Ciao Catania! A Family Beach Holiday in Sicily

It might not be your first thought for a family beach holiday, but Catania in eastern Sicily is an ideal destination if you want some activity and adventure that keeps everyone happy. 

The port city boasts mouth-watering food, beautiful architecture and of course the majestic Mount Etna. However it’s the beaches that really make Catania a favourite with families. With a number of incredible beaches that offer plenty to see and do, this will be a holiday that you and your kids will be talking about for years to come… or until the next visit!

Meet the Beaches

Stretching 3 kilometres along the eastern coast, the golden sands of La Playa are a favourite with the locals due to its lidos, opportunities for water sports and proximity to good food. There’s also entertainment on in the evenings for those who want to extend the fun a little longer.

Framed by intimidating cliffs, Scogliera’s water is clear and beautiful, with large lava blocks on which to catch some rays. There are also wooden sun decks to make it easier to get that tan.

San Giovanni Li Cuti may be small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in photo opportunities. Its trademark black sand is stunning and perfect for walking and enjoying the sea views. 

Ognina, further north, is a lovely spot for a swim. The water is fresh and clean, the lava rocks are perfect for sunbathing, and the whole scene is framed by Mount Etna and the Sicilian sunshine. 

Get Active 

One of the most exciting aspects of a beach holiday in Catania is the opportunity to try surfing in the fresh waters of the Ionian Sea. Whether an experienced surfer or someone who’s never tried it before, the size and conditions of Catania’s beaches make them perfect for catching some waves.

The amazing Surfschool Catania is a brilliant resource for getting started, with a range of training courses for all ages and abilities. The helpful team will take you through a number of exercises and teach you the basics to ensure you’re confident in the water and having fun. The school also provides windsurfing lessons, which are an incredible way to experience the beauty of Catania’s beaches.

Find a new way to explore the coastline by taking some sea kayaks out on the water for a family bonding experience like no other. Head to Acitrezza, just north of Catania, for the magnificent sight of lava formations scattered through the warm waters. They were created from the oldest known activity of Mount Etna, and form a number of tiny islands and sheltered harbours that are perfect for a rest and a spot of snorkelling.

If you really want to step the activity up a notch, then the Canyon Sun Tour may be for you. This energy-filled excursion takes you through the Sicilian gorges which have been created by the erosion of the rivers, and around breathtaking waterfalls. If your family loves adrenaline-filled adventure, this trip can’t be missed. 

How to Get There 

It’s plain sailing from the airport to the hotel with Shuttle Direct, as our friendly and knowledgeable drivers will make your transfer quick and worry-free. Make sure your beach holiday goes as smoothly as possible by getting in touch with our helpful advisors today.