Isola  Bella  (Taormina)​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 14 February 2022
​The beach of Isola Bella is situated on the Ionian coast of Sicily, within the Metropolitan City of Messina province. Isola Bella is part of the comune of Taormina, the main town that sits at the top of a hill which can be accessed via cable car. 

Isola Bella is one of a series of beaches next to each other and is characterised by the the little island rock that it's named after. 
A small museum is housed within the rock which is surrounded by dazzling crystalline waters. The colour of the water can best be captured from the road that winds its way up to the town above, or from the cable car which costs €6 and takes four minutes to reach its destination.

The beaches either side of the little island are not quite sandy but more shingle or rocky in places. Isola Bella gets extremely busy during the summer and it's often easier to find a spot at the likes of Spisone, ​Mazzarò or Capo Taormina, the neighbouring beaches. 
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Isola Bella Beach, also known as "The Pearl of the Ionian Sea," is a stunning coastal area located near Taormina, Sicily, Italy. This picturesque beach is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white pebbles, and lush Mediterranean vegetation, making it a true paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

The beach gets its name from Isola Bella, a tiny island located just a short distance from the shore. The island is connected to the beach by a narrow strip of sand, which emerges during low tide, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Tourist Sights: 

  • Isola Bella: The island itself is a significant tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the lush vegetation, unique flora, and fauna, as well as the ancient ruins of a small villa belonging to Florence Trevelyan, the English noblewoman who owned the island in the 19th century.
  • Taormina: Just a short distance away from Isola Bella Beach is the charming town of Taormina, known for its medieval streets, ancient Greek theater, and stunning views of Mount Etna. Taormina offers a variety of cultural and historical experiences, including art exhibitions, concerts, and festivals.
  • Mazzarò: Mazzarò is a neighboring beach that offers additional opportunities for swimming and water sports. It can be reached from Isola Bella Beach via a scenic cable car ride, providing panoramic views of the coast.
  • Greek Theater of Taormina: The ancient Greek theater in Taormina is one of the most well-preserved theaters in Italy. It hosts various events and performances, providing a glimpse into the past and a captivating setting for cultural experiences.
  • Villa Comunale: Taormina's public garden, Villa Comunale, is a peaceful oasis with beautiful flowerbeds, sculptures, and terraces offering stunning views of the sea and the coast.
  • Corso Umberto I: This bustling main street in Taormina is lined with boutiques, shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some retail therapy.

Local Cuisine: Visitors to Isola Bella Beach can savor traditional Sicilian dishes, such as arancini (rice balls), pasta alla norma (pasta with eggplant and ricotta), and cannoli (ricotta-filled pastries).
Comune: ​​​​​Taormina

Province: Metropolitan City of Messina​

Region: Sicily

Beach surface: ​​shingle

Close by: ​​​​Spisone, ​Mazzarò, Capo Taormina, Giardini Naxos

Fly to : ​​Catania Airport - 55 minutes by car (65 km)

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Villa Fiorita

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