The best beaches in Sicily and where to stay near them

The southern Italian island of Sicily is an idyllic destination that offers much in the way of attractions. A large variety of beautiful cities (including very lively options in Palermo and Catania), craggy volcanic coastlines, and breathtaking views of the ancient world, such as those at the unmissable Greek Theatre of Taormina, are only some of the main reasons visitors continue to be drawn to Sicily year after year. Moreover, the opportunity to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine—with staples ranging from hearty pasta dishes to delicious wood-fired pizza and incredible fresh seafood—is another enticing prospect.

The island is also home to some of the most stunning beaches in Europe and an exclusive selection of luxury hotels sits along the Sicilian coast. If you are planning a summer trip, seeking out the lovely sea and the sunshine, this article will present you with some of the best beaches in Sicily alongside first-class beach hotels near them where you´ll be sure to enjoy an unforgettable vacation. It’s very important to choose the right place to stay!

Catania

Catania, an ancient port city on the eastern coast of Sicily, is the island’s second-largest city and a joy to visit. Its attractions include exquisite views of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest volcano, and the Piazza del Duomo, the city’s large central square, which is filled with memorable architectural marvels. All in all, Catania is a peaceful yet lively city that features a wide range of great restaurants and fish markets and displays stunning Baroque buildings as well as fascinating ancient sites. Catania it’s one of the best options for beach towns in Sicily to stay. They will surely win your heart from the moment you see them.

The following are some of our favorite beaches in Catania:

La Piramidi Beach

Le Piramidi Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a brief lull from your tourist activities. Not only does the beach feature beautiful golden sand and clear waters in a peaceful and quiet environment with Mount Etna on the background but it also offers all the equipment you could wish for, ranging from chaise longues and sunbeds to showers and changing rooms. You’ll also find several bars within the beach as well as a restaurant serving traditional Sicilian dishes. Additional services and facilities at Le Piramidi include guarded parking, a solarium, and a beach volleyball court.

Playa di Catania

Playa di Catania is one of Catania’s most iconic beaches. It’s an unparalleled place from where to enjoy the sunset, with its beautiful long stretch of sand and crystal-clear waters on one side and Mount Edna looming large on the other. It’s very easy to access and, thanks to its gradual bottom, is a great beach to visit with the entire family, including your kids. Playa di Catania also offers many convenient facilities and services for all kinds of visitors, including umbrellas, sun beds, restaurants, bars, volleyball and tennis courts, and even nightclubs where you can go dancing.

The NH Catania Parco Degli Aragonesi is a luxury hotel located next to the coast, but very well-connected to the Catania city center and the airport. It’s just an 8-minute walk away from La Piramidi Beach and an 11-minute walk from Playa di Catania. This carefully designed hotel also features 124 rooms with private balconies where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Playa di Catania. In addition, a private pool offering food and drinks, a fully equipped gym, and several outdoor areas and large meeting rooms are available at this 4-star hotel. Come and share your Italian adventure with us and don’t forget to try our tasty Mediterranean cuisine with its very special Sicilian touch.

Palermo

Palermo is Sicily’s capital and, being over two thousand years old, it offers a unique historical charm. With splendid architectural treasures—like the 12th-century Palermo Cathedral and the neoclassical Teatro Massimo—and a vibrant culture that can be experienced in its many fantastic museums and restaurants, this city is a perfect travel destination whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a more extended holiday. Palermo is also, without a doubt, home to some of the best beaches in Sicily. Their sheer beauty and the city’s amazing year-round weather make it a can’t-miss choice for an unforgettable beach vacation.

We leave you with some of the top beaches in Palermo:

Spiaggia Dell'Arenella

Spiaggia dell’Arenella is one of the most popular beaches in Palermo and is no wonder why. It offers its visitors a peaceful atmosphere and gorgeously warm weather, especially during the summer. Its waters are also very clean, making it an ideal option for visiting with the entire family and enjoying relaxing swims. Spiaggia dell’Arenella is a pebble beach and is very easy to access, whether you are driving or taking the bus. There’s plenty of parking available nearby as well as dining options.

Spiaggia Vergine Maria

Nestled in the middle of a long row of stunning rocky spurs, Spiaggia Vergine Maria features a spacious coastline with beautiful turquoise water. The beach bars serving fresh seafood dishes along with the beach’s pleasantly warm water make for an ideal combination for spending an enjoyable day and recharging your batteries. You can also go for a peaceful walk through its breakwater and enjoy the incredible views at dawn or sunset. Spiaggia Vergine Maria is quite popular and very easy to reach, with parking available directly on the beach.

The NH Palermo, a modern 4-star hotel, is located in one of the most convenient areas of the city. It’s near many of Palermo’s top attractions and within a 20-minute drive from either of the previously mentioned beaches. The hotel features 226 spacious and comfortable rooms with top amenities as well as a first-rate fitness facility. Moreover, a state-of-the-art outdoor swimming pool is available for guests who wish to take a quick dip after a long beach day or to relax while having a refreshing drink. Afterwards, they can enjoy the hotel’s delicious offering of national and international gastronomic specialties surrounded by a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying long-awaited days off or visiting for important business appointments, this hotel has everything you need to have a pleasant stay and visit some of the best beaches in Sicily.

Taormina

With its gorgeous beaches with white pebbles and clear turquoise waters, Taormina is arguably one of the best beach towns in Sicily. The city’s located on a hilltop on Sicily’s eastern coast, an incredibly picturesque setting, ideal for those who fancy driving and boat trips. Besides its exceptional natural sights, Taormina also offers countless more attractions including ancient sites like the famous Teatro Greco, stunning displays of Baroque architecture, and a charming cultural life that includes lovely boutiques and amazing restaurants. It’s definitely one of Sicily’s treasures and a fantastic choice for a beach holiday.

Here are some of our favorite beaches in Taormina:

Playa de Isola Bella

Playa de Isola Bella, in a small island right off Taormina, is one of the most beautiful and alluring corners not just in the city but in all of Sicily. It’s a pebbled beach that features awe-striking crystal-clear waters and amazing views of the sunset from the top of its marvelous cliffs. Visitors delight not just in Isola Bella’s picturesque views but also in the culinary offering at the many restaurants and bars in the area. Paddle surfing and snorkeling are some of the activities that are available at the beach.

Spiaggia La Pigna

An exclusive beach located between two majestic capes, Spiaggia La Pigna rewards its visitors with bright golden sand and unbeatable spots where to sunbathe and relax. It’s very conveniently connected to the Taormina city center via cable car and features a host of great services including showers, changing rooms, and a wonderful restaurant serving traditional Sicilian dishes. You can also practice water sports at Spiaggia La Pigna like scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddle surfing.

The NH Collection Taormina is a stylish 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, right next to the historic district of Taormina and within a 20-minute drive from these two beaches. The hotel mainly features double rooms with king-size beds, ideal for couples, which offer unbeatable views of the sea and the city. Additional beds and sofa beds are also available if you’re visiting with your family or with a group of friends. The hotel also has a first-class fitness room and an outdoor pool as well as a luxurious spa where guests can relax at any time of day. And, last but not least, the hotel’s restaurant, offering succulent Sicilian cuisine, will give the finishing touch to your Italian adventure. Pay us a visit and find out why we are considered one of the best beach hotels in Sicily.

Wait no longer! Get in touch with us and book your stay with NH Hotels! If you are thinking of taking a trip to one of the beach towns in Sicily, we have a range of excellent accommodations where you can spend quality time in idyllic coastal towns like Catania, Palermo, and Taormina.

Make your choice from the wonderful beaches we have highlighted throughout this article and book a convenient accommodation at one of the NH beach hotels in Sicily. Pack your suitcase and don’t forget your swimming gear: we are waiting for you in paradise!