Cefalu, a coastal gem nestled on the northern coast of Sicily, is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Italy. With its golden sand and clear turquoise waters, Cefalu’s beaches offer the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and soaking up the Mediterranean sun. From the bustling main beach in the heart of town to secluded coves ideal for a private beach experience, Cefalu caters to all types of beach lovers.
The best time to visit is during the summer months, but be prepared for crowds as these popular beaches can fill up quickly. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic (don’t forget the cannoli!), and get ready to discover the coastal paradise that is Cefalu.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Cefalu 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Le Calette N°5
- ✨ 5-Star: Victoria Palace Cefalù
- 🏨 4-Star: Horizon Suites
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Baia del Capitano
- 💸 Cheap: Camping San Filippo
- 🏢 Apartment: Baia degli Ulivi Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Le Dune Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: Le Calette Garden & Bay
1. 🌞 Top 10 Beaches in Cefalù
🏖️ Lungomare Beach – Best for Vibrant Atmosphere
Lungomare Beach is the main beach of Cefalù, stretching along the town’s historic center. Its golden sand and crystal-clear waters make it a favorite among locals and tourists. The beach offers stunning views of La Rocca and the Arab-Norman Cathedral. It’s well-equipped with beach clubs, umbrellas, and sunbeds for rent. The shallow waters make it ideal for families with children. A promenade lined with restaurants and cafes runs alongside the beach. It can get crowded during peak season, so arrive early to secure a spot. The sunset views from this beach are particularly breathtaking.
Best Hotels Near Lungomare Beach 🏨
- Hotel Artemis – This hotel is located just 100 meters from Lungomare Beach, one of the best Cefalu beaches. It offers comfortable rooms with balconies and a rooftop terrace perfect for sunbathing. The hotel’s central location allows guests to easily visit Cefalu and enjoy the beaches.
- Victoria Palace Hotel – Situated 200 meters from Lungomare Beach, this elegant hotel features a private beach area and a panoramic restaurant. It’s an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying views of the surrounding coastline.
- Horizon Suites – These modern suites are located 150 meters from Lungomare Beach, offering a blend of comfort and convenience. Each suite has a kitchenette, making it easy to prepare snacks for a day at the beach. The property is also close to restaurants and shops in the heart of Cefalu.
🌿 Caldura Beach – Best for Snorkeling
Caldura Beach is a hidden gem tucked away in a cove near Cefalù. This pebble beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. The clear turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. It’s less crowded than the main beach, offering a more tranquil experience. Access is via a steep staircase, which keeps crowds at bay. The beach has limited facilities, so bring your own supplies. It’s a favorite spot for locals and those seeking a quieter beach day. The scenery here is particularly picturesque, making it popular with photographers.
Best Hotels Near Caldura Beach 🏨
- Le Calette Hotel – This luxurious hotel is situated near Caldura Beach, offering a private beach area and multiple swimming pools. It’s a beautiful spot for swimming and sunbathing, with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel also provides regular bus services to the center of Cefalu.
- Le Calette N.5 – This boutique hotel is located on a beautiful cove near Caldura Beach. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant. The hotel’s secluded location provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury for those looking to enjoy a peaceful beach getaway.
- Cefalù Caldura House – These apartments are situated just a short walk from Caldura Beach. They offer comfortable accommodations with kitchenettes, ideal for families or groups. The property’s location allows guests to easily enjoy the beach and explore the surrounding area.
🏄♂️ Mazzaforno Beach – Best for Adventure Seekers
Mazzaforno Beach is located about 3 km from Cefalù center. It’s known for its mix of sandy areas and rocky coves. The beach is popular for snorkeling due to its rich marine life. It offers both free public areas and equipped lidos with amenities. The water is crystal clear and ideal for various water sports. The beach is surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, adding to its natural beauty. It’s less crowded than the main town beach, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. The sunset views from here are spectacular, especially from the rocky outcrops.
Best Hotels Near Mazzaforno Beach 🏨
- CHS Baia del Capitano – This hotel is located near Mazzaforno Beach, offering a private beach area and an outdoor pool. It’s a great spot for families, with shallow waters ideal for children. The hotel also features a restaurant serving local Sicilian cuisine.
- Baia degli Ulivi Apartments – These apartments are situated close to Mazzaforno Beach, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by olive groves. Each unit has a kitchenette and terrace, perfect for enjoying meals with a view. The property also has a pool for guests who prefer swimming in fresh water.
- Camping San Filippo – This campsite is located near Mazzaforno Beach, offering a budget-friendly option for beach lovers. It features mobile homes and pitches for tents, as well as a pool and restaurant. The campsite’s location allows guests to enjoy the beach and explore the local flora and fauna.
🌅 Settefrati Beach – Best for Natural Beauty
Settefrati Beach is known for its unique landscape with seven rock formations jutting out of the sea. The beach offers a mix of sand and pebbles with crystal-clear waters. It’s less developed, providing a more natural and unspoiled beach experience. The area is great for snorkeling and exploring the rocky coastline. The beach is surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. It’s less crowded, making it perfect for those seeking tranquility. The views of the rock formations are particularly stunning at sunset. Bring your own supplies as facilities are limited here.
Best Hotels Near Settefrati Beach 🏨
- Villa Valentina – This villa is located near Settefrati Beach, offering a luxurious stay with sea views. It features a private pool and garden, perfect for relaxation and fun. The villa’s location provides easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.
- B&B Terra du Suli – This B&B is situated close to Settefrati Beach, offering comfortable rooms and a terrace with sea views. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the Sicilian sun. The B&B’s location allows guests to easily visit the beach and explore the surrounding countryside.
- Hotel David – This hotel is located near Settefrati Beach, offering simple but comfortable accommodations. It features a garden and terrace where guests can soak up the sun. The hotel’s proximity to the beach makes it easy for visitors to enjoy swimming and sunbathing.
🏄♀️ Salinelle Beach – Best for Water Sports
Salinelle Beach is located about 8 km from Cefalù center. It’s famous for its excellent windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions. The beach offers a long stretch of sand with both free and equipped areas. The water gets deep quickly, making it less suitable for young children. It’s popular among young people and groups of friends looking for a lively atmosphere. Beach bars and restaurants line the shore, offering refreshments and meals. The beach is less crowded than those closer to town. Spectacular sunsets can be enjoyed from this westward-facing beach.
Best Hotels Near Salinelle Beach 🏨
- Villa Verde – This villa is situated near Salinelle Beach, offering a peaceful retreat with sea views. It features a garden and terrace, perfect for outdoor dining. The villa’s location allows guests to easily visit the beach and explore the surrounding area.
- Le Dune Resort – This resort is located near Salinelle Beach, offering comfortable bungalows and a large pool. It’s a great option for families, with activities and entertainment available for children. The resort’s beachfront location allows guests to easily enjoy the sea and sand.
- Hotel Verdemare – This hotel is situated close to Salinelle Beach, offering rooms with sea views and a restaurant serving local cuisine. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the Sicilian coastline. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beach and nearby attractions in Cefalu.
👨👩👧👦 Capo Playa Beach – Best for Families
Capo Playa Beach stretches for several kilometers, offering plenty of space. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles with clear blue waters. It’s popular among families due to its shallow waters and gentle slope. There are both free public areas and equipped lidos with amenities. The beach is easily accessible by car with ample parking. It’s less crowded than the main town beach, even in peak season. Water sports equipment rentals are available for those seeking adventure. The long coastline is perfect for romantic walks, especially at sunset.
Best Hotels Near Capo Playa Beach 🏨
- Residence Il Monte – This residence offers apartments with stunning sea views, located just 1 km from Capo Playa Beach. It features a pool and garden, perfect for relaxation after sunbathing and swimming. The property is situated in a quiet area, ideal for families seeking a peaceful beach holiday.
- Hotel Carlton Riviera – Located near Capo Playa Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. It features a private beach area and restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and Cefalu’s historic center makes it convenient for both beach lovers and culture enthusiasts.
- Casa Verdemare – This charming guesthouse is situated close to Capo Playa Beach, offering cozy rooms with a homely atmosphere. It’s located in a quiet area, perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach getaway. The property also provides easy access to nearby restaurants where guests can grab a bite of local specialties.
🧘♀️ Sant’Ambrogio Beach – Best for Tranquility
Sant’Ambrogio Beach is located about 6 km east of Cefalù. It’s a long, pebbly beach known for its peaceful atmosphere. The water is incredibly clear, making it great for snorkeling. It’s less developed, offering a more natural beach experience. The beach is backed by hills covered in Mediterranean vegetation. It’s rarely crowded, even during peak season. There are few facilities, so bring your own supplies. The views of the coastline and nearby islands are breathtaking. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet, unspoiled beach day.
Best Hotels Near Sant’Ambrogio Beach 🏨
- Hotel Vallegrande – This hotel is located near Sant’Ambrogio Beach, offering rooms with panoramic sea views. It features a restaurant serving Sicilian cuisine and a pool overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel’s location provides easy access to both the beach and the charming village of Sant’Ambrogio.
- Hotel Framavi – Situated close to Sant’Ambrogio Beach, this family-run hotel offers a friendly atmosphere and comfortable rooms. It’s also a small property, providing a more intimate stay. The hotel’s terrace offers beautiful sea views, perfect for watching sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Villa Palamara 1868 – This historic villa offers elegant accommodation near Sant’Ambrogio Beach. It features a garden and terrace with sea views, providing a tranquil retreat. The property’s unique charm and proximity to the beach make it ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
🌊 Pollina Beach – Best for Scenic Views
Pollina Beach is located about 15 km from Cefalù. It offers a mix of sand and pebbles with crystal-clear waters. The beach is backed by dramatic cliffs, creating a stunning backdrop. It’s less crowded than beaches closer to Cefalù town. The area is known for its beautiful sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea. There are both free areas and equipped lidos with amenities. The beach is popular for snorkeling due to its clear waters and rocky areas. It’s a great spot for photography enthusiasts due to its scenic beauty.
Best Hotels Near Pollina Beach 🏨
- Hotel Riva del Sole – Located in the heart of Cefalu, this hotel is a short drive from Pollina Beach. It offers rooms with balconies and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to Cefalu’s attractions and beaches.
- Ossuna Bay Hotel Boutique – This boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and is a short drive from Pollina Beach. It features a terrace with sea views and a bar where guests can relax. The hotel’s modern design and intimate atmosphere cater to couples looking for a chic coastal retreat.
- Villa Gaia – This villa offers spacious accommodation and is located near Pollina Beach. It features a garden and terrace, perfect for outdoor relaxation. The villa’s ample space and facilities make it ideal for families or groups visiting Cefalu.
🏰 Finale di Pollina Beach – Best for Historical Interest
Finale di Pollina Beach is located near the town of Pollina. The beach offers a mix of sand and pebbles with clear, blue waters. It’s overlooked by the historic Pollina Castle, adding a unique charm. The beach is less crowded, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s popular among locals, giving visitors an authentic experience. The area is known for its beautiful sunsets and coastal views. There are some small beach bars and restaurants nearby. It’s a great spot for those interested in combining beach time with historical exploration.
Best Hotels Near Finale di Pollina Beach 🏨
- Pollina Resort – This resort offers a comprehensive beach holiday experience near Finale di Pollina Beach. It features multiple pools, sports facilities, and entertainment programs. The resort’s all-inclusive options and variety of activities make it perfect for families seeking a fun-filled beach vacation.
- Casa Bianca Rais – This holiday home is located close to Finale di Pollina Beach, offering a comfortable stay with sea views. It features a terrace and garden, providing ample outdoor space. The property’s peaceful setting makes it ideal for those seeking a quiet beach getaway.
- Rais Gerbi Appartamento – These apartments offer a home-away-from-home experience near Finale di Pollina Beach. Each unit features a kitchenette and balcony, some with sea views. The property’s location provides easy access to both the beach and local amenities.
🐠 Castel di Tusa Beach – Best for Art Lovers
Castel di Tusa Beach is located about 30 km east of Cefalù. It’s known for the nearby Fiumara d’Arte, an open-air museum of contemporary art. The beach is pebbly with crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling. It’s less crowded than beaches closer to Cefalù, offering a peaceful atmosphere. The backdrop of art installations adds a unique element to the beach experience. There are small beach bars and restaurants in the nearby town. The beach offers beautiful views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and nearby islands. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of culture and beach relaxation.
Best Hotels Near Castel di Tusa Beach 🏨
- Hotel Tus'Hotel – This hotel is situated near Castel di Tusa Beach, offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It features a restaurant serving local specialties and a terrace with sea views. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and the historic charm of Castel di Tusa.
- Il Miglio in Più – This bed and breakfast offers cozy accommodation close to Castel di Tusa Beach. It features a garden and terrace where guests can relax. The property’s homely atmosphere and proximity to the beach make it ideal for a laid-back coastal holiday.
- Tusa Bay Hotel – Located near Castel di Tusa Beach, this hotel offers rooms with sea views and modern comforts. It features a restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy local cuisine and drinks. The hotel’s beachfront location provides easy access for sunbathing and swimming.
2. ⛱️ Beach Characteristics and Features
🏖️ Sandy Shores: Cefalù’s sandy beaches, like Lungomare, offer soft golden sand perfect for sunbathing and beach games. These beaches are ideal for families and those who love traditional beach activities. The sand is comfortable for walking and lounging, making it easy to spend hours by the sea. Building sandcastles and playing beach volleyball are popular activities here. The golden hue of the sand creates a beautiful contrast with the blue Mediterranean waters.
🏞️ Pebble Beaches: Pebble beaches like Caldura offer a unique seaside experience. The smooth pebbles provide a natural foot massage as you walk along the shore. These beaches are less crowded and offer a more serene atmosphere. The pebbles create clear waters ideal for snorkeling, as there’s less sand to cloud the water. Sunset views are particularly stunning from these beaches, with the light reflecting off the pebbles.
💧 Crystal Clear Waters: The water clarity around Cefalù’s beaches is exceptional, with visibility often extending several meters deep. The color palette ranges from turquoise in shallow areas to deep azure further out. This clarity makes the beaches perfect for snorkeling and underwater photography. The clean, clear waters are a testament to the area’s well-preserved marine environment. Swimming in these waters feels like floating in a natural aquarium.
🏔️ Scenic Backdrops: Cefalù’s beaches are set against a variety of stunning natural backdrops. Many are flanked by dramatic limestone cliffs, adding a touch of rugged beauty. Lush Mediterranean vegetation, including pine trees, provides natural shade and a fragrant atmosphere. The historic town of Cefalù, with its Norman cathedral, creates a picturesque backdrop for the main beach.
🌅 Sunset Views: Many of Cefalù’s beaches, especially those facing west, offer spectacular sunset views. The sun setting over the Tyrrhenian Sea creates a magical atmosphere, painting the sky in vibrant oranges and pinks. Beaches like Salinelle are particularly popular for evening strolls and sunset watching. The reflection of the sunset on the water and wet sand creates stunning visual effects.
3. 🍸 Best Beach Clubs in Cefalù
🌴 Lido Poseidon: Lido Poseidon offers a perfect blend of convenience and luxury in the heart of Cefalù. It boasts stunning views of the old town while providing top-notch amenities. The club is ideal for those who want to be close to the town’s attractions. It offers comfortable sunbeds, excellent bar service, and a restaurant serving local specialties. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, catering to a diverse crowd.
🐠 Kalura Beach Club: Nestled in a picturesque cove, Kalura Beach Club is perfect for those seeking a more private experience. Its crystal-clear waters make it a fantastic spot for snorkeling and swimming. The club offers a serene atmosphere away from the busier beaches. It’s surrounded by lush vegetation, adding to its natural beauty. The on-site restaurant serves fresh seafood with panoramic sea views.
👨👩👧👦 Mazzaforno Beach Club: Mazzaforno Beach Club offers a laid-back vibe ideal for families. It features shallow waters perfect for children to play safely. The club provides various activities suitable for all ages. Its spacious layout ensures a comfortable experience even during busy periods. The beachfront restaurant offers kid-friendly meals alongside adult options.
✨ Lido Angeli del Mare: Lido Angeli del Mare offers a more exclusive feel with attentive service and gourmet dining. It’s ideal for those seeking a touch of luxury in their beach experience. The club features stylish decor and comfortable lounging areas. Its restaurant serves high-end cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Evening events often include live music and cocktail parties.
🏛️ Bagno Bordonaro: Located on the main beach, Bagno Bordonaro is a Cefalù institution with decades of history. It’s perfect for those who want to be in the center of the action. The club maintains a classic Italian Riviera feel. It offers excellent people-watching opportunities and a lively atmosphere. The bar serves traditional Sicilian aperitivos and snacks.
4. 🏄♂️ Activities and Water Sports
🏊♀️ Swimming and Snorkeling: Cefalù’s beaches offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Caldura Beach is a top spot for underwater exploration with its rich marine life. Mazzaforno Beach provides clear waters ideal for both casual swimmers and snorkeling enthusiasts. Early morning is the best time for snorkeling when the water is calmest and clearest. You might spot colorful Mediterranean fish and diverse aquatic flora.
🏄♂️ Water Sports: For thrill-seekers, Cefalù’s coastline is a paradise of water sports. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular near Salinelle Beach, known for its excellent wind conditions. Paddleboarding offers a more relaxed way to explore the coastline while enjoying the warm Sicilian sun. Jet skiing is available for those seeking high-speed excitement on the water. Many beaches offer equipment rentals, making it easy for visitors to try different water sports.
🏐 Beach Activities: Cefalù’s beaches offer plenty of land-based activities for all ages. Beach volleyball is a popular pastime, with many beaches having nets set up for friendly games. Some beach clubs offer morning yoga sessions by the sea, perfect for starting the day. Sandcastle building is a classic activity, especially enjoyable at the sandy Lungomare Beach.
⛵ Boat Tours and Excursions: Exploring Cefalù’s coast by boat offers a unique perspective of its beauty. Sunset cruises provide breathtaking views of the coastline as the sun dips into the Mediterranean. Fishing trips with local fishermen offer an authentic Sicilian experience. Island hopping tours to nearby destinations like Ustica or the Aeolian Islands are popular day trips.
5. 🚌 How to Get to Cefalù’s Beaches
🚶♂️ Getting Around Cefalù: Cefalù’s compact size makes it ideal for exploring various beaches. Walking is perfect for reaching nearby beaches and enjoying the town’s charm. Cycling offers a fun way to discover the coastline at your own pace. Local buses connect the town center to further beaches, providing an economical option. Taxis are available for quick trips to more remote coastal spots.
🚂 From Palermo to Cefalù: Traveling from Palermo to Cefalù is a scenic adventure along Sicily’s northern coast. Regular trains offer a comfortable 50-minute ride with stunning sea views. Buses provide a budget-friendly option, though the journey is slightly longer. Driving takes about an hour along the A20 motorway, offering flexibility to explore. Each mode of transport provides unique perspectives of the Sicilian landscape.
🏖️ Beach-Specific Access: Each of Cefalù’s beaches has its unique access points. Lungomare Beach is centrally located and easily walkable from most accommodations. Caldura Beach is a short 15-minute stroll or quick taxi ride from the center. Mazzaforno Beach is accessible by local bus or a brief car journey. Settefrati Beach is best reached by car or organized beach shuttles.
💡 Beach Hopping Tips: To make the most of Cefalù’s beaches, consider downloading local transport apps for real-time schedules. Boat tours offer access to secluded beach spots not reachable by land. Renting a scooter provides a truly Sicilian experience and easier parking. Ride-sharing apps can be cost-effective for trips to distant beaches.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Cefalu ❔
Is it worth it to stay in Cefalu?
Yes, it’s worth staying in Cefalù. The town offers beautiful beaches, historical attractions, and a charming atmosphere, making it a popular tourist destination in Sicily.
Is Cefalu safe?
Cefalù is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. As with any travel, normal precautions should be taken.
Can you swim at Cefalu beaches?
Yes, you can swim at Cefalù beaches. Many of the beaches, such as Lungomare Beach and Caldura Beach, are known for their clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Where is the clearest water in Cefalu?
Caldura Beach is often mentioned for its crystal clear waters. However, many beaches in Cefalù, including the main Lungomare Beach, are noted for their clear and transparent waters.
