In the middle of the Mediterranean, the Pelagian Islands lie to the west of Malta and are actually closer to Tunisia than Italy. This tiny archipelago consists of three islands. Lampione is the smallest and uninhabited, with only one lighthouse. A speck you will have to zoom in to find on a map, Lampione is a protected reserve. Its surrounding waters, though, brimming with vibrant aquatic life, are famous in the diving community. Snorkeling and diving tours to this region are thus readily available.

Ferry tickets to Pelagian Islands include boats from Sicily to the volcanic island of Linosa. Occupying an area of 5.4 square kilometers, the island has a remarkably quaint Arcadian atmosphere. Lacking mass infrastructure, travelers typically come here to take a step back and live a simple life. A birder’s paradise and an ideal diving destination, Linosa’s Pozzolana di Ponente beach is where loggerhead sea turtles come every year to lay their eggs.

In complete contrast to Linosa is the largest island in the vicinity, Lampedusa. Italy’s southernmost point, the island is very tourism-friendly with excellent amenities and excursions galore. Booking ferry tickets to the Pelagian Islands is a simple process using Ferryscanner. Vessels coming from Sicily take roughly four hours to reach Lampedusa.

First-time tourists arriving on Lampedusa find its inimitable African vibe, visible in the local food, climate, and general ambiance, to be exotic and intriguing. The best way to explore Lampedusa is by renting a scooter and then zipping around, searching for the hidden beaches. Cala Pulchino is one such offbeat secret gem. It has no direct road access but promises sunbathers an idyllic spot to swim in cobalt blue waters. Lampedusa’s claim to worldwide fame is Rabbit’s Beach. Often ranked high among the world’s best beaches, it faces the rocky islet, Isola dei Conigli. An excellent spot to snorkel and view loggerhead turtles, the underwater life-size statue of Madonna del Mare is also near Rabbit’s Island, so check it out while you’re here.