The Beaches and Coves of Cefalù and Surroundings
Marina Beach (Old Pier)
In the heart of Cefalù’s historic center, next to Porta Pescara, lies Marina Beach, also known as Old Pier Beach. Small, intimate, surrounded by historic houses overlooking the sea, it is perhaps the most iconic stretch of the entire coastline. Here you can feel the authentic soul of the village: fishermen, children, tourists, and locals mingle in a unique, timeless atmosphere.
It is not equipped, but ideal for those who want to enjoy a charming swim, take incredible photos… or simply let themselves be lulled by the beauty.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia del Molo Vecchio
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0394 N, 14.0181 E
Cefalù Lido
Cefalù’s Lido is the vibrant heart of summer life: one and a half kilometers of golden sand and shallow waters, perfect for families with children. You’ll find equipped establishments, free areas, typical bars along the promenade, and a spectacular view of the Rocca and the historic houses lit up at sunset. A perfect balance between relaxation, conviviality, and urban landscape.
➤ Google Maps: Lido di Cefalù
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0330 N, 14.0200 E
Moving eastwards towards Messina ...
Caldura Beach (Kalura Beach)
One of the first wonders you encounter along the coast towards Messina is the famous Caldura Beach, also known as Kalura Beach: a breathtaking cove just 30 minutes’ walk from Cefalù’s historic center. This little unspoiled paradise offers clear, deep waters, perfect for those who love diving from the surrounding rocks. It alternates free areas with an equipped section offering sunbed and umbrella rentals, as well as nearby refreshment points. Perfect for those seeking both beauty and comfort in one place.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia della Caldura
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0336 N, 14.0380 E
Playa degli Uccelli (Birds’ Beach)
Often associated with the nearby Sant’Ambrogio Beach, Playa degli Uccelli combines light gravel and sand with a sea that shifts from turquoise to indigo. Partially serviced, it offers rentals of loungers, parasols, and a bar, while keeping a free and authentic soul. Ideal for those who want comfort without losing the charm of the landscape.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia Playa degli Uccelli
🌐 Coordinate: 38.01829 N, 14.07298 E
Sant’Ambrogio Beach
Sant’Ambrogio Beach is an oasis of silence and nature still little known. Gravel mixed with sand, transparent waters, and gently sloping cliffs make it a perfect spot for relaxation and snorkeling. Services are minimal, but the true experience here is “wild”: bring water, a snack, and shoes suitable for rocks.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia di Sant’Ambrogio
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0341 N, 14.0350 E
Santa Maria Beach
On the coast of Pollina, about 6–7 km from Cefalù, lies Santa Maria: a small half-moon of sand mixed with gravel between rocks, free, quiet, and bathed by transparent sea. Ideal for those looking for a little-frequented spot, perfect for diving and snorkeling. Parking is available along the main road with access by a small staircase.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia Santa Maria
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0171 N, 14.1274 E
Torre Conca Beach
About 11 km from Cefalù, along the SS113, you’ll find Torre Conca, near the village of Finale in the municipality of Pollina. A splendid cove with sand and gravel, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, partially equipped and lively both day and night thanks to nearby venues. Easy access via steps and path.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia Torre Conca
🌐 Coordinate: circa 38.0198 N, 14.1344 E
Rais Gerbi Beach
Located near the campsite of the same name on the SS113 km 172.9, Rais Gerbi Beach is a cove protected by hills and cliffs, composed of pebbles and stones. Its sheltered location and crystal-clear waters make it a favorite destination for those staying in nearby campsites. A quiet, accessible corner of nature.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia Rais Gerbi
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0228 N, 14.1536 E
Costa Turchina Beach
Costa Turchina is one of the last natural stretches of the Tyrrhenian coast of Palermo. A wild beach made of pebbles and rocks, where the sea takes on turquoise shades, hence its name. Access is via a path from the SS113, but the scenery more than rewards the effort. No services, just silence, wind, and pure beauty.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia Costa Turchina
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0194 N, 14.1792 E
Moving westwards towards Palermo …
Mazzaforno Beach
Mazzaforno is an enchanting bay framed by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation: free zones and small equipped areas with bars, sunbeds, and cabins. The sea is emerald, perfect for snorkeling and diving, and the environment guarantees tranquility and close contact with the wild nature of the coast. A perfect half-moon for those seeking peace without giving up comfort.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia di Mazzaforno
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0280 N, 13.9660 E
Mendolido Beach
Continuing towards Mendolido, about 6 km from Cefalù: three half-moon coves, between pebbles and cliffs, completely free and immersed in an almost unreal silence. No services, just pure nature, clear sea, and absolute relaxation. Bring everything you need: water, snacks, and a towel. Suitable footwear is recommended to enter the water.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia di Mendolido
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0333 N, 13.9706 E
Settefrati Beach
Settefrati Beach is a wild and fascinating place, perfect for lovers of natural and unspoiled environments. Accessible by a panoramic path from Mazzaforno. Its main feature? The seven aligned rocks emerging from the sea, tied to a legend of impossible love. Here nature reigns: perfect seabeds for snorkeling, an intimate atmosphere, and minimal attendance. Beware though: access requires suitable footwear and a bit of ease on the path.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia
di Settefrati
🌐 Coordinate: 38.0311 N, 13.9650 E
Capo Playa Beach
Further west, about 7 km from the center, lies Capo Playa: a long and wide beach with sand mixed with gravel and immediately deep waters. Perfect for those who want to dive and swim at length. It alternates equipped areas with services and free natural sections. Easily accessible with a large parking lot, ideal for families and sports enthusiasts.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia Capo Playa
🌐 Coordinate: circa 38.0200 N, 14.0500 E
Salinelle Beach
Adjacent to Capo Playa, Salinelle continues the coast with the same character: sand and gravel, deep water from the start, and constant winds. Appreciated by fans of windsurfing, kitesurfing, or paragliding. It offers both free stretches and equipped establishments. Here too, nightlife and relaxation are guaranteed.
➤ Google Maps: Spiaggia Salinelle
🌐 Coordinate: circa 38.0185 N, 14.0550 E
