Best beaches in Cefalù

Top of the list of the best beaches in Cefalù for swimming is the city’s main beach, known as Lungomare. The sandy shore makes getting in a breeze, and it slopes down gently into the water for a safe bathing experience. The beach has Blue Flag status thanks to the cleanliness of its water, so the visibility is excellent if you’re interested in getting under the surface and meeting the local marine life. The facilities are great too, with a promenade of cafes and bars lining the shore and free public showers available.

A short drive from Cefalù, Torre Conca (aka Pollina Beach) is another great spot for a dip. Sheltered by the headland, the bay boasts exceptionally calm, clear water. There’s plenty of space for everyone on the vast expanse of sand, and there are lots of amenities including free showers. Beach bars offer snacks and drinks, and there are restaurants with panoramic terraces at the northern end. Last but not least, you can rent pedal boats in summer for the ultimate lazy day activity.

If you’re on the hunt for beach clubs in Cefalù, Lungomare is the place to go. The shore is lined with at least half a dozen of these clubs, known as lidos in Italian. Here, you can hire out sun loungers and umbrellas for the day – the price varies depending on the season. With that, you’ll get access to changing rooms, showers and toilets. While you’re there, you can treat yourself to a refreshing drink or a bite to eat at the snack bar, or even have it brought right to your lounger.

Most of the lidos on Lungomare Beach are quite unpretentious and family-oriented, but if you’re in the mood to party, Lido Maljk is the one for you. Complete with its own pool and an impressively stocked bar, it brings the club vibes with party tunes that continue late into the night.

Kalura Beach is about a 40-minute walk along the coast from Cefalù, and this remoteness makes it a great option if you’re looking to escape the summertime crowds. The small bay has a sense of seclusion thanks to the cliffs that rise around it, forming a scenic backdrop. The shore is rocky, so it’s a good idea to wear water shoes when going for a dip – a snorkel is also recommended, as there are loads of fish to spot around the rocks. There are no facilities directly on the beach, so it’s a good idea to pack your own provisions or dine in the city centre before/after.

Settefrati is another quiet beach near Cefalù that makes a wonderful spot to get away from it all. Accessed via a 10-minute trail from the nearest car park, the beach is free of amenities, so it’s just you, a few other beachgoers, and the beautifully clear water for company. The sandy shore makes for comfy sunbathing and slopes down gradually into the sea, where you can get up close and personal with the sea life around the seven rock formations that give the beach its name.

For families on a Sicily holiday, Mazzaforno Beach is a must. Just a 10-minute drive from Cefalù, it’s a beautiful sandy cove nestled among lushly wooded hills. The bay’s sheltered location makes the sea very calm and shallow, so it’s perfect for little ones to splash around in. You can rent loungers and umbrellas for maximum comfort, and there are beach bars to keep your energy levels up after a swim. Kids will love renting pedalos and exploring the rocky extremities of the cove in search of local wildlife.

Sant’Ambrogio Beach is another top spot for families near Cefalù. It’s long and quiet, giving kids plenty of room to spread out and play. The shore is a mix of large pebbles and sand, while the sea here is placid and shallow, with excellent visibility. There are lidos offering all the supplies you need to keep the family fed and watered, plus lifeguards on duty for peace of mind.

One of the best things to do in Sicily is water sports, and Lungomare Beach has plenty on offer. At the northern end of the beach, Eclipse offers electric SUP rental, allowing you to cruise around with minimal effort, as well as step paddle, a novel approach where you power the board with your feet. Located about halfway along the beach, Piranha also offers SUP as well as surf lessons, guided snorkelling, and a summer camp for kids – what more could you want?

For adrenaline junkies in search of waves, Salinelle Beach is the place to go. This long, sandy stretch is frequently windy and therefore enjoys modest but consistent waves, making it the perfect spot for surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing and more. The beach is home to a couple of schools offering lessons and courses to get you out there safely, with all equipment provided. When it’s time to kick back and relax afterwards, there’s a beach club right nearby for some hard-earned refreshment.