The Marine Wonders of Messina: The Most Enchanting Beaches to Visit

The city of Messina, located on the northeastern tip of Sicily, is a true paradise for sea lovers and those seeking breathtaking beaches. With its picturesque coastline, it offers a myriad of enchanting beaches that attract visitors from all corners of the world. In this article, we will guide you through the most beautiful beaches in Messina, where the meeting of the crystal-clear sea and the Sicilian land creates dreamlike landscapes.

The territory of our city is vast and is composed of two distinct coastlines: the southern coast that extends towards Catania and the northern coast that winds towards Palermo. At Punta Faro beach, the two souls of the province of Messina come together, creating a unique experience for beachgoers.

The southern coast

The southern coast of the province of Messina is characterized by a series of enchanting seaside resorts overlooking the Ionian Sea. Here, the waters are turquoise and crystal-clear, and the beaches are surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. The coastal resorts of Taormina, Giardini Naxos, and Letojanni are some of the gems of this coast, undisputed attractions for tourists from all over the world.

Taormina beach is undoubtedly the most charming on the southern coastline, enhanced by its proximity to Isola Bella. It is an islet located in front of Taormina beach and connected to it by a very narrow strip of land that forms during low tide. This delicate balance between land and sea creates a magical atmosphere and makes the islet easily accessible on foot for visitors. For many years, this natural treasure was inaccessible to the public, but it has recently been reopened for tourist visits. Now, nature lovers and those seeking idyllic scenery can explore this small paradise. In Taormina, you can engage in a multitude of water sports, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. However, the most popular excursion is the boat tour departing from the port of Giardini Naxos, which includes visits to all four bays from Giardini Naxos to the Bay of the Sirens.

How to get to Taormina from Messina

There is a direct connection from Messina, operated by Interbus, with departures from the main station at Piazza della Repubblica in Messina, and multiple daily trips available.

The northern coast

The northern coast of Messina is a true natural paradise that stretches towards Palermo, offering spectacular landscapes and a variety of attractions that captivate visitors from all over the world. From Torre Faro to Capo d’Orlando and beyond, the beaches provide an ideal refuge for sea and sun lovers. The sandy beaches, some of which are more secluded and tranquil, invite you to relax and enjoy the warmth of the Sicilian sun.

Torre Faro

The beach of Torre Faro, better known as Capo Peloro, is one of the most enchanting places in all of Sicily. It marks the easternmost point of Sicily, the closest stretch to Calabria where the Strait is "narrowest." But the beach of Torre Faro is also the place where the southern and northern coasts meet, a magical spot where beachgoers can clearly feel the currents of the cold Ionian Sea and the warm Tyrrhenian Sea. This place offers a unique perspective, allowing one to perceive the meeting of two seas and two worlds, blending without mixing. It is a paradise for nature and sea enthusiasts, where the charm of Messina reaches its peak.

How to get to Torre Faro from Messina city center

The local buses that have stops at Torre Faro are numbers 31 and 1, and the journey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

The beaches of Milazzo boast one of the most beautiful and evocative sunsets in Sicily. The magic of these places is amplified by the presence of the famous "Piscina di Venere" (Venus's Pool), a natural wonder that adds a touch of mystery and beauty to the already spectacular sunset scene.

The Piscina di Venere is a true geological gem: a natural pool with crystal-clear waters, located right at the foot of Capo Milazzo, a scenic rocky peninsula that extends into the sea. This natural pool is legendary, surrounded by mythological stories that give it a fairytale-like atmosphere. Legend has it that Venus, the goddess of love, frequented this pool to quench her thirst and bathe.

But the wonders of Milazzo do not end with the Venus's Pool. The city's beaches, such as Ponente and Levante, offer enchanting scenery, ideal for long walks on the golden sand or for relaxing in the sun. The crystal-clear waters invite swimming and snorkeling, allowing you to explore the marine life-rich seabed.

How to get to Milazzo from Messina

You can reach Milazzo by bus and trains. The train journey between Messina and Milazzo takes about 31 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 33 km. Operated by Trenitalia and Trenitalia Intercity, trains from Messina to Milazzo depart from Messina Centrale and arrive at Milazzo. Normally, 161 trains operate weekly, although schedules may vary on weekends and holidays, so it's best to check the timetable in advance. The buses providing transportation from Messina to Milazzo are operated by the Giuntabus company.

Capo D'Orlando Beach

Capo d'Orlando Beach and its famous harbor are definitely worth a visit. This beautiful beach stretches for kilometers along the coast, with its crystal-clear sea and views of the Aeolian Islands making it a true paradise destination. Also, don't miss the lively and bustling town, with its many small shops, bars serving excellent granita, restaurants, and sandwich shops offering delicious local products and excellent seafood.

How to get to Capo D'Orlando from Messina

You can reach Capo D'Orlando by both bus and train. The travel time between Messina and Capo D'Orlando is about 1 hour, covering a distance of approximately 94 km. The bus service is provided by MagTour, while the train service is operated by Trenitalia and Trenitalia Intercity.

Ringo Beach

While more distant beaches may offer more suggestive or unique landscapes, Ringo Beach is a perfect option for those seeking a relaxing moment without venturing too far from the city center. This urban oasis provides a place of sea and nature easily accessible without the need for long journeys. Located on the northern coast of the city, this beautiful beach offers a range of amenities close at hand, making it perfect for a day of relaxation and fun. It can also be reached via the city tram service, which connects it directly to the center of Messina. This convenience allows you to avoid using a car or long-distance public transport, saving time and effort. Its proximity to the city center, however, does not compromise the quality of the water or the beauty of the surrounding landscape.