Best beaches in Sicily

Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach) is without a doubt one of the best sandy beaches in Sicily, and maybe even the world. It can be found on the small island of Lampedusa, the southernmost point of Italy and part of the Sicilian province of Agrigento. The beach’s legendary status is well deserved: it’s a Caribbean-esque stretch of white sand and unfathomably blue water that’s part of a pristine nature reserve.

Also set within a nature reserve is Calamosche Beach, a sheltered bay just south of Noto on Sicily’s east coast. It’s a little slice of heaven with its golden sand, and there’s plenty of space for everyone thanks to its remote location along a trail surrounded by nature. The water is warm, shallow and crystal-clear, making it perfect for snorkelling or just floating about.

Located near Agrigento on the south coast, the unspoilt wilderness of Torre Salsa is a long stretch of honey-coloured sand lapped by gentle waves. The shore slopes down gradually into the azure sea, a perfect spot for safe swimming. Don’t forget your snorkel: there’s marine life in abundance on the seabed and around the rocks.

Another of the best beaches in Sicily for swimming is Marinello, on the northeast coast. It’s a scenic spot with white sand framed against a backdrop of cliff walls draped in greenery. The shallow, placid sea is perfect for a dip, but if you fancy exploring, check out the lakes behind the beach, home to a whole host of birdlife.

San Vito Lo Capo is one of the best places to visit in Sicily for families. The main beach is picture-perfect: a crescent of golden sand lapped by gin-clear water, with a rocky promontory looming majestically in the background. It has Blue Flag status, tons of loungers and umbrellas to rent, and the eateries of the town within spitting distance – everything you need for a fuss-free family day.

In the southwest of the island, San Lorenzo Beach is another of the top beaches in Sicily for families. There’s a long stretch of soft sand where you can either set up camp with your own provisions or rent a lounger at the lidos, which also serve up snacks and drinks. The water in the main section is shallow and impossibly clear, and kids will love hunting for local wildlife around the rocks.

If you’re after the best beaches in Sicily near Catania, La Playa is the place to go. This vast expanse of sand stretches for over 10 miles. The section nearest the city is lined with lidos, and there’s plenty of space for everyone. It’s great for swimming thanks to the gently sloping seabed, and it’s a popular evening spot in summer too, as Catania’s nightlife decamps to the beach.

For something totally different, visit the charming village of San Giovanni Li Cuti. Its striking shoreline consists of black volcanic sand and large rocks, against which waves crash on windy days. The dark sand emphasises the deep blue of the water, which is great for swimming or snorkelling. The town also has a picturesque marina and restaurants serving up local cuisine with a view.

A visit to Palermo is a must on a holiday to Sicily, but it can get hectic. If you need to cool off, make a beeline for Mondello. Just 15-20 minutes north, it’s famed for its beauty thanks to its pristine white sand and turquoise water, which is shallow and perfect for kids. You can hire a boat or try your hand at SUP, windsurfing and more, but for something more sedate, take a walk to admire the Stabilimento Balneare, an Art Nouveau masterpiece.

Also handily near Palermo is Cefalù, a popular seaside destination with a laid-back, authentic feel. The city’s main beach, known as Lungomare, is a gem. The gradually sloping sandy shore makes it a great spot to swim for all ages, and it has Blue Flag status. There are lots of lidos to choose from for beach gear and sustenance, as well as water sports including paddleboarding and surfing.

Visiting Taormina is one of the best things to do in Sicily, and the undisputed highlight is Isola Bella. Surrounded by cliffs that form a majestic backdrop, it’s incredibly picturesque, with the eponymous island standing proud, accessible from the beach via a strip of sand. The shore is pebbly, with a stony seabed that accentuates the aquamarine hue of the water – pack your aqua shoes for a comfortable swimming experience.

Giardini Naxos is a laid-back resort with one of the best beaches in the Taormina area. Over two miles long, the crescent-shaped bay has several different sections. Schisò is a big hit with tourists thanks to its golden sand and the palm-lined promenade dotted with amenities. Further north, the shore starts to turn pebbly at San Giovanni, while the area around Porticciolo Saya offers great snorkelling amongst the rocks.