Grotta Azzurra, Sea cave at Isola Bella beach in Taormina, Italy.
Grotta Azzurra is a sea cave at Isola Bella near Taormina, known for the deep blue of its water lit by an underwater opening. The cave can only be reached by boat tours that operate from April through October.
The cave formed over thousands of years as water and waves eroded the limestone cliffs along the shore. The structure visible today took its current shape during periods when sea levels and coastal patterns differed from today.
The cave holds a place in local stories as a sanctuary where fishing communities once sought refuge from storms. Today boat operators share knowledge about the sea and this site's role in the island's maritime past with visitors.
The best time to visit is during warmer months when boat tours run regularly and light is strongest. Check departure times and weather conditions beforehand, as rough seas sometimes require tours to be postponed or canceled.
The intense blue of the cave results from sunlight passing through the water and bouncing off pale sand and rock surfaces below. This light effect shifts throughout the day depending on the sun's position, making each visit look different.
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