Cala Violina Beach
Cala Violina: how to get there, parking and booking
Cala Violina is one of the most famous beaches in the Tuscan Maremma. It lies in the municipality of Scarlino (province of Grosseto), within the Bandite di Scarlino nature area, between the Gulf of Follonica and Punta Ala. Pale sand, clear water and no beach clubs: you reach it on foot through the woods, and in summer access is limited to a set number of visitors.
Here you will find everything you need to know: where to park, how far you have to walk, how to book and when to go.
Where Cala Violina Is Located
The beach lies within the Bandite di Scarlino, between the Punta Ala headland and the Gulf of Follonica. You cannot drive all the way to the sea: you leave the car in a car park and continue on foot.
The nearest car park is Val Martina, reached from the SP 158 delle Collacchie, at km 10. From Follonica it is about 8 km, roughly a fifteen-minute drive.
What the Beach Is Like
Cala Violina has fine, pale sand with tiny grains of quartz. The name comes from the sound the dry sand makes when you walk on it, rather like a violin.
The sea is crystal clear and the seabed slopes fairly gently. The bay is surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and there are no buildings: it is one of the most unspoilt corners of the Tuscan coast.
Access and Walking Trails
There are two ways to get there on foot:
- From the Val Martina car park: about 1.5–1.8 km along a woodland path, largely shaded, around 20–25 minutes.
- From the Puntone marina (Scarlino): about 6 km one way, along the trails of the Bandite di Scarlino. It is a lovely hike, but remember you also have to walk back.
You can also get there by bike along the coastal trails: access is free, but entry to the beach must still be booked in high season. Wear comfortable shoes.
Parking and booking (summer 2026)
In high season, access to the beach is by booking only, on the official website calaviolinascarlino.it. For summer 2026 the rules were:
- a maximum of 700 people per day, from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm;
- a fee of 1 euro per person; free (but booking still required) for children aged 1 to 12;
- the Val Martina car park, to be booked together with beach entry: 10 euro per day for cars and motorbikes, 15 euro for campervans;
- pay-by-the-hour parking at Puntone.
The rules are confirmed every year by the Municipality of Scarlino: check dates and prices on the official website before you set off.
Facilities and beach rules
Cala Violina is a natural beach. In the summer season there is a refreshment point, toilets and, in the busiest months, beach attendants and first aid. There are no beach clubs and no umbrellas for hire.
During the regulated period dogs are not allowed and smoking is forbidden. You need to bring your own umbrella, water and a bag to take your rubbish home.
Crowds and the best time to go
Thanks to the visitor cap, the beach is no longer overrun as it was in the past, but in July and August places sell out quickly: it is best to book a few days ahead.
The best time to visit is June and September, when the sea is warm and there are fewer people. Out of season, Cala Violina is perfect for a walk through the woods and along an almost deserted beach.
Practical tips
- book beach entry and parking on the official website before you set off;
- arrive early: the path is cooler in the morning;
- bring an umbrella, water and snacks;
- if you are travelling with a dog, choose another beach in the summer months.
From Villaggio Mare Verde to Cala Violina
From Villaggio Mare Verde in Riotorto, the Val Martina car park is about 20 km away, around half an hour by car, via Follonica and the SP 158 delle Collacchie.
Cala Violina is perfect for a change of scene. On other days you can enjoy the easy-to-reach beaches of the Sterpaia, a few minutes from the village, or Torre Mozza. If you are travelling with a dog, the village has pet-friendly accommodation and more suitable beaches close by. Discover the accommodation.
Frequently asked questions about Cala Violina
Where is Cala Violina?
In the municipality of Scarlino, in the province of Grosseto, within the Bandite di Scarlino, between the Gulf of Follonica and Punta Ala.
Do you need to book to visit Cala Violina?
Yes, in high season access is limited and must be booked on calaviolinascarlino.it. In 2026 the limit was 700 people per day, with a fee of 1 euro per person.
Where do you park for Cala Violina?
At the Val Martina car park, on the SP 158 delle Collacchie at km 10, to be booked together with beach entry (10 euro per day for cars in 2026). Alternatively, at the Puntone marina, about 6 km away on foot.
How far do you walk to reach the beach?
From the Val Martina car park, about 1.5–1.8 km through the woods, 20–25 minutes.
Can you take your dog to Cala Violina?
No, dogs are not allowed during the regulated period.
Is Cala Violina suitable for children?
Yes, the seabed slopes gently and the path is easy. However, you need to bring an umbrella, water and everything else you need.
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