The Beaches of the Etruscan Coast
The most beautiful beaches of the Etruscan Coast
The Etruscan Coast is the stretch of coastline in the province of Livorno that runs from Livorno to Piombino, in Tuscany. It alternates long sandy beaches backed by pine forest, rocky coves and bays steeped in Etruscan history. In 2026 the Blue Flag flies over many of its municipalities, including Castagneto Carducci, San Vincenzo and Piombino.
In this guide you will find the most beautiful beaches on the southern stretch, between Riotorto, Piombino and San Vincenzo, grouped by type: sand and shallow water for families, coves for snorkelling lovers, and wild beaches you reach on foot. At the end there is also Cala Violina, a little further south in the Maremma.
The beaches of the Sterpaia Coastal Park
The Sterpaia Coastal Park stretches between Piombino and Follonica, opposite Riotorto. Here the sea meets a large pine forest and a system of dunes that protects the beach.
Fine sand, shallow water and plenty of space: these are among the best beaches for families with children.
- Perelli, a wide sandy beach with beach clubs and free stretches;
- Carlappiano, with pine forest behind it and clear water;
- Mortelliccio, a long free beach;
- Carbonifera, towards Follonica;
- Torre Mozza, with its 16th-century coastal tower.
Gulf of Baratti
The Gulf of Baratti is a crescent-shaped bay at the foot of the Populonia promontory. In many places the sand is dark, because of the residue from Etruscan iron working, and the sea is generally calm, with pine forest behind the beach.
You can combine a day at the beach with a visit to the Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia, with its necropolises just a few steps from the sea.
Rimigliano Nature Park
Between San Vincenzo and the Gulf of Baratti lies Rimigliano Park: about six kilometres of free beach, with no beach clubs, dunes, woodland and numbered pedestrian access points along the Strada della Principessa.
It has the Blue Flag for 2026 and is perfect if you are looking for space and nature. Bring an umbrella and water, as facilities are limited to a few access points. We cover it in our guide to San Vincenzo.
Calamoresca and Buca delle Fate
On the Piombino promontory the coast becomes rocky. Calamoresca, near Salivoli, is a small bay with crystal-clear water that quickly becomes deep, excellent for snorkelling: you walk down from the car park in about ten minutes.
Further north, towards Populonia, Buca delle Fate can only be reached via a 20–30 minute trail through the woods: no facilities, but cliffs and views of Elba.
Cala Violina
Just south of the Etruscan Coast, in the municipality of Scarlino, lies Cala Violina, one of the most famous beaches in Tuscany. Its name comes from the sound the sand makes when you walk on it.
In summer, access is limited and by booking only, and from the Val Martina car park it is about a 20-minute walk through the woods. Dogs are not allowed during the regulated period. You will find all the information in our guide to Cala Violina.
When to visit the beaches of the Etruscan Coast
The swimming season runs from June to September. June and September are the best months: warm water, fewer crowds and easier parking. July and August are livelier, especially at weekends.
In spring and autumn the more natural beaches, such as Rimigliano, Baratti and the Sterpaia, are perfect for long walks.
Which beach to choose
- With young children: Sterpaia, Torre Mozza, Baratti.
- For snorkelling: Calamoresca, Buca delle Fate.
- For free beach and nature: Rimigliano, Mortelliccio.
- With a dog: choose the dedicated stretches set out in the municipal ordinances; at the village you will find pet-friendly accommodation.
How to reach the beaches of the Etruscan Coast
Almost all the beaches can be reached by car, with car parks close to the sea. From Villaggio Mare Verde in Riotorto:
- Sterpaia Park (Mortelliccio): about 7 minutes by car or 35 on foot; in summer there is the beach train
- Torre Mozza: about 10 minutes
- Gulf of Baratti: about 20 minutes
- Calamoresca: about 25 minutes
- Rimigliano: about 30 minutes
- Cala Violina: about 30 minutes to the car park, plus a 20-minute walk
Discover the village’s accommodation and request a quote.
Frequently asked questions about the beaches of the Etruscan Coast
What are the most beautiful beaches on the Etruscan Coast?
On the southern stretch: the Sterpaia with Torre Mozza and Mortelliccio, the Gulf of Baratti, Rimigliano, Calamoresca and Buca delle Fate. A little further south, in the Maremma, Cala Violina.
Which beaches are suitable for children?
The Sterpaia, Torre Mozza and Baratti, with fine sand and shallow water.
Where are there free beaches?
Rimigliano has about six kilometres of free beach. There are also large free stretches at the Sterpaia, Mortelliccio and Torre Mozza.
Which coves are good for snorkelling?
Calamoresca, near Salivoli, and Buca delle Fate, on the Piombino promontory, which can only be reached on foot.
Do the beaches of the Etruscan Coast have the Blue Flag?
Yes, in 2026 the Blue Flag was awarded to many municipalities on the Livorno coast, including Castagneto Carducci, San Vincenzo and Piombino.
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