Review Author

Lindsay Cohn

Contributing Writer

The center of Taormina buzzes with tourists living out White Lotus travel fantasies. A short cable car ride away, in Taormina Mare, it’s a much different version of la dolce vita—one that involves languid beach days and five-star service. 

Mazzarò Sea Palace, part of the VRetreats portfolio and a member of Leading Hotels of the World, is the perfect seaside escape, whether you’re looking to splash out on the coast for a few days or just want some sun and pool time post-sightseeing. 

Situated on the shores of Mazzaro Bay, the 68-key property makes brilliant use of its privileged perch. Everything centers around Mazzaro Bay, a crescent-shaped pebble beach bordered by towering cliffs and azure water. And it’s one of two hotels with direct access to the cinematic shore (the other is Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare)

Originally a private villa that was expanded and restyled into a boutique hotel back in the 1960s, Mazzarò Sea Palace has decades of hospitality accolades and a fresh look that reflects a contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean luxury with a palette of sand and blue hues, clean lines, and polished finishes. Hand-painted tiles, sea urchin and octopus ceramics, and traditional head vases speak to the hotel’s rich Sicilian roots. 

The moment guests step into the fourth-floor lobby, the colors and decor hint at the cinematic beauty just outside the window. Rooms and suites feature sleek yet plush furnishings and sophisticated details. Glossy, marble bathrooms are stocked with hemp toiletries. The best part? Every accommodation has a private terrace with stunning sea views. Some even have plunge pools. 

The restaurants, bars, pool, and serviced beach (read: sun beds and loungers exclusively for the use of guests) are located on the ground floor. The focus on local, sustainable ingredients extends across all the F&B outlets. In the mornings, the interior of Armonia is transformed into an impressive homemade breakfast buffet spread, complete with all the usual suspects (eggs, bacon, yogurt, fruit, bread, and pastries), plus Sicilian specialities such as arancini, cannolis, granita, and brioche. In the afternoon and evening, well-dressed patrons dig into house-made pasta and fresh-caught fish and sip bottles of Etna Bianco. 

There’s also a gelato cart for a scoop of pistachio. Almaré Bar mixes up classic and creative cocktails for aperitivo and long after the sun sets. For a special occasion (of course, just being on holiday in Taormina qualifies), snag a table at Blum, the intimate fine-dining destination, where Executive Chef Riccardo Fazio whips up unexpected gastronomic dishes paired with fine wines and unobstructed views. Sustainability is part of the ethos. The kitchen uses all local products, including basil, rosemary, tomatoes, peppers, and strawberries grown on the rooftop garden.

While you could easily spend a few days blissfully out at the beach, savoring the freshest local fare, and indulging in lifting facials and Mediterranean body rituals at the spa, there’s much to explore in Taormina and beyond. The knowledgeable concierges at Mazzarò Sea Palace are more than happy to coordinate unforgettable experiences such as helicopter excursions to Mount Etna and sunset sails that leave right from the bay. 

Fast Facts

Location: Taormina Mare, Sicily 

Rating: Five-Star

The Vibe: Contemporary Sicilian seaside chic. 

Room Count: 68 rooms and suites

Starting Rate: Rooms start at $637/night  

Dining: Armonia serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The fine-dining restaurant, Blum, promises an unforgettable evening. Almaré Bar is the perfect spot for aperitivo. 

Amenities: 2 restaurants; bar; in-room dining; serviced beach club; pool; spa; fitness center; rooftop garden; concierge; valet parking 

Nearby Attractions: Isola Bella; Taormina Cable Car; Teatro Antico di Taormina; Corso Umberto I; Villa Comunale di Taormina

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? There are a few places to grab Sicilian street food along the main road. But most of the restaurants—including Ristorante La Tavernetta for homemade pasta and grilled swordfish—are up in the center of town. 

Closest Airport: Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA)

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