Beaches Near Catania

Catania, located on Sicily's eastern coast, gives visitors more than simply breathtaking views of Mount Etna and historic landmarks; its closeness to beautiful beaches makes it an ideal destination for sunseekers. 

If you’re into fine golden sand, clear turquoise water, or stunning volcanic coastline, the Catania beaches are sure to impress everyone. With a mix of beach clubs, sandy beaches, calm seaside villages, and nature reserves, you'll discover the perfect spots to relax, swim, and soak up the Sicilian sun.

From May to October, you can take advantage of many stunning beaches near Catania thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate, especially during the summer months. Apart from that, public transportation and nearby beach resorts make it simple for travelers to reach these natural wonders.

Our Top Picks for Beaches Near Catania

Your summer plans include spending some time exploring Catania? Check out some of the best beaches near Catania for an unforgettable Sicilian beach day!

La Playa di Catania (Lidi Catania Mare)

The most famous beach in Catania, La Playa, is only a quick hop from the city center and offers a big stretch of sandy beach with lots of things to do. You can try out some new water sports, play beach volleyball, or go on a boat trip. This beach, well-known for its calm sea and lively atmosphere, is perfect for hanging out with your friends and family. 

You’ll find sun loungers, umbrellas, and restaurants at many beach clubs along the shore. All you need to bring is your good mood, since everything else is right there on the beach, which makes a whole day at La Playa that much more enjoyable.

Getting there: La Playa is easy to get to by public transport or a quick taxi ride from Catania. It is only about 10 minutes away from the city center.

Why visit: La Playa di Catania is an excellent destination for families with kids, since there are different activities to keep the little ones entertained. The beach has a lot of spots for children to play beach volleyball, tennis, or ride bikes along the promenade. They can also try exciting water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Plus, you can rent most of the gear at the beach, so you don’t need to bring anything. For adults, La Playa is a fun place for concerts and events. One of the highlights is the One Day Music festival, which happens in the summer and has a great lineup of pop, rock, rap, reggae, and house/techno music. Basically, you’ll find something for yourself no matter what musical genre you love. 

San Giovanni Li Cuti

For a completely different beach experience, head to San Giovanni Li Cuti, a volcanic beach in Catania. It's an amazing black pebble beach that stands out for its natural beauty. Though smaller than La Playa, San Giovanni Li Cuti offers you a more peaceful escape.

Getting there: You can reach San Giovanni Li Cuti by public transport or car, and it’s around 15 minutes from Catania city center.

Why visit: This is a locals’ favorite for a lazy day by the Mediterranean Sea, with beautiful views of Mount Etna in the background. This setting improves the beach experience and gives you tons of chances to take amazing photos. It’s definitely a favorite spot for folks who love snapping pics or striking a pose!

Santa Maria La Scala

If you’re ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Catania, why not plan a day trip to the charming beach village of Santa Maria La Scala. Nestled along the rocky Riviera dei Ciclopi, this village has beautiful views of the Ionian Sea, where you can kick back and enjoy the coastline. You can expect to see traditional Sicilian architecture which is all about vibrant colors, detailed stonework, and influences from different cultures like Greek, Arab, and Norman styles. Look out for the beautiful arched windows, tiled roofs, and decorative façades.

Santa Maria La Scala might be famous for its rocky beaches, but its unique beauty and relaxed vibe make it so inviting. The beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, but also for exploring nearby natural wonders and local attractions. Don’t miss the scenic coastal paths and the famous Acitrezza area, famous for its fascinating geological formations.

Getting there: Santa Maria La Scala is about a 30-minute drive north of Catania. Since public transport options to Riviera dei Ciclopi are a bit limited, renting a car is a great way to have easy access and explore the area at your own pace.

Why visit: The deep blue waters and scenic cliffs create a more easy-going beach experience since this calm atmosphere simply calls for relaxation and wandering around. You can also grab some fresh seafood like grilled fish, seafood pasta, and local specialties like swordfish and couscous at many nearby restaurants. Several popular restaurants are within walking distance, which means you won’t have trouble finding a spot to enjoy a meal while enjoying the beautiful coastal views.

Marina di Cottone

Just outside of Catania, you’ll discover a hidden gem called Marina di Cottone. There are both sandy and pebbly spots on this protected nature reserve beach. This gorgeous beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is waiting for nature lovers to come and check out all its natural beauty. You can enjoy birdwatching, hike along coastal trails, and discover local plants and wildlife. With its deep blue waters and unspoiled beauty, it’s the ideal getaway for anyone who loves nature. 

Even though there aren't as many beach clubs around, that's part of the charm and one of the reasons this could end up being your favorite place to visit close to Catania. Actually, you can completely unwind and connect with nature here, which is perfect if you’re trying to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful beach experience near Catania.

Getting there: This beach is about 40 minutes by car from Catania, and there is free parking nearby. Getting from the parking area to the beach is just a short walk, but it's super easy to get there. If you're planning to visit, come early to snag a good spot, especially during peak times on busy weekends.

Why visit: The clear blue waters are great for swimming and snorkeling, and it’s just the right place for a quiet day by the sea. You’ll get to see all kinds of colorful fish, like damselfish and sea bream, along with underwater plants, including Posidonia (seagrass).

San Marco Beach

Another popular destination for people looking to experience nature at its best is San Marco Beach, snuggled in the tiny town of Calatabiano. Because of its ambiance and location, this long sandy beach that runs along the Ionian coast is a favorite among both locals and tourists. You can often find families enjoying picnics and children playing in the shallows here. While it’s easy to reach, it still has a less commercialized feel compared to other beaches. It’s the perfect place for anyone looking for a more authentic beach experience, away from the crowded tourist spots.

Getting there: San Marco Beach is around 30 minutes from Catania and the best part? There’s free parking! You’ll find it on the road that runs along the beach. Just a heads up—it can get crowded during peak times during the summer, so it’s better to come early in the morning.

Why visit: You can take long walks along the shoreline or enjoy some peace and quiet away from the busier spots like La Playa. If you’re coming with a group of friends, San Marco is perfect for beach games, like frisbee or beach volleyball, thanks to the roomy sandy areas.

Isola Bella Beach

The best beach between Catania and Taormina, Isola Bella Beach, is a small pebble beach tucked away in a nature reserve. Its natural beauty makes it perfect for boat trips and scuba diving where you’ll get to see beautiful underwater caves and marine life that will take your breath away. Also, there are several beach clubs and restaurants nearby that serve local beer, arancini, and bruschetta which are always fresh and so tasty.

Getting there: You can easily reach Isola Bella by public transport from both Catania and Taormina. From Catania, it takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes by bus, or about 49 minutes by train.

Why visit: Isola Bella Beach is a snorkeling and scuba diving paradise. The clear waters and cool rock formations create a perfect setting for beginners and experienced divers. Plus, several local dive shops offer guided tours and equipment rentals for anyone who wants to give it a go! 

Make the Most Out of Your Day

Planning a beach day near Catania? Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your time to the fullest:

• Travel light: Some of the beaches have limited amenities, so packing only the essentials - sunscreen, towels, and snacks - is a good idea.
• Luggage storage options: If you’re visiting a beach before catching a flight or heading to your next destination, think about using a luggage storage service so you can make the most of your day without worrying about your bags.
• Bring cash: Some of the smaller beach clubs and restaurants may not take cards, so having cash on hand is always a smart move.
• Transportation: Beaches like La Playa are super easy to reach by public transport, but others may call for a car, so just plan ahead!