Beaches in Tuscany

You have no doubt read our guide (click to view) discovering the best beaches in Tuscany, which, although titled beaches near Rome, is all about Tuscan beaches. I know the name might be a little bit misleading, but to be honest, the best beaches near Rome are the beaches in Tuscany.

Anyway, enough of my waffling, let me share some gorgeous photos of these beaches taken by my friend Alberto Franceschini. Alberto, lucky fellow that he is, lives right in this part of the world, and the comments, under each headline, about the different areas and the beaches are his. 

Porto Santo Stefano

Porto Santo Stefano is the gateway to Tuscany’s most stunning coastal treasures. Nestled on the Argentario Peninsula, this charming seaside town is the perfect base for exploring pristine beaches and hidden coves. Even better, it’s the main departure point for ferries to the beautiful island of Giglio, known for its crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere. From lazy beach days to boat trips and seafood feasts by the harbor, Porto Santo Stefano offers a slice of authentic Tuscan coastal life that’s impossible to resist. If you'd like to spend some time here, then have a look at these hotels.

Talamone

Talamone, the doorway to the breathtaking Maremma Nature Reserve, is perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and offers stunning views and easy access to some of Tuscany’s most unspoiled landscapes. For a map and hotels click here.

Castiglione della Pescaia

Hills offer stunning views of the islands of Giglio and Elba, while lakes filled with pink flamingos flow down into beautiful beaches in this south-western corner of Tuscany. Where should you stay around here? Well, this is my pick when it comes to hotels in Castiglione della Pescaia.

Parco Della Maremma

The Parco della Maremma (Maremma Nature Park) is a hidden gem located in the heart of Tuscany. This protected natural area covers 25,000 acres and is a stunning mix of coastal landscapes, wetlands, woodlands, and ancient Mediterranean scrub. The park is one of the last true wildernesses in Italy, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, where nature remains largely untouched and thriving.

One of the main attractions of Parco della Maremma is its pristine beaches. Miles of unspoiled coastline, where golden sand meets crystal-clear water. The beaches here are remote, accessible mainly by foot or horseback. Many of these beaches are quiet and peaceful, a tranquil escape far from the crowded tourist spots typical of most Italian coastal destinations.

Wildlife is abundant in this protected area. The park is home to a diverse range of species, many of which are increasingly rare in other parts of Italy. There’s a good chance of spotting wild boar, deer, and foxes, which roam freely through the park’s forests and wetlands. Birdwatching is another popular activity, as the park is a haven for numerous species of birds, including migratory birds that stop off in the wetlands. The marshes and waterways are teeming with life, and visitors can often spot egrets, herons, and other waterfowl as they wade through the shallows.

Parco della Maremma is also a paradise for hikers and nature walkers. With miles of trails winding through its varied landscapes, visitors can explore the park at their own pace. There are hiking routes suitable for all levels, from easy walks along the coast to more challenging treks through the forested hills and the heart of the wilderness. Many of these trails lead to scenic lookouts, where you can take in stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the beautiful coastline and the rolling hills of Tuscany. The trails also offer a closer look at the park's rich biodiversity, as you'll pass through different habitats, such as dense woods, wetland areas, and open meadows.

One of the most unique features of the park is its horseback riding opportunities. The Maremma region is historically known for its cattle herders, Italian cowboys, known as "butteri," who have lived in this area for centuries. Horseback riding is an excellent way to experience the park, following in the footsteps of these cowboys. There are guided horseback tours available, which allow you to explore the park's rugged terrain and take in its beauty in a more intimate way. Riding through the park’s forests and along its coastal paths gives a sense of freedom and connection to nature that’s hard to match on foot.

In addition to the natural beauty, the park is steeped in history. Scattered throughout the park are several ancient towers, remnants of the region’s historical past. These towers were built as defensive structures during the Middle Ages and offer a glimpse into the area’s strategic importance. Some of these towers are accessible by the hiking trails, and you can climb to the top to get a spectacular view of the surrounding landscapes. The towers are not only historical landmarks but also provide great photo opportunities, especially when set against the backdrop of the park’s scenic vistas.

For those interested in visiting the park, the town of Alberese serves as an excellent starting point. Alberese is a charming village that offers a range of services for park visitors, including accommodations, restaurants, and guided tours. From Alberese, you can access the park’s main entrances and begin your exploration of the Maremma Nature Reserve. The town is also home to the Park’s Visitor Center, where you can get maps, information on the park’s wildlife and history, and learn about the various activities available during your visit.

Porto Ercole

Gulf of Baratti Beaches