Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti, Catania

Area and Beach in Catania

Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti
Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ainars Brūvelis

Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti is one of Catania's most distinctive seaside corners: a compact stretch of black volcanic sand and lava rock tucked into the small fishing-borgo feel of San Giovanni Li Cuti along the city's eastern waterfront.

It's an easy add-on to a walking tour of Catania's seafront (or a sunset stroll along the lungomare), and it's also one of the best places in the city to dip into the Ionian Sea without committing to a full beach day outside town.

History and Significance of the Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti

San Giovanni Li Cuti is closely tied to Catania's identity as a city shaped by Mount Etna. The beach's dark sand and jagged shoreline come from volcanic material, giving the area a look and texture that's very different from Sicily's classic golden-sand bays.

The neighborhood around the beach has long had a local, working-coast character, and even today it feels more like a lived-in seaside pocket than a purpose-built resort. That everyday atmosphere is part of its appeal: it's where you can watch Catania unwind by the water.

Beyond swimming, the spot is also culturally significant as a classic lungomare stop for evening walks and sunset views, when the sea, rocks, and skyline shift color and the area becomes a social meeting point.

Things to See and Do in the Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti

The main draw is simple and satisfying: swim in clear water right in the city. Expect a rocky entry and a shoreline that rewards slow, careful steps; once you’re in, it’s a refreshing place for a quick dip, especially on hot days.

If you’re not swimming, come for sunbathing on warm rocks, people-watching, and coastal photos. The contrast of black lava stone, bright sea, and Catania’s waterfront makes this a strong spot for dramatic, high-contrast shots—especially near golden hour.

For a low-key mini-itinerary, pair the beach with a walk along the lungomare and a stop for a coffee or snack nearby. It’s the kind of place that works best when you keep plans flexible and let the sea set the pace.

How to Get to the Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti

The nearest airport is Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), which is the main gateway for flights into eastern Sicily. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Catania on Booking.com.

If you're arriving by rail, Catania Centrale is the city's primary station and the most convenient base for onward connections into town before heading to the seafront. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

From central Catania, you can reach San Giovanni Li Cuti by local transit, taxi, or a scenic walk if you're already exploring the waterfront neighborhoods. If you're driving, aim for nearby street parking and be ready for tighter spaces during peak summer evenings. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon into sunset for cooler temperatures and the best light; mornings are calmer for a swim.
  • How long to spend: 45–90 minutes for a dip and photos, or 2–3 hours if you want a relaxed sun-and-sea break.
  • Accessibility: The rocky shoreline and uneven footing can be challenging; entry is easiest where there are steps/platform access points.
  • Facilities: Expect nearby cafés/shops and places for a quick refreshment, but bring water shoes and anything you need for comfort on the rocks.

Where to Stay Close to the Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti

For the easiest trip, base yourself near Catania’s seafront (lungomare) so you can walk to the water and still have quick access to the historic center.

Plaza Hotel Catania A strong pick for seafront views and an easy, beach-adjacent location—great if you want sunrise walks and quick dips without planning logistics.

UNA HOTELS One Catania A stylish, modern option with a more boutique feel; ideal if you want a comfortable base that balances city exploring with downtime.

Hotel Nettuno Convenient for the lungomare and practical for travelers who prioritize straightforward comfort and quick access to the coast.

Liberty Hotel A charming choice closer to the historic center—great if you want baroque sights and food spots by day, then the seafront by evening.

Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze Perfect if you want a central, classic stay on Via Etnea, making it easy to combine city highlights with a planned trip to the beach.

Is the Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti Worth Visiting?

Yes—if you like urban swimming spots with character, Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti is absolutely worth it. The black volcanic shoreline, clear water, and local atmosphere make it feel uniquely Catanese, and it's one of the easiest places to catch a memorable sunset by the sea.

Honest Pivot: If you want soft sand, easy wading, and a fully serviced lido experience, this may not be your best match. The rocky entry can be slippery, and the vibe is more “local seaside hangout” than “classic beach resort day.”

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.1 (3,255)

Reviews are broadly positive, with many travelers praising the clear water and how enjoyable it is for swimming right in the city. People also like the warm volcanic rocks for sunbathing, the relaxed local vibe, and the photo opportunities. Common downsides include slippery rocks when entering the water and occasional concerns about nearby boat activity, so careful footing and awareness are important.

Maksim Halatsiankou
3 months ago
"The rocks here get nice and warm in the sun, and the beach is great for a swim. Just watch your step when getting into the water — the rocksunderwater can be really slippery...."
Alise Stikāne
6 months ago
"Our favourite beach we visited in Catania. Easy water access, has nice shop and cafe, quite and it was actually super comfy to tan on those rocks.Also got amazing photos..."
Guy Harris
7 months ago
"Great beach for swimming. Big signs say bathing forbidden but all the locals swim here and they even build a wooden platform with steps into the sea.Water is very clear just keep an eye out for boats entering the harbour...."

For Different Travelers

Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti works best as a flexible stop: a quick swim, a photo break, or a sunset stroll. How much you'll love it depends on your comfort with rocks, your expectations of a “beach,” and whether you enjoy places that feel authentically local.

Families with Kids

Families can enjoy the novelty of the black volcanic shoreline and the quick access to the sea, especially if you’re staying along the lungomare. It can be a fun “short beach stop” rather than an all-day plan.

That said, the rocky footing is the main consideration. If you go with kids, choose calmer times, keep close supervision at the waterline, and consider water shoes for everyone.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples tend to love this spot for golden-hour light and the relaxed, evening-walk energy. It’s an easy place to slow down, take photos, and watch the sea change color as the sun drops.

For a simple romantic plan, pair a sunset stop here with a stroll along the waterfront and a casual drink or snack nearby. The setting feels intimate without needing a big itinerary.

Budget Travelers

This is a great budget-friendly way to get a “Sicily seaside moment” without paying for a beach club or traveling far from the city. Bring a towel, water, and snacks, and you've got a solid low-cost afternoon.

The key is packing smart: water shoes, a small dry bag, and sunscreen go a long way here. If you’re watching spending, it’s also easy to combine with a self-guided walk along the lungomare.

FAQs for Visiting Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti

Getting There

It’s on the eastern seafront, so it’s a straightforward trip from the center by local transit or taxi. If you’re already walking the lungomare, it can fit naturally into a waterfront stroll.
Yes, most visitors treat it as an urban beach stop and arrive on foot, by bus, or by taxi. Driving can be less convenient during busy summer evenings due to parking.
Yes—pair it with the historic center earlier in the day, then come here for a late swim or sunset. It also works well as a quick break between city neighborhoods.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public seaside area and you can access it freely. Costs only apply if you choose to buy food, drinks, or rentals from nearby businesses.
The area is more of a local rocky shoreline than a classic private-lido strip. You’ll find nearby places to eat and drink, but the beach itself is generally treated as open access.
Yes, especially if you want a quick sea view and photos without leaving the city. Keep it short and treat it as a scenic stop rather than a full beach day.

Visiting Experience

Expect black volcanic sand mixed with lava rock, with many people choosing to sit and sunbathe on the rocks. The entry into the water can be uneven.
Many visitors come specifically to swim, and the water is often described as clear. Use extra care on slippery underwater rocks and stay aware of any boat activity nearby.
It can get busy in summer and around sunset when locals come for a walk and a dip. For a calmer experience, go earlier in the day or on weekdays.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

It can be a natural add-on to a self-guided seafront walk, especially if you’re exploring the lungomare. Many travelers visit independently rather than on formal tours.
Do city sights in the morning, then come here for a late-afternoon swim and sunset. Finish with a waterfront stroll and a casual bite nearby.
Its volcanic-black shoreline and “in-the-city” convenience are the big differences. It feels like a local hangout rather than a destination resort.

Photography

Sunset is the standout, with warm light on dark lava rock and the sea. Late afternoon also gives you a lively local scene to capture.
Look for compositions that contrast black rock with bright water, and include the waterfront buildings for context. Close-ups of textures (lava stone and foam) work well too.
Yes—many of the best shots are from the rocks and shoreline. Just watch your footing and keep gear secure.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access can be challenging because the shoreline is rocky and uneven. If mobility is a concern, aim for the easiest entry points and consider visiting mainly for views.
Yes, the area is known for nearby cafés and small spots for refreshments. It’s still smart to bring water, especially in hot weather.
Facilities can vary by nearby businesses rather than being centralized on the beach itself. Plan as if amenities are limited unless you’re using a specific café or lido service.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, it’s well-suited to a short stop for a drink and a sea view. Many visitors combine a swim with a simple snack nearby.
Bringing water and a small snack is a good idea, especially if you want to stay longer on the rocks. Nearby options are convenient but not guaranteed to match your timing.
Aperitivo time tends to feel especially atmospheric as the waterfront gets lively. Lunch can be pleasant too, but midday heat can be intense in summer.

Safety & Timing

They can be, especially at the waterline and underwater. Water shoes and slow, careful steps make a big difference.
You may see cautionary signage, and conditions can change. Use common sense, avoid rough seas, and stay alert to any nearby boat movement.
Calmer daylight hours are generally best for visibility and footing. If you go late, prioritize a quick dip and keep an eye on changing light and sea conditions.

Nearby Attractions to the Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti

  • Lungomare di Catania: A scenic waterfront promenade ideal for sunset walks and people-watching.
  • Piazza Europa: A popular seafront square and meeting point along the coastal avenue.
  • Ognina (Borgo/Harbour area): A nearby coastal neighborhood with a local marina vibe and seaside views.
  • Via Etnea: Catania's main shopping and strolling street, great for city atmosphere and easy connections.
  • Piazza del Duomo: The historic heart of Catania, home to the Cathedral and the iconic Elephant Fountain.

The Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Catania!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Via S. Giovanni Li Cuti, 95100 Catania CT, Italy
Catania: 3 km

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