Spiaggia Torre di San Teodoro

Spiaggia Torre di San Teodoro: road to Isola Grande

Spiaggia Torre di San Teodoro isn’t among the island’s most famous beaches, yet its beauty lies in the path to Isola Grande. Nestled near Marsala, the beach is reached by a subtle road winding through vineyards, olive trees, and modest local homes. Nearby, the renowned salt fields add to the area’s charm, though unfortunately, we weren’t able to visit them during our stay.

The road to Isola Grande

A wide stretch of sand, mixed with small pebbles, welcomed us as we stepped onto the beach. The water was astonishingly shallow! Even several dozen meters from shore, we were still walking on sand with only knee-deep waves around us. At times, the scene resembled a lagoon. With calm waters perfect for families with children or anyone simply looking to dip their feet and unwind.

One of the most fascinating features of this beach is the chance to walk all the way to Isola Grande, the island just across the water. During low tide, the sea level drops so significantly that it forms a natural pathway. Which allows visitors to cross on foot. Along the way, children marveled at hundreds of large seashells, treasures that would be difficult to find in the shallows at any other time.

Watchtower above the sea

At one end of the beach stands Torre di San Teodoro, an old Spanish watchtower that once guarded the coastline against pirates. Though now closed to visitors, it still adds a sense of history to the landscape. Against the sky, its silhouette serves as a quiet reminder that even this remote place carries echoes of the past. For the most breathtaking view, head to Isola Grande.

Favignana and Levanzo serve as a “second watchtower”, standing quietly beyond the horizon. As sunset approaches, a delicate haze begins to rise, enveloping the islands in an almost magical glow.

Practical tips

There are no bars, restrooms, or rental services on this beach, so it’s best to come prepared. Bringing water, snacks, a sun umbrella, and a beach blanket ensures a comfortable stay. For those planning to walk to Isola Grande, sturdy water shoes are a good idea, as small rocks occasionally appear along the way. The kids didn’t seem to mind, but Martin kept grumbling every time he stepped on yet another sharp seashell.

The beach itself isn’t particularly beautiful — certainly not a spot we’d choose for a full day of relaxation. Its charm lies mainly in the walk to Isola Grande, which makes the visit worthwhile. If you’re planning a trip that includes Marsala, Mazara del Vallo, or the nearby salt flats, it’s definitely a destination to consider. On its own, however, it might not be compelling enough. Sicily offers far more scenic beaches, such as those in the Zingaro Nature Reserve or the tranquil Lido Rosello, where both the setting and the experience are truly memorable.