Isola Bella is a tiny island just 80 metres offshore from Taormina's main beach, connected to the shore by a thin sandbar that is submerged at high tide. A nature reserve covering just 2 hectares, it supports a remarkable range of Mediterranean flora including centuries-old succulents, carobs, and the exotic plants introduced by its Victorian owner.
The island is accessible by short boat crossing from the beach. The surrounding water is clear, shallow, and excellent for snorkelling among the rocks. The beach below Isola Bella is the most popular in the Taormina area and is reachable by cable car from the town above — the Funivia di Taormina descends from just inside the old town walls.