Beautiful Sicily is an Italian island with soul, and is known for its breathtaking beaches. For many locals and visitors, life here revolves around the rhythm of the waves, and the spectacular sunsets. The sun-soaked beaches of Trapani are some of the finest on the island, and this guide will walk you through what they have to offer.
If you’re plotting a trip to the Trapani area, you’re in for a real treat. The half a dozen beaches here offer ancient ruins, proximity to the city, nature reserves, hiking trails, snorkeling, local history, and more.
If you love beach life, I highly recommend visiting Trapaniโs beautiful beaches. So read on to discover your favorite Sicilian coastal spot!
Photo by Petr Slovรกฤek on Unsplash
The 6 Best Trapani Beaches
1. Marinella Beach: The Golden Gateway
Marinella Beach – or Cala Marinella – is a historic destination, as well as a lovely Sicilian beach. This beach is a gateway to the past, and in close proximity to the ancient ruins of Selinunte. You can lounge on a long stretch of golden sand, imagining the civilizations of times gone by, as the clear, blue waters invite you in for a swim.
Spring and summer are the best times to visit, when the water temperature is between 18ยฐC (64ยฐF) and 25ยฐC (77ยฐF). The archaeological remains of Selinunte mean Marinella Beach offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration.
Parking is available here, making it easy for drivers to access this beautiful slice of Sicilian coastline. As well as offering history, Marinella Beach caters to contemporary needs, and local amenities include a range of cafes and restaurants for feasting on Sicilian fare or grabbing a chilled drink. Beach umbrellas and sunbeds are also available for rent.
Overall I always like to double check the parking and beach access situation when traveling to Italy.
Marinella Beach is about more than merely soaking up the sun. The setting also allows you to immerse yourself in history and nature. Whether you take a dip in clear blue waters, savor a picnic with stunning sea views, or simply stroll along the shore, you’ll experience a timeless landscape thatโs captivated visitors for centuries.
Photo by Alessandro Canepa on Unsplash
Parking at Marinella Beach
Parking at Marinella Beach is available at a local parking lot. The car park isnโt very big, so it can get very busy during the high season. At about 300 meters away, it’s not that close to the beach, and you have to drive on a dirt road to reach it.
Marinella Beach does also provide free parking at the entrance, however, though spaces are limited. Visitors might also find on-street parking nearby for easy access to the beach. It’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak times, if you want to secure a spot.
2. Macari Beach: The Turquoise Treasure
Macari Beach is a small, picturesque bay located in San Vito lo Capo, Sicily, nestled between the Zingaro Nature Reserve and the Monte Cofano Reserve. Itโs known for its pristine turquoise waters and fine golden sands, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to unwind and enjoy the sun.
The beach offers all the facilities youโll need for a relaxing beach day, including cafes, restaurants, and water sports. Macari Beach is an appealing alternative to the more crowded San Vito beach, particularly during peak season. The surrounding nature reserves add to its charm, making it a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore Sicily’s natural beauty.
3. San Giuliano Beach: The Urban Oasis
San Giuliano Beach, also known as Spiaggia di San Giuliano, is a beach located along the Lungomare Dante Alighieri in Trapani, Sicily. It offers a long, narrow stretch of fine golden sand, plus crystal-clear waters. This beach is conveniently situated, making it easy to access.
While the beach offers a pleasant sandy shoreline, plus good local amenities, some visitors have noted that it can be less clean than other beaches in the area. This is possibly because of its proximity to the city, plus the road running alongside.
Despite this, the location and facilities available make San Giuliano Beach a practical option. Anyone staying in Trapani can visit without having to travel too far, and you can also access this one via public transport.
4. Cala Beretta: The Nature Lover’s Retreat
Cala Beretta is one of the small beaches located within the Zingaro Nature Reserve in the Province of Trapani, Sicily. Itโs known for its unspoiled natural environment and picturesque coastal landscape, making it a top pick for visitors seeking natural beauty and perfect peace.
Cala Beretta beach forms part of a protected area. This means that while it is open to the public, visitors are expected to treat the natural environment with the utmost respect. The Zingaro Nature Reserve was the first to be established in Sicily, and it stretches along the coastline for over 4 miles (7 kilometers), between the towns of San Vito Lo Capo and Scopello.
Cala Beretta, with its inviting waters and natural setting, is a highlight for anyone exploring the reserve’s coastline – or staying in Trapani.
Popular activities at Cala Beretta
Boat Trips: Visitors can enjoy boat trips along the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, the nature reserve where Cala Beretta is located.
Hiking: The beach is accessible via a hiking trail from the car park, providing an opportunity for a scenic half-hour walk through the nature reserve.
Swimming and Snorkeling: The clear, warm waters make Cala Beretta ideal for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to enjoy the underwater beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.
Parking at Cala Beretta
Access to Cala Beretta is on foot. The nearest car park can be found at the southern entrance to the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. The distance from the car park to the beach is about 1.5 miles (or 2.3 kilometers), and the walk takes about 30 minutes. Visitors should therefore park at the southern entrance to the reserve, before accessing the beach on foot.
There is an entrance fee for the reserve, which at the time of writing is 5 euros per person.
5. Scopello: The Viewpoint
Scopello is a captivating coastal village in northwestern Sicily, known for its beautiful beaches and unspoiled natural surroundings. Some of the notable beaches in the area include Spiaggia Guidaloca, Spiaggia dei Faraglioni, Cala Mazzo di Sciacca, Tonnara di Scopello Beach, and more.
The village itself has a permanent population of about eighty, and is situated in the territory of Castellammare del Golfo in the province of Trapani. Scopello grew around an old 18th-century baglio, a traditional Sicilian rural building, and is also home to the ancient Tonnara di Scopello, a tuna fishery dating back to the 13th century.
The area is also known for its culinary traditions, cultural events, and proximity to Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve, a protected coastal area boasting pristine beaches and hiking trails.
The beaches in Scopello offer a mix of sandy and pebbly shores, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural and man-made features such as rock formations and old watchtowers. Tonnara di Scopello Beach is a hidden cove close to the village, featuring natural rock towers rising out of the clear waters, plus the remains of old watchtowers.
The beach is part of the Zingaro Nature Reserve, known for its unspoiled beauty and ideal for activities such as diving and snorkeling. The area’s rich history, natural beauty, and range of beach options make Scopello a popular destination for those seeking a coastal retreat in Sicily.
Photo by Angela Marin on Unsplash
Popular Activities at Scopello Beach
Sunbathing: The beautiful sandy and rocky beaches, such as Spiaggia dei Faraglioni, Cala Mazzo di Sciacca, and Baia di Guidaloca, are perfect for both sunbathing and relaxation.
Visiting Tonnara di Scopello: Explore Tonnara di Scopello, a historic, 13th century tuna fishery. Itโs now a museum, and occupies a picturesque coastal site.
Exploring the Baglio di Scopello: Discover a traditional Sicilian rural building, Baglio di Scopello. This is a central feature of the village, and offers a glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage.
Sampling Local Food: Experience local culinary traditions by trying regional dishes and seafood at the villageโs range of restaurants and cafes.
Hiking at Zingaro Nature Reserve: Take a hike in the nearby Zingaro Nature Reserve, which is known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and scenic coastal trails. The reserve offers opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching.
Parking at Scopello Beach
There are several parking options close to Scopello Beach. These include paid car parks close to the beach and the Tonnara di Scopello. Additionally, there are parking facilities in the vicinity of Scopello village, offering secure private parking.
Visitors are advised to use the designated paid parking areas, and to to avoid parking in restricted or no-parking zones. Certain areas have clear signs and towing warnings. It’s recommended that you plan for paid parking, and also consider walking a short distance to reach the beach and surrounding attractions.
You could always ask your hotel, too, for the latest localsโ tips about parking in the area.
6. Spiaggia di San Vito lo Capo: The Beach Lover’s Dream
Spiaggia di San Vito Lo Capo is one of Sicilyโs most renowned beaches, prized for its stunning natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the town of San Vito Lo Capo in the Province of Trapani, this beach is characterized by fine golden sands, clear waters, and a picturesque Monte Monaco mountain backdrop.
Spiaggia di San Vito Lo Capo Highlights
Natural Beauty: The beach boasts clear, calm waters with practically no current, making it an ideal spot for swimming and paddling. The golden sand and natural backdrop provide a very relaxing setting.
Family-Friendly: This beach is ideal for families, offering a safe and welcoming environment where children can play and enjoy the sea.
Accessibility: The beach is easy to reach from town, with amenities such as sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent. It’s also close to various dining options, which is convenient for visitors. You can reach this beach by public transport, which is ideal if you donโt have a car.
Cous Cous Fest: San Vito Lo Capo is famous for its Cous Cous Fest, an international cultural and gastronomic event celebrating the traditional dish. Held in September, the festival brings together chefs from around the world, and adds a unique cultural dimension to the area.
Outdoor Activities: Besides relaxing and sunbathing, the area offers opportunities for hiking, particularly in the nearby Zingaro Nature Reserve. You can also explore local landmarks, such as the Sanctuary of San Vito and Torre Isulidda.
Diving and Snorkeling: The clear waters make Spiaggia di San Vito Lo Capo a great spot for snorkeling and diving, allowing visitors to encounter the rich marine life beneath the oceanโs surface.
Parking at Spiaggia di San Vito Lo Capo
At Spiaggia di San Vito Lo Capo, there are several parking options available for visitors, as follows.
- Area archeggio comunale Via la Goulette, 32: This is a large, free (but unguarded) parking area, located about 10 to 15 minutes walking distance from the town center and the beach. It is suitable for all types of vehicles, including cars, campers, and motorcycles.
- Area parcheggio La Piana Via la Piana: A private, guarded, and paid parking area which is open 24 hours. It is located about 15 to 20 minutesโ walk from the town center and beach. This car park also offers a shuttle service for hotels with which it has agreements.
- Parcheggio Sugameli Via La Goulette, 11: This is a private, guarded, and paid parking area. The daily rate is from 5 euros, though this might vary, especially in high season. This car park also offers hourly rates. Parcheggio Sugameli is open from 7 am to midnight, and is only about five minutesโ walk from the beach.
These parking options include both free or paid parking close to Spiaggia di San Vito Lo Capo. It’s advisable to consider the season and time of day before you travel, as parking spaces can become more competitive during peak times.
Best Beaches Accessible by Public Transport
For those traveling without a car, San Giuliano Beach and Spiaggia di San Vito lo Capo can both be easily reached by public transport. This accessibility, combined with the natural coastal beauty and convenient amenities they offer, makes them ideal spots for stress-free beach days.
Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking serenity, a family hankering after adventure, or a couple in search of romantic sunset moments, Trapani’s beaches offer something for everyone.
The best time to visit these coastal spots is between late spring and early autumn. This is when the warm waters welcome swimmers, and the Sicilian sun gently warms your skin.
If the sound of all this appeals, why not book your trip to the beautiful beaches of Trapani? Also check out Sicily Beaches post or Taormina Beaches.
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