Marzamemi, a picturesque small fishing village on the southeastern coast of Sicily near the province of Syracuse, is a renowned tourist destination offering some of the best beaches in Sicily—think wide beaches with crystal clear waters, a stretch of sandy beach for sunbathing, and authentic southern Italian charm found in the village of Marzamemi and its beaches. This guide covers the essential beaches—from the center of Marzamemi to the wild surroundings of Vendicari Nature Reserve—each with its own vibe, practical insights, and insider tips for visitors who want to visit Marzamemi for diving and snorkeling, boat trips, or simply to relax by the sea.
Best Hotels in Marzamemi 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Scilla Maris Charming Suites
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Villa Giulia
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Celeste
- 💸 Cheap: Casa Memi
- 🏢 Apartment: TOREMARE SUITE MARZAMEMI
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: B&B Marsà
- 🏩 For Couples: Carrua
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Heart of the Village — Spinazza Beach
- 🌅 Golden Classic — San Lorenzo Beach
- 🤿 Nature’s Hideaway — Carratois Beach
- 🌿 Unspoiled Gem — Calamosche Beach
- 🛶 Fishing Heritage — Punta delle Formiche
- 🚶♂️ Secluded Walk — Marianelli Beach
- 🌳 Coastal Forest — Eloro Beach
- 🏄♂️ Windswept Escape — Morghella Beach
- 🌊 Island Vista — Isola delle Correnti Beach
- 🐚 Local Secret — Scalo Mandria Beach
East of Syracuse, within easy reach of Noto and the Ionian Sea, Marzamemi is a seaside village celebrated for its wide beaches and stretch of sandy shoreline, blending Mediterranean beauty with the warmth of a small fishing community. The atmosphere here is authentic, partly free and partly equipped, drawing both locals and tourists—couples, families, mature travelers, and groups—to its golden sands and clear sea. This guide is for anyone planning a beach-focused trip to this must-see destination in eastern Sicily, with practical advice and a quick, scannable format for mobile devices.
1. Spinazza Beach: Seaside Heartbeat
The gentle rhythm of waves lapping against the old tuna fishery walls sets the scene at Spinazza Beach, in the very center of Marzamemi. I ambled here each morning, watching fishermen work near the small port—palazzo, tonnara, and vintage cottages just steps away, the golden sand warm underfoot. This compact stretch of sandy beach, about 200 meters long, is best in late spring and early autumn, when the water is inviting and the historic heart of the fishing village comes alive.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips: Stroll from Piazza Regina Margherita past the Tonnara di Marzamemi, then follow the harbor promenade—sunbeds are sprinkled near the port, and locals love the hidden wooden bench by the fishermen’s storage huts for sunrise with a gelato. Arrive before 10am for a quiet spot; parking is along Via degli Amalfitani, which is also close to authentic restaurant serving tuna and bottarga. Facilities are minimal, but the beach’s mix of sand and rocky patches makes it a great spot for photography and authentic atmosphere, drawing both locals and tourists and accessible on foot from the village center.
- Pro: Right in the center of Marzamemi, authentic fishing village atmosphere, easy to access from the sea or by foot.
- Con: Small size, so it fills up quickly during popular festivals and peak tourist season.
- Best For: Travelers who want to dip their toes in the sea right in the village’s heart, for a slice of authentic Sicilian life.
- Skip If: You want long, wide beaches or lots of amenities—head to San Lorenzo or Calamosche instead.
Best Hotels near Spinazza Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Casa Memi — Elegant B&B with beautifully decorated rooms and sea-view terrace, rated 9.4 by guests for its exceptional hospitality and homemade breakfast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- B&B Marsà — Family-run property with spotless rooms and outstanding breakfast, rated 9.8 for cleanliness and just steps from both beach and village center.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Sunseabeach — Simple bungalows and cabins with a pool and outdoor areas, less than 1 km from Spiaggia della Spinazza and handy for budget beach stays.
2. San Lorenzo Beach: Golden Classic
San Lorenzo Beach is one of the best marzamemi beaches—a postcard-perfect 2 km stretch of golden, fine sand, where the clear sea meets the horizon and the water is so translucent you can see the bottom. I loved watching windsurfers dance across the waves while families picnicked under colorful umbrellas. This beach is best from June to September, when the water is warm and the skies are bright—ideal for relaxing swims, sea play, and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice: Park near the beach clubs off SP19 for quick access to sunbeds, showers, and a small beach bar—locals love the hidden spot behind the dunes, where you can enjoy the view and fresh arancini. The beach is partly free and partly equipped, so you can rent umbrellas or stake your own free spot. Food trucks set up along the coast, and it’s easy to reach by regional bus from Marzamemi to San Lorenzo (about 10 km). Walk north to find quieter stretches near the Vendicari Nature Reserve, or just east toward Noto for more seclusion. Arrive early or at sunset to avoid the busiest times, especially in summer.
- Pro: Long, wide beach, excellent facilities, family-friendly, and accessible for everyone.
- Con: Gets crowded in high season, especially on weekends and during local festivals.
Best For: Families, sun lovers, and anyone who wants amenities close at hand.
Skip If: You want solitude—try Calamosche or Marianelli instead.
Best Hotels near San Lorenzo Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Villa Giulia — Elegant 4-star hotel with swimming pool, spa services, and refined dining, set in beautiful gardens near San Lorenzo Beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa San Lorenzo Beach — Modern accommodation with hot tub and fitness center access, just 2 minutes walk from the beach with excellent amenities.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Agrivillage San Lorenzo — Comfortable rural setting with garden access and easy reach to San Lorenzo Beach, offering great value for budget-conscious travelers.
3. Carratois Beach: Nature’s Hideaway
Carratois Beach is a pristine, sandy expanse framed by dunes and wildflowers—part of the Vendicari Nature Reserve just a few kilometers east of Marzamemi, accessible from Portopalo di Capo Passero. The wind here is constant, perfect for kiteboarding and windsurfing, and the water is so transparent you can spot fish darting below. I found hidden coves along the rocky edges, where the only sounds are waves and seabirds. Visit in late spring or early autumn for serene surroundings and thinner crowds.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge: Access is via a dirt track off SP92; parking is limited, so arrive early in the day. Walk south to find the local favorite—a quiet cove where fishermen cast their lines at dawn—and bring your own shade and supplies for the day, as facilities are minimal. The distant view of Isola delle Correnti, where the Ionian and Mediterranean seas meet, is magical, especially at sunset. For a true escape from the tourist hustle, this is the spot—a peaceful, partly free and partly equipped beach popular with diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
- Pro: Unspoiled nature, great for kiteboarding and snorkeling, peaceful atmosphere far from Marzamemi’s center.
- Con: Limited facilities, windy at times, and a bit remote for those without a car.
Best For: Adventurers, couples, and anyone seeking the wild side of the Sicilian coast.
Skip If: You want lots of amenities or calm waters for swimming.
4. Calamosche Beach: Unspoiled Gem
Calamosche Beach is a hidden inlet of golden sand nestled between cliffs—a jewel of the Vendicari Nature Reserve, reachable on foot from the main entrance near Noto. The walk winds through fragrant scrubland, and the sea is a mesmerizing blue, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. I spent hours exploring the rocky outcrops teeming with marine life. The beach is about 300 meters long and best from May to October, when the water is warm and the reserve is at its peaceful best—a must-see for nature lovers in eastern Sicily.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip: Park at Vendicari’s main entrance and follow the trail past the old tuna fishery—locals adore the tiny rocky platform at the far end, perfect for a secluded sunbath with a view of the Ionian Sea. Facilities are basic (toilets at the entrance), so bring water and snacks for the day. Visit on weekdays for the quietest experience—weekends, especially in July and August, draw more visitors. Calamosche is surrounded by wild, untouched scenery, and the combination of sand, cliffs, and crystal clear waters makes it unforgettable for diving and snorkeling.
- Pro: Stunning scenery, great for snorkeling, peaceful vibe, a genuine hideaway.
- Con: Requires a walk from parking, few amenities, and can get busy on weekends.
Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys a hike to a beach.
Skip If: You need lots of amenities or have mobility issues.
5. Punta delle Formiche: Fishing Heritage
Punta delle Formiche is a dramatic series of rocky platforms, not a classic sandy beach but a place where waves crash dramatically and the scent of salt fills the air—an unforgettable destination for adventurous travelers. I watched local kids leap from the rocks while older fishermen cast lines from the shallows near Portopalo di Capo Passero. The water is exceptionally clear, excellent for snorkeling amid rocky outcrops, especially in late spring or early autumn when seas are calm and crowds thin.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips: Park near the Vendicari Reserve entrance and walk south along the coast trail—locals love the “chair rock,” a perfect perch for sunrise views across the Ionian Sea. There’s no sand, so bring sturdy water shoes for scrambling among the rocks. The nearby ruined tuna fishery adds a touch of history to your visit. Facilities are minimal, so come prepared—this spot is cherished by locals for its wild, elemental atmosphere, far from the main tourist flow of Marzamemi and its beaches.
- Pro: Dramatic landscape, great for diving and photography, peaceful.
- Con: No sandy beach, unsuitable for classic swimming or lounging.
Best For: Adventurers, photographers, and lovers of wild, untamed coasts.
Skip If: You want to relax on sand or need amenities.
6. Marianelli Beach: Secluded Walk
Marianelli Beach is a tranquil retreat—a wide, sandy crescent surrounded by dunes and scrub, where the only sounds are waves and birds. The water here is shallow and calm, ideal for wading and gentle swims. On a weekday morning, I shared the shore with nothing but a heron stalking fish in the shallows. This sandy stretch, about 500 meters long, is best enjoyed outside the height of summer, especially in May, June, or September when the Vendicari Nature Reserve is quiet and peaceful—a destination favored by locals seeking solitude.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice: Park at Vendicari’s southern entrance and follow the trail about one kilometer through fragrant scrubland—locals prize the dune ridge at the far end for panoramic sea views and peaceful picnics. Facilities are absent, so bring everything you need. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewest people. This is Sicily at its most serene—sand meets sea in a landscape unchanged for generations, just a few kilometers from Marzamemi’s center but worlds away in atmosphere.
- Pro: Extremely peaceful, pristine sand and sea, ideal for nature and bird watching.
- Con: No services, requires a walk from parking, and not suitable for those seeking amenities.
Best For: Solo travelers, couples, and anyone craving quiet and nature.
Skip If: You want easy access or lots of facilities.
7. Eloro Beach: Coastal Forest
Eloro Beach is where pine forest meets the sea, blending shade and sunlight for a unique eastern Sicily experience. The scent of pine mixes with salt air as you walk to the sandy shore—cool one minute, warm the next. The beach is about 300 meters long, with calm, shallow water—ideal for families and anyone who enjoys the contrast of green and blue. Spring and autumn are best, avoiding the midsummer heat, and the waters near Noto are crystal clear.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge: Park at the Eloro archaeological site—steps from which you’ll find a restaurant popular with locals—and walk 300 meters to the sea. Locals love the shaded groves among the pines for midday picnics, while children play in the gentle surf. There are no beach bars or rentals, but the nearest bar is at the parking area, and the beach is accessible by car and marked footpaths. This is a peaceful spot for relaxation, within easy reach of both Noto and Marzamemi.
- Pro: Shaded areas, family-friendly, historic surroundings, and quiet.
- Con: Small parking area, can get busy in summer with day trippers from Syracuse.
Best For: Families, history lovers, and anyone who likes shade by the sea.
Skip If: You want open, wide beaches or lots of water sports.
8. Morghella Beach: Windswept Escape
Morghella Beach is wild—wide, golden sand, constant breeze, and dunes dotted with wildflowers. The waves can be lively, and the winds attract windsurfers and kiteboarders. I watched the sunset paint the sky pink and orange, with only a few couples and adventurous travelers sharing the vast expanse. This 1 km sandy beach is best outside peak season, especially in spring or autumn, when the sea is still warm but the eastern shore is peaceful and uncrowded.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip: Access is via a dirt road—park by the dunes and walk the final stretch. Locals adore the driftwood sculptures that appear after storms, and often gather here for informal picnics and sunset cocktails at a hidden beach bar popular with locals and a few savvy tourists. This is a great spot for photography, water sports, and connecting with nature. Facilities are limited, so bring wind protection, a picnic, and plenty of water—this is Sicily at its most elemental.
- Pro: Wild, natural, great for wind sports and photography, peaceful atmosphere.
- Con: Windy, no amenities, and not ideal for those seeking calm swimming conditions.
Best For: Adventurers, photographers, and lovers of the untamed coast.
Skip If: You dislike wind or need lots of facilities.
9. Isola delle Correnti Beach: Island Vista
Isola delle Correnti Beach sits at the very southern tip of Sicily, where the Ionian and Mediterranean seas meet. The beach is wide, sandy, and windswept, with waves on both sides and the iconic lighthouse island just offshore. I walked the vast shore, marveling at the interplay of currents—this is a place of energy and drama, and a must-see for geography buffs. The waters here are crystal clear, and the light is magical, especially at sunrise or sunset. The beach is about 1 km long, sandy, and best visited in late spring or early autumn for the safest and calmest conditions.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips: Parking is along the roadside before the beach—locals gather at first light to watch the colors of the sea change. There are no facilities, so bring everything you need, and avoid swimming in strong currents. The walk to the island is only possible when the tide is low, and the views from the old lighthouse are unforgettable. This spot is peaceful, but it’s far from Marzamemi—around 25 km south, near Portopalo—so plan your trip accordingly, considering both water sports and the remoteness of the southeastern coast of Sicily.
- Pro: Unique location, beautiful scenery, ideal for photography and nature lovers.
- Con: Risky currents, no facilities, and quite a distance from Marzamemi village.
Best For: Explorers, geography fans, and anyone who loves wild, remote beaches.
Skip If: Safety is a concern, or you need amenities close at hand.
10. Scalo Mandria Beach: Local Secret
Scalo Mandria Beach is a favorite with locals—a hidden curve of golden sand, backed by dunes and Mediterranean scrub, where the water is clear and the vibe is relaxed. I joined a group of regulars playing cards in the shade of a tamarisk tree, soaking up the simple pleasures of sun and sea. The beach is about 500 meters long, sandy, and best in the shoulder seasons, when both locals and tourists find space to relax away from the crowds that flock to Marzamemi’s more famous beaches.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice: Parking is informal along the dirt track—arrive early to secure a spot. Locals especially love the natural “wind shelter” formed by the dunes, perfect for a breezy picnic or a quiet read. There are no facilities, so pack your own supplies and enjoy the authentic, peaceful atmosphere. Scalo Mandria is accessible but feels far from the center of Marzamemi—a true secret spot for those who want to connect with the quieter side of Sicily’s coast.
- Pro: Peaceful, uncrowded, authentic, excellent for couples and mature travelers.
- Con: No amenities, and informal parking.
Best For: Those seeking relaxed, natural escape, and a slice of local life.
Skip If: You need amenities or want a lively, social beach.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Marzamemi?
Expect to spend €10–20 per day on meals at local trattorias, €5–10 for sunbed/umbrella rental at equipped beaches, and €1–2 for regional bus rides between beaches, with prices rising slightly in peak summer.
Which beaches in Marzamemi are best for families with young children?
San Lorenzo Beach and Eloro Beach are top choices for families, offering gentle slopes, shallow water, and nearby facilities, while Spinazza Beach is ideal for quick, easy dips close to the village center.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Marzamemi?
Morghella Beach and San Lorenzo Beach are known for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to steady breezes, while Carratois Beach is popular for windsurfing and kiteboarding thanks to its reliable winds.
What is the best time of year to visit Marzamemi’s beaches?
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer warm water, fewer crowds, and pleasant temperatures, while July and August are busiest with higher prices and more heat.
How can you easily get around Marzamemi’s beaches?
Rental cars offer the most flexibility, but regional buses connect Marzamemi to San Lorenzo and other nearby beaches—walking and biking are easy within the village and to Spinazza Beach.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Marzamemi?
Calamosche, Marianelli, Morghella, and Scalo Mandria beaches are quieter, natural options, while Punta delle Formiche offers a unique rocky experience away from the crowds.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Marzamemi’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for rocky areas, arrive early to secure parking at popular spots, pack snacks and water for beaches without facilities, and check wind and current conditions—especially at Isola delle Correnti and Morghella.
