Part of a luxury chain with properties across Europe, the Verdura Resort is a large, self-contained resort on the southwest coast of Sicily. The all-suite property is completely self-contained and offers private access to a lovely, calm beach, two 18-hole golf courses, four restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, and huge indoor and outdoor pools. Contemporary suites are spacious and stocked with creature comforts.

For families and vacationers who want easy access to dining and activities, Baia Samuele is a solid choice. This all-inclusive property gets crowded and is particularly popular with Italian families. Even when the lobby or breakfast buffet is packed, there is always a respite to be found somewhere. The property has beautiful patios, an Olympic-sized pool, getting a spa, and a huge fitness area, as well as a private beach. Rooms are clean and cheerful, though they don't live up to the four-star advertising. Note that the hotel is rather isolated, with the nearest town a 10-minute drive away.

This mid-range resort overlooking the coast of Ragusa is in a prime location with a great private beach complete with sun chairs, umbrellas, and water sport rentals. Manicured green spaces, swimming pools, sports fields, and entertainment for kids and families means guests don't spend much time in the basic but bright rooms. The hotel caters to its French guests, and many of the on-site entertainment options are in French and Italian. There's lots to do on property and a shuttle service available, but those who want to explore further afield should bring a car.

This small, 22-room hotel on the outskirts of the little village of Donnalucata has a prime seafront location with a private beach. Renovated in 2010, the property has light and airy nautical decor and serves its free breakfast on a beautiful rooftop terrace. The hotel doesn’t have a bar, though the restaurant next door does serve lunch and dinner. The property is not too far from nearby cities, including Sicli and Ragusa, making it a good base for exploring the southeast coast of Sicily. Rooms are simple and there's no gym, but this property has a nice, laid-back vibe.

Situated directly on on a pebbly sand beach, there are beautiful views everywhere you turn at this property. The sprawling resort (complete with lovely gardens) does feel isolated, however, as there is nothing within walking distance. There is plenty to do for both families and couples, though, including highlights like two pools and on-site tennis and volleyball courts. Rooms are clean but somewhat dated.

Milu Beach Club is a three-pearl resort with a private beach 30 minutes southeast of Mazara del Vallo. With a long list of amenities, including a large outdoor pool, sports courts, entertainment, and an on-site restaurant, it’s an ideal spot for travelers who want to vacation primarily on the property they’re staying at. Some rooms have kitchenettes -- a nice perk for those who want to cook. Nearby towns are easily accessible via car.

This large, mid-range '60s-era hotel is part of a complex of four different hotels clustered together near the sea and a 10-minute drive from Sciacca. Guests can use the facilities at different properties, but some guests complain that the huge size of the complex and the number of guests circulating around it can make their experience impersonal and a little overwhelming. The 230 rooms are slightly spartan, and could use better soundproofing, but are bright and pleasant, and generally receive high marks for cleanliness

The small, 26-room La Battigia sits right on a sandy beach well equipped with lounge chairs and umbrellas. It’s also within easy reach of Castellammare del Golfo and other coastal cities in northwest Sicily, though without a car, the property is fairly isolated. Rooms are bright but basic with patterned bedspreads. It’s an affordable value for the area and for travelers looking for a beach stopover.

The Paradise Beach Resort is a lower-middle-range hotel right on the shore that mainly attracts Italian families and tour groups looking for a beach vacation. There are some fun outdoor activities such as mini-golf and bocce ball, but the outdoor swimming pool and beach are the real draws -- partly because the recreational facilities are badly damaged. Freebies include the breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi, and parking. Furniture and bathrooms in the guest rooms look worn and dirty, though the lobby has a nice vibe.