Top 10 beaches in Tuscany
Tuscany is home to golden beaches, crystal-clear coves and beautiful stretches of wild coastline. From the stylish Tuscan Riviera to the unspoilt shores of the Maremma, these are 10 of the best beaches in Tuscany to add to your trip.
10. Spiaggia della Lecciona
Between Viareggio and Torre del Lago, Spiaggia della Lecciona is one of the wildest beaches along Tuscany’s northern coast. A path through pine forest and natural dunes leads to a long stretch of golden sand, far removed from the organised beach clubs of nearby Versilia.
Why visit: Wild dunes, pine forest and a peaceful alternative to Tuscany’s busier seaside resorts.
Hidden Italy tip: Bring everything you need for the day, as facilities are limited, and walk away from the main entrances to find the quietest sections.
9. Baratti
The Gulf of Baratti combines a sheltered sandy beach with pine trees, clear water and traces of Tuscany’s Etruscan past. The gently curving bay lies beneath the ancient hilltop settlement of Populonia, creating one of the region’s most distinctive coastal settings.
Why visit: Golden sand, calm water and a unique combination of beach, nature and ancient history.
Hidden Italy tip: Spend the morning at the beach before visiting Populonia and the nearby Etruscan archaeological park later in the day.
8. La Feniglia
La Feniglia is a seven-kilometre strip of sandy beach connecting Monte Argentario with Ansedonia. Backed by dunes and a protected pine forest, it offers shallow water and plenty of space beyond the busiest access points.
Why visit: A long sandy shoreline, protected nature and calm water that is ideal for swimming.
Hidden Italy tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the Feniglia Nature Reserve.
7. Marina di Alberese
Inside the Maremma Regional Park, Marina di Alberese feels wonderfully untouched. Driftwood lies scattered across the sand, while dunes, Mediterranean vegetation and open countryside create one of Tuscany’s wildest coastal landscapes.
Why visit: Unspoilt nature, a peaceful atmosphere and a coastline that feels far removed from Tuscany’s resort towns.
Hidden Italy tip: Check the seasonal access arrangements before visiting, as parking is limited and summer access may involve a shuttle or bicycle ride.
6. Le Rocchette
Near Castiglione della Pescaia, Le Rocchette is a beautiful sandy bay framed by a rocky headland and a historic coastal fortress. Its mixture of sand, rocks and clear water makes it particularly attractive for swimming and snorkelling.
Why visit: Clear water, a picturesque castle and one of the most scenic bays along the Maremma coast.
Hidden Italy tip: Swim towards the rocky headland for the clearest water and best snorkelling, preferably early in the morning.
5. Cannelle Beach
A short distance from Giglio Porto, Cannelle Beach is known for its pale sand, smooth granite rocks and beautifully transparent water. Its sheltered setting gives the bay a calm, almost tropical appearance.
Why visit: Crystal-clear water, pale sand and a beautiful island setting close to Giglio Porto.
Hidden Italy tip: Visit early or arrive by water taxi, then continue along the coast to explore the smaller Caldane Beach.
4. Fetovaia
On the southwestern coast of Elba, Fetovaia is a sheltered bay surrounded by granite cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. Its golden sand and calm turquoise water make it one of the island’s most inviting swimming spots.
Why visit: A sheltered bay, soft sand and some of the clearest water on Elba.
Hidden Italy tip: Arrive early during summer, as the bay is small and deservedly popular, then walk onto the rocky promontory for beautiful coastal views.
3. Cala del Gesso
Cala del Gesso is a secluded pebble cove hidden beneath the cliffs of Monte Argentario. A steep path leads down to exceptionally clear turquoise water, with views towards the small island of Argentarola just offshore. The official regional guide also highlights it as one of Argentario’s quieter, less-equipped coves.
Why visit: Spectacular turquoise water, rocky scenery and one of Monte Argentario’s most beautiful hidden coves.
Hidden Italy tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the descent, bring water shoes for the pebbles and save some energy for the steep walk back up.
2. Spiaggia di Sansone
On Elba’s northern coast, Spiaggia di Sansone is a striking white-pebble beach beneath steep pale cliffs. The transparent water reveals a rocky seabed and beautiful shades of turquoise, making it one of the island’s best places for snorkelling.
Why visit: White pebbles, dramatic cliffs and exceptionally clear water.
Hidden Italy tip: Follow the coastal path from nearby La Sorgente and arrive early, as the narrow beach fills up quickly in summer
1. Cala Violina
Hidden inside the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, Cala Violina is one of Tuscany’s most celebrated beaches. The crescent-shaped bay combines pale quartz sand, crystal-clear water and dense Mediterranean woodland, and can only be reached on foot, by bicycle or on horseback.
Why visit: Pale sand, turquoise water and an unforgettable natural setting surrounded by forest.
Hidden Italy tip: Check the seasonal reservation rules before visiting and choose the woodland trail by bicycle for a more memorable journey to the beach.
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Plan your Tuscany trip
Want to see more than just the beaches? Explore Tuscany’s Renaissance towns, medieval villages, rolling hills and hidden gems with our regional guide and seven-day road trip itinerary.
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Explore Tuscany in seven days, combining historic cities, coastal beaches, medieval villages and the landscapes of the Val d’Orcia.
Tuscany Travel Guide
Discover Tuscany’s Renaissance cities, medieval hill towns, rolling countryside and hidden gems beyond the usual tourist trail.