You know that moment when you’re standing at your hotel window in Catania? Like when you’re gazing out at Mount Etna in the distance while the Mediterranean sparkles below?
That’s when you know — Sicily’s beaches are calling, but you’ve got no idea where to start.
I found myself in that exact spot last summer. Overwhelmed by choices but eager to discover the perfect stretch of sand (or volcanic rock, as I’d soon learn).
Let me tell you — Catania’s coastline is full of surprises. From dramatic volcanic beaches straight from sci-fi movies to golden stretches of sand that rival the Caribbean, this corner of Sicily has it all.
And after exploring every nook and cranny of this fascinating coastline, I’ve got some insights to share about the 12 best beaches around Catania.
Understanding Catania's Beaches
Catania’s coastline is where nature flexes its creative muscles.
Head north, and you’ll find yourself carefully navigating volcanic rocks that look like they were literally spit out by Mount Etna during one of its dramatic temper tantrums.
Swing south, and suddenly you’re walking on golden sand so smooth it feels like the earth is giving your feet a welcome massage.
These aren’t just random quirks – they’re basically Etna’s signature scrawled across the landscape.
It’s the same volcanic heartbeat that occasionally lights up the Sicilian sky has choreographed these completely different coastal vibes.
Getting to Catania’s Beaches
Getting around Catania’s coastline is half the adventure—and your best bet depends on how much freedom you’re after.
If you’re planning to beach-hop like a pro, renting a car is hands-down the easiest option. With your own wheels, you can zip between sandy shores and hidden coves at your own pace.
Plus, some of the most stunning spots aren’t easily reachable by public transport. Still, whether to choose a car rental or not will also depend on your itinerary.
And if you do, Discover Cars is a great place to start for finding rental deals, and they make navigating insurance options pretty straightforward (because no one wants a paperwork headache on vacation).
Let’s break down your transportation options in detail:
By Car |
|
By Public Transport |
|
By Train |
|
By Taxi |
|
Keep in mind that some beaches—like the quieter stretches further south—simply aren’t built for public transport access. In these cases, a car or a taxi becomes essential.
The 12 Best Beaches in Catania, Sicily
1. Playa di Catania (Lidi Catania Mare)
Imagine an 18-kilometer stretch of golden sand right at your doorstep — that’s La Playa for you. It’s Catania’s urban beach paradise, and it’s got something for everyone.
What makes this spot special is its accessibility and variety. The beach is divided into numbered sections (Spiaggia 1, 2, and 3), with Spiaggia 3 being the crown jewel for its cleaner sand and water.
The beauty of La Playa lies in its versatility. Want to try windsurfing? Done. Prefer to lounge with a cocktail? The beach bars have you covered. Traveling with kids? The shallow waters and soft sand make it perfect for families.
Getting There:
- By Car: 15 minutes from city center, paid parking available
- By Bus: Line D from Piazza Borsellino (every 20 minutes)
- By Taxi: €15-20 from city center
Facilities:
- Multiple beach clubs with rentals
- Showers and changing rooms
- Restaurants and bars
- Water sports equipment rental
Best For: Families, groups, water sports enthusiasts
Stay Near: NH Catania Centro, Plaza Hotel Catania
Must-Try: One Day Music Festival (summer weekends)
Tips: Book sunbeds in advance during peak season
2. Spiaggia San Giovanni Li Cuti
Ever walked on black sand? This unique beach offers exactly that experience — it’s where volcanic heritage meets Mediterranean charm. The contrast between the dark sand and the blue water is simply stunning.
Located within walking distance of northern Catania, it’s perfect for those short on time but big on experiencing something different.
The wooden footbridge makes getting into the water a breeze, especially if you’re not keen on navigating volcanic rocks.
Getting There:
- By Car: 10 minutes from city center, limited free parking
- By Bus: Line 935 from Corso Sicilia to Messina Piccanello
- Walking: 30 minutes from city center
Facilities:
- Small beach bars
- Wooden footbridge for water access
- Public restrooms
- Several nearby restaurants
Best For: Photography enthusiasts, couples, short visits
Stay Near: Hotel Liberty, B&B Opera
Must-Try: Sunset photos with volcanic rocks
Tips: Arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot on the sand
3. Riviera dei Ciclopi, Aci Trezza
This isn’t just a beach — it’s a slice of mythology come to life. Those massive rocks jutting out of the sea? According to legend, they’re the very stones that Odysseus threw at the Cyclops. (Whether you believe that or not, they make for incredible photos.)
The beach itself is rocky rather than sandy, but the crystal-clear waters more than make up for it. It’s perfect for snorkeling — the volcanic formations create an underwater landscape that’s teeming with marine life.
Take bus 534 from Piazza Borsellino, or make the 20-minute drive if you’ve got a car. Either way, plan to spend at least half a day here.
Getting There:
- By Car: 20-minute drive from Catania
- By Bus: Line 534 from Piazza Borsellino (30-minute ride)
- Taxi: €25-30 from city center
Facilities:
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- Boat rental services
- Diving centers
- Public restrooms
Best For: Snorkelers, mythology buffs, photographers
Stay Near: Hotel Lachea, I Faraglioni B&B
Must-Try: Boat tour around the Cyclops Islands
Tips: Bring water shoes for rocky areas
4. Aci Castello
Just south of Aci Trezza sits another gem — a beach town crowned by a Norman castle perched dramatically on a volcanic rock. The sight alone is worth the trip.
The beach here is rocky, but don’t let that deter you. The waters are some of the clearest you’ll find, and the volcanic formations create natural pools perfect for swimming.
Make a day of it by combining it with Aci Trezza (they’re that close), and don’t miss dinner at Ristorante Giancarlo Barone Acicastello — the seafood here is phenomenal.
Getting There:
- By Car: 15-minute drive from Catania
- By Bus: Line 534 from Piazza Borsellino
- Combined trip: Easy to pair with Aci Trezza
Facilities:
- Castle museum (€4 entry)
- Waterfront restaurants
- Public restrooms
- Small shops
Best For: History lovers, couples, photographers
Stay Near: Hotel Palazzo Stesicorea, Grand Hotel Villa San Mauro
Must-Try: Ristorante Giancarlo Barone Acicastello
Tips: Visit the castle early morning for the best photos
5. Spiaggia del Mulino di Acireale
Hidden within the Riserva Naturale Orientata La Timpa, this beach feels like a secret garden by the sea. The journey down Sentiero delle Chiazzette (the winding access road) is an adventure in itself.
The reward? A stunning combination of lush greenery meeting crystal-clear waters, with dramatic cliffs as your backdrop. It’s like something out of a movie.
After your swim, grab a drink at Bora Bora bar or dinner at Al Molino S. Maria la Scala. The sunset views here are incredible.
Getting There:
- By Car: 25-40 minutes from Catania
- By Train: 20 minutes to Acireale station + local bus
- Taxi: €35-40 from Catania
Facilities:
- Al Molino S. Maria la Scala restaurant
- Bora Bora bar
- Limited parking
- No rental services
Best For: Nature lovers, hikers, peaceful seekers
Stay Near: Santa Caterina Hotel, Art Hotel Capomulini
Must-Try: Sunset drinks at Bora Bora
6. Spiaggia di Praiola
Here’s a beach that demands a bit more from you — but gives back tenfold.
Those volcanic pebbles might look intimidating (definitely bring water shoes), but they’ve created some of the clearest waters you’ll find around Catania.
The black sand seabed drops off quickly, so it’s better suited for confident swimmers than families with small children.
But for those who make the journey, the pristine waters and relative quiet (at least outside peak season) make it worth the effort.
Getting There:
- By Car: 30-minute drive
- By Train: To Carruba station + 20-minute walk
- Limited public transport options
Facilities:
- Limited to none
- Bring your own supplies
- No lifeguard
Best For: Experienced swimmers, adventure seekers
Stay Near: Villa Praiola, Hotel Santa Tecla Palace
Must-Have: Water shoes, snorkel gear
Tips: Not suitable for small children or inexperienced swimmers
7. Spiaggia di Mascali, Fondachello
Think of Fondachello as the perfect middle ground — not too crowded, not too remote, with just the right mix of amenities and natural beauty.
The tiny pebbles are easier on the feet than larger rocks, and the water clarity is perfect for snorkeling.
You’ve got options here: stake out a spot in the free areas or rent a sunbed at one of the lidos. Either way, you’re in for a treat.
Getting There:
- By Car: 30-minute drive
- By Train: To Mascali + 30-minute walk
- Interbus to Taormina + 20-minute walk
Facilities:
- Several lidos with rentals
- Beach bars and restaurants
- Parking areas
- Water sports rentals
Best For: Families, long-stay visitors
Stay Near: Villa Mare Etna, Le Buganville
Must-Try: Snorkeling around rocky areas
8. Oasi del Simeto
Nature lovers, this one’s for you. The Simeto Nature Reserve offers a different kind of beach experience — one where you might spot rare birds while working on your tan.
The sandy stretches here feel wild and untamed, despite being just 15 minutes from Catania. It’s the perfect escape when you need a break from the more developed beaches.
Getting There:
- By Car: 15-minute drive
- By Bus: Line D (15-30 minutes)
- Limited taxi service
Facilities:
- Nature reserve visitor center
- Beach bars
- Free and paid beach areas
- Birdwatching points
Best For: Nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, families
Stay Near: Camping Village Luminoso, Villa del Biviere
Must-Try: Early morning birdwatching
Tips: Bring binoculars during migration seasons
9. Vaccarizzo-Delfino
Want to experience a local favorite? This is it. The long white sand beaches here are a hit with Catanians but somehow stay under most tourists’ radar.
The village comes alive in summer, but even then, it feels more authentic than touristy. Lido Vacarizos offers comfort if you want it, but the free beaches to the south are just as lovely.
Getting There:
- By Car: 25-minute drive
- By Bus: One-hour ride from Piazza Borsellino
- Limited taxi service
Facilities:
- Lido Vacarizos (sunbed rentals)
- Several beach bars
- Free beach areas
- Summer accommodation options
Best For: Local experience seekers, families
Stay Near: Villa Mare Blu, Casa Vacanze Stella Marina
Must-Try: Local summer festivals
10. Spiaggia Viale dei Fiori
Sometimes, you need to work a little harder for the best views — and this beach in Agnone Bagni proves it. With Mount Etna in the background and clear waters in front, it’s a photographer’s dream.
You’ll need a car to get here (or be willing to spring for a taxi), but the relative isolation means more space to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
Getting There:
- By Car: 30-minute drive (required)
- No reliable public transport
- Taxi: €40-45 one way
Facilities:
- Limited beach services
- Some seasonal bars
- Free parking
- Clear swimming areas
Best For: Peace seekers, Etna view lovers
Stay Near: Appartamenti Mare Etna, Villa Sunset
Must-Try: Sunrise views with Etna backdrop
11. Giardini Naxos
Yes, it’s a bit of a journey from Catania (40-45 minutes by car), but Giardini Naxos offers something special: a perfect blend of beach life and history.
Where else can you go from swimming to exploring ancient Greek ruins in under five minutes?
The beach gets crowded in July and August (let’s be honest, where doesn’t?), but the atmosphere is always festive.
After your beach time, head to C’era Cu C’era for authentic Sicilian dishes or try the Roman-style pizza at Che bella pinsa ta.
Getting There:
- By Car: 40-45 minutes
- By Train: 2 hours total journey
- Private shuttle services available
Facilities:
- Multiple beach clubs
- Archaeological park
- Restaurants and bars
- Water sports rentals
Best For: History buffs, long-day trippers
Stay Near: Hotel Caesar Palace, UNAHOTELS Naxos Beach
Must-Try: C’era Cu C’era restaurant, archaeological museum
Tips: Combine with a Taormina visit
12. Sbarcatore dei Turchi
Last but definitely not least, this spot near Augusta is for the adventurous souls. No sandy beach here — instead, you get a dramatic rocky coastline where turquoise waters meet volcanic cliffs.
Bring everything you need (there are no facilities), and exercise caution while swimming. But the raw beauty of this place… it’s something else entirely.
Getting There:
- By Car: 40-minute drive (recommended)
- By Train: One-hour ride to Augusta + taxi
Facilities:
- None (bring everything you need)
Best For: Adventure seekers, photographers
Stay Near: Augusta city center accommodations
Must-Have: Water shoes, packed lunch, umbrella
Other Recommendations
Now, all the beaches I mentioned so far might be the most popular, but let me tell you — Catania has no shortage of beaches. So, if you have the time and energy (and funds), you can check out these hidden gems:
- Isola Bella Beach (A tiny pebble beach connected to a nature reserve)
- Scogliera d’Armisi (A secret spot loved by locals. Filled with dramatic volcanic rocks and crystal waters)
- Fondaco Parrino (Quiet pebble beach between Acireale and Riposto)
- Santa Tecla (Charming fishing village with volcanic beach with excellent seafood restaurants)
Seasonal Beaches
- Spring (March-May): Ideal for Spiaggia San Giovanni Li Cuti
- Summer (June-August): Best for La Playa and organized beaches
- Fall (September-November): Perfect for Aci Castello and Aci Trezza
- Winter (December-February): Scenic visits to Riviera dei Ciclopi
Tips for Your Beach Adventure in Catania
A few hard-earned pieces of wisdom before you go:
- Travel light — you’ll thank yourself when navigating public transport or walking to more secluded spots
- Keep some cash handy — not all beach bars accept cards
- Plan your transportation in advance, especially if you’re relying on buses
- Consider a luggage storage service if you’re beach-hopping on your last day
On a Final Note
Catania’s coastline isn’t about finding the “best” beach — it’s about finding your perfect match.
Maybe that’s the convenient energy of La Playa, the mythological charm of Aci Trezza, or the wild beauty of Sbarcatore dei Turchi.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a month, each of these beaches offers something unique. And isn’t that what travel is all about?
So grab your sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and start exploring. These beaches are waiting to share their stories with you.
