Manciano Beaches

Overview

While Manciano is a classic Tuscan hill-town, it serves as a fantastic base for exploring the stunning coastline of the Maremma region. The beautiful beaches of the Monte Argentario coast are just a scenic 30-to-40-minute drive away, offering the perfect blend of countryside charm and seaside adventure. This unique location allows visitors to enjoy both the rolling hills and thermal springs inland, and the celebrated shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The coastline offers remarkable variety, from long sandy stretches to secluded rocky coves. For a perfect family day out with calm, shallow water, head to Giannella beach. Its counterpart, Feniglia, is a famous all-rounder, backed by a beautiful pine forest nature reserve. For those seeking a more dramatic and photogenic experience, the stunning turquoise water of Cala del Gesso is well worth the hike, while the unique 'singing' sands of Cala Violina make for an unforgettable day trip. Near Porto Ercole, the pebble beach of L'acqua Dolce is a favorite among locals.

The beaches of this region feel wilder and more natural than those in other parts of Tuscany. They range from easily accessible shores to hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The beaches highlighted here are just a starting point; be sure to explore our full guide to find the perfect spot for your Tuscan holiday.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Manciano a good base for a beach holiday?

Manciano is a charming inland hill town, not a coastal town. It's an excellent base if you want to combine relaxing in the Tuscan countryside and visiting the famous Terme di Saturnia hot springs with day trips to the sea. The nearest beaches on the Argentario coast are about a 30-40 minute drive away.

What is the closest beach to Manciano and Saturnia?

The closest and most popular beaches are on the Monte Argentario peninsula, approximately 30-35 km away. The two main options are the sandy beaches of Tombolo della Giannella and Tombolo della Feniglia, which connect Argentario to the mainland. The drive typically takes 30 to 40 minutes.

Feniglia

Giannella

Do I need a car to get to the beaches from Manciano?

Yes, a car is essential. There is no frequent or direct public transport connecting Manciano to the coastal areas. A car gives you the flexibility to explore different beaches, find parking, and travel at your own pace, which is crucial for a holiday in this rural part of Tuscany.

What's the difference between Feniglia and Giannella beach?

Both are long sandy strips connecting Monte Argentario to the mainland. Feniglia is backed by a beautiful pine forest nature reserve, has very calm, shallow waters, and is often considered more family-friendly and scenic. Giannella is more developed with numerous beach clubs and restaurants and faces the open sea, sometimes resulting in more wave action.

Feniglia

Giannella

Are there good accommodation options like an agriturismo near the beach?

Yes, the Maremma region is famous for its agriturismi (farm stays). While many are located inland in the countryside around Manciano and Saturnia, you can also find several excellent options closer to the coast, in the areas around Capalbio and Orbetello, offering a mix of rural charm and easy beach access.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are the beaches near Manciano sandy or rocky?

The main beaches easily accessible from Manciano, such as Feniglia, Giannella, and the coastline at Capalbio, are predominantly long, sandy beaches. While the Monte Argentario peninsula itself has many small, rocky coves, the most popular and expansive beaches are sandy.

Feniglia

Giannella

Are there free beaches or do you have to pay?

You can find both. Most beaches have large sections of "spiaggia libera" (free public beach) where you can lay your own towel. They also have "stabilimenti balneari," which are private beach clubs where you pay to rent sunbeds and an umbrella for the day, often with access to facilities like showers, toilets, and a bar.

What are the beaches like for families and children?

The beaches of the Maremma coast are very family-friendly. Spiaggia della Feniglia is a top choice for families due to its exceptionally calm, shallow waters protected by the lagoon and a large pine forest behind it that offers shade and a place for picnics and bike rides.

Feniglia

When is the best time to visit the beaches near Manciano?

For warm swimming water and full services, July and August are the peak months, but they are also the most crowded and expensive. For a great balance of pleasant weather, warm water, and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September. May and early October can also be beautiful for relaxing on the beach, though the water will be cooler.

What is parking like at the beaches?

Parking can be challenging, especially in July and August. Most popular beaches have paid parking lots (`parcheggio a pagamento`). It's advisable to arrive early in the morning, particularly on weekends, to secure a spot. For Feniglia, you can park at the entrance to the nature reserve and then walk or cycle to your preferred spot on the beach.

Feniglia

How do the beaches here compare to other parts of Tuscany like Viareggio?

The beaches of the Maremma coast near Manciano feel wilder and more natural compared to the northern Tuscan coast of Versilia, where Viareggio is located. The Maremma offers a backdrop of nature reserves, pine forests, and rolling hills, with a more relaxed atmosphere. Versilia is known for its long, wide beaches lined with uniform rows of iconic beach clubs and a more bustling, glamorous nightlife.

Can you recommend a quieter, more 'local' beach?

For a wilder and less crowded experience, head south of Argentario to the beaches near Capalbio. The "Ultima Spiaggia" is well-known, but the long stretch of coast here has many access points and feels more rugged and natural. Another option is to explore the small, rocky coves on Monte Argentario itself, like Cala del Gesso, though these often require a hike to reach.