Identifying the best beach in Taormina shouldn’t be difficult; its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters attract visitors worldwide. The beaches in this charming Sicilian town offer a mix of natural beauty.
Isola Bella Beach: The Jewel of Taormina
Depending on the tide, Isola Bella, an island or peninsula, connects to Taormina through a sand strip and forms part of a Nature Reserve. You can sunbathe on the small beach, bathe in crystal water, or visit the evocative island covered in Mediterranean shrubs, concealing an ancient fortress.
To fully enjoy the charm of this location, consider staying nearby in one of our handpicked villas that combine elegance with proximity to Taormina’s coast.
Mazzarò Beach
The small beach of Mazzarò is to the north of Isola Bella and is one of the best-loved beaches in this area. It is pebbly and has both beach resorts and free areas. Visitors can reach Mazzarò Beach by the spectacular cableway that starts in Taormina.
Giardini Naxos Beach
Giardini Naxos is a stretch of coast south of Taormina, including several beaches. It is the longest stretch of beach in the area, alternating between sand and pebbles. Lush Mediterranean scrub surrounds the golden beach, boasting beach resorts and free places. With its many clubs and restaurants, Giardini Naxos is known for its vibrant nightlife.
San Marco Beach
San Marco Beach in Calatabiano lies between the mouth of the river Alcantara and that of the river Fiumefreddo. It is a pebbly beach, one of the most beautiful in eastern Sicily, just a step away from Mount Etna. Several kilometers long, it is lined by acacias and eucalypts, with citrus fruit plantations stretching down to the beach. The sea is blue and clean, and the only settlement is the small tourist village of San Marco. Part of the beach is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas.
Villagonia Beach
Villagonia Beach is a rocky and gravelly bay right next to Giardini Naxos, at the feet of Taormina, very close to the train station Taormina-Giardini.
Spisone Beach
Spisone Beach is on Taormina Bay, with paid establishments and several free areas. It is evocative because of the stone islets poking up from the water. The sand comprises minuscule stones, and the sea is turquoise.
Mazzeo Beach
Mazzeo Beach lies between Mazzarò and Letojanni. It is wider and has finer sand than the other beaches in the area.
Letojanni Beach
One of the best-known beaches on Sicily’s eastern coast is certainly Letojanni, a vast expanse of sand with Taormina’s promontory in the background and a crystal-clear sea before it. Para-glider aficionados love the wind that caresses this magnificent beach. Here, you will find private establishments and stretches of free beach.
Sant’Alessio Beach
The Castle of Sant’Alessio Siculo rises a few kilometers away from the homonymous beach on a promontory overlooking the sea. The beach has soft sand, and you may bathe right under the castle in the small bay or go a little way out to sea with a dinghy or a paddleboat to discover magnificent landscapes.
Taormina Beach Activities
Visitors can indulge in various activities, including snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. Numerous restaurants and bars are nearby, where they can enjoy local cuisine.
Taormina – Italy’s Most Refined Seaside Destination
Taormina and its surroundings offer stunning beaches that complement the luxurious experience of staying in one of the luxury villas in Sicily curated by Scent of Sicily, making it an ideal destination for your next getaway. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family holiday, you’ll find exclusive accommodations and unforgettable coastal views.
Discover the full selection of handpicked properties across the island and enjoy privacy, elegance, and comfort in the most scenic areas.
Want to explore more of the area? From the ancient Greek theatre to panoramic coastal trails, there’s so much to see beyond the beaches.
FAQ Beaches in the Taormina Area
Which beaches are the most popular near Taormina?
The most popular are Isola Bella, Mazzarò, and Spisone. Each beach has its character: Isola Bella is small and scenic, Mazzarò is easy to access and stylish, and Spisone offers comfort and space.
Are the beaches in Taormina suitable for children and families?
Yes. Beaches like Spisone, Giardini Naxos, and Letojanni are perfect for families. They have shallow waters, lidos with facilities, and areas with fine or pebbly sand that are safe and comfortable.
Is the sea in this area calm and clean?
The sea is usually clear, calm, and swimmable, especially around Isola Bella and Mazzarò, which are natural coves. Most beaches have clean water and are suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
What's the difference between Taormina's beaches and those nearby?
- Taormina's beaches, like Mazzarò and Spisone, are smaller and more scenic, often with pebbles and cliffs. Letojanni and Giardini Naxos, just outside Taormina, are broader and sandy, which is ideal if you prefer more space and amenities.
How much does a lido cost in Taormina?
Lido prices in Taormina and nearby beaches vary by season and location. On average, expect to pay between €20 and €35 per day for two sunbeds and an umbrella. Rates are generally higher in July and August, especially at the more exclusive spots.
At Tao Beach Club, prices can reach €80 to €150 per day, depending on the beach row and time of year. More accessible options like Lido Il Delfino typically charge around €30 in spring and €50 during peak summer for a similar setup.
During high season, a week at a mid-range lido can cost between €200 and €215, slightly higher than in previous years.
What are the best times to visit the beaches in Taormina for optimal weather and fewer crowds?
The best time to visit the beaches in Taormina is from late May to early July and again in September. These months provide enjoyable weather, warm sea temperatures, and fewer crowds compared to the busy season in August.
Pros
- Clear skies and ideal temperatures
- Quieter beaches compared to August
- Lower lido and accommodation prices
- Excellent conditions for swimming and excursions
Cons
- May sea temperatures can be slightly cool
- Early June may include school groups or events
- Fewer public transport options outside peak season
How do the beach facilities and amenities vary between different beaches?
Mazzarò and Spisone offer lidos with sunbeds, umbrellas, bars, and restaurants. Isola Bella has fewer services due to its protected status, while Letojanni and Giardini Naxos combine free zones and beach clubs.
Are there any recommended activities or excursions from the beaches that visitors should consider?
Yes. You can join boat tours from Taormina's beaches, snorkeling at Isola Bella, or take a day trip to Mount Etna. You'll also find coastal walks and local trattorias within easy reach.