Isola Bella Nature Reserve - Zakynthos Landscape Coast - Greek Island
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Isola Bella Nature Reserve

4.5
·7k reviews·, Italy

A breathtaking nature reserve in Sicily, Isola Bella is a small island connected to the mainland by a sandbar at low tide, boasting lush gardens and c...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Isola Bella Nature Reserve - Zakynthos Landscape Coast - Greek Island

Isola Bella Nature Reserve

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking nature reserve in Sicily, Isola Bella is a small island connected to the mainland by a sandbar at low tide, boasting lush gardens and clear waters.

4.5
(7k reviews)

"A garden straight out of a fairytale, Isola Bella is a must-see for its unique beauty and history. TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

🪞 Check Tide Times

Crucial for walking to the island! Consult local tide charts before your visit.

👟 Pack Water Shoes

The beach is rocky, so water shoes are a must for comfort and safety.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Island Itself

The Island Itself

Isola Bella

A picturesque nature reserve with lush greenery and crystal-clear waters, once a private garden.

Instagram+1
Rocky Beach Access

Rocky Beach Access

Mainland beach facing Isola Bella

A unique beach experience where you can walk to the island at low tide.

Instagram
Underwater Exploration

Underwater Exploration

Surrounding waters

Perfect for snorkeling with clear waters and diverse marine life.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Tide Times are Key

Isola Bella is connected to the mainland by a sand strip, but only at low tide. Check tide times before you go to ensure you can walk across! Otherwise, you'll need a boat or pedalo to reach the island. Instagram+1

Beat the Crowds

This nature reserve is stunning but gets very busy, especially during peak season. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can offer a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Low tide
Why
Walk to the island
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A garden straight out of a Fairytale 🤍🦚 📍Isola Bella, Lago Maggiore, Italy #italy #eurosummer #bucketlist #travel #isolabella
@laraaaws
69.5K likes • 253K views

🪞 Check Tide Times

Crucial for walking to the island! Consult local tide charts before your visit. Instagram+1

👟 Pack Water Shoes

The beach is rocky, so water shoes are a must for comfort and safety. Reddit

🏝️ DICAS DE VIAGEM PARA ILHABELA 👉🏽 Já salva essas dicas e manda pra quem vai junto com você pra Ilhabela. #ilhabela #ilhabelasp #ilhabelabeach #ilhabelabrasil #ilhabela_sp #ilhabelaparaiso #turismoilhabela #turismo #turistando #viagem #dicas #dicasdeviagem #praia #viajeparacomer
@viajeparacomer
29.3K likes • 676.4K views
Isola Bella - a small island near Taormina which is a nature reserve. Getting to it from the nearby sandy beach is possible without much soaking only at low tide. A beautiful place for an afternoon rest with fierce Thai women imposing massages. #sicilie #sicily #sicilia #ilovetravel #travellover #italy #traveltips #traveltip #discoverysicily #discoveryitaly #ilovesicily #iloveitaly #sicilialovers...
ciao.sicilia
19 likes • 217 views

🚤 Consider a Boat Tour

A great way to see the island and surrounding coast, and escape crowds. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Options on the island can be pricey; packing your own is wise. Reddit

Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider visiting Taormina, Sicily! 👙Swim around Isola Bella: A picturesque nature reserve and tiny island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. A haven for nature lovers and beachgoers, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. 🏛️Tour the Ancient Greek Theatre: This well-preserved amphitheater, dating bac...
travelbabblerepeat
104 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🪞 Check Tide Times

Crucial for walking to the island! Consult local tide charts before your visit. Instagram+1

👟 Pack Water Shoes

The beach is rocky, so water shoes are a must for comfort and safety. Reddit

🚤 Consider a Boat Tour

A great way to see the island and surrounding coast, and escape crowds. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Options on the island can be pricey; packing your own is wise. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery is breathtaking, especially during golden hour. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Isola Bella is a visually stunning nature reserve with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors praise its historical villa and unique tidal connection. However, the beach is rocky, and it can get extremely crowded, with high prices for amenities like sunbeds. Reddit

"Beautiful spot for photos and crystal-clear water, but the beach is rocky, very crowded - water shoes are highly recommended. Worth seeing once, but not really a place for relaxation - book a boat tour… escape the crowded"

Carolins Oprea

"Isola Bella is so beautiful and rich in history. The house/museum has so much character that it’s just so nice to sit and take it all in. Such a beautiful building and scenery. My only downside is that the beach gets so crowded that it didn’t make me want to swim and the cost of sunbeds is atrocious! I got charged €100 for 2 sunbeds which I declined. I of course do not blame anyone for the beach being too busy as there is no one to blame for that. Overall I really enjoyed the museum and scenery. It was a beautiful morning out."

Lily Mcgilloway

"The place is amazing but can be very crowded with people. Do to the many tourists, the area and the beach and water has plastic and left behinds. If they are free, rent a peddle board at the diving centre in the left corner of the beach. You will have a better view of the whole area and can swim more freely."

Paulas de Groot

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Clear waters
Unique tidal access

What People Dislike

Very crowded
Rocky beach
Expensive sunbeds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Isola Bella is located near Taormina, Sicily. You can reach it by car, taxi, or bus to Taormina, then walk down to the coast. At low tide, a sand strip connects the mainland to the island, allowing you to walk across. If the tide is high, you'll need to take a boat or pedalo from the nearby beach. Instagram+1

Yes, you can take a bus to Taormina and then walk down to Isola Bella. Some local buses might also go closer to the area. TikTok

If the tide is high, you can rent a pedalo or take a short boat trip from the diving center on the left side of the beach to reach the island. Reddit

Parking can be challenging and expensive in Taormina. There are paid parking lots near the cable car station that connects to Mazzarò beach, which is close to Isola Bella. TikTok

It's a significant walk downhill from Taormina town to Isola Bella. Many visitors opt for the cable car from Taormina to Mazzarò beach, which is a short walk from Isola Bella. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an entrance fee to access the nature reserve and the small museum on the island. You can purchase tickets at the entrance. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

Ticket prices can change, but typically there's a modest fee for entry to the nature reserve and museum. Check current prices online or at the ticket booth. Reddit

The beach in front of Isola Bella is generally accessible, but to explore the island itself and its museum, you will need to purchase an entrance ticket. Reddit

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is not widely publicized. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket office upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the lush gardens, visit the small museum housed in the villa, swim and snorkel in the clear waters, and relax on the rocky beach. Boat tours are also popular. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The waters around Isola Bella are known for their clarity and are excellent for both swimming and snorkeling. There are shallow areas for kids and deeper spots for adults. Reddit

The beach is primarily rocky, not sandy. Water shoes are highly recommended for comfort and ease of walking. Reddit

Showers are usually available on the beach. However, dedicated changing rooms might be limited, so it's good to be prepared. Reddit

Yes, Isola Bella can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season and when the tide is low, making it accessible by foot. Visiting early or late can help. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are limited options directly on the island itself, primarily small kiosks or cafes. Many visitors choose to dine at restaurants in nearby Taormina or Mazzarò. Reddit

You'll find typical Sicilian cuisine, including fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and local specialties. Restaurants in Taormina offer a wider range of dining experiences. Reddit

While you can bring your own food, be mindful of waste and keep the area clean. There are no designated picnic areas, but finding a spot on the beach might be possible. Reddit

Taormina offers many family-friendly restaurants. Look for places with outdoor seating and a relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

Prices can be on the higher side, especially for sunbeds and food directly on the beach. Dining in Taormina town might offer more variety in price points. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The view from the mainland looking towards the island, the island itself with its lush vegetation, and the clear turquoise waters are all prime photo opportunities. The museum interior also offers unique shots. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a beautiful atmosphere. TikTok

Photography rules can vary. It's best to check signage or ask staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on interior photography. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape. If you plan to snorkel, a waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for underwater shots. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in nature reserves and protected areas. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted. Always check local regulations. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Isola Bella offers a unique experience for families, but preparation is key. The rocky beach means water shoes are essential for little ones to walk comfortably and safely. The shallow areas around the island are perfect for younger children to paddle and play. Reddit

Consider renting a pedalo or taking a short boat trip to explore the waters, which can be a fun adventure for kids. While there are showers, changing facilities might be limited, so plan accordingly. Packing snacks and plenty of water is also advisable, as options on the island can be limited and pricey. Visiting early in the day can help avoid the biggest crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Isola Bella has an entrance fee, you can enjoy the surrounding beach area for free. To save money, pack your own food and drinks instead of purchasing from beach vendors or cafes. Reddit Check tide times so you can walk to the island and avoid paying for boat transport. Instagram+1

Be aware of the high cost of renting sunbeds and umbrellas; consider bringing your own beach towel or mat. Visiting during the off-peak season or early/late in the day can also help avoid the highest prices and crowds. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Isola Bella is a photographer's dream, offering stunning vistas. The golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) provides the most magical light for capturing the island's beauty and the turquoise waters. TikTok Don't forget to capture the unique perspective of the island connected to the mainland by the sandbar at low tide. Instagram

Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the dramatic landscapes. If you're interested in marine life, a waterproof camera is perfect for capturing underwater shots while snorkeling. Be mindful of the crowds, as they can be a challenge for composition, but try to find angles that minimize them or incorporate them to show the vibrancy of the location. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Tides

The most unique aspect of visiting Isola Bella is its connection to the mainland. This small island is a nature reserve and a protected marine area, and its accessibility is dictated by the sea. At low tide, a narrow strip of sand emerges, allowing visitors to walk directly from the beach to the island. This phenomenon is what makes Isola Bella so enchanting and a must-see for many. However, it's crucial to check the tide times before your visit. If you arrive during high tide, the island will be completely surrounded by water, and you'll need to opt for a boat or pedalo ride to reach it. Instagram+1

This tidal connection also influences the beach experience. When the tide is out, the beach expands, offering more space. When it's in, the beach can become quite narrow. The rocky nature of the beach is a consistent feature, making water shoes a highly recommended item for comfort and safety when walking or swimming. Reddit

For those who want to fully appreciate the marine life, snorkeling is a popular activity. The clear waters around Isola Bella teem with fish, making it a delightful experience for all ages. Renting a pedalo can also offer a different perspective and allow for more freedom to explore the coves. Reddit

The History and Villa of Isola Bella

Isola Bella, meaning 'Beautiful Island' in Italian, has a rich history that adds to its allure. Originally a small, barren rock, it was purchased in the mid-19th century by Lady Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman. She transformed the island into a private garden paradise, complete with exotic plants, winding paths, and a charming villa. The villa itself is a unique structure, blending architectural styles and offering a glimpse into Lady Trevelyan's eccentric vision. Instagram

After Lady Trevelyan's passing, the island changed hands several times, eventually becoming a nature reserve managed by the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) in the late 20th century. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this historical garden and the villa, which often houses small exhibitions or serves as a museum. The biodiversity of the island is a key focus of its protection, with various plant species and birdlife finding refuge here. Instagram

Walking through the villa and its terraces, you can still feel the historical ambiance and appreciate the effort that went into creating this unique sanctuary. It's a place where nature and human artistry have intertwined to create a truly memorable destination. Reddit

Navigating the Crowds and Costs

Isola Bella is undeniably a popular spot, and this popularity comes with its own set of challenges, primarily crowds and costs. During peak season, especially in July and August, the beach and the island can become very congested. This can detract from the experience for those seeking a tranquil escape. Reddit

One of the most frequently mentioned downsides is the cost of amenities, particularly sunbeds and umbrellas. Reports of exorbitant prices, such as €100 for two sunbeds, have been noted, leading many visitors to decline rentals. Reddit This makes it even more important to consider bringing your own essentials if possible, or to factor these costs into your budget. The beach itself is rocky, so while it's beautiful, it's not the soft sand experience some might expect. Reddit

To mitigate the impact of crowds, visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or early autumn) or opting for early morning or late afternoon visits during the summer can significantly improve the experience. Booking a boat tour is also a popular strategy to see the island from a different perspective and potentially find quieter spots on the water. Reddit

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