5 Best Sights in The Aeolian Islands, Sicily

Near the southern tip of Filicudi, you'll find a small crescent beach of large rounded pebbles with a perfect view of nearby Alicudi. During the summer, there's a lido service that rents beach chairs and umbrellas and even offers basic concessions, such as drinks and cold salads.

Panarea is known more for its boat culture than for an abundance of beaches. But the crescent of golden sand, gently lapping waves, and shallow waters at Zimmari make it a popular beach for sunbathing and taking a dip. From San Pietro, it's an easy 20- to 30-minute stroll as you meander south through the winding streets and continue on the path above the coastline. You'll know you've arrived when the path ultimately ends. Amenities: sunbeds and umbrellas to rent; snack bar. Best for: snorkeling, swimming.

Only the most intrepid beachgoers will seek out Spiaggia della Calcara. Located on the northern tip of the island, it's reachable by winding through the streets of Iditella, continuing down a dirt path, and then through some hearty shrubs. But your reward is a practically private beach of small stones with spectacular views of rocky outcroppings in the sea (not to mention a reprieve from the chaos of the vacationers who fill the island each summer). Just be sure to wear sturdy shoes to get down and back up the path; this is not a beach for flip-flops. Amenities: none. Best for: sunbathing, swimming.

A short 15-minute walk from the port, this wide beach features soft, powdery, black volcanic sand that sits in sharp contrast to the clear crystalline waters. Along the strand, you'll find various beach clubs set up during the summer months with chair and umbrella rentals. It's advised to wear a dark-colored swimsuit as the black sand has been known to discolor fabric.

The area around Piscità and Ficogrande is full of narrow side streets that lead down to the sea, where you'll find an assortment of different coves, inlets, and lavic outcroppings. Just head downhill from the principal streets and you'll eventually hit water. The largest beach area is Spiaggia Nera on the island's northeastern coast, where the black sand and stones sit in stark contrast to the aquamarine waters.