Vendicari beach is located inside the Nature Reserve of Vendicari, located along the eastern coast of Sicily, between Noto and Marzamemi, 43 km from Syracuse. It is characterized by a wide and sandy coastline with shallow waters rich in posidonia, for the first 5 m from the shore. Once this harmless barrier has been overcome, the waters become limpid and crystalline. This long pristine beach is the first that you meet at the entrance of the reserve and its north part ends with a cliff, from which you can dive into beautiful transparent waters.
Since it is rich in marine life, this stretch of the coast is ideal for snorkelers. During high season it is certainly one of the most popular beach in the reserve, being wide and easy to access. Since we are located in a protected area, the beach is not equipped with beach clubs, but at the entrance of the reserve there is a parking area with showers and a bar.
The Nature Reserve of Vendicari
Extended for an area of about 1.512 hectares and for 8 km along the coast of Noto and Pachino, the Nature Reserve of Vendicari is home to a pristine ecosystem full of Mediterranean plants and migratory birds, such as herons, flamingos and storks. These characteristics make it the ideal place for snorkeling, bird watching and hiking. A luxuriant vegetation, breathtaking landscapes, a crystal sea and golden beaches alternate with rocky cliffs and frame the paths that wind through the oasis.
Inside the reserve you can visit the archaeological remains of buildings dating back to different historical periods. The stone quarries of the ancient Greek city of Eloro, dating back to the 5th century BC. Then, the "Citadella dei Maccari", formed by the Trigona, a Byzantine church, and by catacombs dating back to the same period. Moreover, the Sveva Tower, a 15th-century fortification located on the shore of Vendicari, which served as a defense to the port activities of the place. And finally, the Tonnara of Vendicari, an important example of industrial archeology. Dating back to the 18th century, the structure remained active until the first half of the 20th century and is today the symbol of the flourishing tuna trade, which was very widespread in this area.
The Reserve offers some of the most striking and uncontaminated beaches of the entire Ionian coast: Eloro located in the north of the Reserve next to the remains of its necropolis, Marianelli the most secluded for those who love peace, and the beaches of Calamosche, Vendicari and San Lorenzo, famous for their crystal sea.
