Best Beaches in and Near Castellammare del Golfo
Castellammare del Golfo is surrounded by some of our favorite beaches in western Sicily, from the long sandy shore of Spiaggia Plaja to the clear water of Guidaloca and the rocky coves around Scopello. Some are within walking distance of Palazzo del Golfo, while others are just a short drive away. Here are the beaches we recommend, along with how to get there and what to expect when you arrive.
Spiaggia Plaja: Castellammare del Golfo's Sandy Beach
The Caribbean-blue waters of Spiaggia Plaja in Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily.
Spiaggia Plaja is Castellammare del Golfo's main sandy beach and one of our favorites for an easy beach day. The long stretch of soft sand and typically calm, shallow water makes it a good choice for swimming and families.
The beach is lined with lidos where you can rent chairs and umbrellas, along with places to grab lunch, drinks or a granita. There are also free public sections if you prefer to bring your own beach gear.
Where it is: Contrada Spiaggia Plaia, 91014 Castellammare del Golfo TP
How to get there: you can get there on foot from the center of Castellammare with a walk of about 1.5 km, using very frequent free shuttle bus during the summer season (every 15 minutes) or 8 minutes by car with abundant parking
Guidaloca Beach: Clear Water and Great Snorkeling
Known for its crystal-clear water, Guidaloca is a favorite with both locals and visitors. This beautiful pebble beach sits in a sheltered cove between Castellammare del Golfo and Scopello, with calm, intensely blue water that makes it one of our favorite spots for swimming and snorkeling.
There are lidos where you can rent chairs and umbrellas, as well as places to get food and drinks. You can also rent pedal boats, kayaks and other water-sports equipment.
Where it is: Guidaloca beach, Contrada Ciauli, 91014 Castellammare del Golfo TP, Italy
How to get there: 6.6 km/4.1 miles from Palazzo del Golfo. Only 10 minutes by car along a major state road.
Cala Rossa: A Quiet Rocky Cove Near Castellammare del Golfo
Cala Rossa is named for the distinctive pinkish-red rocks that surround this beautiful cove just beyond Guidaloca. Its clear water and rocky seabed make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and underwater photography.
There are also two fascinating caves to explore. If you don't have experience exploring sea caves, we recommend going with a local guide.
The first is Grotta degli Innamorati, or Cave of Lovers, which has an entrance at the surface of the water. The second is known for the striking contrast between the turquoise sea and the darkness inside the cave, creating the feeling of swimming in a natural pool. The cave is about 3.5 meters deep, 2 meters wide and 2 meters long, and is reached through an opening in the rocky wall.
Where it is: Contrada Guidaloca - Ciavoli 91014 Castellammare del Golfo
How to get there: 7.2km/4.5 miles from Palazzo del Golfo. About a 15 minute car ride. After passing the Guidaloca bay, take the small road on the right. You will be able to walk with the car only up to a certain point, when you will then have to proceed on foot for about 5 minutes and arrive at the Cala Rossa beach through a staircase.
Tonnara di Scopello and the Faraglioni: Sicily's Most Iconic Swimming Spot
Frequently featured in films and commercials, Spiaggia dei Faraglioni at the Tonnara di Scopello is one of the most famous seaside destinations in the area. Scopello is a small, picturesque village in the territory of Castellammare del Golfo, located on the edge of the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
The Tonnara is known for its dramatic rock formations, the Faraglioni, or "The Stacks," as well as the historic 13th-century building known as La Tonnara. It was once owned by the Florio family, one of Sicily's most prominent entrepreneurial families.
There isn't much of a traditional beach here. Instead, visitors enter the water from a concrete platform dating back to the site's days as a working tonnara. The beautiful bay, with its crystal-clear water and abundant sea life, is well worth a visit and can also be enjoyed by boat.
Bring some bread with you on the boat, toss a little into the water, and watch the fish come to you!
Where it is: Tonnara di Scopello, Largo Tonnara, 91014 Scopello TP, Italy
How to get there: 10 km/6.2 miles from Palazzo del Golfo. About 15-20 minutes by car along a major state road or by bus that leaves from several locations in Castellammare del Golfo. Recommend renting a boat or booking a sea excursion.
Cala Petrolo, Castellammare del Golfo
Cala Petrolo: A Small Beach in the Heart of Castellammare del Golfo
Cala Petrolo is a small sand-and-pebble beach right in the center of Castellammare del Golfo. Its sheltered location means the water is usually calm, making it a convenient spot for a swim without leaving town.
The seabed gets deep quickly, so young children and less experienced swimmers should take extra care.
Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent during the summer. Later in the day, Cala Petrolo is a great spot to watch the sunset over the gulf. At night, the area has become a popular local hotspot for aperitivo, music and dancing by the water.
Where it is: Cala Petròlo, 91014 Castellammare del Golfo TP, Italy
How to get there: 0.7km/0.4m about an 5 minute walk from Palazzo del Golfo
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