Positano Beaches

When it comes to Amalfi Coast beaches, you will love the scene here. Positano beaches are fabulous, beautiful and everything, including boutiques and cafes, are at your fingertips. Sun lovers will enjoy beautiful smooth pebble beaches and gorgeous blue water.

You will find full service beach clubs, all with delicious seaside restaurants. Furthermore, there is a public area (Spiaggia Libera) where you are free to bring your own towels and enjoy the day. Spiaggia Grande is the center and main Positano beach.

In addition, there is a small harbor on Spiaggia Grande. Of course, ferries and excursion boats are waiting to whisk you off to other Amalfi Coast towns such at Capri and Amalfi. This Positano beach is one of the largest and glamorous on the Amalfi Coast. It attracts a fashionable crowd from all over the world.

POSITANO BEACH CLUBS

Lido L’Incanto – Positano Beach

Lido L’Incanto offers all the conveniences needed for a fun and relaxing day in the sun and sea. They rent sunbeds, deck chairs and umbrellas. In addition it provides changing rooms, showers and free wi-fi.
Prices: Two sunbeds & one umbrella (Summer 2023): 1st row is E80; 2nd row-back is E70. If you want 1st row, which is sea-front, I would suggest to advance reserve online or ask your hotel to reserve for you. The 3rd row and after is available on the same day and in person. To book online click here.

Not only does Lido L’Incanto have a delicious restaurant, but they also have the Blu Bar. You should stop and soak up the atmosphere. Order a delightful drink and enjoy the music.

There is a pretty walkway between the beach and the restaurants. It is busy with people and even an artist or two painting works of art.

Lido La Scogliera

As you walk down toward the end of the beach, you will find a small corner of paradise, La Scogliera. Partially set on a rocky terrace, you can indulge in excellent service, attention and relaxation in a stunning setting. This lido is owned by L’Incanto, and pampers their guests. At sunset, it turns into a romantic lounge/bar from 7:30-10:30pm. They also have have live music and DJ sets till 11:30 on Sundays and Wednesdays. In addition, you will find the hottest club on the Amalfi coast located here, Music On the Rocks. Positano nightlife is the best on the Amalfi Coast.

Lunch on the Beach

There are many places to eat on the beach, but don’t miss out on this one for a great lunch. Not only is there exceptional food and service. Enjoy fresh fish and pastas here including excellent, friendly service. The pasta with clams was amazing, as well as the lobster linguine and seared tuna salad – actually we ate here twice and every dish we had was phenomenal! My favorite!
Address: 51 Spiagge Grande

Spiaggia Grande Harbor – on Positano Beach

Here you will find a small jetty that offers boat excursions, rental boats and a sea taxi service from Positano Beach. You can boat to other areas of the Amalfi Coast such as Capri and Amalfi, as well as small coves, which can only be accessed by sea. Likewise, there is also a dock for ferries and larger boats. (A great option for transportation to and from Naples) For a unique and delicious lunch, try Da Adolfo Ristorante. They have complimentary boat service and their own little beach.

Fornillo Beach

If you’re looking for a quieter beach which is only a 10 minute scenic walk away, you will enjoy Fornillo Beach. From the Spiaggia Grande harbor, bear right and walk along the costal path. There are a few fully equipped Lidos and the rentals are much less expensive than Spiaggia Grande.

Positano Beaches make you Jump for Joy!

Positano

Positano Italy is a stunning cliffside village located on the Amalfi Coast. Certainly a top resort destination, it is truly a jewel and not to be missed. Indeed, you will fall in love with Positano! Bougainvillea, vegetation and flowers cascade down buildings and balconies. Boutiques, galleries and eateries line the streets. It is a shoppers paradise. There is a array of amazing hotels and delicious restaurants. Positano is absolutely fabulous, dripping with charm, and there is something to do for everyone!

Picturesque Positano Italy is a magical and enchanted village known throughout the world. Celebrities arrive by land or by yacht in the summer. It is built into a cliff and is also called the Vertical City. With this in mind, an unusual network of stairways enhance the town. There is only one street for vehicles. Hence, the rest of the village is pedestrian only. Getting around by foot will let you appreciate pastel-colored homes, flower filled terraces and endless steps carved out of the rock. There are narrow pedestrian alleys and, of course, steps that flow down to the busy harbor and beach.

The beautiful beaches are the main event and a hub of activity. You will relax and swim in the sparkling blue Mediterranean. Then have a delicious lunch along the walkway. A perfect way to spend the day!

GETTING AROUND POSITANO ITALY

Via dei Mulini is the main road through town that leads down to the beach. The center of town begins at Piazza dei Mulino, which is where all vehicle traffic ends. After that, Via dei Mulini is pedestrian only. It is a pleasure to stroll and browse in all the art galleries, boutiques and various shops. Try to stop in at Sapori e Porfumi di Positano. The fragrance of the candles and perfumes are fabulous! If you’re lucky to have a chat with the ‘Lemon Lady’, you will find that she is an amazing entrepreneur with lots of spirit! Of course, you will also find an abundance of restaurants and cafes.

You can reach every corner of this beautiful area without climbing countless steps. The local bus service is easily accessible. Bus stops are indicated with the sign Flavio Gioia and the orange busses have three routes: Interno Positano , which departs every 30 minutes from Piazza dei Mulini which tours around town. Montepertuso Nocelle departs every hour and goes to the higher communities. And lastly, Praiano-Positano, which brings you to the nearby town of Praiano. Furthermore, if you need information on getting here from Naples, read my Naples to Positano Guide.

Those charming steps…..
A few steps from the beach, you will find the church of Santa Maria Assunta. It features a majolica-tiled dome and a 13th-century Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary. Legend says that in the 12th century AD, a ship carrying this same icon came from the sea during a huge storm. The sailors all heard a voice saying, “Posa Posa” which means “leave me here”. Thus the name Positano. Moreover, this is why the Madonna has been kept in Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta ever since.

Posa Posa – We DO NOT want to leave! Feel the warmth and friendliness of the wonderful locals. Not only are they welcoming, but also happy to teach you a bit of Italian. Take joy in the beauty of the landscape, the gorgeous views, and the pretty beaches. Positano Italy is simply magical!

Remember to bring your camera everywhere!

The BEST of……

If you’re looking to bask in the Mediterranean sun, you will love the beaches here. Sun lovers will enjoy a beautiful smooth pebble beach and gorgeous blue water. Read about Spiaggia Grande and the beach clubs…..Comprehensive Guide to Positano Beaches.

Positano Hotels – Best in Town

If you don’t know the layout of the land, or should I say mountainside, it could be a challenge to pick a hotel. Do you want to be in the heart of town; high up on the cliff with stunning views; or down by the beach with fewer steps to climb. I will help you in my comprehensive Hotel and Orientation Guide.

Positano Restaurants – Best in Town

The restaurant scene here is buzzing with delicious Southern Italian food and beautiful ambiance. To be sure, there are so many excellent choices for you! Restaurant Guide

Nightlife

This glamorous town has much to offer after the sun goes down! Start your evening with a apertivo and one of the many bars or cafes. Then, dine in a delicious cliffside restaurant with panoramic views. Lastly, you can end the night dancing till the wee hours of the morning in the hottest Amalfi Coast club, Music on the Rocks.

Getting to Positano

Closest Airport: Naples Capodichino (NAP).
Various transportation options are available such as: ferry, train & bus, private transfer, and car rental. For comprehensive information on transportation choices, CLICK HERE.

Those wonderful steps! — I love these steps!

Positano Steps — Don’t worry- you can walk the winding road up & down

Getting from Naples to Positano

How to get from Naples to Positano

Closest Airport to Positano is Naples Capodichino (NAP)

Getting from Naples to Positano by car can be more than a thrill (terrifying for some) since most of the road zigzags on the edge of a cliff! Even so, if you elect to drive, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. Moreover, you will have the freedom to stop and visit various Amalfi Coast towns. Thankfully, there is now a tunnel between Sorrento and Positano that cuts out some of the cliff-edge driving. In addition, it is important to realize that when you reach Positano, there is limited parking above the town. Check to see if your hotel offers parking. I’ve found that the least expensive choice (train and bus) takes the longest time. Furthermore, it could be the most crowded and inconvenient with luggage. I find that the moderately priced option (ferry) is an easy way to go. The fastest and most comfortable (private driver) is the most expensive. In my opinion, there are things worth splurging on, and things worth skimping. Safety, time, and convenience may be worth the splurge for you.

Naples Airport to Positano Options:

Train & Bus from Naples to Positano

The least expensive way is to take the train to Sorrento and then bus to Positano. First, from the Naples airport, take the free shuttle to Napoli Centrale Garibaldi Train Station. Go to the lower level and take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento which is the last stop. Trains depart every 30/60 minutes and the journey can be up to an hour and a half. Be aware that in the summer months the train from Naples to Sorrento is jammed, with standing room only, and not air conditioned! It can be a very unpleasant ride. You can buy your tickets from an automated ticket machine or the ticket office. Secondly, take the Sita bus to Positano. The bus journey is an additional 35 minutes.
Train Tickets: Naples to Sorrento 4.50e each.
Bus Tickets: Sorrento to Positano 2e each.
Important Note: Remember to validate your train ticket before you get on the train! If you don’t, you can be subject to a fine and must purchase another ticket. Also, be aware of pickpockets on the train.

Naples to Positano Ferry

This is a beautiful way to arrive in Positano. You will enjoy the wonderful cascade of colorful homes clinging to the cliff. Positano’s view from the bay offers you a priceless landscape. First take the airport shuttle to Naples Beverello Harbor. Shuttles depart every 10 minutes. Secondly, when arriving at the harbor, find the Alilauro ticket office to purchase your tickets. The Hydrofoil is about a 40 minute journey to Sorrento and then onward to Positano. Be aware that the ferry pier is on beach level near Spiaggia Grande. There is quite an uphill climb to the hotels. You can always hire a porter service when you arrive. It is a good idea to check your hotel location in relation to the pier. Check out my Positano Hotel Guide for my favorite hotels and their position on the mountain.
Note: CASH ONLY! Many people waited on line only to be turned away to find an ATM.
Ferry times: Go to Alilauro for ferry schedule since it varies according to season.
Tickets: First – One way from Naples to Sorrento is 14.10e. Second – One way from Sorrento to Positano is 20.10e. Total is 34.90 euros per person. Also, luggage is 2.10e per piece, per trip.

Private Transfer to Positano

Most of the scenic towns that dot the Amalfi coast, including popular Positano, are not accessible by train. In my opinion, the most hassle-free way is via private car transfer from Naples. If you decide on door to door transport, I highly recommend Renato Como Transfers. They will pick you up at the airport arrivals point, and take you directly to your hotel in Positano. In addition, if you want to sightsee for a few hours, you can stop in Pompeii, Herculaneum or Sorrento. Your luggage will be safely stored in the vehicle. Furthermore, you can also stop for delightful lunch at a cliffside restaurant. Anything you desire they will accommodate.

Whatever option you choose, enjoy getting from Naples to Positano. Relish the breathtaking views and appreciate the locals! Of course, when you are on the Amalfi Coast, make your way to Capri, Sorrento, Ravello and Amalfi.

Lipari Beaches

Lipari beaches cater to every taste; crowded or deserted, white or dark sand. It is one of the most enchanting natural Unesco heritage areas in the world. The crystalline sea attracts thousands of visitors to the Aeolian Islands, especially beaches in Lipari! Here are some beaches and beach clubs in Lipari to visit.

Cannetto, Spiaggia Bianca, Porticello and Campobianco.

Spiaggia Bianca

Spiaggia Bianca is a beautiful pebble beach. It is considered the most beautiful on the island. It has smooth stones and some sand with beautiful, crystal clear, turquoise water. The most popular beach club there is White Beach Club.

White Beach Club

White Beach Club has great food and provides rentals of sun beds and umbrellas during the day. In addition, the Happy Hour DJ begins. In the evening, this beach club turns into a crowded, hot spot. Have fun and dance the night away!

Cannetto Beach

Cannetto is a small town on Lipari Island. It has a long sandy beach and various beach clubs.

Coral Beach Club

Coral Beach Club is located on Cannetto beach. It has amazing food and a wonderful staff. It is about a 15-minute drive from Lipari Town. Some of the best food we had on our Italian vacation was at Coral Beach. In addition, Coral offers a free shuttle back and forth to the hotels. When arriving at the beach area in Lipari, I found that it is not as beautiful as other beaches in Italy but the people and food definitely make up for it! Therefore, don’t expect it to be as amazing as the beaches in Taormina, or Positano.

Campobianco is known for its whiteness. The sea floor is among the most beautiful in the whole archipelago.

Porticello is in a bay on the northern coast of Lipari. It has beautiful white sand and turquoise water. Havana Beach Club is the place to go in Porticello.

Best Restaurants in Taormina

There is an abundant choice of delicious restaurants in Taormina, each offering a taste of Sicily’s rich culinary heritage. In Taormina, you’ll find restaurants serving up local Sicilian specialties that are a feast for the senses. Indulge in arancini, a savory rice ball filled with meat and peas in a rich red sauce. Savor Pasta alla Norma, pasta topped with sautéed eggplant and creamy ricotta cheese in a mouthwatering tomato sauce. Of course, you can’t miss the stuffed zucchini flower, a true Sicilian delicacy. In addition to these favorites, Taormina’s restaurants offer a variety of spectacular pastas, meats, and seafood dishes. making it a paradise for food lovers. Here are some of the best restaurants in Taormina that you won’t want to miss.

Osteria RossoDiVino

Fine Dining – One of the best in Taormina. You will enjoy an incredible meal at this charming restaurant. The menu include pastas, seafood and meats which are all outstanding! A few dishes to savor are the macaroncini with beef ragu, red snapper, lamb and tempura anchovies. For wine suggestions, try the Etna Bianco, Etna Rossato, or Chianta. Lastly, end your meal with delicious tiramisu or chocolate fondant! Enjoy the wonderful ambiance. They have a charming balcony in addition to outdoor dining. Make reservations or ask your hotel to make them for you!
Address: Via de Spuches 8

Restaurant Armònia

Restaurant Armònia is a slice of paradise. It really captures the essence of Sicily in both its setting and its cuisine. The combination of a beautiful waterfront location, live piano music, and exceptional service creates a truly unforgettable dining experience. Every delicious dish is locally sourced with high-quality ingredients served with a beautiful presentation.
Address: Via Nazionale 147, (A 3 minute walk from Mazzaro cable car. In Mazzarò Sea Palace)

Villa Carlotta Restaurant

Fine Dining – Villa Carlotta is an exceptional restaurant with amazing views from the terrace overlooking the sea. The menu showcases fresh, local, great quality ingredients. Some dishes that absolutely stand out include the melt-in-your-mouth Nero D’Avola Filet steak. There’s also the Swordfish Ravioli. Another highlight is the Tuna on a bed of Kiwi & Orange Salad. If you like rose wine, try the Rose di Nere from Noto. The service is excellent and the dishes are beautifully presented.
Address: Via Luigi Pirandello 81

Osteria Villa Zuccaro

With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, their dishes are a true celebration of local flavors. Located conveniently on the bustling Corso Umberto, the restaurant’s charm extends beyond just the food. It boasts both an upper and lower terrace in the back, providing a relaxed ambiance perfect for enjoying your meal. Whether you’re craving classic Sicilian pasta, seafood, or a delicious dessert, Villa Zuccaro has something to satisfy.
Address: Corso Umberto 38

La Botte

Moderate Dining – We enjoyed a delicious dinner at La Botte. They serve an amazing whole fish baked in salt crust, which makes it moist and delicious. The server removes the crust and expertly fillets the fish table-side. Their pastas are great. Furthermore, they have an extensive wine list. Enjoy the outdoor dining area. Make reservations.
Address: Piazza Santa Domenica 4

Bam Bar

Casual – There are many restaurants in Taormina, but for delicious desserts, Bam Bar is the place to go. They are famous for their granita topped with fresh whipped cream. Your taste buds will be thrilled with delightful desserts, brioche and cappuccino. Everything is fresh and delicious. They serve up amazing treats. The atmosphere is just lovely with bright Sicilian ceramic table and tile furnishings.
Address: Via Di Giovanni 45

Taormina Has a Thriving Nightlife

You’re sure to enjoy the nightlife in Taormina since the town buzzes with energy! Start your evening at one of the many places to have cocktails and relish the wonderful atmosphere. Furthermore many of the hotels serve cocktails on their terraces or rooftops. Next, take off to a hot club if you want to dance into the wee hours of the morning. If you are low key or on a family vacation, you can enjoy the musicians and artists in the streets. Try gelato, granita, or dessert too! The piazza’s and walkways are busy with happy, beautiful people! You will be kept busy and entertained with Taormina nightlife.

At some point, savor dinner at one of Taormina’s delicious restaurants. Sicilians usually have dinner between 9 and 10 pm.

Daiquiri Taormina

Daiquiri is a vibrant oasis, with lush greenery and colorful flowers spilling over the edges of cozy seating areas. Music and a great vibe drifts through the pretty courtyard setting. Light bites and drinks created by expert bartenders are delicious. They also serve light bites. It’s a perfect spot to sip and socialize. You can soak in the beauty of Taormina here.
Address: Piazzetta Paladini, 4

Q Lounge Bar

Q Lounge Bar is situated in a beautiful courtyard setting in the heart of Taormina. Potted plants and flowering trees create an enchanting backdrop. The drink menu is a delightful mix of creative cocktails, each crafted with fresh ingredients. This area, shared with Daiquiri, can easily become one of your favorite spots.
Address: Piazzetta Paladini, 6

Chapeau Cocktail Bar

Another really fantastic cocktail is Chapeau. It has great outside seating to just chill and drink a fabulous cocktail. The location is slightly up from the main road, Corso Umberto. Although not more than a minute and feels so exclusive being surrounded by large plants and the beautiful buildings. An absolute gem.

Taormina Dance Clubs

La Giara

La Giara is the night club for Taormina. First of all, it is very beautiful with a modern elegant design. There is an outdoor area with beautiful views of the the lights shimmering on the sea. This is a hot spot for Taormina nightlife. Crowds party and dance until the wee hours of the night. It is centrally located right in the middle of town. Although it is down a side staircase, you won’t miss it. You will see a red carpet. Employees will be outside. Admission was free, although there may be a time frame to that.
Address: Vico la Floresta, 1, Taormina

MORGANA BAR

Nightlife in Taormina can start at Morgana Bar. It is a chic lounge with an open air garden. It has a well dressed crowd, delicious cocktails, and good music. Morgana is a small cozy place, right off Corso Umberto, and great for a nightcap and light bite.
Address: Scesa Morgana, 4

Alternate Night Activities in Taormina

Grand Hotel Timeo

For an elegant evening, enjoy a cocktail at the beautiful terrace of Hotel Timeo. You will have stunning views of lights sparkling in the sea. You can also see Mount Etna and the lights of the city center. The drinks are delicious and come with a plate of goodies to eat.

Public Garden of Taormina

First of all, Villa Comunale di Taormina is spectacular by itself. But it also has magnificent views of Mt. Etna and the sea of Giardini Naxos. Many varied public events are hosted here, including the Taormina Orchestra. Check with your hotel to see what programs are scheduled during your stay. I hear that the shows are wonderful.
Address: Via Bagnoli Croci

SHOWS AT THE GREEK THEATER

If you are lucky enough to be in Taormina during an event here, definitely try to get tickets! The Greek Theater is one of the most spectacular places to see any type of performance!

Taormina Hotels

TOP HOTELS IN TAORMINA

Let me help you discover the best Taormina Sicily hotels that will make you so glad you chose! Certainly, there are so many Taormina hotels to choose from, but which will be the perfect one for you?

In the first place, here are some things to consider. Do you want to be in the heart of the historical center, or on the outer edges. Do you prefer Taormina hotels with pools? If so, there are only a handful available. Do you want to be in the lap of luxury or a stay at a value hotel. Additionally, you may want to choose a hotel by the beach. However, the beach is a steep 20-minute walk down from town. Luckily, for 6 euros roundtrip, there is a funivia (cable car) back and forth. All things considered; I will help you find your perfect choice!

In my opinion, staying in town center is best. Taormina is built on a steep hillside overlooking the sea and the views are spectacular. It is a very walkable town – essentially a pedestrian only resort. Most hotels are no longer than a 15-minute walk to center. Some are on the main pedestrian walkway, Corso Umberto.

In conclusion, before you book, know your hotel basics. Do they have a shuttle to the beaches. Do you have to walk far with your luggage? Is there be a steep climb up to your hotel?

TOP TAORMINA HOTELS

NOTE: Taormina was a major filming location for Season 2 of the hit show, The White Lotus. Cast members lived in Taormina at the San Domenico Palace for four off-season months during filming. Locals working at San Domenico Palace say that cast members were so terrific and so very nice – especially Jennifer Coolidge!

San Domenico Palace – A Four Seasons Hotel

Luxury 5 Star– With a spectacular courtyard, magnificent Italian gardens and luxurious rooms, San Domenico offers you an unforgettable stay. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Swim in their sea-view clifftop infinity pool and stroll in their magnificent Italian garden. If your unable to stay here (quite expensive), at least make reservations in advance for dinner at one of their two restaurants or for drinks in their beautiful courtyard. Reservations are a must. Enjoy your time in heaven on earth!

Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

Luxury – For an unforgettable experience, the world-renowned and majestic, Grand Hotel Timeo, will more than fill your every wish. Situated on a Sicilian clifftop, it overlooks the terracotta rooftops of the medieval town and sports a mesmerizing view of the shimmering Ionian Sea. The rooms are elegant, spacious and beautifully decorated, most with beautiful views. You will receive personalized service and attention to detail from the amazing staff.

A MUST is relaxing and having a cocktail on their exquisite terrace or a dip in the pool. There are cascading gardens below and a magnificent view of the sea, Taormina rooftops and Mount Etna in the distance. The restaurant has delicious locally sourced Sicilian favorites and, of course, it is the most scenic restaurant I’ve ever been to. The hotel is perfectly located, as it is just steps off Corso Umberto. It is also next door to the Ancient Greek Theatre, where ancient history mixes with amazing performances. You will have an amazing experience during your stay at this magnificent hotel.
Tip: Even if you are not staying here, definitely go for a cocktail, hors d’oeuvres and take in the amazing view from the grand terrace. All are welcome. Dress appropriately.
Address · Via Teatro Greco 59, 98039 Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Hotel Metropole Taormina

Luxury – Incredible views, excellent service and great music on the terrace. Simply my favorite hotel in Taormina is Hotel Metropole. First of all it is located perfectly in the center of town withing walking distance of everything. Secondly, it sits cliffside with spectacular views of the sea from it’s terrace lounge and restaurant. Rooms also have sea views and some have Jacuzzi’s on their balconys. The staff is top notch and will help you with any need. In addition, your car service can pull up to drop off luggage on the lower floor behind hotel.

The infinity pool at Metropole is beautiful and refreshing after a hot day of sightseeing. Enjoy a swim and excellent cocktails by the pool! This is my favorite!!
Address: Corso Umberto 154, Taormina

The Ashbee Hotel

The Ashbee Hotel is on the grounds of a restored luxurious 1900’s villa. The rooms are elegant and refined including some with stone fireplaces. It is located 2 minutes outside the beginning of Taormina historic center on the grounds of a beautiful Mediterranean garden . It boasts a large panoramic terrace, an infinity swimming pool and incredible views of the sea. A wonderful view and breakfast is served on their rooftop terrace. You will have a wonderful stay in the beautiful boutique hotel.
Address: Via San Pancrazio n. 46, Taormina

Hotel Taodomus

Superior – The Taodomus is a wonderful boutique hotel located in the center of Taormina on the wonderful pedestrian street, Corso Umberto. There is a lovely rooftop terrace with beautiful panoramic views. In the morning, enjoy a delicious, bountiful breakfast served al fresco on the rooftop. In the evening, watch the sunset and enjoy drinks at the Honesty rooftop bar. The rooms are spotlessly clean and tastefully decorated. It is an oasis of calm on the buzzing Corso Umberto, and steps from all that Taormina has to offer!
Tip: Save 10% if you book on the Hotel Taodomus website and they will also reserve your parking.
Address: Corso Umberto 224, 98039 Taormina, Sicily

Hotel La Pensione Svizzera

Value: I like La Pensione Svizzera for it’s value, location, cleanliness and wonderful staff. This is a family run Sicilian hotel with charming gardens and lounge areas. Furthermore, you will be welcomed with a Sicilian bottle of wine. Most rooms have balconies with panoramic sea views. However, be aware that there is no elevator. Breakfast is amazing and served on the outdoor terrace with sea view. This hotel is a five minute walk to Porta Messina, which is the beginning of the Corso Umberto. On your way, you will pass the Cable Car (Funivia) which brings you up and down from Taormina to the beautiful beach area. In addition, if you walk a few minutes in the other direction, you will find the bus station.
Address: Via Luigi Pirandello 26, 98039 Taormina, Sicily

TAORMINA B&B’s

B&B Varo

B&B – This hidden gem is a terrific Bed & Breakfast in a wonderful local home. Varo B&B is perfectly located in beautiful little Piazza Varo. It is just steps (less than one minute) from the center of Corso Umberto. Alessandra and Federico are the perfect hosts and will help you with anything! In addition, you will have a wonderful breakfast on their scenic rooftop terrace. Alessandra makes a wicked apple cake and the best cappuccino! Absolutely delicious! The rooms and bathrooms are sparkling clean. In my opinion, this is the best B&B in Taormina! You will love it!
Address: Piazza Varo 10/12, 98039 Taormina Sicily

TAORMINA BEACH HOTELS

La Plage Resort

Luxury: First of all, La Place Resort is a five star luxury hotel on the beach with a gorgeous view of Isola Bella. Secondly, the hotel and rooms are absolutely beautiful and elegant. You will be in the lap of luxury and get VIP treatment from the staff. In addition, they have an exclusive spa to get pampered in. A great place for a magnificent wedding reception.
Address: Via Nazionale, 107/A, Isola Bella, Taormina

Villefranche sur Mer Beaches

Villefranche sur Mer beaches have a beauty and charm all their own. You can go to the local beach, Plage de Marinieres, a few steps away from town. There you can get cozy with the locals and a handful of tourists alike. Furthermore, you can visit some beautiful and chic beaches in the area.My favorite beaches near Villefranche sur Mer are Passable Beach and Paloma Beach. These are are car ride or boat shuttle away. If you decide to walk, as I have done many times, you can enjoy the beautiful sights along the coast. The walk has some very picturesque areas, therefore, don’t forget to bring your camera. In addition you will see some very special homes during your walk. When you visit beaches in the French Riviera (Cote d’Azure), it is typical to have a delicious lunch and then go back to swimming and having fun in the sun!

Tip: Umbrellas, beds and towels are available at all the beach clubs. It is a good idea to have your hotel reserve them for you in advance, as they fill up quickly. In addition, let your hotel make lunch reservations for you. If not, you will wait for a table as lunch is part of the highlight of the beach. Enjoy the wonderful day you will have!

Les Bains de la plage

Plage de Marinieres is a busy local beach which is a quick five minute walk from the center of town. The water is beautiful and calm. The beach club, Les Bains de la Plage is a little piece of casual paradise in Villefranche-Sur-Mer. It welcomes you in a bohemian-chic décor. Deckchairs, umbrellas, tables and beach towels are available. Enjoy a fresh menu by the sea at Restaurant Les Bains de la Plage. You can order lunch/dinner with a bottle of Rose to have table side or at your lounge chair.

Passable Beach

Passable Beach is a wonderful beach club with a terrific restaurant and delicious food! I highly suggest visiting Plage de Passable. The swimming is wonderful and there are also paddle boards to rent. It has amazing views of Villefranche-sur-Mer. To get here, it is a quick 15 minute taxi ride. In addition, I also suggest a lovely a 35 minute walk from town to this beach. You will pass Ville Nellcote, a 16 room mansion where Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones lived for a year. Exile on Main Street recordings took place in Ville Nellcote during 1971. If you decide to walk, you will enjoy beautiful views along the water. Enjoy!

Passable Beach – 1 Chemin de Saint-Hospice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Telephone: +33 4 93 01 64 71

Paloma Beach

Paloma Beach or Plage de la Paloma is a little paradise on the exclusive and chic Cape Jean Ferrat peninsula. It is hidden in a beautiful cove at the bottom of a cliff. There are steps to descend unless of course you arrive by yacht. At Paloma Beach you will find crystal clear water and beautiful views of the mountains. In addition, there is an elegant and delicious restaurant. The menu consists of grilled fish, mussels, amazing salads and a wine list of excellent Côte de Provence Rosé. Reservations are highly recommended for the restaurant. Of course there are sunbed and umbrella rentals and a variety of water sports to indulge in. Interested in walking? It is a beautiful 50 minute walk from Villefranche to chic Paloma Beach. On the way, you will pass movie star, David Niven’s, beautiful house.

Fun Fact: Honeymoon beach scenes in Fifty Shades Freed were filmed at Paloma Beach.

Paloma Beach: 1, route de Sainte-Hospice – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Telephone: +33 4 93 01 64 71

Beaulieu sur Mer Beach

Anao Plage in Beaulieu sur Mer is an excellent option for a beach day. It is a short 15-20 minute walk from the beach of Villefranche and has a chic first class beach club. The food and atmosphere are excellent! Bathe in the heart of a unique heritage on a preserved shore, and enjoy a menu of regional specialties. You will definitely be pampered and love your day! Of course, everything you need is at your fingertips here. I highly recommend Anao!
Anao Plage: Av. Fernand Dunan, 06310 Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Telephone: +33 04 93 54 07 89

Eze Beaches

It is only a six minute train ride from Villefranche sur Mer to Eze sur Mer if you would like to explore Eze Beaches. Check out my Eze Beaches post to read more about them.

In addition, I highly suggest a visit to the clifftop Midieval village of Eze. You can visit this beautiful village and the beach in the same day, especially if you hike down the mountain. Read all about it in my Eze post.

Beaches on a Budget

If you are traveling on a budget or prefer to spend your hard earned cash in a delicious restaurant instead of beach rentals, all the above mentioned beaches have a public section. Remember to bring an umbrella and towel to lay on. Check with your hotel to see if they offer complimentary towels or umbrellas. If not, there is a little variety store on the walkway leading to the local beach which sells umbrellas and towels as well as floats and sunscreen. Have a great day at the beach!

Santorini Restaurants

You may never appreciate how delicious Greek cuisine is until you travel to Greece. Santorini Restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes made with fresh local fish, meats and vegetables paired with delicious local wines. Moreover, they use amazing Greek olive oils in their cooking. As a matter of fact, I was so surprised that Greek olive oils give Italian olive oils a run for their money! Most of the restaurants keep olive oil on your table as a condiment. Enjoy your meals at the following amazing Santorini restaurants. Your hotel will be happy to make reservations for you. Restaurants are listed by village.

OIA SANTORINI RESTAURANTS

Lauda Restaurant

Fine Dining: Not only does Lauda have stunning views and impeccable service, but the food is also amazingly fresh and delicious. You are in for a culinary treat at Lauda, a top choice of Santorini Restaurants. This is a romantic, elegant restaurant which is located in the Andirons Boutique Hotel. Try the Octopus, it is amazing.!!!

Laokasti Rest aurant

Moderately Priced: Laokasti Restaurant is another top choice of Santorini Restaurants. In the first place, Laokasti’s traditional and inventive Greek cuisine tastes incredible not to mention being artistically plated. Made with fresh local ingredients, you will enjoy every bite. The ambiance here is beautiful with indoor dining and an outside terrace. Try the sesame honey fried feta and the veal orzo! They are both delicious! Do not miss going to this wonderful restaurant!

Pito Gy ros

Casual: Small shop with the BEST Gyros since Jimmy’s Gyros in Mykonos! Excellent!! They also have delicious Kababs, Souvlaki, etc. Stop in for lunch or for a bite at dinner!! This is basically atake out place with limited seating outside. Luckily, you can walk up and sit curbside to admire the gorgeous view! My suggestion is to try the pork gyro — your welcome!