The beaches of Vulcano
On Vulcano the colour of the beach tells you where it came from: black where lava crumbled, pale where the sea has worked the pumice. It's the island with the sharpest contrasts in the archipelago.
The black sand
The Sabbie Nere, at Porto di Ponente, are the island's signature beach: fine volcanic sand and a sunset looking straight towards Lipari and Filicudi. One real warning: in August, at midday, it scorches — you need sandals to reach the water.
The warm water
Near Porto di Levante the seabed releases gas and warm water that bubbles up at the shore. It's the island's most photographed attraction, but take it for what it is: sulphurous water, with the smell that comes with it.
The forgotten south
Towards Gelso, at the end of the road, the coves are small and nearly empty even in high season. It's half an hour by car or scooter from the port, which is exactly why almost nobody goes.
What to bring
There's no shade almost anywhere. Umbrella or towels, plenty of water, and sunscreen: the glare off black sand raises exposure considerably.
Black Sands
Black volcanic sand · Families
The black-sand crescent of Porto di Ponente, with the Gran Cratere behind: convenient, equipped and scenic.
Gelso
Dark sand and pebbles · Quiet
The island's far south — a tiny hamlet with a lighthouse: clean sea and few people even in August.
Stay in Capo d'Orlando
A base in the centre — and everything else becomes a day trip.
The port for the Aeolians is 45 minutes away, the Nebrodi right behind. Breakfast served early for dawn departures.
Direct booking, no intermediaries · See the rooftop →