If you’re searching for the best beaches in Macari Sicily, this is your definitive guide to the area’s most stunning coastal escapes. Nestled between San Vito Lo Capo and the Monte Cofano Nature Reserve, Macari offers a treasure trove of sandy coves and rugged inlets perfect for a beach day in Sicily. Discover the top spots that define this coastal gem.
Best Hotels in Macari🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: A Casa Di Amy
- ✨ 5-Star: Casa Brigida & Casa Katrin
- 🏨 4-Star: Pittalumari Makari
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Casa Vacanze Monte Cofano
- 💸 Cheap: Cala Di Ponente
- 🏢 Apartment: Alyke
- 👪 For Families: Villa San Vito Bay
- 🏩 For Couples: Paradiso Isulidda
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Sandy Expanse — Santa Margherita Beach
- 🌊 Rocky Inlets — Isulidda Beach
- 🤿 Snorkeling Coves — Bue Marino Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Bay — Seno Dellarena Beach
- 🌿 Hidden Cove — Cala Calazza Beach
- 🏝️ Secluded Escape — Cala Rossa Beach
- 🏞️ Panoramic View — Punta Balestrate Beach
- 🧭 Nature Trail Access — Cala Tonnarella Delluzzo Beach
- 🐚 Coral Sand — Baia Santa Barbara Beach
- 🌊 Surf Spot — Scoglio di Punta Lunga Beach
1. Santa Margherita Beach: Sandy Stretch with Turquoise Waters
This wide spiaggia of fine golden sand arcs along the coastline of Trapani province, the water shifting from deep blue to radiant turquoise as you wade in. I walked the entire length at low tide, the sand cool and packed underfoot, watching local families spread towels near the dunes after day trips from Palermo. The beach offers calm, shallow waters typical from June to September, perfect for a relaxed swim during your beach day near Scopello.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Stroll along the promenade past the kiosk and the bar that opens seasonally, then head toward the southern edge near Cala Calazza for a quieter spot by the small marina. The picnic area near the parking lot is a local favorite for its shade and views of Monte Cofano, and the stone piazza by the access path is a pleasant attraction for sunset. Visit early in the morning to secure a free parking spot at the main lot off Via Rocca Perciata, as the area gets crowded by midday.
- Pro: A long, sandy beach with gradual entry into the water is ideal for families and swimmers.
- Con: Seaweed can wash ashore; visit after a strong wind or opt for a nearby rocky cove like Bue Marino.
Best For: Families and swimmers seeking a classic beach experience.
Skip If: You prefer a lively atmosphere with music and crowds; consider San Vito Lo Capo beach instead.
Best Hotels near Santa Margherita Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Pittalumari Makari — Cozy seaside stay in Makari with clean, modern rooms and a lovely terrace for sunset views.
- Villa San Vito Bay — Private villa-style lodging near the coast, featuring spacious layouts and outdoor lounging areas.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Bambù con Piscina a Macari — Cozy holiday home with a private pool and garden, set near the coast for relaxed seaside days.
- Alyke — Smart, clean rooms with a bright contemporary look, offering easy access to Macari’s beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Cala di Ponente — Budget-friendly rooms in a convenient spot, ideal for quick access to Santa Margherita beach and eateries.
2. Isulidda Beach: Calm Bay with Rocky Hideaways
The gentle waves lap at the fine pebbles, creating a soft, rhythmic sound as you find your place on the shore near the coastal paths toward Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. I followed a narrow path down from Via dell’Acqua and discovered a small, sheltered cove where the water was exceptionally clear, perfect for floating before continuing toward the old tonnara viewpoints. This beach is sandy in the main cove, approximately 150 meters long, and sees its warmest water temperatures in July and August, with easy onward day trips to Castellammare del Golfo.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Walk from the free parking area near Belvedere viewpoint, then explore the rocky outcrops that extend into the sea, great for spotting fish while snorkeling on calm days before buses fill from the airport routes. The family-run kiosk near the center is a local favorite for its fresh granita and shade, and the signed trail toward the cliffs offers a quiet lookout cherished by locals. The nearest bus stop, Fermata Macari, is just a 10-minute walk from the access path, making it easy to reach without a car if connecting from Castellammare del Golfo.
- Pro: A family-friendly beach with calmer waters and nearby refreshments.
- Con: Limited shade; bring a hat and umbrella, especially during the midday sun.
Best For: Families and those who enjoy combining swimming with light snorkeling.
Skip If: You want a long stretch of sand; choose Santa Margherita Beach for more space.
Best Hotels near Isulidda Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Paradiso Isulidda — Simple, comfortable holiday home close to Isulidda and Bue Marino beaches, ideal for quiet stays.
- A Casa di Amy — Friendly guesthouse vibe with neat rooms and easy access to Macari’s coves and walking trails.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Makari Our Angel — Simple and well-kept apartment-style stay with balconies and quick reach to Isulidda Beach.
- Casa Vacanze Monte Cofano — Quiet base near Monte Cofano trails, featuring functional units and outdoor space for evening meals.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Paradiso Appartamenti — Functional apartments with kitchenettes and balconies, offering a practical base close to the beach and local eateries.
3. Bue Marino Beach: Sea Caves and Crystal Clear Waters
Sunlight filters through the underwater cave at Macari Beach, illuminating the vibrant fish darting through the rock formations in Macari in Sicily. I swam through the archway with goggles, the cool water a welcome contrast to the warm Sicilian sun, feeling like an explorer in a hidden world among the quieter beaches around this cove. This pebble beach is small, about 50 meters across, and is best visited from May to October when the sea is calm and clear for diving after a short trek along the coastal path.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
From the main parking area, walk the well-marked path that leads to the cove, then follow the trail past the seasonal snack bar to the eastern rocks near Macari Beach. The hidden fissure near the northern precipice is a local favorite for its resident octopus and unique lighting known among hikers who trek the shoreline. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the sun aligns with the cave entrance, creating a magical blue glow that rivals other beaches around Macari in Sicily.
- Pro: An exceptional spot for snorkeling and diving with unique underwater geology.
- Con: The rocky entrance can be slippery; wear sturdy water shoes for safe access.
Best For: Adventurous travelers and divers seeking unique marine experiences.
Skip If: You have limited mobility; the uneven terrain makes it less suitable for young children.
Best Hotels near Bue Marino Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Acquamarina — Bright villa setting with beach access nearby, private outdoor space, and relaxed coastal ambience.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Appartamenti da Clarissa — Practical apartments with kitchenettes and parking, ideal for longer beach stays on a budget.
- La Dama San Vito Lo Capo — Neat guesthouse-style rooms in a calm area, with quick access to San Vito’s promenade and Bue Marino beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- El Jazira Home — Compact apartment-style stay with a kitchenette, great for longer beach breaks on a budget.
4. Seno Dellarena Beach: Tranquil Sandy Cove
The soft, pink-tinged sand cradles your feet as the gentle waves barely ripple the surface of the water across the sheltered gulf, where coastal breezes keep the air fresh and the shoreline alive with delicate fauna. I wandered here at sunset, the sky ablaze with orange and purple, and had the entire beach to myself, the sound of the waves the only noise as I paused to enjoy an aperitif while the light faded. This small beach, roughly 80 meters long, is a mix of sand and fine pebbles and is typically calm during the early summer months.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Take the path from Via Calazza, passing the olive grove on your left, and you’ll see the beach nestled between two low cliffs with tide pools that often reveal tiny fauna. The fishing hut near the eastern end is a local favorite, where you can sometimes buy fresh catch directly from the boats and then enjoy an aperitif on the rocks with views down the gulf. The optimal time to visit is between 9 and 11 a.m. to avoid the afternoon heat and the small shuttle bus crowds.
- Pro: A peaceful, secluded beach with beautiful natural surroundings.
- Con: Very limited facilities; bring all your water and snacks from Macari village.
Best For: Couples and small groups seeking a quiet, romantic escape.
Skip If: You want a busy, social scene with beach bars; head to San Vito Lo Capo for more options.
Best Hotels near Seno Dellarena Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Pocho — Cliffside boutique stay known for panoramic sea views and a charming restaurant terrace.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Mare San Vito Lo Capo — Practical holiday home setup with kitchen facilities and a calm residential location.
5. Cala Calazza Beach: Hidden Pebble Inlet
The crunch of tiny pebbles under your shoes gives way to smooth, sun-warmed stones as you settle near the water’s edge with a great view of the cove. I scrambled over the low rocks to a tiny, vine-covered alcove, a perfect spot for a private picnic undisturbed by others in one of Sicily’s quietest corners. This short beach, about 60 meters, is primarily pebbles with a few sandy patches, and the water is usually calm, making it suitable for a swim from June through September.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Look for the unofficial trail that branches off from the main path near the olive trees, leading to a small viewpoint over the cove with a great view framed by cliffs. The cluster of fig trees on the southern slope is a local favorite for its fruit in late summer, a sweet slice of Sicily’s countryside tradition. The nearest public restroom is located at the main parking area for Santa Margherita Beach, a 12-minute walk away.
- Pro: A quiet, lesser-known cove perfect for solitude and nature observation.
- Con: Limited access for those with strollers or mobility issues due to the rocky terrain.
Best For: Nature lovers and travelers looking for a hidden gem.
Skip If: You need sunbeds and umbrellas; this is a wild beach with no facilities.
Best Hotels near Cala Calazza Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Costanza — Spacious villa option suited to small groups, offering a garden area and convenient parking.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Palma — Comfortable rooms with a friendly vibe and a convenient location for dining and beach time.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villa Minaudo — Quiet villa accommodation with outdoor space and parking, suited to couples or small groups.
6. Cala Rossa Beach: Secluded Escape with Golden Sand
Golden sand meets deep blue water, framed by rugged red-tinged cliffs that glow at sunrise, and on calm mornings the clear shallows are ideal for gentle scuba practice with a guide. I found this beach by following a faint trail from the countryside path, the sense of discovery making the swim even more rewarding and a perfect place to linger after a long walk. The beach is small, around 70 meters, with a mix of sand and volcanic rock, and it’s best visited in late spring or early autumn to enjoy the warm water and fewer people, then sample local delicacies at a nearby seaside café.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park near the olive grove off Contrada Macari and walk the narrow path that winds through the maquis shrubland, a perfect place to pause under the pines before descending. The overhanging ledge on the western side is a local favorite for precipice jumping into the deep pool below, and after a dip many stop for local delicacies like panelle and cannoli from a small stand along the lane. The most peaceful time to visit is on weekdays, as weekends see more visitors arriving by the small shuttle train, and guided scuba try-dives sometimes use the calmer coves nearby.
- Pro: A stunning, photogenic beach with dramatic scenery and excellent water clarity.
- Con: Hard to find without a map; consider using a GPS app to locate the trailhead.
Best For: Adventurous travelers and photographers chasing unique landscapes.
Skip If: You want easy access and convenience; choose Santa Margherita Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Cala Rossa Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Case Vacanza Trinacria — No-frills apartments with balconies and kitchenettes, a solid choice for cost-conscious travelers.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hellas San Vito Lo Capo — No-frills rooms in a handy location for beach days and evening walks.
7. Punta Balestrate Beach: Panoramic Ocean View
The panoramic view stretches from the Egadi Islands on the horizon to the rolling hills of the countryside behind you. I sat on the flat rock at the point, the wind in my hair, watching sailboats drift by in the distance, a perfect moment of stillness. This shingle beach is small, about 40 meters, with a rocky shoreline, and the water is often clear and cool, ideal for a refreshing dip from July to September.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The path from the small parking spur off SP16 leads you directly to the point, where you can pause to discover the best angles before stepping onto the rocks. The small cave just below the viewpoint is a local favorite for its cool interior and unique acoustics, a spot where photographers discover the best echoes and natural frames. The best light for photography is in the late afternoon, about two hours before sunset, when it’s easiest to discover the best golden tones across the sea.
- Pro: Offers one of the best views in the area, perfect for contemplation and photos.
- Con: Not suitable for swimming or sunbathing due to the rocky terrain and strong currents.
Best For: View seekers and those on a private walking tour.
Skip If: You plan to swim or spend the day on the sand; this is more of a viewpoint.
Best Hotels near Punta Balestrate Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa Angelo — Homey apartment setup near the seafront, offering a balcony and straightforward self-catering comfort.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Vacanze Mari — Straightforward apartment with a kitchenette and balcony, a good base for daily swims.
8. Cala Tonnarella Delluzzo Beach: Nature Reserve Access Point
The path winds through fragrant wild thyme and rosemary, opening suddenly to a wild cove with water so clear it looks like glass. I watched a group of hikers from the Zingaro Reserve emerge from the trail, their excitement palpable as they saw the hidden cove for the first time. This beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, approximately 90 meters long, and access is best between April and October when the reserve trails are fully open.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Use the trailhead near the Monte Cofano Reserve entrance, following the signs for the coastal path, where a seasonal small train sometimes shuttles day-trippers along the lanes. The small freshwater spring near the precipice base is a local favorite for refilling water bottles before continuing past the waymarkers. The most reliable way to move around is on foot, as the narrow roads have limited parking and no regular public ferry service, and the small train operates infrequently outside peak season.
- Pro: A direct access point to the nature reserve with exceptional biodiversity and flora.
- Con: No services or food available; plan to bring everything you need.
Best For: Hikers and nature enthusiasts exploring the Zingaro Reserve.
Skip If: You seek a convenient beach with amenities; this requires preparation.
Best Hotels near Cala Tonnarella Delluzzo Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Apartments Al Paradise — Practical apartment-style stays with kitchenettes and a central base for exploring the coastline.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Residence Lion — Airy units with kitchenettes and terraces, well placed for drives to Cala Tonnarella and Bue Marino.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Un Posto al Sole — Bright, airy rooms with a homely feel and easy access to shops and cafes.
9. Baia Santa Barbara Beach: Coral Sand and Secluded Swimming
The sand, a unique blend of crushed coral and shell, feels different underfoot—softer and finer than typical beach sand in this great location for quiet swims. I floated in the calm, shallow water, the seabed gently sloping, noticing the abundance of tiny shells and sea urchin spines while eyeing a distant rooftop terrace catching the evening breeze. This beach is about 100 meters long, with a sandy base and scattered pebbles, and it’s best for swimming during the calm seas of early summer.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Arrive via the dirt track from the main road, looking for the small sign near the fig tree in a great location for easy beach access. The cluster of pine trees on the dune is a local favorite for its natural shade and picnic tables, and a nearby rooftop terrace offers a breezy perch for sunset watchers. The area is less crowded after 4 p.m., making it a great time to visit and enjoy the golden hour light from this great location.
- Pro: A family-friendly beach with very calm, shallow water and unique sand.
- Con: Parking is limited and unmarked; arrive early to secure a spot.
Best For: Families with young children who need safe, shallow water.
Skip If: You dislike natural, undeveloped beaches; choose a more equipped area.
Best Hotels near Baia Santa Barbara Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Boa Vista — Hilltop-style apartments with sweeping sea views and balconies perfect for a morning coffee.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Cavalera — Clean, budget-friendly rooms with a shared terrace and easy access to central Baia Santa Barbara.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Baglio Fontana — Historic country estate with rustic-chic rooms, gardens, and a relaxing pool area.
10. Scoglio di Punta Lunga Beach: Surfer’s Haven with Waves
The consistent swell rolls in, creating perfect waves that draw bodyboarders and experienced swimmers to this quaint stretch of coast. I watched a local teenager expertly navigate the break, the sound of the crashing waves a powerful backdrop to the day. This is a rocky shoreline with a small sandy area, approximately 50 meters, and the wave conditions are best during the winter and spring, though the water can be cooler.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
The access is from the trail near the old lighthouse ruins, a 10-minute walk from the main road past a quaint cluster of windswept shrubs. The small cave behind the large rock is a local favorite for its sheltered water and good acoustics for singing, a quaint echo chamber at low tide. The best time to visit is in the morning when the winds are calmest and the sea is most manageable.
- Pro: One of the few spots in the area with consistent waves for water sports.
- Con: Not safe for weak swimmers; the currents can be strong and unpredictable.
Best For: Surfing and water sports enthusiasts.
Skip If: You want a calm, safe swimming area; Sant’Elia Beach is a better choice.
Best Hotels near Scoglio di Punta Lunga Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- A pochi passi dal mare — Bright apartment just steps from the shoreline, featuring a balcony with sea views and a compact kitchen.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Triskell Camere & Relax — Comfortable guesthouse offering tidy rooms, friendly hosts, and a quiet setting for restful nights.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Macari?
Plan for moderate expenses, with meals at local trattorias costing $15–25, local transport via bus around $5, and beach activities like snorkeling gear rental about $10–15 per day, with prices slightly higher in peak season.
Which beaches in Macari are best for families with young children?
Santa Margherita Beach and Baia Santa Barbara Beach are best for families, offering calm, shallow waters, gentle slopes, and nearby picnic areas suitable for kids.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Macari?
Scoglio di Punta Lunga Beach is ideal for surfing and bodyboarding, while Bue Marino Beach and Isulidda Beach are perfect for snorkeling and diving due to their clear waters and rich marine life.
What is the best time of year to visit Macari’s beaches?
The best time is from May to September, when the weather is warm, the sea temperature is pleasant for swimming, and the risk of rain is minimal, though July and August are the busiest.
How can you easily get around Macari’s beaches?
You can easily get around Macari’s beaches by using the free shuttle train that connects the main parking areas to different coves, or by walking the well-marked coastal paths.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Macari?
Yes, Cala Rossa Beach and Cala Calazza Beach are hidden coves that are less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat away from the main tourist paths.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Macari’s beaches?
Visitors should bring water shoes for rocky beaches, pack all their water and snacks, arrive early to secure parking, and be mindful of the strong afternoon sun and occasional jellyfish.
