Isola Bella & Blue Grotto Boat Tour | Porticciolo, Mazzarò, Atlantis & Giardini Naxos Highlights | 1.5–2 Hours
Things to do in Taormina? Discover the wonders of Isola Bella and the surrounding coast with a 1.5-hour tour (extendable to 2 hours with a swim stop), available for big groups, small groups, or private tours, revealing hidden gems, history, legends, and breathtaking scenery along this enchanting coastline.
The tour begins with a visit to the Bay of the Blue Grotto, famous for the striking blue glow that fills the cave as sunlight filters through the underwater entrance, illuminating the waters with an ethereal light—a phenomenon that has fascinated visitors for centuries. Here, guests can enjoy a brief snorkeling stop and explore a secret, unnamed cave, a hidden treasure along this spectacular coast.
Next, admire the iconic Dolce & Gabbana rock, where the legendary Light Blue advertisement was filmed years ago. Carefully modified to resemble Capri’s Faraglioni, the rock sparked a famous dispute between the fashion house and the Municipality of Taormina.
Sail around Isola Bella, taking in panoramic views from the chamber at the top of the island, historically the residence of a princess who once owned the island. From this vantage point, the island can be appreciated in its entirety. Depending on sea conditions, the boat navigates around the surrounding rocks, revealing the entrance to the old house, now the Sea Museum, and other remarkable formations, including the Grotta dell’Amore, also called the Emerald Cave, with its vibrant green reflections on the granite sand—a remnant of the original beach that existed thousands of years ago.
The optional swim stop takes place in Baia Villagonia, allowing guests to enjoy the crystal-clear waters, relax, or take photos.
The boat also passes the Grotta del Mezzogiorno, a former World War II lookout, and the Grotta della Conchiglia (also called Grotta degli Amanti by some). The tour continues back toward Villagonia Bay, completing this portion of the journey filled with history, legend, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Afterward, the journey extends along the coastline to Giardini Naxos Bay, a place rich in history and charm. Pass the Porticciolo, the first port ever built in Giardini Naxos, and admire the Saint Giovanni Church, a picturesque landmark overlooking the bay. The boat then glides past Mazzarò Bay, Atlantis Bay, and Saint Nicola’s Bay, offering opportunities for stunning photos and scenic appreciation. A 15-minute stop is included at either Mazzarò Bay or Atlantis Bay, depending on weather conditions, perfect for a swim, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the water.
Further along, marvel at the Elephant Rock, the Phoenician Bridge, Mermaids Bay, and the Coral Grotto, each location steeped in legend and natural beauty. Additional highlights include Capo Taormina’s private beach, the Faraglioni, the Lion Rock (Cyclops Rock), and the Bay of the Cyclops, along with views of the Capo Taormina Hotel, overlooking Villagonia Bay, and the Le Grand Bleu Restaurant, a tribute to the famous French film Le Grand Bleu, filmed in these pristine waters.
With Isola Bella Boat, every cave, rock, and hidden corner has a story, making this 1.5-hour to 2-hour tour an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Taormina, Giardini Naxos, or the surrounding coastline. Whether for big groups, small groups, or private tours, this adventure combines history, legend, and luxury sightseeing, creating memories that last a lifetime.
