Fornace Penna, an abandoned 20th-century brick factory located at the far end of the beach. This striking ruin adds a touch of history and drama to the scenery. While parts of the beach remain wild and undeveloped, there are also sections with lidos offering sun loungers, umbrellas, and other amenities such as restaurants.
The nearby village of Sampieri has all other facilities such as restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it quite convenient beach in Sicily. Easy to access by car, with parking available nearby, the beach is also close to the historic towns of Scicli and Modica, making it an excellent addition to a cultural itinerary.
11Scopello Beach, Trapani

Best for: Small postcard perfect beach
Exuding authentic Mediterranean charm, the quaint hamlet on Scopello was once a tuna-fishing village but is now a tranquil haven with a taste of Sicilian heritage, including the rosy-hued Tonnara di Scopello, which now serves as a charming museum and inn. Whilst the village preserves its traditional ambiance, adorned with rustic stone houses and cobbled streets, it is the beachfront that is the most inviting part of the town.
Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, Scopello’s beach is the perfect spot for basking in the sun and snorkelling in the idyllic coves. Alongside its stunning landscape, Scopello boasts breathtaking underwater scenery and is a popular spot for diving. If you’re in search of a slice of paradise, it is undeniable that Scopello is one of the finest Sicily beaches.
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