The fairytale island of Sicily is the product of centuries of natural forces. Each town has its own charm: a Saracen bridge and an ancient Norman castle, a majestic Etna volcano and stunning beaches... Beach lovers will find an amazing variety. For those interested in history, sightseeing and wine, there is also something to see.
Every year, thousands of tourists come here to spend their holidays on the island. Thousands of tourists come here every year to fall in love with Sicilian beaches forever. We have compiled a list of the best beaches in Sicily for you, and by clicking on the links, you can find additional information and book a hotel near the chosen beach.
"Black" beaches
Walking along the snow-white sandy coastline, you can reach a black stone beach, and after a couple of kilometers to a shore covered in pebbles. The black beaches are the most exotic. The sand is a result of its proximity to the famous volcano Etna, where time and elements have crushed the volcanic lava into sand. From Catania to Acireale, the entire northern coast is covered with black sand. By the way, black beaches can also be found on the Aeolian Islands.
Sandy beaches
Beach lovers who still prefer the soft, dazzling white sand can find it in several places: the beach at San Vito Lo Capo (accessible both from Palermo and Trapani), in Tindari and Taormina, and of course near Syracuse.
Pebble beaches
For all its popularity and exoticism of black and white beaches, Sicily is still famous for its pebble beaches. The sizes and varieties of pebbles polished by the sea. On a sandy beach, the bottom is often muddy, but where there are pebbles, the water is so clear that every pebble is visible at a glance. The most popular beach is the one near Palermo. Stony beaches can also be found in Achireal and Onyina. For comfort, it's worth buying special beach slippers that allow you to walk safely on the hot rocks and sand.
The best beaches in Sicily
Most of the sandy beaches are located in the southern part of the island. The bottom is gentle and flat, so it warms up well and there are no cold currents.
Giardini Naxos
Giardini Naxos is the most popular sandy beach on the island and is located near Taormina. The beach is large, with paid and free areas. Nearby is Letoyanni, a resort with a pebbly beach. You can book a hotel near this beach here.
La Playa
La Playa is a city beach in Catania. In a port city, it is rare to find such a well-furnished beach. It starts within the city and stretches for several kilometers. See hotels here.
Beaches in Syracuse
Beaches in Syracuse. This is the city beach at the Grand Hotel Minareto, 3 km from the city. Syracuse has an Arethusa promenade, but it is forbidden to swim there.
"White Fountains"
"White Fountains" is the resort of Fontane Bianche with snow-white sand. The place is very picturesque and crowded with tourists in season.
Noto Marina
Noto Marina is a luxurious long and well-equipped beach near the town of Noto. Apart from umbrella and sunbed rental services, the beach is free. From here it's convenient to architectural and other attractions. Here you'll find hotels close to the beach.
San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo is a cozy free beach, near Noto, spread out in a wide strip surrounded by the greenery of the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Hotels at this link.
Spinazza
Spinazza is a large sandy beach with a good infrastructure in the beautiful village of Marzamemi. Not only tourists love the place, but Italians themselves also come here for holidays. Find hotels near the beach here.
Portopalo di Capo Passero
Portopalo di Capo Passero is the southernmost beach on the island. The first part is right on the coast and the second part 5 minutes away, on a small island. Nearby is an ancient Spanish castle, accessible to tourists. .
Isola delle Correnti
Isola delle Correnti is situated between two seas: the Ionian and the Mediterranean. The high waves attract kite and windsurfing enthusiasts.
Carratois
Carratois is a prestigious beach near the town of Portopalo di Capo Passero. Famous tourists (e.g. fashion designer Giorgio Armani) come to this picturesque place for the healing white clay.
Santa Maria del Focallo
Santa Maria del Focallo with its 7 km long sand dunes is the ideal place for a family holiday. It can be reached by bus or car from Pozzalo or Ispica.
Pozzallo
Pozzallo is a Mediterranean port with picturesque cliffs and two beaches within the city limits, there's delicious fruit and plenty of entertainment. You can find hotels near the beach here.
Marina di Modica
Marina di Modica is a small resort town with a good infrastructure, beautiful free beaches and an interesting underwater world. See hotels near this beach here.
Sampieri
Sampieri is a town that grew out of a fishing village, with the white sand beach of the same name stretching for 3 km. In summer they often host open-air parties. You can find a hotel to stay in at this link.
Marina di Ragusa
Marina di Ragusa is a prestigious beach with all the facilities of luxury villas, outdoor pools, golf courses, restaurants and marinas. It is accessible by bus or by car from Ragusa. Here you can find hotel options.
Trapani
Trapani is a major western port with ferries to the Aegadian Islands, a beach lover's paradise. The sandy strip of beach is just outside the town. Accommodation to suit all tastes can be found here.
San Vito Lo Capo
San Vito Lo Capo is a beautiful, long and clean beach next to the Riserva dello Zingaro reserve in northern Sicily. The best hotels are at this link.
Castellammare del Golfo
Castellammare del Golfo is a wide, sandy beach near the town of the same name. It is easily accessible from Palermo. You can find accommodation here.
The Egadi
The Egadi and Lipari islands with black volcanic lava beaches, active volcanoes and thermal springs.
The beaches of Sicily can be enjoyed all year round, but it is a pity that it is impossible to see all the delights of the island in one trip.