Vendicari Nature Reserve Sicily

Best beaches in Sicily Italy

Having explored countless corners of Italy, I can confidently say that the Vendicari Nature Reserve is one of the most captivating places in Sicily. Nestled along the southeastern coast near Noto, this protected paradise combines wild beauty, crystal-clear waters, and remarkable biodiversity. Framed by dunes, lagoons, and ancient ruins, Vendicari offers a glimpse of unspoiled Sicily at its finest. Whether you’re wandering through coastal trails, spotting flamingos, or relaxing on some of the best beaches in Sicily, this reserve delivers an unforgettable experience—raw, authentic, and far removed from the crowds, where nature and history quietly intertwine.

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Practical Information

Location

The Vendicari Nature Reserve is located on the southeastern coast of Sicily, between the charming baroque towns of Noto and Marzamemi. Stretching along the Ionian Sea, this protected area covers several kilometers of pristine coastline, featuring sandy beaches, salt marshes, and lagoons teeming with wildlife. Its strategic location makes it a perfect stop for travelers exploring the Val di Noto, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by unspoiled nature and some of the best beaches in Sicily.

Transportation & Exploration

✈️ By Plane: The Vendicari Nature Reserve is easiest to reach via Catania Fontanarossa Airport, located on Sicily’s eastern coast and well connected to major European cities as well as Italian hubs like Rome and Milan. From Catania, it’s about a 90-minute drive south to the reserve. 

👉 [You can book your plane ticket here🔗].

🛳 By Ferry: You can also reach Sicily by ferry from mainland Italy (Naples, Reggio Calabria, Villa San Giovanni) or other Mediterranean destinations. The main ports are in Palermo, Messina, and Catania. 

⚠️ I wouldn’t recommend it – it’s costly and takes a long time.

🚗 By Car: To fully enjoy the Vendicari Nature Reserve and its surroundings, renting a car is highly recommended. Public transport in this area is limited, and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore nearby gems like Noto, Marzamemi, and the hidden coves along the coast at your own pace. Driving in Sicily can be a bit of an adventure—locals are known for their enthusiastic driving style—but it’s all part of the experience.

👉 [You can book your car on Booking🔗 or on Rentalcars🔗].

🚆 By Train & Bus: If you prefer not to drive, reaching the Vendicari Nature Reserve by public transport is possible but not ideal. The nearest train station is in Noto, and from there you’d need to rely on limited local buses or a taxi to reach the reserve’s entrance. Connections can be infrequent and time-consuming, especially outside the summer season.

⚠️ For this reason, I don’t recommend visiting Vendicari without a car—it’s simply much easier and more enjoyable to explore this remote and beautiful area with your own vehicle.

 🚶‍♂️ On Foot: Exploring the Vendicari Nature Reserve requires a fair amount of walking, as vehicles are not allowed inside the protected area. Depending on which entrance you choose—Eloro, Calamosche, or Tonnara di Vendicari—you’ll need to walk between 10 and 40 minutes to reach the beaches or main viewpoints. The trails are mostly flat but can get hot under the sun, so bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. 

Weather

Sicily enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters:

• ☀️ Summer (June to August): Hot and sunny, with temperatures often between 28°C and 35°C (82°F to 95°F). Perfect for beaches, but be prepared for heat in inland areas.
• 🍂 Autumn (September to November): Warm and pleasant, 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Fewer tourists and plenty of cultural festivals make this a fantastic time to visit.
• ❄️ Winter (December to February): Mild, 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F). Snow is rare except on Mount Etna, where you can even go skiing!
• 🌸 Spring (March to May): Lovely weather, 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), wildflowers in bloom, and ideal for sightseeing without the summer crowds.

 Accommodation

Sicily offers everything from luxury seaside resorts and boutique hotels in historic palazzos to family-run B&Bs and agriturismi (farm stays). 

👉 On my trip, I chose campgrounds because I could bring my own tent and car, giving me the freedom to explore at my own pace. If you love being surrounded by nature, this is an amazing way to experience the area:

• Agritourist Rinaura Campeggio🔗
• Campeggio Sanfilippo🔗

While in Palermo and Catania, I stayed at B&B La Tua Dimora🔗 and Domus Coralla B&B Racconti di Viaggio🔗

Sicily beaches

Vendicari Nature Reserve

The Riserva Naturale Orientata Oasi Faunistica di Vendicari is one of Sicily’s most stunning natural gems and a must-see for nature lovers and beach seekers. Located between Noto and Marzamemi, this vast coastal reserve combines unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich biodiversity. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during migration seasons when flamingos, herons, and storks stop here. The reserve is also dotted with historical landmarks, like the remains of an ancient tuna factory (tonnara) and a 15th-century watchtower.

Vendicari is famous for its pristine beaches, each with its own character:

• Calamosche🔗: A gorgeous sandy cove with calm, turquoise waters, perfect for a relaxing swim. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the parking area through scenic trails, so wear comfortable shoes.

• Spiaggia di Vendicari🔗: Wide, wild, and ideal for long walks and birdwatching. The easiest way to reach it is from the Vendicari entrance near the old tuna factory and the watchtower. You can explore the old tuna factory (tonnara) and spot graceful flamingos in the surrounding wetlands.
• San Lorenzo🔗: Stunning and slightly livelier than the others, with easier access and some services nearby, making it a great option if you prefer convenience.
  
• Cittadella dei Maccari🔗: In my opinion, an absolute must-see! This little-known spot within the reserve is simply gorgeous, and if you’re lucky, you can witness sea turtles nesting on the beach and making their way back to the water—a truly magical experience.

• Spiaggia di Eloro🔗: If the weather isn’t too hot, I recommend exploring the area starting from Calamosche. A hidden gem is Spiaggia di Elbora, which takes about 30 minutes to reach on foot from Calamosche. The trail is stunning and wild, offering a true sense of nature. Along the way, you’ll pass Spiaggia delle Marianelli, another beautiful spot—just be aware that it’s a nude beach.

👣 How to Visit: each entrance has a parking area (paid, around €5). There is also a small entrance fee to the reserve (usually a few euros) to help maintain this protected area. The ticket is valid for one day, and you can access the whole reserve. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as there are few facilities inside the reserve.

Planning a perfect day trip doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these steps and considering your preferences, you can create an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, choose your destination, and get ready for an adventure!