Go to main content
A sailboat anchored in the crystal-clear waters near the coast of Giglio Island

Journey around the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany

A dive into the blue from Versilia to Maremma

There are so many beaches to discover in Tuscany, from the Apuan Riviera to Maremma. You can choose between the fine, soft sand of large beaches or small coves, rocks from which you can enjoy the sea, well-equipped bathing establishments, and free, wild areas. Along the coast of Tuscany and on the islands of the Archipelago there are countless corners of paradise that satisfy the needs of those who decide to spend a vacation discovering the sea. 

Contents
  • 1.
    Apuan Riviera
  • 2.
    Versilia and Lands of Pisa
  • 3.
    The Etruscan Coast
  • 4.
    Maremma
  • 5.
    The Tuscan Archipelago

Apuan Riviera

On the Apuan Riviera, you can relax in the sun while enjoying a unique view: on one side the Apuan Alps, with their rocky outlines, rise majestically and seem to be watching over the sea from above, while on the other side, the iconic Carrara marble quarries sparkle like gems among the mountains.

You can do this on the beach, while lying or sitting comfortably under a beach umbrella, at Marina di Massa, known for its large, sandy, well-equipped coastline, or in the quieter, more private coves of Partaccia, Ronchi, and Poveromo, where stretches of golden sand alternate with small rocks and reefs. These locations offer both well-organized bathing establishments and free areas surrounded by greenery.

Carrara Marble quarries in the Apuan Alps, with the sea in the background
Carrara Marble quarries in the Apuan Alps, with the sea in the background

Versilia and Lands of Pisa

Versilia is characterized not only by its hinterland, dotted with lots of small villages and nature parks, but also by its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife brimming with shows and entertainment. The beaches of Versilia are well-equipped and there are numerous bathing establishments there that offer their visitors high-quality services.

Forte dei Marmi has no shortage of elegant bathing establishments and the famous Pier that stretches out over the sea is ideal for a stroll, especially at sunset, when you can admire the sun disappearing over the infinite horizon, where water and sky touch each other. 

Marina di Pietrasanta and Lido di Camaiore are perfect destinations for those seeking relaxation and comfort and are suitable for the whole family. Just a few kilometers from Pietrasanta, are the beaches of Tonfano, Focette , and La Versiliana, which are characterized by their long stretches of soft, golden sand; here, you can find both fully-equipped establishments with all amenities and stretches of free beach. 

In Viareggio, known as the Carnival city and the pearl of Versilia, in addition to the well-equipped beaches, there are quieter and less crowded areas, such as the free beach of Lecciona with its natural and wild environment. From here, you can easily reach Torre del Lago Puccini and its beach, where the landscapes of Lake Massaciuccoli and that of the sea blend together harmoniously. It is also a locality renowned for being young and dynamic and for its lively nightlife. The beach of Torre del Lago Puccini, along with the beaches of Ponente and Levante, were awarded the Blue Flag certification.

The Coast of Pisa offers a perfect balance between seaside tourism and environmental conservation. South of the Arno River, are Marina di Pisa, Tirrenia and Calambrone, with bathing establishments and well-equipped beaches; to the north, Marina di Vecchiano, inside the Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli Natural Park, offers a wilder and more natural stretch of coastline, ideal for those seeking more tranquility.

Forte dei Marmi pier, a symbol of Versilia, with the Apuan Alps in the background.
Forte dei Marmi pier, a symbol of Versilia, with the Apuan Alps in the background.

The Etruscan Coast

Setting off from Castiglioncello, a seaside resort famous for its hills jutting into the sea and pine forests next to the beaches, we find a stretch of coastline that has remained largely unspoiled, with little coves that alternate between sand, like Baia del Quercetano, and rocks. Castiglioncello has received Blue Flag certification for several years and is the ideal place for those who love snorkeling and the seabed rich in colors and marine life.

Further south are the wide expanses of fine, pale sand of Vada, where well-organized bathing establishments alternate with areas of free beach.
Cecina and Bibbona follow on, with a coastline that alternates between bathing establishments and free beaches, also ideal for sports like surfing and windsurfing. Near Cecina, there is the Tomboli Nature Reserve, a green oasis perfect for hiking, cycling, horseback riding or relaxing in the shade of the pine trees.
In Marina di Castagneto Carducci, also known as Marina di Donoratico, there is a choice of well-equipped bathing establishments and stretches of free beach, all within walking distance of a cool pine forest, perfect for a break in the shade on summer days.

The landscape varies between San Vincenzo and Piombino: from the golden beaches of the Rimigliano Park to the dark sands of the Gulf of Baratti, linked to Etruscan history by the presence of the ancient city-state of Populonia, situated on a hilltop and surrounded by the crystal-clear sea of the gulf.

Lastly, after going past the promontory of Piombino, which offers rocky inlets and crystal-clear waters perfect for diving, we find Sterpaia Park with a large free beach and accessible to all thanks to the wooden walkways.

Aerial view of the Gulf of Baratti, with the sea, the beach and the pine forest.
Aerial view of the Gulf of Baratti, with the sea, the beach and the pine forest. - Credit: Jacopo

Maremma

There is a wide variety of beaches along the Maremma coast, such as Cala Violina, inside the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, which can only be reached on foot or by bicycle via nature trails, with a walk of about 30 minutes, or by boat. To protect the ecosystem, access to Cala Violina is limited in high season, so booking (online) is required.

Not to be missed are Follonica's beaches, such as Pratoranieri and Il Boschetto, a short distance from the town, featuring golden sand, crystal-clear water and a form that makes them perfect for both family vacations and water sports enthusiasts.
Castiglione della Pescaia, with its long stretches of fine sand and well-equipped beachfronts, has been awarded the Blue Flag and the "5 Vele” (5 Sails) by Legambiente and Touring Club for years, thanks to its attention to the environment and the services offered, as well as the Bandiera Verde (Green Flag) recognition for the beaches most suitable for children based on the opinion of paediatricians.

Heading southwards, we find the beach of Marina di Grosseto, with its long shoreline of golden sand and numerous well-equipped bathing establishments alongside stretches of free beach, perfect for those who want more freedom.
Located in the heart of the Maremma Natural Park, the beach of Marina di Alberese is one of the most authentic in Maremma: a wild, unspoiled beach, perfect for those seeking tranquility and direct contact with nature. Staying within the Park's boundaries, you can visit Cala di Forno by walking along a path of about 18 km: a crystal clear sea and golden sand await you, surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. 
Monte Argentario offers unique views with the beaches of Feniglia, Bagni Domiziano and Cala Grande. Here, paths and dirt roads lead to bays, which guard precious evidence of Roman times. 

Aerial view of the sea at Cala Violina, with the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve in the background.
Aerial view of the sea at Cala Violina, with the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve in the background. - Credit: Jacopo

The Tuscan Archipelago

There are numerous beaches in the archipelago, particularly on the Island of Elba, where you will find many beaches incredibly different from one another, capable of satisfying every need.
Among the most famous is the Beach of Sansone (Samson) near Portoferraio, famous for its white pebbles that, when in contact with the turquoise water, create extraordinary reflections. It is popular with snorkelers because of its rich seabed.
In Capoliveri, the Beach of the Innamorata (Lover) will win you over with the warm, captivating colors of its sunsets. The legend attached to its name also makes it a romantic destination.
The Beach of Biodola, with its wide bay and soft sand, is perfect for families and anyone seeking comfort. Cavoli, further south, also offers fine sand and a crystal clear sea.
Lastly, don't miss Fetovaia, one of the most spectacular beaches on the island, nestled between a granite cliff and lush Mediterranean scrub, with its very fine sand and a sea of a thousand colors.

Isola del Giglio which has received the 5 Vele (5 sails) award, offers beaches of pale sand and shallow waters, like those of Cala delle Cannelle, perfect for families, Cala dell'Arenella, ideal for snorkeling, and the wilder Cala del Corvo, accessible only by sea or via hiking trails. 

The trip ends on the Island of Pianosa, where we find the beautiful Cala Giovanna, the only one accessible to bathers, with white sand and turquoise waters.

Panoramic view of the Island of Elba, with Portoferraio in the background.
Panoramic view of the Island of Elba, with Portoferraio in the background. - Credit: Varda HB

What’s nearby?

Must-see places, stage-by-stage routes, events and tips for your trip
Events • 1 results
Ideas • 79 results
Itineraries • 17 results
Travelogs • 7 results