The area includes some of the most undamaged sandy beaches in Sicily, as well as dune systems hosting both natural and artificial plant communities. Characteristic features of the area also include promontories and cliffs composed of marly limestone and globigerina marls, as well as clayey badlands. Extensive areas of ancient dunes and inland zones have been affected by afforestation with often invasive exotic species competing with native elements. Overall, the site holds high value both from a landscape and a purely naturalistic perspective. It also hosts several species of vascular flora of phytogeographical interest. The site is of great importance as a resting place and/or migratory route for substantial ornithological contingents in both spring and autumn seasons.