An Underrated Italian Island Has Some Of The Clearest Waters In The World And Next To No Crowds

One of the most beautiful Italian islands that doesn't get enough attention is a place where limestone cliffs meet turquoise waters and white beaches remain free of overcrowding. Unlike Italy's more famous coastal destinations, Lampedusa Island offers an intimate experience, where you can enjoy fresh seafood at seaside trattorias without waiting in line and take in breathtaking views of coastal grottos without jostling for space. The island is known for its tropical climate, sea-carved rock formations, and some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean. If you want to avoid Italy's overrated tourist traps, Lampedusa should be at the top of your list.

Found at Italy's southernmost point, sitting between Sicily and North Africa, Lampedusa is the largest of the Pelagie Islands. Perhaps the island's biggest claim to fame is Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), which consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful beaches (it placed at #11 on TripAdvisor's best beaches of 2025). The island has its own airport (Lampedusa Airport, LMP) with direct flights available from Palermo, Catania, and Milan, especially in the summer months. If you prefer to take a scenic route, you can travel in on a ferry from Porto Empedocle in Sicily, a journey that takes a little over four hours.

Lampedusa's rugged limestone consists of river valleys that have carved out secluded coves, cliffs, and hidden sea caves, all of which combine to create some breathtaking coastal scenery. The most famous (and arguably most beautiful) beach is Spiaggia dei Conigli. This free-access beach requires a 15-minute hike down a scenic path, and, due to conservation efforts, visitor numbers are capped, so you'll need to book a spot online in advance. Just across the bay sits Isola dei Conigli (Rabbit Island), a protected nature reserve and nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles.

The marine life surrounding Lampedusa is just as impressive. Beneath the water's surface, you might spot colorful corals, crabs, groupers, eels, and parrotfish. Mare Morto, a rocky stretch of coastline known for its underwater caves and ravines, is one of the best spots for snorkeling. Another must-visit is Cala Pulcino, a quiet spot that's perfect for spotting diverse sea creatures in its calm waters.

If you're a diver, Isola dei Conigli holds a special surprise: the Madonna of the Sea, a statue of the Virgin Mary and child, rests at the bottom of the bay. Commissioned by a diver who survived a near-fatal underwater accident, it serves as a serene and meaningful diving spot. For those who prefer to remain on land, Cala Madonna is a great alternative. A small, picturesque beach that's also perfect for snorkeling, it's home to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Porto Salvo, a historic church.

Lampedusa's history and culture reflect its unique blend of Sicilian and North African influences. Often called the "gateway to Europe," the island is a major entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean from Africa. This role is commemorated in a striking art installation at the port: a massive stone gateway sculpted from discarded shoes, hats, and fishing gear, symbolizing both loss and hope. To explore Lampedusa's deeper history, visit the Pelagie Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts dating back to the Neolithic era, early Christian settlements, and underwater discoveries, including a marble statue of the goddess Fortuna and African ceramics.

Food lovers will also find plenty to savor on the island. Lampedusa's cuisine is a delicious fusion of Mediterranean flavors, with fresh seafood taking center stage. Signature dishes include couscous di pesce, snapper baked with beef broth, and red prawns. If you want a top-tier dining experience, try Lipadusa, a Michelin-touted restaurant in the heart of town (its seafood risotto gets particular praise). But you don't have to splurge — Lampedusa is home to many oceanfront trattorias, some of the best types of places to eat in Italy on a budget, where they serve up simple yet flavorful dishes. For the perfect way to end your day, grab an aperitivo at a beachside bar and watch the sunset over the Mediterranean at Fuori Rotta, a laid-back beach bar where you can enjoy wine and tapas with your toes in the sand.