Tuscany may conjure images of vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and medieval hilltop towns. But turn west, and you’ll discover a coastline just as rich and diverse—where golden beaches, fishing villages, islands, old ports, and secret coves unfold like a well-kept secret the locals would rather not signpost.
From the stylish beaches of Versilia to the wild bays of the Maremma, from charming towns like Lucca and Livorno to the island charm of Elba—coastal Tuscany surprises, delights, and remains blissfully under the radar.
Southern Maremma is where Tuscany still smells of the sea, pine trees, and freedom. Here, deserted sandy beaches stretch behind coastal forests, rocky coves sparkle in the sun, and paths lead to places shared only with a fisherman and a gull.
Highlights:
Cala Violina – crystal-clear water, “singing” sand, accessible only by foot or bike
Castiglione della Pescaia – a mix of fishing village, medieval fortress, and fresh seafood market
Talamone – charming and small, ideal for sailing trips or seaside lunches
Off the coast of Piombino lies Elba, where the Mediterranean is at its most serene. Discover rugged coves, turquoise waters, and sleepy villages where time slows down. Here, lunch comes with a sea view and evenings end with vino bianco and fresh calamari.
Favourite spots:
Sant’Andrea – intimate, wild, and romantic
Fetovaia – white sand, clear water, popular with families
Capoliveri – lively squares, terraces, music, and views across the coastline
At first glance, Livorno looks like a working city—and it is. But don’t be fooled. In its old Venetian quarter, you’ll glide through canals, enjoy Tuscany’s best cacciucco (fish stew), and soak up a vibrant, characterful atmosphere.
Pair your visit with a ferry to Elba or a road trip along the Costa degli Etruschi.
If you want Tuscany at its most polished, head to Versilia. Broad beaches, chic beach clubs, Italian fashion boutiques, and summer jazz by the sea await.
Recommended stops:
Viareggio – art nouveau architecture, seafood restaurants, and long promenades
Forte dei Marmi – designer shops, stylish beach clubs, cycling past villas
Pietrasanta – a sculptors’ town between marble mountains and sea
South of Livorno stretches the Etruscan Coast, a lesser-known slice of Tuscany. Here you’ll find wine trails, olive groves, sleepy villages, and coastal towns like Bolgheri and Castagneto Carducci. The sea is clear, the beaches wide, and the mood quietly Tuscan.
Tuscany’s magic lies in its contrasts. Within an hour, you can go from the beach to a vineyard in the hills. Combine your coastal stay with a few days in Lucca, Siena, or the peaceful countryside of the Val d’Orcia. Ideal for a slow-paced summer road trip.
Lucca is the perfect stopover—elegant, atmospheric, and just 30 minutes from the sea.
Along Tuscany’s coast, the sea is always on your plate:
Spaghetti alle vongole in Marina di Alberese
Grilled sea bream from Livorno’s bustling market
Frittura mista at sunset in Forte dei Marmi
Or shop for fresh fish in Castiglione or Orbetello and grill it yourself with a sea view
Want to dive deeper into Tuscany’s culinary soul—from truffles to rustic stews? Read our article: A Taste of Tuscany, where the rhythm of the land and the heart of the kitchen come together.
Whether you dream of a sleek modern home in the dunes, a characterful farmhouse with sea views, or a family villa with a pool just steps from the beach—Nice2stay offers a curated collection of unique and stylish accommodations in Tuscany, including exceptional stays near the coast.