Sicily, Italy

Ragusa Beaches

Overview

The coastline of Ragusa is one of Sicily's premier destinations for a beach holiday, known for its long stretches of fine, golden sand and clear, shallow waters. Visitors often choose between staying in the heart of the beach scene at Marina di Ragusa or in the historic, UNESCO-listed baroque town of Ragusa Ibla, which is about a 30-minute drive from the sea. While Ragusa Ibla offers stunning architecture, Marina di Ragusa is the region's vibrant seaside hub, built for those who want the sand and sea right at their doorstep.

The area's shoreline offers a remarkable variety of experiences. The main hub is the lively Spiaggia di Marina di Ragusa, perfect for families and those seeking a vibrant atmosphere. For a touch of drama, you can find the stunningly unique cliffs and sea stacks at Punta Cirica o Cozzo Ciriga or the scenic ruins of an old brick factory that frame Sampieri Beach. Film lovers will want to make a pilgrimage to Punta Secca Beach, famous as a primary filming location for the Inspector Montalbano series, while the pristine cove of Spiaggia di Calamosche is an iconic day trip for nature enthusiasts.

Beyond the main highlights, the coast is dotted with other charming spots, such as the traditional fishing village of Donnalucata. While it's easy to enjoy the main beaches if you are staying in Marina di Ragusa, renting a car is the best way to discover the full range of diverse landscapes this coastline has to offer. For a complete look at all the coves, reserves, and sandy shores in the area, be sure to explore our longer list of Ragusa's best beaches.

FAQ

Should I stay in Ragusa Ibla or Marina di Ragusa for a beach holiday?

This depends on your holiday priorities. Stay in Marina di Ragusa if your main goal is a beach-focused vacation with easy access to the sea, restaurants, and a lively seaside promenade. Stay in the historic, UNESCO-listed Ragusa Ibla for its stunning Baroque architecture and atmosphere, but be prepared to travel about 30-35 minutes by bus or car to get to the beaches.

How do you get from Ragusa to the beach?

The easiest way to get from Ragusa (both Superiore and Ibla) to the main beach area at Marina di Ragusa is by bus or car. The Tumino bus company operates a direct route that takes approximately 25-35 minutes. Taxis are also available but are a more expensive option. Driving is straightforward, with a distance of about 25 km.

Are the beaches in Marina di Ragusa sandy?

Yes, the main beaches in Marina di Ragusa are known for their long stretches of fine, golden sand. The seabed has a gentle slope, creating shallow waters near the shore, which makes them particularly popular.

Is Marina di Ragusa good for families with children?

Yes, Marina di Ragusa is considered very family-friendly. Its beaches have received awards for being suitable for children, featuring soft sand, clear, shallow waters for safe swimming, and a promenade with playgrounds, cafes, and ice cream shops. Many beaches also have lifeguards on duty during the high season.

Can you swim in Ragusa in October?

Yes, you can typically swim in the sea off Marina di Ragusa in October. The weather is usually still pleasantly warm, and the water retains enough of the summer heat for comfortable swimming, though it will be cooler than in July or August. The beaches are also far less crowded than in the peak season.

Are there free public beaches in Marina di Ragusa?

Yes, Marina di Ragusa has extensive free public beach areas ('spiaggia libera'). While there are also private beach clubs (lidos) where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, large sections of the main beach are open to the public at no charge, and many are equipped with free public showers.

What is the vibe of Marina di Ragusa? Is it a party town?

Marina di Ragusa has a lively but generally relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, especially in the summer. While it has a vibrant nightlife with bars, pubs, and restaurants along the promenade and near the marina, it is not considered an intense party destination like some other Mediterranean resorts. The evenings are more about pleasant strolls (passeggiata), dining, and enjoying live music.

Which is better for beaches, Ragusa or Siracusa?

Both areas offer excellent beaches, but with different characteristics. Marina di Ragusa is known for its long, wide, and easily accessible sandy beaches, making it a premier beach resort town. Siracusa's famous beaches, like Fontane Bianche, are also beautiful but can be more crowded. The Ragusa coastline is often described as having more expansive and consistently sandy options right in its main seaside town.

People Also Ask

Are there quiet, less crowded beaches near Marina di Ragusa?

Yes, if you venture just outside the main town, you can find quieter spots. To the east, the beach at the Riserva Naturale del Fiume Irminio offers a more wild and natural setting. To the west, you can explore the beaches at Punta Secca (famous for the Inspector Montalbano series) and Donnalucata, which retain a more traditional fishing village charm.

Do I need to rent a car to enjoy the beaches in Ragusa?

If you are staying in Marina di Ragusa and are happy with its main beaches, you do not need a car. The town is very walkable. However, if you are staying in Ragusa Ibla or want to explore the many other beaches along the coast like Sampieri, Donnalucata, or the Vendicari Nature Reserve, renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and convenience.

What are the beaches like at Punta Secca?

Punta Secca, located a few kilometers west of Marina di Ragusa, features charming golden sandy beaches next to a picturesque fishing village. The water is clear and shallow. It's most famous as the filming location for the home of TV's Inspector Montalbano, which sits right on the beach, making it a popular spot for fans and those seeking a scenic, relaxed atmosphere.

Are there beach clubs (lidos) that rent sunbeds and umbrellas?

Yes, along the main beaches of Marina di Ragusa, there are several beach clubs, known as 'lidos' or 'stabilimenti balneari'. These establishments allow you to rent sunbeds and umbrellas for the day and typically offer amenities like bars, restaurants, and restrooms.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Ragusa: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
It's a fantastic day to be at the beach in Ragusa. Expect a hot day with a maximum air temperature of 36.8 °C. The sea is inviting, with a temperature of 28.4 °C, though the waves are a bit higher than usual. The sun will be strong, so make sure to apply sunscreen, as the UV index will reach 8.5. There's only a small chance of rain, and the wind should be manageable for most of the day.
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Air

Low / High25.9°C/36.8°C
Feels Like (High)36.2°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature28.4 °C
Wave Height1.5 m
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Rain

Rain Chance5%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:01/20:13
Sunshine Hours13.1 hrs
UV Index8.5
Cloud Cover32%
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Wind

Speed20 km/h
Gusts43.2 km/h
DirectionW

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