Lido Sun Island

Sun Island runs the equipped section of the Baia di Guidaloca, the sheltered cove between Castellammare del Golfo and Scopello, a few minutes' drive from the southern gate of the Zingaro reserve. The shore is a mix of white pebbles and sand rather than a pure sand beach, and the seabed continues that pattern in gravel and sand fragments, which keeps the water unusually transparent over a pale bottom. The bay is enclosed enough to stay calm on most days, which is why it fills with families rather than surf-seekers. The lido holds over sixty-five umbrella pitches on what is otherwise a free beach, and adds hot showers, changing cabins, wifi and step-free access. The bar and restaurant look out over the bay and keep things simple and Sicilian: fresh plates, sandwiches, salads and cocktails, with the kitchen winding down at half past six while the beach itself stays open until eight, so late swimmers get the cove at its quietest. Dogs are allowed. Book online and the full amount is charged up front, though a cancellation up to two days before your booking starts converts to a voucher rather than being lost.