Sarzana Beaches

Overview

Sarzana offers a unique Italian holiday, blending the charm of a medieval town with the relaxation of a seaside escape. While the historic center is located just a few kilometers inland, it serves as an excellent and strategic base for exploring the diverse coastline. This location allows visitors to enjoy both the rich cultural life of a vibrant town and the beautiful beaches of the Ligurian Riviera, from the nearby shores to the famed Cinque Terre.

The region boasts a remarkable variety of beaches to suit any preference. For a classic family day out, the calm, sheltered bay of San Terenzo Beach is an ideal choice. Those seeking stunning scenery will appreciate the picture-perfect coves at Fiascherino. For a truly memorable adventure, you can hike or take a boat to Puntacorvo Beach, famous for its unique black sand. A day trip to Monterosso provides the quintessential Cinque Terre experience with its large, lively beach.

Just a short drive from the town center, you will find the long, sandy stretches of Marinella di Sarzana, a popular choice for their golden sand and scenic mountain backdrop. These local beaches offer a mix of private clubs and public areas, providing something for everyone. For a complete look at all the coastal gems this area has to offer, be sure to explore our full guide to the best beaches.

Top Beaches

Marinella di Sarzana

The most convenient and accessible beach for anyone staying in Sarzana, this long sandy stretch offers both private clubs and public areas. It marks the eastern edge of the Ligurian coast, right on the border with Tuscany, creating a unique setting where two beautiful regions meet. The beach is a wide, continuous strip of soft sand that runs down to the mouth of the Magra River. Its tranquil atmosphere and shallow waters make it a relaxing choice for a classic day by the sea. From the shore, you can enjoy a stunning panorama that includes not only the blue Ligurian Sea but also the dramatic backdrop of the Apuan Alps.

FAQ

Is Sarzana a good base for a beach holiday?

Sarzana is an excellent base for a holiday that combines beach days with cultural exploration. While the historic town center is not directly on the coast, it is just a few kilometers from the sandy shores of Marinella di Sarzana and Fiumaretta. Its strategic position allows easy access to the beaches of the Ligurian Riviera, including Lerici and the Cinque Terre, as well as the Versilia coast in Tuscany. This makes it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the sea without being in the midst of crowded beach towns, offering a charming historical town experience with lively evenings, restaurants, and cultural events.

Spiaggia Libera Marinella

Spiaggia di Fiumaretta

How far are the beaches from Sarzana's town center?

The main beach area, Marinella di Sarzana, is located about 6-7 kilometers from the historic center of Sarzana. It typically takes about a 10-15 minute drive to reach the coast. The nearby beaches of Fiumaretta di Ameglia are at a similar distance. Public transport is available, but having a car is the most convenient way to explore the different beaches along the coast.

What are the beaches like near Sarzana? Are they sandy?

Yes, the beaches closest to Sarzana, such as Marinella di Sarzana and Fiumaretta, are known for being long and sandy, which is somewhat rare for Liguria. The coastline features a mix of private beach clubs (stabilimenti balneari) where you can rent umbrellas and loungers, and free public beach areas (spiagge libere). The seabed is generally shallow, making it suitable for families with children. The backdrop of the Apuan Alps provides a unique and scenic view from the beach.

Spiaggia di Fiumaretta

Are there free beaches (spiaggia libera) near Sarzana?

Yes, the coastline of Marinella di Sarzana and Fiumaretta offers several sections of 'spiaggia libera,' or free public beach. These areas are accessible to everyone without an entrance fee. Some of these free beaches are completely natural, while others are 'spiagge libere attrezzate,' meaning they are public but offer services like umbrella and chair rentals, and sometimes have a small kiosk or bar nearby. Notable free beaches can be found along the Viale Litoraneo and near the mouth of the Magra river in Fiumaretta.

Are there hotels right on the beach in Marinella di Sarzana?

Yes, there are several hotels and B&Bs located along the coast in Marinella di Sarzana, some of which are right on the beachfront or just a short walk across the street from the sea. These accommodations offer the convenience of direct beach access. Options range from traditional hotels with full services to smaller B&Bs. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for the summer months.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is the water clean for swimming at Marinella di Sarzana?

The sea at Marinella di Sarzana is generally considered clean and suitable for swimming. The area has received positive ratings for water quality. The presence of breakwater barriers helps to create calm, sheltered areas for bathing. Like any beach, water clarity can vary depending on weather conditions and the time of year, but it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to swim.

Should I stay in Sarzana or Lerici for a beach trip?

Choosing between Sarzana and Lerici depends on your holiday style. Stay in Lerici if you want to be directly on the sea in a picturesque, classic Ligurian coastal village with colorful houses and a bustling harbor, though it can be more crowded and expensive. Choose Sarzana if you prefer a larger, historic town with a vibrant evening life, more diverse dining options, and cultural attractions, while still being only a short drive from the sandy beaches. Sarzana often offers better value for accommodation and serves as a great base for exploring both the Ligurian coast and northern Tuscany.

What is the best way to get to the beaches from Sarzana?

The most convenient way to get to the beaches from Sarzana is by car, which takes about 10-15 minutes. There is paid parking available near the beaches. Alternatively, there are local bus services that connect Sarzana's town center with Marinella and Fiumaretta, although they may be less frequent outside of the peak summer months. For the more active, cycling is also an option as the terrain is flat.

Spiaggia Libera Marinella

Spiaggia di Fiumaretta

People Also Ask

Are the beaches near Sarzana good for families and children?

Yes, the beaches at Marinella di Sarzana and Fiumaretta are very well-suited for families with children. The main reasons are the fine sandy shores, which are perfect for playing, and the shallow, gradually sloping seabed, which allows for safer bathing for little ones. Many of the beach clubs offer amenities like playgrounds, and the presence of both free and equipped beaches gives families flexible options.

Spiaggia di Fiumaretta

Can you do water sports at the beaches near Sarzana?

Yes, the beaches of Marinella and Fiumaretta are good spots for various water sports. The area often has a steady breeze, making it particularly popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing. You can also find opportunities for sailing and canoeing. Some local beach clubs and rental services offer equipment and lessons, especially during the summer season.

Spiaggia Libera Marinella

Spiaggia di Fiumaretta

What is the vibe of Marinella di Sarzana? Is it a party place?

Marinella di Sarzana has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere rather than being a major party destination. The daytime vibe is centered around beach clubs and sunbathing. In the evenings, the lungomare (seafront promenade) has some bars and restaurants that are pleasant for an aperitivo or dinner with a sea view. For more lively nightlife, the historic center of Sarzana itself is more active with its many bars and pubs in Piazza Matteotti and surrounding streets. Some beach clubs may host occasional evening events or parties in peak season, but the overall vibe is laid-back.

What are some less crowded, alternative beaches near Sarzana?

If you're looking to escape the main crowds of Marinella, you can explore the beaches on the other side of the Magra River. Punta Corvo, accessible by a steep hiking trail from Montemarcello or by a seasonal ferry from Fiumaretta or Bocca di Magra, is a stunning, wild beach with dark pebbles. Another option is Punta Bianca, a rocky cove with white limestone rocks, offering a more rugged and natural coastal experience compared to the sandy beaches of Marinella.

Puntacorvo Beach