3 Stunning Sicilian Beaches to Visit

Every year, a plethora of local and international tourists plan their holidays to Sicily. From the more famous provinces of Palermo and Siracusa down to the old towns of Noto and Taormina, the island is brimming with culture and beauty. As the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, it offers a sunny climate throughout the year that is ideal for summer getaways and beach holidays. For those who are planning the latter, there are hundreds of beaches to choose from, but of those, three are must-see - particularly because of the unique qualities and interesting story behind each.

Lungomare di Cefalù

The city of Cefalù, located in the province of Palermo, is one of the most famous tourist attractions on the island due to its many churches and historical sites. The ancient city has many preserved ruins, which continue to fascinate tourists from all over the world. But there is more to see than religious buildings and archaeological sites when going on holidays to Sicily, and to Cefalù in particular. Complementing its rich history evident in the buildings throughout the city, Cefalù also has the sprawling Lungomare Beach. It offers its visitors a magnificent view of the nearby historic buildings, the picturesque fishing village beyond and, most importantly, the most breath-taking sunsets. There are thousands of reasons to visit the wonderful town of Cefalù, but experiencing the beauty of its sandy beach adjacent to the historical sites is definitely on top of the list.

Spiaggia Marinello

Many people’s idea of holidays to Sicily is heading to a secluded site, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds and much closer to nature. Spiaggia Marinello, located in Oliveri in the province of Messina, offers exactly that. Apart from the tranquillity, the most defining feature of the beach is its long strip of fine sand that extends into a little peninsula, creating a surrounding pool of warm waters. Its location also offers a fantastic view of the neighbouring Aeolian Islands.

Spiaggia Vendicari

Noto is well known for being a cultural city, with many palaces, religious buildings and archaeological sites. It was also included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2002. But away from the striking tourist destinations most frequented by visitors on their holidays to Sicily is Spiaggia Vendicari, an uninhabited beach located in the Isle of Vendicari just outside Noto. The beach lies within the Vendicari Nature Reserve and is a secluded paradise set away from the more crowded beaches. Apart from its glorious fine sand and crystal clear waters, the beach also has hidden lagoons to explore. Spiaggia Vendicari is an ideal destination for those who want to experience more of the island's flora and fauna.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect villas for your holidays to Sicily, it can be made so much easier with our help. Our handpicked villas offer distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.