Below the cliffs of Taormina, a small island sits in a curved bay of astonishingly clear water, connected to the shore by a narrow causeway that appears when the tide is low. Isola Bella has been called the pearl of the Ionian, and it earns the nickname: from the road above, the green island, the pebble strip and the sea in shades of turquoise look almost too perfect. It is a protected nature reserve, and the surrounding water is a marine area where the sea life and the seabed are carefully looked after. The little island has a villa, built in the early twentieth century, with gardens that tumble down the rock. Most visitors come for the beach and the sea. The cove has a pebbly shore, rental sunbeds and cafes, and the water is clear enough for snorkelling. Others take a boat trip around the island, with views of grottoes and rock formations from the water. Reaching the beach from Taormina is part of the adventure, with a cable car running from the town down to the coast road, and the beach is a short walk from the lower station. It is one of the most photographed spots on the east coast of Sicily and a natural afternoon counterpart to the Greek Theatre.
Understanding the setting
The island belongs to a small protected area, and that is why the cove is so clean. Rules aim to protect the plants and wildlife, so visitors are asked to take rubbish away, avoid damaging the sea bed and follow any signs. The island itself has at times been open to visitors on a restricted basis and closed at others, depending on conservation and management arrangements, so check the current rules before you plan to walk across the strip or step onto the rock.
Whatever the status, the views from the beach and the water are the main event.
Getting there
The simplest route is the Taormina cable car, which runs between the old town and the coast road, with a short walk from the lower station to the beach. Taxis and local buses also serve the bay, and some visitors walk down the steep path from the town, though the return climb is demanding in heat.
In peak season the beach can be crowded by late morning, so arrive early or in the evening, when the light turns golden and the crowds thin. A pair of water shoes is very useful, since the shore is pebbles, not sand, and the rocks can be slippery.
Making a day of it
Combine a morning at the Greek Theatre with a late-lunch swim at Isola Bella, or take a small boat trip around the coast to Mazzarò and the grottoes of Capo Sant'Andrea. Bring a towel, sun protection and a mask and snorkel if you have them.
Spring and early autumn are pleasant, with warm sea and fewer visitors, while July and August are busy and hot. For the best photograph, stop at the viewpoints along the road above the bay, where the whole curve of the cove and the island opens up beneath you.
A final practical point is to carry some cash and water. Cafes and sunbed rentals near the beach are used to visitors, but prices can be high in summer, and a small bag with your own snacks and a refillable bottle is a good idea. Remember that the beach has few facilities beyond the basics, so plan ahead for shade, and pack out everything you bring in. Respecting the reserve helps keep the cove looking as lovely as it does in the photographs.
What to expect
The experience
A relaxed visit to a pebble beach and protected cove, with swimming, snorkelling and views of the island, plus optional boat trips around the coast.
Best time
Early morning or early evening in summer, or spring and early autumn for warm sea and fewer people.
How long
Two to three hours, or an afternoon with a swim and a drink at the beach.
Tips
Wear water shoes for the pebbles, bring sun protection and check the current rules about access to the island itself.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a swim and a postcard view without leaving Taormina.
- Families
- Children love the clear water, but the pebbles and slippery rocks call for water shoes and supervision.
- Couples
- An early-evening visit, when the beach empties and the light is warm, is lovely.
- Pair with
- The Greek Theatre, the Taormina cable car and a Mount Etna excursion.
- Time needed
- An afternoon, including the cable car ride.
Good questions
How do I get to Isola Bella from Taormina?+
The easiest way is the cable car from the town to the coast road, followed by a short walk. Taxis and local buses also serve the bay.
Can I walk to the island?+
At low tide a narrow strip of pebbles links the beach to the island, but access to the island itself has varied, so check current rules before you go.
Is the beach sandy?+
No, it is pebbles, so water shoes make swimming and walking much more comfortable.
Is it good for snorkelling?+
Yes, the water is clear and the protected area supports plenty of marine life. Bring your own mask and snorkel or rent on site.
When is the best time to visit?+
Early morning or early evening in summer, or spring and early autumn, when the sea is warm and the beach less crowded.
