Although the Tuscany region in central Italy is famed for its breathtaking countryside and picturesque landscapes, it’s also home to some of the country’s best beaches.
There are probably more beaches in Tuscany than you would expect from the famed countryside, so it’s important to know which ones are the best for you and your trip. After all, some beaches are better for feeling the sand between your toes, while some have unparalleled views of both the land and sea and others are hidden gems that are a bit more difficult to get to.
And remember, regardless of what you’ll end up doing, make sure you book a great accommodation to compliment your trip. For a true taste of Italy, we recommend renting a Tuscan villa. Without further adieu, let’s take a look at the 8 best beaches in Tuscany, Italy.
Cavoli Beach
Just off the coast of Tuscany, you’ll find the beautiful little island of Elba. And on this picture-perfect island, you’ll find some of the most amazing beaches in not only Tuscany but in all of Italy. One of the best beaches on Elba Island is Cavoli Beach. But that’s not the only Elba Island beach on this list — more on that later!
Cavoli Beach offers visitors stunning sandy shores and the piercing blue waters that many of the other beaches in the area do. But Cavoli Beach takes it up a notch by also having one of the most picturesque beach backdrops in the region. The beach is backed by gorgeous cliffs and rolling hills, adding to the already breathtaking views of the island.
Cala del Gesso
Just off the western coast of Tuscany, you’ll find the islet of Monte Argentario. This near-island is a province of Grosseto and is almost entirely surrounded by water of the Tyrrhenian Sea. And therefore, you can also expect to find some beautiful beaches.
Among the most beautiful beaches on the islet is Cala del Gesso. This rocky beach — as in a beach made of pebbles, not big rock formations — is set in arguably the best location anywhere in Argentario. With plenty of beachfront to go around and views, including the deep blues of the sea and the mainland in the distance, it’s hard to find better beach views anywhere in Tuscany.
Spiaggia di Sansone
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As mentioned previously, Cavoli Beach is not the only one located on Elba Island to make this list. When it comes to the best beaches on Elba, Spiaggia di Sansome can go toe-to-toe with Cavoli. With the backdrop of incredible rock formations and rolling countryside of the island, Spiaggia di Sansome gives beach-goers some great views.
But that’s not all. The knee-deep water level and how crystal clear the waters here make Spiaggia di Sansone perfect for a day of gentle wading or hours spent snorkeling in the clear waters. However you choose to spend your day at Spiaggia di Sansone, it’ll be one of the best beach days of your life.
Forte dei Marmi
If you’re looking for a popular resort town with pristine beaches in Tuscany, then Forte dei Marmi is your haven. This town’s beaches are known for their warm golden sand and a big wooden pier in the middle.
If you’re up for it, you can rent a spot with one of the many high-end beach clubs in the town to make sure you have a private spot on the beach with limited capacity. Not many places in Tuscany offer private beach clubs with the amenities you’ll find at Forte dei Marmi, so consider booking a room and one of the resorts and sunbathing in the lap of luxury.
Versilia
Located along the northern coast of Tuscany is the town of Versilia. In this quaint Italian city, you’ll find the beautiful sandy beaches of Viareggio. Relaxing on the sand of Viareggio is the perfect way to spend a day soaking up the Italian sun. Feel the sand between your toes, wade into the shallow waters, and take in the amazing views of the Apuan Alps in the background.
It doesn’t get much better than the beaches of Viareggio, and the popularity of the beach reflects that. During the busy summer season, expect to share the beach with many people due to the family-friendly atmosphere and surrounding activities.
Cala Violina
If you don’t mind doing a little bit of walking or hiking to get to the perfect beach, then Cala Violina will be right up your alley. Cala Violina is a cove located off the coast of Scarlino, but it takes a little bit of a trek to reach it. The 2.5-mile hike is not too strenuous but will take around 45 minutes to an hour from where you park.
But if you’re into the natural beauty of the world and want to get to an under-the-radar beach, then the hike is well worth it. Arriving at the cove, you’ll be surrounded by rock formations, wildflowers, white sand beaches, and the beautiful blue water we all know and love.
Marina di Pisa
If you’re looking for a great beach for your family, especially if that includes yonder children, then the beach at Marina di Pisa is perfect for you. This quiet stretch of sand is far enough off the beaten path to never get too crowded, and the massive rock wall barriers in the water prevent the nearby strong currents from reaching the beach.
This means the waters stay relatively calm, the atmosphere is quiet and family-friendly, and you don’t have to worry about the coastal currents rushing in and causing pandemonium. It might not have as great of views as some of the other options here, but it’s probably the best option in Tuscany for families.
Biodola
Saving the best Elba Island beach for last, Biodala is the third option on this list that is housed on Elba Island. So if three out of eight of the best beaches in all of Tuscany are on one small island, that should be a big clue to travel to Elba Island for the best Tuscan beaches!
Lying on the Gulf of Biodola on Elba Island, Biodola Beach is widely accepted as the best beach anywhere on Elba Island. And that’s some steep competition! This beach has warm white sand beaches, shallow waters that are so crystal clear you can see the seafloor, and an amazing backdrop of cliffs and hills. Biodola Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking for a beach day while in Tuscany.
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