A stunning coastal nature reserve south of Noto with several magnificent sandy beaches (Calamosche, Eloro, Marianello) set within lagoons frequented by flamingos and migratory birds. Turquoise shallow water over white sand — some of the finest beach swimming in south-east Sicily.
The Vendicari Nature Reserve stretches along the south-eastern coast of Sicily between Noto and Marzamemi, in the province of Syracuse, protecting a mosaic of beaches, coastal lagoons, salt pans and Mediterranean scrub. It is one of the finest places for beach swimming in the south-east, combining wide stretches of fine pale sand with shallow, clear turquoise water and a rich birdlife that includes flamingos, herons and migratory species using the lagoons as a stopover. Several distinct beaches lie within the reserve: Calamosche, a sheltered horseshoe cove of golden sand between two rocky headlands, reached by a 20-minute walk and renowned for calm, clear water; Eloro, a long open sandy beach beside the ruins of an ancient Greek colony; Marianello and the San Lorenzo stretch, broad and shallow; and the beach below the Torre Sveva watchtower and the old tonnara (tuna-processing ruins). The reserve is deliberately undeveloped, so facilities are minimal — there are no full lidos, and most beaches require a walk from car parks along marked nature trails, with little or no shade, sunbed hire or food on site. The character is wild and unspoiled, peaceful even in summer compared with the resort beaches, and rewarding for those who enjoy combining a swim with walking and wildlife. Visitors should bring water, food and sunshade, wear comfortable footwear for the access trails, and carry out their rubbish. The reserve has entrances and car parks at several points along the coast road, and admission to the protected area is free, though parking is paid in summer. Birdwatching is best in spring and autumn migration seasons, while swimming is at its finest from late spring through early autumn. With its blend of clean shallow water, sweeping sand, archaeology and abundant wildlife, Vendicari offers a quieter, more natural alternative to Sicily's busier resort beaches.
Amenities
- limited facilities
- some basic facilities at Calamosche
Good to know
- Best for
- wildlife-watchers, swimmers, families, snorkellers
Highlights
- Several wild sandy beaches set within a protected coastal nature reserve
- Sheltered Calamosche cove with calm, exceptionally clear turquoise water
- Lagoons frequented by flamingos, herons and migratory birds
- Historic Torre Sveva watchtower and old tonnara tuna ruins on the shore
- Eloro beach beside the ruins of an ancient Greek colony
Tips for visiting
- Allow about 20 minutes to walk to Calamosche from its car park along the nature trail
- Bring water, food and a sunshade as the reserve has no lidos and little shade
- Visit in spring or autumn for the best birdwatching during migration seasons
- Wear comfortable footwear for the access trails and carry out all your rubbish
- Arrive early on summer weekends as car parks and the popular Calamosche cove fill up
When to visit
Late spring to early autumn for swimming in warm, calm water; spring and autumn migration seasons are best for birdwatching. Early mornings and weekdays are quietest at the popular coves.
Accessibility
Most beaches are reached by unpaved nature trails from car parks with no step-free access or beach wheelchairs, so the reserve is challenging for visitors with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best beach in Vendicari?
Calamosche is the most celebrated — a sheltered horseshoe cove of golden sand with calm, clear water, reached by a 20-minute walk. Eloro, Marianello and the Torre Sveva beaches are larger and more open, each with its own character.
Are there facilities at the Vendicari beaches?
Facilities are minimal by design, as the reserve is protected and undeveloped. There are no full lidos; some points have basic seasonal kiosks, but visitors should bring their own water, food and sunshade.
Can you see flamingos at Vendicari?
Yes. The reserve's lagoons and salt pans attract flamingos, herons and many migratory birds, with the best viewing during the spring and autumn migration seasons.