Campiglia Marittima Beaches

Overview

While the medieval village of Campiglia Marittima sits majestically in the Tuscan hills, it serves as an ideal base for a coastal holiday. The beautiful beaches of the Etruscan Coast are just a short drive away, offering a perfect blend of cultural sightseeing with seaside relaxation. This unique position allows visitors to explore a diverse shoreline, from long, sandy stretches to wild, protected nature reserves, all renowned for their clear, clean waters.

Among the area's most celebrated shores, you'll find something for every taste. The iconic Spiaggia di Baratti is famous for its dark, shimmering sand, a remnant of ancient Etruscan ironworks. For a classic beach day with golden sands, Spiaggia Libera San Vincenzo is a popular and accessible choice. Nature lovers will be drawn to the pristine, pine-backed coastline of Spiaggia di Rimigliano, while the stunning cove of Cala Violina is a bucket-list destination, known for the musical sound its quartz sand makes underfoot.

The region also offers fantastic options for families, particularly within the Sterpaia Coastal Park, where beaches like Torre Mozza feature fine sand and shallow waters perfect for children. From the famous shores to more intimate rocky coves perfect for snorkeling, the coast near Campiglia Marittima is full of discoveries. These highlights are just a starting point, and our complete guide details many more beaches waiting to be explored.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Campiglia Marittima a good base for a beach holiday?

Yes, Campiglia Marittima is an excellent base for a beach holiday. While the town itself is a medieval village located on a hill, it's only a 10-15 minute drive from the beautiful beaches of the Etruscan Coast. This location allows you to combine a cultural stay in a historic Tuscan town with easy access to a variety of beaches like those in the Gulf of Baratti, San Vincenzo, and the coastal parks of Rimigliano and Sterpaia.

How far are the beaches from Campiglia Marittima and how do I get there?

The nearest beaches are about a 10 to 15-minute drive from Campiglia Marittima. The most convenient way to reach the coast is by car. Nearby coastal destinations include the Gulf of Baratti, San Vincenzo, and the parks of Rimigliano and Sterpaia. Some accommodations may offer shuttle services, and the Campiglia Marittima train station provides connections to coastal towns like San Vincenzo and Piombino.

What are the best beaches near Campiglia Marittima for families with children?

For families with children, the beaches within the Sterpaia Coastal Park, such as Torre Mozza and Carbonifera, are highly recommended. These beaches feature long stretches of light, fine sand and shallow, gently sloping seabeds, making them safe for kids. The area is also equipped with facilities and backed by pine forests for shade. The beaches of San Vincenzo are also known to be family-friendly.

Are there free public beaches (spiaggia libera) near Campiglia Marittima?

Yes, there are many free public beaches along the coast near Campiglia Marittima. The Rimigliano Coastal Park offers long stretches of free, natural beach equipped with basic services like showers and toilets. Similarly, the Sterpaia Coastal Park has extensive free beach areas. While you'll also find private beach clubs ('stabilimenti balneari') that rent umbrellas and loungers, there is ample space to enjoy the sea at no cost.

Are there agriturismos near the beach?

Yes, there are many agriturismos (farm stays) in the countryside between Campiglia Marittima and the coast. These offer a unique experience combining rural Tuscan hospitality with easy beach access. Many are just a short drive from the beaches of Baratti, Rimigliano, and Sterpaia, allowing you to enjoy both the tranquil countryside and the sea. Some, like Agriturismo Villa Toscana, are located just a few kilometers from the shore.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Spiaggia di Baratti

Spiaggia di Rimigliano

What is the water like for swimming at the beaches near Campiglia Marittima?

The water along the Etruscan Coast is generally crystal-clear and clean, with many beaches earning the prestigious Blue Flag award. The Gulf of Baratti is often described as having calm, pool-like water, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beaches in the coastal parks of Rimigliano and Sterpaia also boast clear waters and sandy bottoms, making for pleasant swimming conditions, especially during the summer months.

What's unique about the sand at Baratti Beach?

The sand at Baratti Beach has a unique, dark, and shimmering appearance. This is due to the presence of iron residue from the ancient Etruscan iron-working activities that took place in the area for centuries. This historical feature gives the beach a distinctive look and connects it to the rich archaeological heritage of the Gulf of Baratti and the nearby Populonia archaeological park.

Spiaggia di Baratti

Are there any dog-friendly beaches (bau beaches) in the area?

Yes, the area is quite dog-friendly. Dog Beach San Vincenzo is a well-known and popular beach specifically for dogs and their owners, praised for its cleanliness and facilities. Other beaches in the coastal parks may also have designated areas or be tolerant of dogs, especially outside of peak season. It's always best to check local signage and regulations.

Dog Beach San Vicenzo

People Also Ask

Which is better for a day trip: the beaches at Rimigliano Park or Sterpaia Park?

Both parks offer beautiful, natural beach experiences. Rimigliano Coastal Park, just south of San Vincenzo, is known for its wild, pristine beaches backed by dunes and a thick pine forest, accessible via footpaths. Sterpaia Coastal Park, in the Gulf of Follonica, offers wider, golden-sand beaches with very shallow water, making it particularly ideal for families. Sterpaia also has more equipped areas with picnic tables and other facilities.

Spiaggia di Rimigliano

Are there rocky coves for snorkeling or are the beaches all sandy?

While the area is famous for its long sandy beaches, you can also find rocky coves perfect for snorkeling. Near the Gulf of Baratti, you can discover more intimate coves like Buca delle Fate, which is accessible via a hiking trail. The coastline near Piombino also offers rocky stretches with clear water, such as Calamoresca Beach, which are popular with locals and ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Calamoresca

Is it better to stay in Campiglia Marittima or a coastal town like San Vincenzo?

The choice depends on your holiday preference. Stay in Campiglia Marittima if you want to experience an authentic medieval Tuscan village, enjoy panoramic views, and have a quieter base from which to explore both the coast and other inland towns. Choose San Vincenzo if your priority is to be directly on the beach, with immediate access to seaside promenades, restaurants, and a more traditional beach resort atmosphere.

What is the best time of year to visit for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday is from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (October) are also pleasant for visiting, with fewer crowds, though the water might be cooler. July and August are the busiest and hottest months.

Do I need to worry about parking at the beaches?

Parking can be challenging, especially during the peak season of July and August. The coastal parks of Rimigliano and Sterpaia have large designated parking areas, but they can fill up quickly, so it's recommended to arrive early. Some parking is paid. For popular spots like the Gulf of Baratti, finding parking can be particularly difficult during midday on summer weekends.

Are the beaches accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. The Sterpaia Coastal Park, in particular, has bathing establishments built for full accessibility. Rimigliano Park also features wooden walkways that lead from access points to the beach and services compliant with standards for people with mobility disabilities, offering equipped resting spots.

Besides the beach, what is there to do near Campiglia Marittima?

The area is rich in attractions beyond the beaches. You can explore the historic center of Campiglia Marittima itself, visit the San Silvestro Archaeological Mines Park, or discover nearby medieval villages like Suvereto and Castagneto Carducci. The region is also part of the Val di Cornia, known for its wine and food, and is close to the thermal baths at Calidario Terme Etrusche.