The 18 Best Beaches in Tuscany, for Every Traveler

Tuscany might be best known for its rolling hills and Renaissance-era cities, but, unknown to many travelers, the region is also home to some of the best beaches in Italy.

Instead of traveling inland, take a holiday along the Tuscany coast, stretching from Massa and Carrara in the north of the province all the way south to Grosseto, where you have hundreds of kilometers of glorious coastline.

Coastal Tuscany is teeming with untouched bays and wild beaches, as well as built-up resorts and busy marinas. There are Tuscany beaches for solo travelers, for families, and for couples. To inspire your next Italian getaway, our team of Italy experts, who have been crafting the finest journeys to the country since 1995, have created the ultimate guide to the best beaches in Tuscany.

Best Beaches in Tuscany for Families

Marina di Campo – Elba Region

The island of Elba is also part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. While it might be best known as the location of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile in the early 19th century, it’s also known for its beautiful Tuscan beaches. 

In fact, one of the best-known beaches in Tuscany is on Elba and can be found at Marina di Campo, which is the main town on the island. This is a great place to be based, as not only is this Tuscany town the gateway to Elba, but here you can find resorts and restaurants, all with stunning views out to the coast. 

This makes Marina di Campo beach one of the very best beaches in Tuscany for families, as you truly have everything you could need in one place. The sweeping beach fringes the town, and you can walk along its seemingly endless sands – offering ample space for families to relax and play – are the best place to admire the outline of Marina di Campo or enjoy the crashing waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Cavoli Beach – Elba Region

Not far from Marina di Campo, you can find one of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany, Cavoli Beach, which is just a few kilometers away from this Tuscan town.

Although it can get very busy in the peak summer months, for families, it’s well worth braving the crowds for its strikingly soft sands. The beach here is fringed by hotels and bars, and is always a lively and fun place to visit, with an atmosphere that families will love. The sheltered bay is perfect for swimming, even with little ones, while nearby you can find some spectacular grottos and caves where the water literally shimmers in shades of blue and green.

Orbetello – Grosseto Region

If you’re after a sandier Tuscan beach, then overlooking the Monte Argentario Peninsula are the wonderful beaches of Orbetello. Not only is this the gateway to the peninsula, but along the Tuscany coast here, you can find some excellent stretches of sand, offering ample choice for families visiting this destination to find a spot they love. 

Giannella Beach is almost eight kilometers long and offers a fantastic climate, while there are plenty of parasols and deckchairs to rent out for the day, making a trip all the more convenient for families. Feniglia Beach is shorter but much wilder, offering sweeping vistas as it backs onto the windswept dunes and pine forests that lie behind it.

Best Tuscan Beaches for Couples

Forte Dei Marmi – Lucca Region

Just a short journey south from Massa and Carrara, you’ll quickly arrive in the neighboring province of Lucca, where you can find the beautiful Tuscany beach of Forte dei Marmi, which is a romantic setting for couples to enjoy during their Tuscan vacation. This Tuscany seaside town is actually connected to the Marina di Massa by a long cycle path that offers stunning views over the ocean.Forte dei Marmi dates back to the Roman era, and the long pier that extends from the gorgeous town beach has long been used to ship marble from the nearby mountains along the coast. Forte dei Marmi has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century. Over the years, it has evolved into an established luxury holiday destination, meaning couples can embrace its beauty and treat themselves to a more refined getaway here.

San Vincenzo – Pisa Region

Carry on south along the coast from Castiglioncello, and you’ll quickly arrive at one of the most charming beaches in Tuscany that is perfect for couples. San Vincenzo is a small, Tuscany town on the seafront that’s known for its brilliantly azure waters and for its peaceful demeanor, ideal for couples seeking a tranquil setting to simply focus on one another.

You’ll find a small marina overlooking the sparkling turquoise ocean, plus a wonderful collection of local cafés and restaurants serving up a fine selection of Italian food and drink. The Tuscany beaches here are beautiful, but San Vincenzo is equally famed for its wine as it is for its soft sand, and couples will especially enjoy tastings and tours at the local wineries after a hard day spent relaxing along the coast. What more could you ever want from a beach holiday in Tuscany?

Castiglioncello – Pisa Region

A short journey south of Livorno takes you to the town of Castiglioncello, where one of the best beaches in Tuscany awaits. The small town is a fantastic example of Tuscan architecture and scenery because Castiglioncello is located on a rocky headland that stretches out into the ocean, making it a gorgeous setting for couples to explore.

There are dramatic cliffs and rock formations, while historic medieval castles and churches break the skyline. Hidden amongst the cliffs are peaceful bays and beaches that are perfect for a Tuscany seaside getaway. The best of these is Quercetano Bay, where couples can find a long sandy beach fringed by outstanding scenery. You’ll find apartments and villas lining the coast, offering loved ones the perfect location to spend a holiday on a Tuscan beach that offers a little bit of everything!

Best Quiet Beaches in Tuscany for Relaxation

Calambrone – Pisa Region

A few kilometers to the south of Pisa is the charming seaside village of Calambrone. If you’re looking for a quiet beach in Tuscany, then this is the destination for you. Calambrone is small, but it boasts some spectacular beaches, plus, more often than not, the coast is free from the crowds that you’ll likely find in more popular Tuscan beach destinations. 

The beaches are particularly raw here, and you’ll find tall sand dunes that rise away from the sea before turning into heavily forested areas that seem to be almost entirely untouched by humanity.

Antignano – Pisa Region

If you’re looking to escape the city itself, then head to the nearby coastal commune of Antignano, where you can find beaches galore.

Simply follow the coastline south from Livorno, and along the way, you’ll be treated to some lovely sandy beaches, from Ardenza all the way to Antignano.
The best part is that many of its shores are free beaches in Tuscany, but you can rent a parasol or enjoy the charming local cafes along the boulevards. The best part is that Antignano and its surroundings are really suburbs of Livorno, and as such, the beaches here are real local secrets.

Laconella Beach – Elba Region

Elba is an island that’s literally awash with spectacular stretches of sand, and one of the best to visit is Laconella Beach. If you’re looking for a less developed beach in Tuscany to enjoy, then Laconella is the perfect destination. 

The pristine white sands front a gloriously clear section of the Tyrrhenian Sea, which shimmers and sparkles in the bright Mediterranean sunshine that’s enjoyed here through most of the year. The beach is small, but it’s dramatic, and the white sands are flanked by rugged cliffs that stretch endlessly into the distance. It’s a great place to relax and unwind and to truly immerse yourself in the raw nature of Elba and Tuscany.

The Most Beautiful Beaches in Tuscany for Nature and Wildlife

Monte Argentario – Grosseto Region

Monte Argentario is one of the most spectacular destinations along the Etruscan coast, and it’s a must-visit for anyone in the Grosseto region.

Monte Argentario is a small peninsula that juts out abruptly from the mainland, and that’s held on by several dramatic spurs of land that are surrounded by beautiful turquoise waters.

The beaches here aren’t your typical sandy Tuscan beaches, but that doesn’t matter. Despite the rocky nature of the coastline, Monte Argentario can’t be beaten for its vistas and panoramas. Drenched in nature, it offers unrivalled natural beauty that makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany.

Sansone Beach – Elba Region

Another of the most spectacular beaches in Tuscany, located on Elba, is Sansone Beach. Situated on the north side of the island, the beach is named for the mythical ancient character, Samson. The northern side of Elba is known for its towering cliffs, and Sansone Beach is found beneath some of the most dramatic cliffs on the island.

A long stretch of white sand runs for kilometers in the shadow of these beautiful natural rocks, while the surrounding waters are clear and beautiful. It’s one of the most photogenic beaches in Tuscany, and easily one of the most beautiful to visit on the island of Elba.

Viareggio – Lucca Region

One of the most popular Tuscany beach destinations is Viareggio. This small city has been a Tuscany seaside getaway for Italians for centuries, and you can find a beautiful array of beaches stretching along the coast.

Grand hotels line the promenade, while the same sea-facing promenade is also the scene of the famed Carnival of Viareggio, which is held every February.

The best public beaches are protected as part of the Parco Naturale, which is found to the southwest of the city. Here you can find several kilometers of wild and raw coastline, perfect for those seeking unparalleled natural beauty.

The Best Tuscany Beaches Close to Cities

Marina di Pisa – Pisa Region

Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous tourist destinations, but usually, most visitors only travel here for a quick look at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa before moving on elsewhere. 

But hang around, because the seaside city has some great coastline to visit. The Marina di Pisa is just a short journey away from the city center, and is often considered the best beach near Florence for a day trip. Here you can find a peaceful marina that’s home to yacht clubs, restaurants, bars, cafés, and some beautiful sandy beaches. The Marina di Pisa offers sheltered swimming areas and wonderful views over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The Best Tuscany Beaches for Water Activities 

Marina di Carrara – Massa and Carrara Region

Fronting the ancient town of Carrara, the Marina di Carrara is a popular northern getaway. Carrara is framed by tall mountains, but it’s best known for the vast marble quarries that have operated here since Roman times.

There’s a lot of history in this Tuscany town that is waiting to be discovered, from ancient ruins to medieval cathedrals. But it’s the seafront that draws in the most visitors.

The Marina di Carrara is a popular cruise stop in summer. As well as a busy and bustling port, there are long stretches of sand to enjoy. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and watersports in its gorgeous setting, with sailing and boat trips being particularly popular.

Isola del Giglio – Grosseto Region

Found across the sea from Orbetello and Monte Argentario, Isola del Giglio is a small but dramatic island that’s home to some of the best beaches in Tuscany.

Part of the wider Tuscan Archipelago National Park, you can rest assured that this is a beautiful place and well worth the ferry ride from the mainland. The island is surrounded by azure waters, which are perfectly clear and filled with marine life. As such, it’s a haven for watersports activities like diving, snorkelling, and even surfing, as well as kayaking and opportunities for swimming to admire its stunning shoreline.

From Arenella Beach, you can look across the strait and admire the form of Monte Argentario from afar, while at the small town of Giglio Campese, you can find a popular beach resort area that’s flush with amenities but never too busy.

The Beaches in Tuscany with Historical Interest

Castiglioncello della Pescaia – Grosseto Region

South of the Livorno region, you can enjoy the beautiful coastline that’s found in the province of Grosseto. This area is well known for its spectacular Tuscany beaches and beautiful, warm southern climate, as well as its rich history.

One of the best places to visit is Castiglioncello della Pescaia. This small Tuscany town is one of the most pleasant in Grosseto, and you can find a medieval fortress dominating the historic houses that are clustered around the hilltop overlooking the sea. 

The quiet beaches are lovely to relax on, while the small but bustling harbor is still used without fail by the tireless local fishermen.

Livorno – Pisa Region

Livorno is the name of both a Tuscan city and a region, and the entire area is well known for its spectacular coastline. 

The city of Livorno is a bustling place that dates back to the ancient times of the Etruscan kingdoms. There’s a lot to see and to do here, but of course, the port and the seafront are its most glorious sights. Head to the Terrazza Mascagni for the most opulent views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. On a good day, you might even see Corsica in the distance.

Marina di Massa – Massa and Carrara Region

In the north of the province, the region of Massa and Carrara is an often-overlooked destination when it comes to beach holidays in Tuscany.

The water might be colder and the summer season shorter in comparison to the south, but at places such as Marina di Massa, you can still find exceptional beaches that Tuscany has to offer..

The Marina di Massa runs along the front of the medieval town of Massa, a gorgeous historic destination with a captivating story to tell. In the background, the Apuan Alps rise sharply away from the sea. A sandy beach is fringed by historic buildings and ramshackle hotels, while a long pier stretches out into the ocean.

Summary

From family-friendly paradises to shores brimming with natural beauty, it seems that the Tuscany coast has it all. This glorious Italian region offers ample variety and choice when it comes to its beaches, each with its own unique character and charm. 

Whether you’re seeking the best family-friendly beaches in Tuscany, quiet spots, or otherwise, we hope this guide has given you the inspiration you need before you jet off on your Italian getaway to this magnificent region. 
If you’re excited to bask in the glory of Tuscany’s best beaches, then contact our experts at Italy4Real today to book your next Italian vacation.

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