A Summer Guide to Beaches in Tuscany, Italy

July 13, 2018|Alexis Doerfler|

When thinking of beaches and Italy, Tuscany is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Though, this renowned wine producing region is also home to some of Italy’s most spectacular coastlines. The best part is, many of Tuscany’s beaches are widely undiscovered by tourists. Making them the perfect summer getaway to compliment your wine tasting endeavors.

It is important to note that beaches in Italy are certified by a blue flag for upholding a high environmental standard, in addition to water and sand quality. In fact, the Tuscan coast holds the second most blue flag beaches in Italy, just behind Liguria.

Another differentiating characteristic of beaches is whether it is a spiaggia libera (free beach) or stabilimento balneare (beach clubs). As a spiaggia libera (free beach), you are free to show up and layout your umbrella and towel wherever you please. Whereas for stabilimento balneare (beach clubs), a fee is paid to rent a chair and umbrella for the day. Typically at beach clubs, there is music, and both food and drinks are available for purchase at beachside restaurants and cafes. Both are equally enjoyable, but yield a completely different experience, so it is good to know which you prefer when selecting your beach destination.

The Tuscan coastline is quite diverse, thus offering an incredible selection of seasides. To experience both great wine and even better beaches, head to any of these incredible coastal areas for a day, quite literally, under the Tuscan sun.

BEST BEACHES IN TUSCANY

Forte dei Marmi –

For those looking for an upscale Mediterranean experience, this is your summer escape. Think beachside cabanas, boutique shopping, and stretches of private beach clubs.

Monte Argentario –

Once an island, the Argentario peninsula is now connected to mainland Tuscany by two stretches of sandy beaches, Feniglia and Giannella. This peninsula offers some of the most crystal clear, blue-green waters that can typically only be found in places like Sardinia. For traditional sandy beaches, stick to the stretches of both spiaggia libera and stabilimento balneare on either Feniglia or Giannella. Though, the real treasure is the coves and insanely clear waters between the stylish harbor towns and yacht hangouts of Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole. After a day in the sun, head to Porto Ercole for some fantastic seafood.

Castiglione della Pescaia –

Located in Maremma, one of the most popular, local beach areas in Tuscany, this ancient seaside town, boasts Italian charm. From the medieval architecture, fishing community, to the stretches of blue flag beaches, this area seems to have it all.

Cala di Forno –

For those looking to be away from the chaos of beach resorts, and in the beauty of nature, this secluded sandy bay is the ideal oasis. Cala di Forno is located in the middle of Parco Uccellina, one of Tuscany’s incredible nature reserves. Pack your own picnic and experience one of the purest beaches in the region.

Isola Giglio –

Just 10 miles off the coast of the Argentario Peninsula is one of the most remarkable and undiscovered escapes, partially due to its difficulty to get to. Though worth the trek (be sure to wear decent walking shoes), you will be met with crystalline water, pink granite shores, pristine sandy beaches, and some incredible hiking trails. For those looking for more adventure away from the beach, the island also has a 1,000 step staircase that was built by the Romans, leading up to Giglio Castello, a charming, medieval hilltop town.

Isola d’Elba –

Once the choice of exile for Napoleon Bonaparte, this small island is home to over 40 beaches, natural reserves, and even more resort-like areas, such as Marina di Campo.