Speckled and dotted with some of the world’s most sought after resort towns and beaches, there’s no question that Italy will continue to be the ultimate summer destination. There is nothing like the summer season in Italy and beach culture throughout the country will prove the magic to be real. It’s not always easy to decide which town or beach is the right fit for you but thankfully, each coastal region has something for everyone. America Domani has put together a shortlist of spectacular beaches to visit in the region of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea with a coastline stretching for more than 930 miles.
Scopello, Trapani
Located on the northwest side of Sicily is the rocky province of Trapani, an area so abundant with dramatic and legendary beauty that it inspired Homer to write about it in “The Odyssey.” The area surrounding the beach and its turquoise waters are freckled with tuna-fishing stations that date as far back as the 13th century.
Isola Bella, Taormina
Translating to “beautiful island” in English, Isola Bella is a small island crawling with lush vegetation. Connected to the mainland by a small strip of sand, it is located just minutes away from the historic center of Taormina. The islet is nestled in the bay of a crescent-shaped, pebbled beach dotted with stabilimenti, also known as beach clubs, as well as bars and restaurants.
Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa
The island of Lampedusa is the largest of the Pelagie Islands and is technically closer to North Africa than mainland Sicily. The Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbits’ Beach in English, has waters so blue it’s hard not to believe you haven’t been immediately transported to the Caribbean. The dreamy beach is protected by a 12-hectare nature reserve, which lends the area a rugged and wild feel.
Lungomare di Cefalù
The beach stretching along the coastline of the town of Cefalù is a local hotspot. Overlooked by the town’s ancient buildings, it’s an ideal pick for a family beach getaway. And when the beach gets crowded, which often happens during the summer months, the charming town of Cefalu with its winding streets is great for exploring.
Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, Trapani
The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, translated in English to the “Natural Reserve of the Gypsy”, was Sicily’s first natural reserve. Rampant with rocky cliffs and dense Mediterranean shrub, the path to get to the area’s beach is rugged, but worth the trip for its isolated beaches with crystal clear waters, ideal for snorkeling. As it’s a natural reserve, there are no bathrooms, stores, restaurants, or bars, so be sure to pack accordingly and wear comfortable walking shoes for the trek to and from the beaches.
Asia London Palomba
Asia London Palomba is a trilingual freelance journalist from Rome, Italy. In the past, her work on culture, travel, and history has been published in The Boston Globe, Atlas Obscura, The Christian Science Monitor, and Grub Street, New York Magazine's food section. In her free time, Asia enjoys traveling home to Italy to spend time with family and friends, drinking Hugo Spritzes, and making her nonna's homemade cavatelli.