Not all the beaches of the Egadi Islands are made equal. Marettimo, a wild, rugged gem west of Sicily, boasts coves so unspoiled, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a quieter, simpler world. The best beaches in Marettimo are perfect for travelers who value clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and authentic island atmosphere over fine white sand.
Best Hotels in Marettimo🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments
- 🏨 4-Star: Il Corallo Marettimo
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Il Muretto Marettimo
- 💸 Cheap: Il Cortile di Eolo
- 🏢 Apartment: Home Bellavista – A Pochi Passi Dalla Spiaggia
- 👪 For Families: Sogno Favignana
- 🏩 For Couples: Camarò Favignana
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Village Favorite — Scalo Vecchio Beach
- 🌿 Tranquil Cove — Praia Nacchi Beach
- 🤿 Snorkeler’s Dream — Cala Bianca Beach
- 🥾 Hiker’s Hideaway — Cretazzo Beach
- 🌲 Shaded Retreat — Rotolo Beach
- 🚣 Portside Access — Scalo Maestro Beach
- 🌊 Wild Escape — Cala Manione Beach
- 🏞️ Lighthouse Coast — Punta Libeccio Beach
1. Scalo Vecchio Beach: Classic Island Escape
The soft crunch of pebbles underfoot greets you at Scalo Vecchio, the most convenient beach on the island for quick swims and relaxed sunbathing. I watched local fishermen unload their catch near the Old Port while the scent of saltwater mixed with grilled seafood from a nearby bar—an authentic moment that captures Marettimo’s low-key charm. This pebble beach is small but inviting, best enjoyed from May to September when the clear waters sparkle and the sun lingers late.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Stroll from the main square of the island of Marettimo’s only village, past scalo vecchio and scalo nuovo with New Port’s colorful boats, and the Old Port’s quiet promenade toward Trapani-bound hydrofoil timetables by the pier. Don’t miss the beach bar favored by locals for its simple, fresh seafood—ask for the catch of the day and enjoy the natural beauty on this easily accessible waterfront. The beach is accessible on foot from anywhere in town; look for signage near the church and the path that climbs toward the castle of Punta Troia.
- Pro: Right in the village—no long walk.
- Con: It’s small, so arrive early if you want a good spot.
Best For: Couples and small groups who want convenience and local color.
Skip If: You need soft sand or lots of facilities—try Favignana island instead.
Best Hotels near Scalo Vecchio Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Camarò Favignana — Contemporary stay a short walk from the marina, offering airy rooms, a solarium, and convenient access to coastal paths.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Vacanze Villa Raffaela — Holiday home with garden space and furnished patio, offering a restful base within easy reach of Marettimo’s beaches and ferry pier.
- Alencio Panorama Residence — Scenic hilltop B&B featuring sunset sea views, modern rooms with balconies, and quick access to coastal viewpoints.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Viaggiatore — Simple island apartment with a balcony and kitchenette, set near the harbor for easy ferry access and coastal walks.
2. Praia Nacchi Beach: Secluded Hideaway
Praia Nacchi is a crescent of pebbles and sand tucked inside a protected cove, framed by cliffs crowned with wildflowers and white houses that shine above the shoreline. The water here is so clear, you can spot small fish darting among the rocks on a seabed that many boat tours visit for breathtaking visibility. I hiked the path from the cemetery, where a small beach bar and a group of chatty locals pointed me to their favorite hidden nook at Praia dei Nacchi, a quiet spot just off the trail near Zotta Muletti. Best in summer, when the sea is calm and inviting, and when guided boat tours also link this cove with nearby viewpoints.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Start near the cemetery on the uphill village path—after 20 minutes, you’ll find Praia Nacchi’s bay on the island of marettimo in an archipelago known for unspoiled beauty. Nearby, Scalo Vecchio and Rotolo Beach are easy to combine in a morning, with views to nearby islands and a seabed that rewards careful snorkeling. The secluded locals cove off the main path is where islanders watch the sunset in peace, often sharing stories about routes from Trapani or Marsala. Wear sneakers for the walk and bring your snorkel for the best marine life, and plan accommodation ahead if visiting during peak romane holidays.
- Pro: Unbeatable tranquility and crystal clear waters.
- Con: Slightly tricky access for those with mobility issues.
Best For: Anyone craving quiet and clear swimming.
Skip If: You dislike walking—head to Scalo Vecchio instead.
Best Hotels near Praia Nacchi Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Sogno Favignana — Bright apartment near the center with a well-equipped kitchen and balcony options, handy for boat trips and beaches.
- Villa Sapore di mare — Contemporary apartment steps from the seafront, with air conditioning and a terrace for easy island days.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Lanterna Sul Mare — Seafront holiday home with air conditioning and a balcony, set within walking distance of Praia Nacchi and the village center for easy dining and ferry access.
3. Cala Bianca Beach: Wild Beauty
Cala Bianca’s white pebbles and electric blue water are a feast for the eyes—and the camera. Here, the sea has a mesmerizing turquoise hue, and the surrounding cliffs echo with the cries of seagulls. I took the long trail from town, passing through fragrant Mediterranean scrub, and rewarded myself with a swim in the cool, transparent sea. This is one of the best spots on the island for snorkeling and hiking, especially in summer.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Combine a visit with Praia Nacchi and Punta Troia Castle for a full day of exploring that showcases the beaches of Marettimo you’ll want to revisit. Hike from the village, or arrive by boat for a shorter journey if you took the ferry to Marettimo and prefer routes that are easily accessible on foot from the port of Marettimo. The hidden sea cave on the north coast is where local hikers sneak away for privacy—bring a picnic for the full experience and bookmark information about marettimo for your next stay in Marettimo. This is not a place for shade, so come early or late in the day to visit Marettimo without the midday heat.
- Pro: Marvelous color and tranquility.
- Con: No facilities and a tough walk if you hike.
Best For: Adventurous travelers who love wild beauty and swimming.
Skip If: You want a quick, easy beach—choose Scalo Vecchio or Rotolo Beach.
Best Hotels near Cala Bianca Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Fenici Levanzo – Island Apartments — Sea-view apartments on tranquil Levanzo with patios, ideal for snorkeling, coves, and quiet coastal hikes.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Alencio Comfort Urbano — Stylish rooms with a clean, minimalist design, close to cafés, bike rentals, and historic lanes.
- Le Suites del Carrubo — Suite-style stay surrounded by greenery, blending privacy with quick access to town and nearby coves.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Terra Del Sole — Bright, well-kept rooms close to cafés and the promenade, ideal for short stays and island day trips.
4. Cretazzo Beach: Hiking Reward
Cretazzo Beach is a slender strip of pebbles backed by cliffs, reached after a challenging two-hour trek from the village. The payoff: crystal clear waters and a real sense of discovery. I met a local family picnicking in the shade of a rocky outcrop—their secret spot for a midday break. Come in the warmer months for the best sea conditions, and don’t forget your snorkel gear.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Punta Libeccio, Rotolo Beach, and Muletti Zone are nearby, but Cretazzo stands out for its seclusion and is a rewarding stop when exploring the island. The shady picnic rocks are a local favorite for lunch with a view, especially if you plan to discover the island after a morning visit to Case Romane. Approach from the village, following signposts toward Punta Libeccio along the trail to the castle, and wear sturdy shoes for the rough path that many use after arriving by ferry or hydrofoil from the islands of Levanzo and Favignana.
- Pro: Quiet and unspoiled, loved by adventurers.
- Con: Long, rough hike—not for everyone.
Best For: Hikers, explorers, and those who prize solitude.
Skip If: You prefer easy access—try Rotolo Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Cretazzo Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- L'Oasi di Favignana Room and Charme — Modern apartment with a private terrace and kitchen facilities, ideal for longer stays and beach-hopping.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Le Case Del Fico D’India Favignana — Tranquil apartments surrounded by Mediterranean greenery, offering patios and convenient access to coastal paths and swimming coves.
5. Rotolo Beach: Family-Friendly Cove
Rotolo Beach is a small, pebble cove that’s easily reached by a 15-minute walk from town, following the path toward the chapel. The water is calm and shallow, making it ideal for children in summer. I paused under the natural shade of the pines in the afternoon and watched local families splash in the shallows. The scent of pine mingled with the salty breeze, an island memory that lingers.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
From the village, follow signs to the chapel—the path is easy and shaded even in high season when deck chairs fill the busier coves on Favignana or Levanzo. Old Port, New Port, and Punta Troia Castle are close by for a full day’s adventure, with a detour toward Preveto if you’re planning wider island walks. The afternoon pine shade is a local favorite for avoiding the midday sun while lingering after swims. Bring water, as there are no facilities here and shade can be limited on breezier days.
- Pro: Easy to reach, calm for kids, natural shade.
- Con: No sand and few amenities.
Best For: Families, couples, and anyone who wants a gentle island day.
Skip If: You crave open sea and waves—Cala Bianca awaits.
Best Hotels near Rotolo Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Appartamento Zio Michele – Centro dell’Isola — Central apartment with a spacious layout and full kitchen, a practical base for island day trips.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Canova Luxury Rooms Favignana — Elegant rooms near the waterfront, offering refined finishes and easy strolls to restaurants and the marina.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Cubo – Monovano Col Mare Su Tre Fronti — Compact, light-filled studio with sea views on three sides, ideal for minimalist stays close to the harbor and promenade.
6. Scalo Maestro Beach: Portside Oasis
Scalo Maestro is a stretch of pebble and soft sand near the main port area, with views of fishing boats and blue-green waters. Here, the aroma of espresso drifts from the nearest café, and the gentle sound of waves makes for a relaxing backdrop. I took an early morning swim here and then explored the sea caves along the coast, a surprise I’d recommend to anyone.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Cala Bianca, Praia Nacchi, and Punta Troia Castle are within striking distance, while those comparing coastal days with lido burrone on Favignana will find this stretch far more pebbly and untamed. The sea caves along the coast are popular with local snorkelers—bring your gear if you want to explore, especially around the Perciata-like arches carved into the rock. The best time to visit is early, before the port activities pick up and boat traffic increases toward Favignana.
- Pro: Convenient, close to town, and beautiful.
- Con: Can get busy with day-trippers.
Best For: Swimmers, beachcombers, and those who want a taste of island life.
Skip If: You want total solitude—Cretazzo Beach is your answer.
Best Hotels near Scalo Maestro Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Casa Riccio Di Mare — Coastal-style apartment featuring a private terrace and air conditioning, handy for ferry links and local beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Bitta — Cozy island apartment in a convenient location, with air conditioning and straightforward access to Scalo Maestro.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Le Cale Di Favignana – Cala Rossa — Apartments positioned for quick access to Scalo Maestro and coastal paths, great for swimmers and snorkelers.
7. Cala Manione Beach: Rugged Retreat
Cala Manione is a small, wild cove on the northern side of Marettimo, framed by cliffs and accessible only by boat or a demanding hiking trail. The water here is a striking blue, and the silence is broken only by the occasional gull. I joined a group of locals diving from the rocks, a true island experience. This beach is best in summer, when the sea is gentle and the hike is shaded by pine and maquis.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Punta Troia Castle and Monte Falcone hiking trails are nearby for adventurous souls exploring the wider Egadi archipelago. The locals’ wild cove is where islanders escape the crowds—look for a tiny inlet just east of the main landing, where wave-carved arches recall the Perciata formations on neighboring shores. The path here is not for kids or anyone unsteady on their feet; arriving by boat is easier and lets you save energy for the climbs.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery and privacy.
- Con: Difficult access by land.
Best For: Strong hikers, divers, and those who love wild coves.
Skip If: You dislike rough terrain—try Scalo Vecchio or Rotolo Beach.
Best Hotels near Cala Manione Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Ajamola — Contemporary rooms with a fresh aesthetic, positioned for quick access to harbor promenades and sunset spots.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Meridiano12 — Stylish island stay with minimalist décor and a central setting, steps from restaurants and evening passeggiata routes.
8. Punta Libeccio Beach: Lighthouse Cove
Punta Libeccio Cove is a rocky, dramatic spot at the island’s western tip, best known for snorkeling among colorful fish and underwater caves. The scent of the sea and the distant view of the lighthouse create a sense of adventure. I explored with a small group of locals who pointed out the best tide pools for an impromptu swim, a fleeting island secret.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Cretazzo Beach and Muletti Zone are within reach for a full day’s outing, but the approach includes a challenging path through stretches of pine forest that rewards patient hikers. The rocky tide pools at Punta Libeccio are a local favorite for quiet exploration, and marettimo is the perfect place to slow down and watch tiny fish glide between pools. Getting here is easiest by boat due to steep, rocky paths on land that can feel like a challenging path on the return. Bring your snorkel and waterproof camera to linger by the tide pools shaded by the edge of the pine forest.
- Pro: Excellent snorkeling, dramatic cliffs, local secrets.
- Con: Hard to reach without a boat.
Best For: Snorkelers, adventurers, and those who want wild views.
Skip If: You want a standard beach experience—try Praia Nacchi or Rotolo Beach.
Best Hotels near Punta Libeccio Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Il Posto Giusto Favignana — Stylish hideaway near the waterfront with comfortable rooms and quick access to bike rentals, cafés, and sunset spots.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Pepe Terrazza Favignana — Apartment with a panoramic terrace for alfresco evenings, walkable to shops, gelaterias, and beach paths.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- ARIA Case Vacanze — Comfortable holiday apartments offering kitchens and balconies, handy for self-catering near the waterfront.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Marettimo?
Marettimo is a budget-friendly island for food and drinks, but expect higher costs for transport, especially ferries and private boat hire, with prices rising in July–August.
Which beaches in Marettimo are best for families with young children?
Rotolo Beach and Scalo Vecchio Beach are best for families, thanks to calm waters and easy, shaded access.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Marettimo?
Cala Bianca, Punta Libeccio, and Cala Manione are top for snorkeling; Scalo Maestro and Punta Libeccio are good for kayaking and swimming; there’s no surfing or windsurfing due to the lack of waves.
What is the best time of year to visit Marettimo’s beaches?
May to September are ideal—ferries run frequently, the sea is warm, and the weather is perfect for hiking and swimming.
How can you easily get around Marettimo’s beaches?
Most beaches are accessible on foot from the village; some require a hike or boat trip—walking paths are well-signed, but wear good shoes.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Marettimo?
Cala Manione, Cretazzo Beach, and the local cove off Praia Nacchi are the quietest—ask locals for directions to the secret spots for true solitude.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Marettimo’s beaches?
Bring sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and sun protection; facilities are minimal, and mobile coverage can be spotty on remote paths.
