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Catania is not only historic city, volcano and markets: is also the gateway to an extraordinary coast, perfect for a summer of sun and sea. The best beaches in Catania offer variety for every taste: from the long golden expanse of La Playa, with its equipped establishments and calm waters ideal for families, to the black cove of San Giovanni Li Cuti, framed by lava rocks and the fishing village behind.
Those who stay in the city can alternate a refreshing dip with walks along the promenade of Allena, between cycling and kiosks overlooking the sea, or move along the Riviera of Cyclops and beyond, to discover hidden gems such as the Mill beach in Acireale orIsola Bella of Taormina.
In this guide, we will start from the city of Etna to explore the most beautiful coasts in its surroundings – towards Messina and Syracuse – and help you organize your seaside itinerary. Get ready to discover the beaches that will make your summer in Sicily, with practical advice on how to reach them, where to park and what services to expect.
The best beaches in Catania
Catania boasts some unique beaches for sand, views and services: perfect for those looking for the best beaches of Catania without leaving the center. Discover the best beaches in Catania:
The Playa of Catania
Located just a few kilometres south of the historic center, La Playa extends over 3 km along Viale Kennedy. With fine and golden sand and a sea with a sloping seabed, it is the most "urban" beach in the city, ideal for families and swimmers of all levels. Facilities, bars, kiosks and water sports spaces guarantee a day of relaxation and fun.
Parking and how to arrive: Large paid parking along Viale Kennedy and guarded parking lots near the factories. In summer, the D line connects Piazza Borsellino to the shores in 15–20 minutes.
San Giovanni Li Cuti
One of the best beaches in Catania, close to the heart of the city, is surely this small black pebble cove and platforms that is located in the traditional fishing village, a few kilometres from Duomo. The lava cliffs smoothed by the sea, along with the atmosphere of the fishermen at work of the past, make the environment unique, while two historic bars, "Cut" and "Black Lycuti", and the platforms equipped for diving and snorkeling offer moments of authentic relaxation.
& How to get there: The area is easily accessible thanks to the white and blue stripes along the SS114 and the nearby streets (via del Rotolo); Alternatively, the Bus 534 from Piazza Borsellino facilitates its access.
Ognina Seafront Promenade
Each is a stretch of rocky coast between the profile of Etna and the Ionian sea. The picturesque marina with colorful boats, pebble beaches and the ancient Spanish Garitta offer a perfect mix of history and relaxation, just 6 km from the centre.
& How to get there: Free and paid parking is available in Piazza Europa, along the SS114 and the nearby streets. In addition, the place can be reached by bus line 534 (Terminal Borsellino Ovest) or by station with line 421.
These three destinations, reachable in a few minutes, represent the business card for those who want to combine the comfort of staying in the city with the emotions of a dive into the sea of Sicily in the best beaches of Catania.
The beaches of Costa Acese and Riviera dei Cyclopi
The maple enchants for its rocky coast, where the crystal clear sea breaks on ancient lava rocks, giving rise to picturesque coves and hidden bays. The area, which embraces the coast around Acireale, is a true treasure trove of authentic views, in which the ethnic warmth combines with the sea breeze to create corners of relaxation and adventure.
North of Catania, the Riviera dei Cyclops owes its name to the majestic cliffs that, like giants, emerge from the rock inspiring ancient legends. Here, the sea and the stone merge into an extraordinary scenery, where every wave beat tells the millenary story of a territory that can surprise and enchant.
After discovering the best beaches of Catania, we continue our journey along the Acese coast and the Riviera dei Ciclopi.
Beach of Santa Maria la Scala
The hamlet of Santa Maria la Scala rises on the slopes of Nature Reserve La Timpa, with its characteristic marina and a maritime village atmosphere.
Founded on the tradition of fishing – still today the economic engine thanks to the fishing families – Santa Maria la Scala also boasts a past linked to the ancient mill used to grind cereals.
The beach is dotted with lava boulders smoothed by marine erosion, enriched by numerous bathing establishments that offer every comfort. Moreover, the Fortress of TouchMade in the sixteenth century to defend the territory, it is one of the main points of interest for visitors.
How to get there: The area is easily accessible via the SS 115, the E45 and other provincial roads served by buses. Alternatively, you can get to Acireale Railway Station or Catania Fontanarossa Airport, about 25 km away.
Santa Tecla Beach
Santa Tecla is located in the northern part of the Timpa Nature Reserve, a few kilometers from Santa Maria la Scala, in an area where the sea blends harmoniously with volcanic cliffs.
Characterized by a Black pebble beach Santa Tecla offers an intimate and authentic atmosphere from equipped bathing establishments. Its crystal clear waters, similar to those of Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, make it the ideal destination for those who want to relax and a direct contact with nature. The locality is also rich in history, with ancient testimonies such as the Mother Church and the Shrine of Fatima telling a past from "Punto di Approdo".
How to get there: The area is easily accessible thanks to the SS 115, the E45 and the provincial streets, with efficient connections via the Acireale railway station and Catania Fontanarossa Airport, located about 20 km.
Mill Beach in Acireale
Located a short distance from Santa Maria la Scala and immersed in the Timpa di Acireale Nature Reserve, Mill Beach is a true hidden gem of the Acese coast, where unspoilt nature reigns supreme even during the busiest periods.
Small and mainly composed of pebbles, this beach offers an intimate atmosphere thanks to the winding paths that lead it. The scenic waters of Ionian Sea quickly deep, ideal for snorkeling and diving, while a slight aura of mystery is added to the local legend that the water of the underground river Miuccio drains from the pebbles.
How to get there: The best route to reach the beach of the Mulino starts from Santa Maria la Scala as the paths that connect this stretch to the Riserva la Timpa can be a bit challenging. The area is well served by the SS 115, E45 and various provincial roads, with connections by bus, train (Acireale Railway Station) or plane (Catania Fontanarossa Airport, about 25 km away).
Stazzo beach
Stazzo, coastal village born around its main cove, offers a beach characterized by lava cliffs and coves of grainy sand. The walkways along the seafront facilitate access to the sea, making this authentic corner an ideal summer destination for those looking for relaxation in a natural and suggestive setting.
How to get there: Follow the provincial road from Catania to Riposto; at Stazzo turn right and follow the coast, where the historic lava flows of 1651 carved the imposing cliffs.
Aci Trezza
Aci Trezza is a hamlet of Aci Castello, in the heart of the Cyclops Riviera. The picturesque harbour houses the fishermen’s boats daily, and this is where the numerous vessels leave for theLachea Island.
Crystal clear waters, rocky coasts and monumental Faraglioni, born from very ancient volcanic eruptions, make this seaside village an ideal destination for those looking for nature, history and culinary tradition.
How to get there: The resort can be easily reached by following the signs for Aci Castello or Catania (less than 10 km), also thanks to the regional buses and the proximity of Catania Fontanarossa Airport.
Aci Castello Beach
Located along the eastern coast of Sicily, Aci Castello extends over one of the most fascinating routes in the region, less than 10 km from the best beaches of Catania. Its coastline, bathed in crystal clear waters, offers breathtaking views and is animated by a lively night scene.
The beach of Aci Castello, dotted with lava boulders modeled over the centuries, integrates perfectly into the historical and cultural context of the town. Here you can walk among the main points of interest – from the famous Norman Castle the picturesque Riviera dei Ciclopi, where the cliffs stand out against the sea. Numerous restaurants, nightclubs and specialities of Sicilian cuisine complete the experience, making this place ideal both for relaxing days and for entertainment evenings.
How to get there: Aci Castello is easily accessible by car via the highways and the state roads of the area, and is also served by efficient connections by regional buses, railway stations nearby and Catania Fontanarossa Airport, located a few kilometres away.
These beaches, shaped by lava flows and protected by ethnic flows, offer an authentic experience between wild nature and essential services: ideal for those who love to alternate refreshing baths with cultural excursions in the villages of the Riviera dei Ciclopi and the coast of Ace. Along with the best beaches in Catania, these seaside destinations will allow you to explore the most authentic marine face of the Catania area.
Best Beaches from Catania to Messina
The coastal stretch north of Catania, which extends to Messina, houses some of the best beaches of Catania and the Eastern Sicily. Between golden sands, volcanic pebbles and crystal clear waters, each destination is easily accessible by car, bus or, in the case of Isola Bella, also by cable car from Taormina. Here are three must-see stages for those who want to live a dream summer starting from Catania.
Giardini Naxos coastline
The coast of Giardini Naxos is one of the most enchanting coastal routes in Sicily, extending for several kilometers from just below Taormina to Recanati. Here are alternate beaches of fine sand, ideal for families, and stretches of pebbles, perfect for those who love to walk by the sea. Facilities, restaurants and monuments such as the Archaeological Park complete the experience, also giving the opportunity to taste a granite accompanied by the typical brioche with "tuppo".
How to get there: The coast is easily accessible along the SS114, supported by frequent connections of Sicilian busses. In addition, Taormina – Giardini Railway Station and Catania Fontanarossa Airport (about 60 km) provide fast and comfortable connections.
Letojanni Beach
The beach of Letojanni, which extends for more than 5 km, offers a coastline in which are alternate stretches of sand and gravel, suitable for those seeking relaxation or adventure. Private establishments and free spaces coexist with many activities: from water sports to evenings animated by parties and entertainment, making this beach a must for the Summer holidays in Sicily.
How to get there: Letojanni is easily accessible via the SS114, the E45 and the SP13, with effective connections thanks to buses and the presence of the city railway station. Catania Fontanarossa Airport, located about 60 km away, completes the travel options.
Isola Bella (Taormina)
Known as the Pearl of the MediterraneanIsola Bella is a suggestive destination that sometimes turns into a peninsula due to the low tide, connecting to the heart of Taormina. In 1998, WWF It has recognized its natural value by declaring it a reserve, thus preserving an uncontaminated and fascinating environment.
How to get there: From Taormina you can reach Isola Bella on foot, following Via Pirandello until you face a short staircase of 134 steps, or opt for the Taormina-Mazzarò cable car, which connects in about 3 minutes (3,00)€ single stroke or 6,00€ roundtrip). The bus line 25 offers an economical alternative, while those travelling by car must follow the A18/E45 towards Taormina, with exit at Giardini Naxos and continue on the SS114.
After exploring the beaches from Catania to Messina – from the sandy coast of Giardini Naxos to the golden pebbles of Letojanni, to the fascinating Isola Bella – you have touched some of the most loved coasts of the northeastern coast of Sicily. Each stage, with its services, restaurants and easy connections, allows you to immerse yourself in the turquoise waters and enjoy the summer sweetness without getting too far from Catania.
The best beaches from Catania to Syracuse
After exploring the best beaches in Catania and the northeastern coast, the coast south-eastern Sicily offers beaches that combine beautiful landscapes, services for every need and crystal clear waters perfect for families and adventurers. Here are the three highlights, with all the details to enjoy your day at the sea.
Beach of Fontane Bianche
Located 16 km from Syracuse along the eastern coast, Fontane Bianche owes its name to the freshwater springs that emerge from the seabed. The sandal of white sand and fine extends for about 3 km and overlooks a blue sea, transparent and shallow. The coast offers stretches of free beach and areas equipped with bars and bathing establishments, where you can rent pedal boats and canoes as well as practice various water sports.
How to get there: From Catania take the Catania-Syracuse motorway; from Syracuse follow the SS115 for about 16 km, or use local buses to reach the beach.
Calamosche Beach (Reserve of Vendicari)
Immersed in the frame of the Nature Reserve Wildlife Oasis of VendicariCalamosche is one of the most scenic coastal features, located near Noto. Extending for about 200 meters, it is surrounded by a spontaneous vegetation that accentuates its wild charm and guarantees always calm waters thanks to the surrounding rocky promontories. Ideal for families and snorkeling enthusiasts, the beach is also distinguished by its natural caves, which offer fascinating diving opportunities.
How to get there: Reach the beach using State Road 115 or SP56; Noto, the nearest city center, is about 20 km away and has a train station, while Catania Fontanarossa Airport is about 90 km away.
Arenella Beach
With a large stretch of golden sand extending along a bay ending in a rocky promontory, the beach of Arenella is located about 10 km from Syracuse. Suitable both for those looking for the tranquility of free beach who want to enjoy the comforts offered by bathing establishments and from bars, Arenella also guarantees a comfortable system of parking nearby. Although it can be crowded in high season, its charm remains intact for lovers of landscape beauty and crystal clear sea.
How to get there: From Catania, take the Catania-Syracuse motorway; from Syracuse follow the signs for Lido Arenella on the SS115 for about 10 km. There are also bus connections from the city.
The southeastern coast of Sicily offers unique and diverse destinations for all types of travellers. From White Fountainswith its white sand beach and equipped services, to Chamois, surrounded by the uncontaminated nature of Reserve of Vendicari, up to Arenella, combining comfort and authenticity, every beach promises unforgettable days in the name of crystal clear sea, relaxation and the spirit of Sicilian tradition.
Book your stay in Catania
With these spectacular beaches, from the vast sandy expanses of "La Playa" to volcanic coves of San Giovanni Li Cuti, up to the authentic charm of northeastern and southeastern coast of Sicily, you explored the best of best beaches in Catania and surroundings. Each resort, with its services, relaxation areas, panoramic points and easy to reach connections, offers a unique experience by the sea.
Now, to live fully your seaside stay in the heart of Catania, you just have to choose your ideal accommodation.
👉 Book your apartment in Catania and prepare to wake up every morning a few steps from the waves, ready to dive into the best beaches of Catania and our coast!
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