These are the best beach hotels in Sicily to book for a island getaway
Imagine throwing open the windows of your suite to let the salty breeze drift in, rustling the curtains as the soft sound of waves gently fills the room. That's exactly what a stay at one of the best beach hotels in Sicily promises. It might be early morning, with the sun just glinting off the water, or midday when the heat shimmers over the horizon, or even late at night, when the air hangs heavy with sea-scented humidity and the moonlight reflects in the water. Of course, beachfront hotels are as beautiful as they are convenient. Beyond the breathtaking vistas, they are undeniably romantic and offer an attractive ease of slipping straight from bed to sun-lounger, sea swim to spritz, all within steps of your room. Some of Sicily's finest hotels are perched along the much-loved Taormina coastline, while others are tucked into hidden coves near Cefalù or Syracuse. Here is our selection of the best beachfront hotels in Sicily.
For more inspiration on where to stay, visit:
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The best villas in Sicily
The best Airbnbs in Sicily
The best hotels in Italy
The best villas in Italy
The best Airbnbs in Italy
hotelVilla Sant'Andrea, A Belmond Hotel
On the poetic bay of Mazzaro, where dusk hits just right and your morning espresso is best enjoyed on your private balcony, Villa Sant’Andrea is an undeniable charmer. Here, the rhythm of the day is unhurried and indulgent: lazy hours spent stretched out on sun-drenched loungers, refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters, and leisurely games of cards that evoke a timeless Italian summer, are all framed by the serene beauty of the bay. With its recognisable blue-and-white striped umbrellas and secluded private cabanas, each attended by a devoted concierge, the Lido Villeggiatura beach club is the epitome of seaside relaxation. By day, waiters glide gracefully between loungers, offering refreshing granitas and chilled drinks that bring a nostalgic nod to childhood beach holidays. When the sun dips below the horizon, the scene transforms to ensure the magic continues well after the sun sets. Ensure you book a table at Brizza, where just eight tables sit perched on the rocks, for a romantic barefoot dinner under the stars.
Le Calette
This beachfront hotel, nestled on the rugged northern coast of Sicily near the much-adored village of Cefalù, is lovingly restored and family-run. Here, you’ll find the perfect balance between rugged, untouched coves and more curated beach experiences. Wander down a narrow pebble path framed by weathered rocks and vibrant prickly pear cacti to discover Caletta Selvaggia, a tiny, secluded cove with just a few deck chairs and a ladder dipping into the sea. Not far away, at the base of Cefalù’s iconic Rocca and near its historic lighthouse, Caletta Presidiana offers a pebble beach nestled in a serene, sea-carved inlet, complete with a charming marina. For a classic Sicilian beach day, head to Calette Beach in the heart of the gulf, open daily through summer with loungers and umbrellas set against breathtaking natural scenery. The standout, however, is the exclusive Calette Reef Club, a stylish wooden deck with king-sized sunbeds, hot showers, and a lively bar serving cocktails to the soundtrack of chilled beats. Don’t forget to reserve your spot well in advance. Back at the hotel, rooms blend Sicilian craftsmanship with modern elegance, while the onsite restaurants celebrate local flavours with fresh seafood and regional wines.
Hotel Photography srlVerdura Resort
Along the western coast of Sicily, Verdura Resort captures rustic Sicilian charm coupled with understated coastal glamour. Sprawled across 230 hectares of fragrant citrus groves and olive trees, it's set within a world-class 45-hole golf course designed by the renowned Kyle Phillips. Then, amongst the four swimming pools, seven restaurants, four bars, and a fantastic spa signed by Irene Forte, there is a long strip of gold-tinted sandy beach. Thatched parasols, wooden cabanas, and palm trees give it a low-key, barefoot-luxury vibe, while, at the beach bar, refreshing drinks, including icy granita, are just one call away. As the sun begins to set in front of the beach, slowly disappearing into the sea, the atmosphere heightens and you can savour an aperitif or an Aperol Spritz that matches the colours of the sky.
Mario MeleForesteria Planeta
In Menfi, along Sicily’s unspoiled western coast, La Foresteria Planeta is a contemporary countryside retreat by the Planeta family, renowned for their fantastic wines. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, the property offers views that stretch all the way to the sea, which lies just a five-minute drive away. Nestled among golden dunes and shady pine trees is Insula Beach Club, the resort’s private outpost on Lido Fiori, one of the region’s most beautiful beaches. The design blends Italian craftsmanship with Moroccan accents: think woven chairs, bamboo furnishings, and hand-glazed ceramics. The open-air bar is particularly enticing, with its natural wood counter, rattan ceiling lamps, and high-top tables shaded by the pines. In the kitchen, chef Angelo Pumilia serves up a Mediterranean-inspired menu rooted in local Menfi ingredients. Highlights range from delicate ceviche to seafood couscous and a Sicilian spin on the Japanese katsu sando. And, if you’re staying at the hotel, the sunbeds will already be reserved for you and your family.
Mazzarò Sea Palace
Set directly above the crystalline waters of Taormina’s Mazzarò Bay, Mazzarò Sea Palace offers one of the most exclusive coastal stays in eastern Sicily. Rooms and suites are designed for comfort with a Mediterranean sensibility: think crisp linens, pale wood finishes, and terraces that open straight onto the sea. The beach is just a few steps down, where guests can relax on reserved loungers with full beachside service. Guests can head down a few steps to the hotel’s private beach, where reserved loungers and attentive beachside service await. Though Mazzarò Bay can draw a crowd, the hotel offers boat rentals to explore the coast in privacy, an ideal way to swim in secluded coves or visit Isola Bella. After a day in the sun, the rooftop terrace offers an aperitivo with panoramic views. Dining is a highlight here: guests can choose between two restaurants and a beachside bar, each showcasing the refined, modern take on Sicilian cuisine by chef Riccardo Fazio, one of the island’s most promising young talents.
Minareto
Set within the protected Plemmirio Marine Reserve, Minareto offers guests a rare kind of seaside experience where nature, tranquility, and privacy blend seamlessly. The resort is nestled in the Baia delle Latomie, a peaceful cove with soft sand, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters that invite slow swims and long, sun-drenched afternoons. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, a network of private solarium terraces carved into the rock offers a unique vantage point over the sea, complete with sun loungers, umbrellas, and uninterrupted views of Ortigia Island in the distance. Guests can also paddleboard along the shore, take boat trips to hidden coves like the nearby Pillirina, or book a floating massage for a spa moment like no other. The hotel itself is a cluster of elegant villas and suites surrounded by lush gardens and the rooftop restaurant Terrazza Plemmirio offers delicious seafood-based cuisine under the shelter of the palm trees.
Vittorio SciosiaLa Plage Resort
Hidden among tall pines and volcanic rock, La Plage Resort offers the closest possible stay to the iconic Isola Bella. Sleek, minimalist bungalows and suites are scattered throughout lush greenery, many with outdoor jacuzzis and terraces. Nestled within a protected natural park, the beach, lined with polished pebbles, unfolds directly in front of the resort and is set up with stylish white loungers, parasols, towel service, and full-day beachside dining. Guests can order from a curated menu created by the resort’s chefs, all delivered straight to their sunbed by attentive staff. Come sunset, the atmosphere shifts effortlessly into aperitivo mode, with signature cocktails and Sicilian finger foods served against the backdrop of golden skies. For a more refined culinary experience, head to Pietra Marina, the resort’s sea-facing restaurant, where Chef's seasonal menu celebrates the best of Sicily’s land and sea. All just steps from your room.
