PataPata

PataPata has been on the sand at Sampieri since 1999 and is one of the few Sicilian beach venues with a genuine live-music history behind it, having hosted Colapesce, Mannarino, Morgan and BandaBardo over the years. It sits on Via Miramare on the long golden beach of Sampieri, 10 km from Scicli and 40 km from Ragusa, deep in the Baroque south-east. During the day it works as a normal lido: umbrellas and loungers with waiter service to the sunbed, a beach volleyball court, a fitness area, changing cabins and hot showers. The kitchen runs from pizza and pasta to grilled dishes, seafood and cocktails, with takeaway available and a dining room that has been recently redone, indoors and out. In the evening it becomes what it is actually known for, the Living programme of sunset events with music, dancing and entertainment across the summer. Opening is long, roughly 8am to just before midnight, which reflects that double life. The beach itself is fine golden sand and rarely feels squeezed. Worth knowing: sunbed booking is by phone rather than through an online platform, and regulars reserve well ahead for the season.