Updated January 2026
I visited Taormina last June after months of seeing it all over TikTok and White Lotus. The photos don’t lie.
This hilltop Sicilian town delivers spectacular beaches, crystal-clear Mediterranean water, and views that’ll fill your camera roll fast.
But here’s what nobody tells you before you go: Taormina itself has no beaches. The town sits 200 meters above sea level. You’ll need to travel down to the coast — and that journey is part of the magic.
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Photo by Ruth Troughton on Unsplash
TLRD: Don't have time to read the full article? Here are my top finds for things you will need to book
Where Exactly Is Taormina and How Do You Get There?
Taormina sits on Sicily’s eastern coast, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Messina and 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of Catania. The town overlooks the Ionian Sea with Mount Etna visible to the south.
The nearest airport is Catania-Fontanarossa, about an hour’s drive away.
Getting from Catania Airport to Taormina
We rented a car at Catania Airport through Sicily by Car. I’m glad we did.
Driving gives you flexibility for beach hopping and day trips. Just know that driving in Sicily can be intense. We paid extra for full insurance coverage.
Without a car, you have two options:
Direct bus: Interbus runs from Catania Airport to Taormina. The trip takes 60-90 minutes and costs around €8-€10.
Train: Take the Alibus from the airport to Catania Centrale station, then catch a regional train to Taormina-Giardini. From there, take a local bus or taxi up to Taormina town. Total journey: 90-120 minutes.
From there, you can opt for a car rental, a direct bus, or even a scenic train ride to reach Taormina. Each option offers its own unique views of Sicily’s stunning landscapes, making the journey as memorable as the destination.
When Should You Visit Taormina Beaches?
The best time for Taormina beaches is June or September for fewer crowds, warm swimming conditions, and better prices. July and August offer peak sun but extreme crowds and heat.
We visited in June and the water was still a bit cold compared to July-August, but the trade-off was worth it.
Avoid July and August unless you love crowds, peak prices, and temperatures hitting 35°C (95°F).
Also check out Best Beaches in Sicily.
Weather and Water Temperature Taormina Beaches
Summer temperatures in Taormina average 25-30°C (77-86°F) with water temperatures around 24-26°C (75-79°F) in July-August. June water temps sit around 22-23°C (72-73°F).
Peak swimming season runs June through September.
May and October work for hardy swimmers who don’t mind cooler water (around 19-21°C / 66-70°F).
Photo by Maria Bobrova on Unsplash
Also check out Best Beaches in Sicily.
Where to Stay Near Beaches in sicily Taormina
Choosing the right area to stay in Taormina can enhance your beach holiday experience. For those looking to be in the heart of it all, staying near Corso Umberto I offers easy access to both the beaches and the town’s vibrant nightlife and historical sites.
If you seek tranquility, consider accommodations near Isola Bella or Mazzarò – areas known for their stunning views and serene atmosphere.
How Do You Actually Get to the Beaches from Taormina?
Taormina’s beaches sit 200 meters below the hilltop town. You have three options: cable car (funivia), bus, or taxi.
The Taormina Cable Car (Funivia)
The cable car is hands-down the best way down.
Location: Via Luigi Pirandello 22, just 200 meters from Corso Umberto near Porta Messina
Cost (2026):
- Round trip: €10
- One way: €6
- Day pass: €20
- Weekly pass (non-residents): €85
Hours:
- Summer (May 16-Oct 14): 8am-1:30am
- Winter (Oct 15-May 15): 8am-8pm
- Runs every 15 minutes
The ride takes 2 minutes and drops you at Mazzarò. From there, Isola Bella is a 5-minute walk.
Views from the cable car are stunning. Grab a window spot if you can.
Bus from Taormina to Beaches
Local buses run from Via Luigi Pirandello to Mazzarò, Spisone, Letojanni, and Giardini Naxos.
Tickets cost €1.50-€2 each way.
Buses run less frequently than the cable car, especially on Sundays.
Taxi from Taormina to Beaches
A taxi from Taormina town to Mazzarò or Isola Bella costs €15-€20.
Not worth it when the cable car exists and costs €10 round trip.
Walking from Taormina to the Beaches
You can walk down via a path behind the Panoramic Hotel.
It takes 35-40 minutes down, 50+ minutes back up.
The walk back up in summer heat is brutal. We tried it once. Never again.
Best Taormina Beach Hotels for Families
Some of the top hotels for families in Taormina, Sicily, based on the search results, include:
- Hotel Villa Belvedere: This hotel offers family-friendly accommodations and is well-rated for its service and amenities.
- Mazzarò Sea Palace – VRetreats: Known for its beautiful location by the sea, this hotel provides a comfortable stay for families.
- Hotel Villa Ducale: This hotel offers spacious rooms and a panoramic view, making it a suitable choice for families.
- Hotel Villa Carlotta: With its intimate atmosphere and sea views, this hotel can be a good option for families seeking a relaxing stay.
- Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare: This hotel, part of the ultra-high-end Belmond hotel group, offers a warm and intimate feel, suitable for families seeking a luxurious experience.
- Splendid Hotel Taormina:
These hotels provide a range of family-friendly accommodations, from comfortable stays to luxurious experiences, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Photo by Booking.com
Taormina’s Most Beautiful Beach: Isola Bella
Isola Bella is often hailed as the jewel in Taormina’s crown. This tiny island, connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of beach, is not just the most beautiful but also the most iconic. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
The best way to get to Isola Bella Beach from Taormina is by taking the cable car, which is just a few minutes walk from the beach. The cable car provides a spectacular and convenient way to reach the beach, offering stunning views along the way.
Another option is the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour, which stops at established points along the route and brings tourists to Isola Bella. Additionally, a boat tour from Giardini Naxos covers most of the coast around Isola Bella, providing the opportunity to swim and enjoy the crystal-clear waters around the island.
Restaurants near Iso Bella Beach
- Ristorante Elvezia: A restaurant on the shore of the stunning Isola Bella, offering Italian and seafood dishes.
- Delfino: An Italian restaurant located near Isola Bella Beach.
- Villa Antonio: A restaurant in Taormina, offering a beautiful setting and located near Isola Bella.
- Villa Carlotta Restaurant: Another restaurant in Taormina, located near Isola Bella.
- Beach Bar at La Plage Resort: Directly on the beach of Isola Bella, the Beach Bar offers ice cream, fruit smoothies, and cocktails, providing a relaxing setting for beachgoers.
Photo by Marco A. Faccini on Unsplash
Mazzarò: A Spectacular Seaside Escape
Just north of Isola Bella, Mazzarò beach is nestled in a serene bay, offering a more intimate beach experience. One of the most popular beaches in the area, it’s accessible by a spectacular cable railway from Taormina, providing breathtaking views as you descend towards the shore.
Mazzarò’s charm lies in its small size and the crystal-clear waters, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
To get to Mazzarò Beach from Taormina, you can take the Taormina cable car, which provides a convenient and scenic route to the beach. The cable car has two entrances, one close to the parking lot of the Taormina cable car and the other not far from the main road.
The ride offers great views of the rocky landscape and sea, and tickets cost €3 each way or €10 for a day ticket. Taxis also operate frequently between Mazzarò and Taormina, with the 10-minute drive costing at least €1.
Restaurants near Mazzaro Beach
Some of the restaurants and cafes near Mazzarò Beach in Taormina include:
- Ristorante del Lido La Pigna: Offers a shuttle service from/to Taormina town to the lido and provides sun loungers, sunshades, changing cabins, and toilets.
- il Barcaiolo: A restaurant located near Mazzarò Beach, offering a dining experience with a view of the bay.
- Agua de Mar: Another dining option near Mazzarò Beach, providing a location for visitors to enjoy food and drinks with a view of the sea.
- Blum: A restaurant located in the bay of Mazzarò, offering a unique and magical atmosphere with a terrace overlooking the bay and the private beach.
- Da Giovanni: A restaurant located in Mazzarò, offering a dining experience near the beach.
These options provide a range of dining experiences, from traditional Sicilian cuisine to contemporary dining with beautiful views, allowing visitors to enjoy food and drinks near Mazzarò Beach.
Photo by Mick Tinbergen on Unsplash
Also check out Top Beaches in Sicily.
Giardini Naxos: The Longest Beach Near Taormina
To the south of Taormina lies Giardini Naxos, boasting the longest beach in the area. This shore is a beautiful blend of fine sand and pebbles, set against a backdrop of lush Mediterranean flora.
Giardini Naxos caters to all beach preferences, offering both free beach areas for those who love to lay their towel directly on the sand and well-equipped lidos for visitors seeking comfort and amenities.
How to get to Giardini Naxos
To get to Giardini Naxos, you can consider the following transportation options:
- From Catania:By bus: There are buses available from Catania to Giardini Naxos, and the journey takes about 37 minutes, with the cost being around €4.
- From Taormina:By bus: You can reach Giardini Naxos from Taormina by bus. The nearest bus stop to Giardini Naxos is a 30-minute walk from the Taormina-Giardini Naxos train station.
Some Restaurants near Giardino Naxos
- Da Pippo Lupo di Mare
- Gambrinus
- Cafe O’Neil
- A Putia
- Osteria da Rita
- La Lanterna
- IL Covo Ristorante-Pizzeria
- Gourmet 32
Beaches in Taormina Sicily Accessibility
Wondering if Taormina’s beaches are free? The answer is yes and no. While there are public beaches like Mazzarò and Spisone where you can lay your towel on the sand without a fee, many of Taormina’s beaches are managed by beach clubs that charge for entry, sunbeds, and umbrellas. However, the amenities and services provided make them worth the price for many visitors.
Hidden Gems and Public Beaches in Taormina Sicily
For those seeking a more secluded spot, Taormina does not disappoint. Hidden beaches like Spisone offer a quieter alternative to the more popular spots. Meanwhile, public beaches provide a glimpse into the local beach culture, free from the trappings of commercialization.
Spisone Beach is a popular coastal destination located near Taormina on the eastern coast of Sicily. The beach is known for its smooth sand and convenient bay, making it an ideal location for swimming. Unlike some other beaches in the area, Spisone Beach does not have large stones in the water, allowing for a more comfortable swimming experience.
Additionally, the beach offers both paid and free sections, providing options for visitors with different preferences. Spisone Beach is accessible from the A18 motorway exit of Taormina, making it convenient for travelers to reach.
The parking situation at Spisone Beach is limited. According to the information, there is no dedicated parking at the beach. However, being located near the A18 motorway exit of Taormina, visitors can explore nearby paid parking options or consider using public transportation to reach the beach.
It’s advisable to plan for parking in advance, especially during peak times, to ensure a smooth visit to Spisone Beach.
Beach Clubs: The Luxe Side of Taormina
For a touch of luxury, Taormina’s beach clubs offer exclusive amenities, from elegant sunbeds to gourmet dining by the sea. Lido La Pigna and Lido Copacabana are just a couple of spots where you can enjoy the high life, Sicilian style.
What Makes Taormina So Special?
Taormina combines dramatic coastal beauty with 2,000+ years of history, from its 3rd-century BC Greek Theatre to medieval streets and Baroque churches. Mount Etna provides a stunning backdrop.
But honestly? The beaches seal the deal.
The Ancient Theatre hosts concerts and performances all summer with the sea as a backdrop.
Corso Umberto is perfect for evening strolls, aperitivo, and people-watching.
The views from Madonna della Rocca or Castelmola (the village above Taormina) are breathtaking.
And yes, White Lotus season 2 was filmed here. You can see why.
Is Taormina Expensive?
Yes. Taormina is Sicily’s most expensive destination. Expect to pay double what you’d pay in Catania.
But it’s still cheaper than the Amalfi Coast or Paris.
Average costs (2026):
- Pasta dish in nice restaurant: €14-€18
- Fish main course: €20+
- Cable car round trip: €10
- Beach club (umbrella + 2 sunbeds): €25-€40
- Taxi to beach: €15-€20
- Beer: €5-€7
- Gelato: €3-€5
Money-saving tips:
- Rent your car in Catania, not Taormina (seriously cheaper)
- Buy weekly cable car pass if staying 4+ days (€85)
- Mix beach club days with free beach days
- Eat at restaurants away from Corso Umberto
- Visit in June or September for lower prices
- What Should You Know Before You Go?
- Taormina beaches are pebble beaches, not sand (except Giardini Naxos). Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet.
- The walk from town to beaches isn’t feasible in summer heat. Take the cable car.
- Book beach clubs ahead in July-August. They fill up.
- Bring cash. Some beach clubs and small restaurants don’t take cards.
- July-August crowds are intense. Really intense. Book everything early or visit shoulder season.
- The cable car can have long lines in peak season. Plan accordingly.
- You need at least 3-4 days to properly enjoy Taormina beaches without rushing.
- The Bottom Line on Taormina Beaches
- Taormina delivers some of Sicily’s most beautiful coastal scenery with excellent beaches accessible from a charming hilltop town.
- Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, July-August crowds are overwhelming.
- But the combination of crystal-clear water, dramatic coastline, ancient history, and mountain backdrop creates something special.
- I’d return tomorrow if I could.
Also check out Is Sicily Safe and Best Catania Beaches for Families and Navigating Sicily Airports
FAQ About Taormina Beaches
Does Taormina have sandy beaches?
Most Taormina beaches are pebble beaches. For sandy beaches, head to Giardini Naxos (15-20 minutes south by bus) which alternates between sand and pebbles.
How much does the Taormina cable car cost?
The cable car (funivia) costs €10 round trip or €6 one way as of 2026. Day passes cost €20. Weekly passes cost €85 for non-residents.
Which is the best beach in Taormina?
Isola Bella is the most beautiful and iconic, Mazzarò is the most convenient (direct cable car access), and Giardini Naxos is best for sandy beaches and families with small children.
Are Taormina beaches crowded?
Yes, especially Isola Bella and Mazzarò in July-August. Visit in June or September for smaller crowds, or arrive early morning (before 10am) even in peak season.
How long should I stay in Taormina?
Plan 3-4 days minimum to enjoy the beaches, explore the town, and perhaps take a day trip to Mount Etna. A full week lets you beach-hop without rushing.
Can you swim in Taormina beaches?
Yes. Water temperatures reach 24-26°C (75-79°F) in July-August. June and September are slightly cooler (22-24°C / 72-75°F) but still swimmable.
Do I need a car in Taormina?
Not essential. The cable car connects town to beaches. Buses go to Giardini Naxos and other beaches. However, a car gives flexibility for exploring Sicily beyond Taormina.
What should I wear to Taormina beaches?
Water shoes recommended (pebble beaches). Bring reef-safe sunscreen. Cover-ups required when walking from beach to restaurants. Beach clubs provide changing facilities.
