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The 14 Best Beaches in Tuscany You Can’t Miss on Your Next Trip
- Alessandro Loja
- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
When thinking about Tuscany, it’s easy to picture endless green hills, vineyards, and medieval villages perched on hilltops. But beyond the countryside lies another treasure: the coastline. Tuscany’s shores offer a striking contrast, wild rocky coves, golden sandy stretches, and crystalline turquoise waters, all bathed in the glow of unforgettable sunsets. Join Rural Escapes as we explore some of the best beaches in Tuscany for your next journey through this iconic Italian region.
Discover the best beaches in Tuscany
Buca delle Fate, Populonia, near Piombino
Imagine rugged cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, and hidden among them lies Buca delle Fate, a secluded and breathtaking coastal landscape. To reach it, park near the “Il Reciso” area and follow the unpaved trail marked CAI 301, which leads you through wild Mediterranean vegetation down to the sea. This spot is a haven for those of you seeking tranquility, scenic hikes, and unforgettable sunsets over the Tuscan coast.
Cala Violina, Scarlino
Cala Violina is a stunning white-sand cove tucked inside the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve. Its name comes from the faint violin-like sound made by its quartz sand underfoot. Surrounded by Mediterranean woods and emerald waters, it's accessible only on foot, bike, or boat, most commonly via a 1.8 km nature trail from Puntone. To protect its beauty, access is limited, and reservations are required in summer. No facilities are available, so come prepared.
Remaiolo Beach, Elba Island
Remaiolo Beach is a tranquil sandy cove on Elba’s southeastern coast, set within the Tenuta delle Ripalte nature reserve near Monte Calamita. Sheltered by cliffs and pine trees, it offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving near Remaiolo Rock. Access is limited, mainly reserved for Ripalte estate guests. Others can arrive by boat or via a 10km dirt road, followed by a 3km bike or shuttle ride. It is the only serviced beach along the wild Costa dei Gabbiani.
Spiaggia della Biodola, Portoferraio, Elba Island
Spiaggia della Biodola is one of Elba’s most iconic beaches, stretching roughly 600 m with soft sand and clear water. To reach the beach, you can drive from Portoferraio toward Procchio and follow the signs for about 2 km, with limited roadside parking available in summer. Urban buses also serve the area directly from Portoferraio. A scenic walking trail links Biodola to Procchio in approximately one hour on foot. The beach is usually not accessible for dogs during bathing season and from 8am to 8pm.
Spiaggia della Crocetta, Elba Island
Near Marciana Marina, at the foot of a steep cliff, Spiaggia della Crocetta is a wild and enchanting beach immersed in nature. Small and secluded, it is made up of medium to large white pebbles and stones, so bringing your own mat or towel is highly recommended for comfort. Located just 600 meters from Marciana Marina, the beach is accessible via a well-marked trail that leads you along a scenic and peaceful path to this coastal gem.
Fetovaia, Elba Island, panoramic point
Spiaggia di Fetovaia, one of Elba Island’s most secluded coastal gems, stretches for about 200 meters in length and up to 40 meters in width, its shoreline a sweep of fine golden granite sand. Sheltered by the rugged Punta Fetovaia headland, where wind-sculpted cliffs plunge into the Tyrrhenian Sea, the beach forms a natural crescent framed by dense Mediterranean scrub, twisting myrtle, wild strawberry trees, and sun-warmed helichrysum that release their fragrance into the sea breeze. Shielded from prevailing winds, this tranquil inlet has long offered safe anchorage, its waters shimmering in shades of turquoise and cobalt. Though much of Fetovaia remains untouched, a portion of the beach is outfitted with discreet establishments, offering sunbeds and umbrellas without disturbing the untamed beauty of the coast.
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Spiaggia delle Rocchette
Rocchette Beach is located between Castiglione della Pescaia and Punta Ala, and is one of Maremma’s most captivating coastal gems. Easily accessible via the SP158/SS322 road, the final approach narrows, making it wise to park early and continue on foot during the high season. The beach features soft sand and shallow, calm waters ideal for families with small children. Visitors can choose between lively beach clubs, a seaside bar and restaurant, or more tranquil free-access areas. To the right, rocky outcrops offer excellent spots for diving and snorkeling. A pine forest borders the shore, while the Rocchette Fortress stands sentinel on the northwestern promontory. For those traveling with pets, there is a designated area, Bau Beach Rocchette.
Marina di Castagneto Carducci
Set along the shores of Marina di Castagneto Carducci, one of Tuscany’s most beloved seaside towns, this wide sandy beach offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with gentle waves and plenty of activities for all ages. Stretching for nearly four kilometers, it forms part of the renowned Costa degli Etruschi. Visitors can choose between free-access areas and classic seaside lidos, where umbrellas and sunbeds are available for daily rental. At the northern end, in the Seggio area, a dog-friendly section welcomes travelers accompanied by their four-legged companions, making this destination truly inclusive for all.
Spiaggia di Collelungo, Argentario
Starting from Marina di Alberese, it offers views of Cala di Forno and the Tuscan archipelago.
The sand is shaped by the Ombrone River and rich in natural debris, but little plastic. Furthermore, the most pristine stretch begins near Torre di Collelungo and ends at the remote Cala Rossa.
It is for sure one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches, between the hills of Uccellina and the Tyrrhenian sea.
Cala del Gesso, Argentario
Cala del Gesso is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Argentario and Tuscany. It is located near Porto Santo Stefano and can be reached by sea or by car via the panoramic road, parking on Via dei Pionieri and continuing on foot for about 1 km, including a steep staircase. The beach has no services, so visitors must bring everything. The seabed is ideal for snorkeling, and the water is crystal clear. It is made of pebbles and rocks, not suitable for flip-flops. Paid parking is available (€10/day) with limited spaces. It is best to arrive early and avoid the hottest hours. Sunsets and views of the Giglio Island are unforgettable.
Cala Piccola, Argentario
Cala Piccola, formerly known as Cala dei Piatti, is a small but beautiful beach on the Argentario. It was once famous for coral, now gone, but the nearby Scoglio del Corallo still offers interesting seabeds for experienced divers. It is accessible via a private road from Km 7+500 of the Via Panoramica (SP65) in Porto Santo Stefano, leading to the Torre di Cala Piccola residence and then to the terraced beach clubs and rocky shore. The beach is exposed to western winds. Parking is available along Via Panoramica. Your pet friends are welcome here, but they must be on a leash.
Spiaggia Lunga, Argentario
Spiaggia Lunga, formerly known as Cala dello Sbarcatello, is situated on the southern side of the promontory and was historically the only suitable landing spot between Porto Ercole and Punta Avoltore. Its name reflects its past use as a favored landing point for pirate crews who once roamed the surrounding waters.
Capo Bianco, Elba Island
Capo Bianco is a white pebble beach with crystal-clear water reflecting shades from azure to deep blue, celebrated by the perfume "Acqua dell'Elba." The beach is narrow and best visited outside high season. Secluded spots are found along the rocks, with reefs and small caves on the right side, ideal for snorkeling lovers. This beach is accessible from Portoferraio via a paid parking lot and a short staircase. Facilities include a snack bar, water equipment rental, and areas for families, pets, and music lovers.
Spiaggia di Sant'Andrea, Elba Island
Sant’Andrea is a small but charming granite-sand beach (about 150 meters long), located in the western part of Elba. It is known for turquoise waters, gently sloping seabeds, and granite cliffs ideal for sunbathing and diving. The beach has bars and restaurants, and nearby rocky areas offer access to Cotoncello and Capo Sant’Andrea, featuring smooth granite formations and springtime blooms. Historically, the beach was a loading point for wine ships. It is accessible by car from Marciana or Marina di Campo, with parking available (free and paid). During summer, a Marebus service connects to the beach.
