Secluded beaches might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Tuscany. Instead, the region conjures images of vineyard-covered rolling hills and grand art cities like Florence and Siena. Yet, just 15 minutes from Pisa or 2 hours from Rome, you’ll find the wild and wonderful beaches of Tuscany framed by lush Mediterranean vegetarian and soft dunes.
Stretching from the northern reaches near Livorno down to the border with Lazio, the Maremma coast is particularly wild and untouched. For a culture fix, the city of Grosseto – which won 2024's European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism – has its fair share of local attractions and unspoiled natural beaches.
Whether you're drawn to coastal hikes or quiet glamour, this lesser-known side of Tuscany is all about slowing down. If you’re looking for a more meaningful travel experience in Italy, our handpicked selection of Tuscany coast villas offers the perfect base for coastal exploration.
Versilia Coast
Welcome to Tuscany’s hidden Riviera. The Versilia Coast has somehow evaded Tuscany’s heavier tourist footfall. Forte dei Marmi, in particular, is a Tuscan hotspot that’s been kept under the radar. Just 30 minutes from Pisa, this swish beach town has been a magnet for wealthy and aristocratic Florentines since the early 20th century. Today, it remains just as glamorous, dotted with high-end beach clubs and Michelin-starred restaurants.
The art-filled streets of Pietrasanta have also somehow remained a Tuscan secret. Often referred to as "the Athens of Italy", this small town has long been a magnet for sculptors and artists for centuries, such as Michelangelo, Henry Moore and Fernando Botero. It’s easy to see why, with its Gothic architecture and lively pavement cafes.
Where to stay
If you’re keen to explore the beaches and charming towns of the Versilia coast, make Villa Cieli your base. High above the Versilia coast near Pisa and Lucca, Villa Cieli offers easy access to the glitz and glamour of Tuscany’s hidden Riviera.
Speak to our expert concierge team for ultra-local tips. They can arrange personalised in-villa experiences, yacht charters to secluded coves, and reservations at the best restaurants and beach clubs in Forte dei Marmi.
To top it off, this spectacular villa benefits from panoramic views, a 14-metre heated swimming pool and classic Tuscan interiors.
Punta Ala
Driving south along the coastline, Punta Ala sits between the Versilia Coast and Maremma. This wild stretch spans 6km of powder-soft, sandy beaches, chic clubs and crystal clear, bath-warm waters. Beyond the beaches, the marina nods to the area’s rich maritime history, while nearby trails and hidden coves encourage exploration off the beaten path.
Beyond the marina, the photogenic coastal town of Castiglione della Pescaia (20km) is worth exploring for its medieval citadel, Renaissance churches and cobbled streets lined with charming restaurants, wine bars and artisan perfume shops. Drive to Follonica, another vibrant seaside town, for its lively atmosphere, golden beaches and exhilarating watersports. The wild beaches of Grosseto are 45 minutes away by car.
Let our local Concierge organise a private boat charter of the stunning Tuscan Archipelago, including Elba and the smaller islands of Gorgona, Giannutri, and Capraia.
Where to stay: Castello di Punta Ala
Rising serenely above the Tyrrhenian Sea, Castello di Punta Ala is primely located for making the most of Punta Ala’s pristine sandy beaches. The marina is just a 20-minute walk away, where you’ll find an array of local trattorias, bars and shops to peruse. Spiaggetta del Porto is a short walk from the hubbub of the marina, with umbrellas and sun loungers available.
After a day of meandering or lounging on the beach (or both), Castello di Punta Ala’s stunning infinity pool and alfresco spaces await your return. Built in the mid-16th century, this coastal villa offers a blend of Italianate grandeur and contemporary interiors. For dinner, indulge in staple Tuscan recipes cooked up by the dedicated villa chef, such as pappa al pomodoro.
Maremma
Since 1975, Tuscany’s Maremma coast has been a protected area, stretching from the northern reaches near Livorno down to the border with Lazio.
Those in the know are drawn to Maremma’s wild and untouched beaches as much as its small-scale wine producers. Guided nature walks are followed by gentle swims and a crisp glass of Vermentino on return to your luxury villa.
It’s worth packing a pair of sturdy walking shoes to access the protected reserve. In the National Park, Marina di Alberese is one of the area’s wildest beaches, where you’ll spot grazing cows and the occasional horse basking in the sun.
Where to stay: Villa Denise and Sartomare
Offering easy access to the beaches of Maremma and Versilia, the fantastic Villa Denise caters to group getaways of up to 12 guests in a serene setting.
Inside, six immaculate bedrooms have been furnished in a local country style, with a blend of antiques and modern amenities.
Though remote and private, the villa is primely positioned for reaching Maremma’s wild and rugged coast and Lucca, which is a 20-minute drive away. Head to the local village of Monsagrati to stock up on the essentials.
Sleeping up to 18 guests, Sartomare is an idyllic 75-acre estate on the Southern Tuscan coast, just 15 minutes from Maremma’s beautiful beaches.
Grosseto
In August and July, Grosseto is where the Italians go to avoid the sticky city heat. Somehow, this slice of Italy has remained under the radar – yet its town centre is steeped in history, with plenty of pavement cafes, shops and charming trattorias.
Then there are the beaches. Located on the region’s southern edge, around 1.5 hours from Rome, Grosseto’s sandy beaches Marina di Grosseto and Principina a Mare are popular with local families.
Principina a Mare offers a quieter alternative to Marina di Grosseto, with vast dunes, shallow waters and long stretches of free beach (spiaggia libera). Read our travel guide to Grosseto to find out more.
Where to stay: Il Chiesino
Perched on a hilltop on the Tuscan coast, Il Chiesino is a 10-person villa with a private, L-shaped pool and a spa area. Views of the soft rolling hills can be enjoyed from the hot tub or one of the many alfresco dining areas – including a dedicated BBQ station.
There’s plenty to explore in the countryside and nearby Grosseto. Scansano is a pretty local town steeped in medieval history. For wine tasting, Fattoria Le Pupille offers immersive tasting experiences on the estate with a sommelier.
The white beaches that run along the coast south of Grosseto are an easy 20 minute drive away from Il Chiesino, with the national park Monte dell’Ucellina just south of the villa. Several bike paths also connect the park and beaches to the city centre.
Monte Argentario
Time to lace up your walking shoes. Monte Argentario’s rugged coast is an excellent base for island hopping around the Tuscan archipelago. Some of the peninsula’s finest beaches are accessible only by foot, along scenic trails with sweeping coastal views.
Start with Cala del Gesso, a secluded cove backed by craggy cliffs and dotted with the ruins of Spanish forts and medieval watchtowers. L’Acqua Dolce is an untouched natural beach favoured by the locals, with some smooth pebbly areas. Cala Mar Morto offers rocky ledges and warm, natural pools where the sea gathers in sun-heated basins.
When the sun dips, make your way to Porto Ercole – a low-key hideaway where stylish Romans spend their weekends. Its pastel harbourfront hums in summer but rarely feels showy.
Read our guide to Monte Argentario to discover the beaches, trails and hidden corners that make this peninsula one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets.
Where to stay: Spini Bianchi
A stay at Spini Bianchi offers a front-row seat to Monte Argentario’s wilder side, with private access to the sea.
Inside, four elegant bedrooms are dressed in an earthy colour palette and thoughtful details that reflect the natural landscape.
Challenge your companions to a match on the private tennis court, then cool off in the villa’s spectacular infinity pool. Plentiful alfresco areas offer uninterrupted views across the Tyrrhenian Sea, directly facing the island of Giglio.
Contact us today to book your private villa
Speak to one of our expert Villa Specialists today and start planning your getaway on the Tuscan coast. Sit back, relax and let us take care of every detail from the moment you arrive.