If you want to discover the best beaches in Orbetello — not just the famous sandy stretches, but also hidden coves, wild nature reserves, and local favorites — you’ve come to the right place. With my own sand still clinging to my beach bag after two weeks exploring every shore, lagoon, and viewpoint between the Giannella and Feniglia tomboli, I can confidently say: Orbetello is a coastal treasure for mature travelers who value atmosphere, authenticity, and a reliable mobile-first guide. You can plan your days here with the same ease as you’d scroll your favorite travel app — clear, concise, ready to act.
Best Hotels in Orbetello🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Le Dimore di Terrarossa Argentario
- 🏨 4-Star: Tenuta La Parrina
- 🛏️ 3-Star: La Posta Di Torrenova
- 💸 Cheap: Villa Paradisino Ansedonia
- 🏢 Apartment: Appartamento Al Parco Con Parcheggio Gratuito
- 👪 For Families: Agriturismo Fontetrilla
- 🏩 For Couples: Casa Azzurra
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏝️ Classic Sandy Stretches — Giannella Beach
- 🌲 Pine-Fringed Paradise — Feniglia Beach
- ⛱️ Sheltered Shores — Lagoon Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Serenity — Osa Beach
- 🤿 Snorkeling & Seclusion — Cala Piccola Beach
- 🧭 Rocky Discovery — Cala Grande Beach
- 🏄 Windsurfer’s Dream — Cala della Fornace Beach
- 🌊 Wave Chasers — Cala del Gesso Beach
- 🚴 Hidden Escape — Cala del Pozzo Beach
1. Giannella Beach: The Quintessential Orbetello Strand
Golden grains crunch underfoot as you cross Giannella’s 8km stretch, Europe’s answer to an endless summer postcard — wide, sandy, and fringed by fragrant Mediterranean scrub. I lost track of time here, watching flamingos wade in the nearby lagoon while the sun dipped toward Elba Island; this is the kind of beach that makes you forget your phone, just for a moment. The water is shallow for ages, making it a haven for families with small children and anyone who loves long, unhurried swims. Visit June to September for the warmest water, but even in early summer, expect gentle surf and a tranquil vibe.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Stroll along the pine-shaded paths behind Giannella Beach, where locals picnic in dappled light to escape midday heat. The nearby Orbetello Lagoon offers superb birdwatching from the WWF Oasis viewpoints, and a short walk brings you to Torre Cacciarella, a historic watchtower with sweeping lagoon panoramas. For something truly local, try sunrise at the wild northern end of Giannella, where deer sometimes wander onto the sand — arrive before 8am for solitude and cool breezes. Parking is easy along Strada della Giannella, and buses from Orbetello Scalo stop within a 5-minute walk.
- Pro: Vast, uncrowded sands and shallow waters — perfect for families and swimmers.
- Con: Some areas are privately managed, so walk a bit farther to find free stretches.
Best For: Anyone seeking classic Tuscan beach vibes, gentle swimming, and good sunset views.
Skip If: You’re after dramatic cliffs or surf; for that, head to the coves of Monte Argentario.
Best Hotels near Giannella Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- La Locanda Di Ansedonia — Country-house style stay near Ansedonia with cozy rooms, garden views, and easy access to Feniglia’s sandy dunes and Giannella Beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Tenuta La Parrina — Historic wine estate with rustic-chic rooms, farm-to-table dining, and serene gardens near Giannella Beach and Orbetello Lagoon.
- Orbetello Centro Tramonto Di Ponente — Independent house in the historic center featuring sunset-facing terraces and easy access to lagoon promenades.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Blumare Affitti Turistici — Simple self-catering apartments in a convenient town location, ideal for budget stays near the lagoon.
2. Feniglia Beach: Wild Beauty in the Dune Reserve
Feniglia’s white sand is soft as powdered sugar, stretching 7km between wild pines and the Tyrrhenian Sea — a protected microclimate where you might spot fallow deer grazing behind the dunes. I lingered in the shade of a centuries-old pine, listening to the gentle lap of waves and watching a pair of herons patrol the shore. This nature reserve beach feels remote, yet is easy to reach via a short walk from the car park. The sea stays shallow and calm, making it ideal for kids and peaceful paddles. Best between late May and early October, when the pines offer cool respite and the water is inviting.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Cycle or walk the forest trail from Porto Ercole to Ansedonia for the full Feniglia experience, stopping at the Caravaggio Memorial Stele deep in the pines — locals love this quiet spot for its mix of history and shade. The beach is mostly free, with a few equipped sections at either end. For a local secret, try the central stretch where the pines come closest to the water; here, you’ll find fewer footprints and perhaps the company of a curious deer. Arrive by 10am to secure a shady spot under the trees, as parking fills quickly in peak season.
- Pro: Untouched nature, abundant shade, and rare wildlife right on the beach.
- Con: Limited services outside the equipped areas, so bring your own supplies.
Best For: Nature lovers, walkers, cyclists, and anyone seeking a quiet coastal escape.
Skip If: You want lively bars and water sports; Giannella has more action.
Best Hotels near Feniglia Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Le Dimore di Terrarossa Argentario — Tranquil resort setting close to the Argentario Golf Club, featuring spacious rooms and a relaxing countryside atmosphere.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Noi 2 Vacanze Orbetello Centro — Simple, well-located apartments ideal for walkable access to cafés, shops, and the Orbetello waterfront.
- Locanda Le Mandriane — Countryside agriturismo with homemade breakfasts, garden views, and quick drives to Giannella and Feniglia beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Il Gabbiano Orbetello — Friendly B&B with bright rooms and easy access to cafés and the waterfront promenade.
3. Lagoon Beach: Where Salt Meets Sea
Between the Orbetello Lagoon and the sea, this unique stretch blends salt marshes with inviting shallows — you can see flamingos from the sand and have a swim, all in one morning. The breeze carries the scent of brine and wild herbs, a sensory cocktail you won’t find on typical Italian beaches. This is one of Orbetello’s best beaches for birdwatchers and photographers seeking something different. The “beach” is actually a mix of sand and pebble, about 3km long, offering a peaceful alternative to the more popular Giannella and Feniglia. Prime time is late spring to early autumn, when the water is warm and the migratory birds are at their most active.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park near the Orbetello Scalo train station and walk along the lagoon’s edge to the spiaggia, passing the picturesque Diga Leopoldiana bridge in the heart of the province of Grosseto. Locals love the western stretch near the old Spanish mills for sunset views over Maremma and the chance to spot rare birds along one of Tuscany’s most beautiful beaches. For a quiet cove feeling, take the path to the small fishing harbor near Torre San Donato — a hidden gem where you might have the shore to yourself for an unforgettable pause. The best time to visit is early morning, when the light is golden and the lagoon is alive with birdsong.
- Pro: Unique lagoon-meets-sea environment, excellent for birding and photography.
- Con: Less classic “beach” feel, with mixed sand and pebble underfoot.
Best For: Birdwatchers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful, offbeat experience.
Skip If: You want classic sandy stretches; head to Giannella or Feniglia instead.
Best Hotels near Lagoon Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort — Luxury wellness retreat with an 18-hole course, expansive spa, and stylish suites within the Argentario hills and Lagoon Beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa Paradisino Ansedonia — Elegant seaside villa near Orbetello Lagoon with spacious suites and convenient access to sandy beach.
- Appartamento Al Parco Con Parcheggio Gratuito — Comfortable apartment by a leafy park, offering free parking and a calm base close to Orbetello’s center.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Azzurra — Central historic-center apartment, walkable to restaurants and the evening passeggiata.
4. Osa Beach: The Sunset Seeker’s Choice
Osa Beach is where the Arno and Ombrone rivers almost meet the sea, creating a long, graceful curve of golden sand that glows in the evening light — the perfect spot to watch the sky turn pink over the lagoon. The water here is calm and shallow, ideal for a relaxing swim after a day of exploring Maremma’s castles and villages. The beach stretches about 6km north of Orbetello, separating the town from Talamone, and has a wild, unspoiled feel, especially outside peak season. Visit from June to September for the warmest water and fewest breezes.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park near the pine forest entrance and walk through the fragrant woods to reach the sand — in this corner of Tuscany the path is easily accessible from the Aurelia, and locals love this approach for its cool shade and tranquil vibe. Osa is popular with campers, so expect a laid-back, friendly crowd along a long beach that borders a protected wetland where birdlife thrives. For a hidden spot, head to the far northern end, where the beach narrows and the views of Giglio Island are unobstructed, and where traces of ancient Roman activity still linger in coastal ruins that orbetello offers context for in local signage.
- Pro: Stunning sunsets, quiet atmosphere, and easy parking.
- Con: Mostly managed by campsites; public access is limited in places.
Best For: Sunset lovers, campers, and anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic swim.
Skip If: You need lots of amenities; Giannella offers more services.
Best Hotels near Osa Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- A Point Porto Ercole Resort & Spa — Contemporary design hotel in Porto Ercole offering a full-service spa, rooftop spaces, and quick access to Osa Beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- App - Il Fenicottero con parcheggio gratuito ad Orbetello — Cozy self-catering stay with convenient on-site parking and easy road links to Monte Argentario and Osa beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Il Fenicottero — Cozy rooms named after local birds, a short drive to Giannella and Osa beaches.
5. Cala Piccola Beach: Snorkeling & Seclusion
Tucked on the southern edge of Monte Argentario, Cala Piccola is a small, sandy cove embraced by cliffs and clear, turquoise water — it’s like diving into a postcard. I swam here one bright morning, watching fish dart through sunlit rocks while the scent of wild thyme drifted down from the bluffs. The beach is partly sandy, partly pebble, about 200m long, with calm water perfect for snorkeling. Best visited May to September, when the sea is warmest and the cliffs offer shelter from the wind.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Reach Cala Piccola via a steep path from Porto Santo Stefano — the walk is worth it for the views across the Argentario promontory and the quiet found beyond the busier beaches of Giannella and Feniglia. Nearby, the Torre di Cala Piccola watchtower offers panoramic sea vistas within a natural reserve setting, and locals recommend the tiny beach bar tucked into the cliff for a cold drink with a view. For a hidden gem, explore the rocky outcrop west of the main cove, where you can often have a stretch of sea to yourself on these rocky beaches, and note that small sections may feel like a private beach depending on tides.
- Pro: Stunning water clarity, excellent for snorkeling, and a peaceful vibe.
- Con: Small, gets crowded in peak season, and access is steep.
Best For: Snorkelers, couples, and anyone seeking a picturesque cove.
Skip If: You have mobility issues or want a long, sandy stretch.
Best Hotels near Cala Piccola Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Borgo Degli Ulivi Porto Ercole — Quiet apartment-style complex with pool and olive groves, a short drive from Riva del Marchese and Cala Piccola.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Villa Smeraldo — Relaxed guesthouse-style stay with a garden setting and straightforward access to the coastal Cala Piccola lanes.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Il Tombolo — Practical apartment stay near the sandy tombolo strips connecting Monte Argentario to the mainland.
6. Cala Grande Beach: Rocky Discovery
Cala Grande, on the Argentario’s western side, is a dramatic contrast to Orbetello’s sandy strands — a rocky crescent lapped by crystal-clear waves, backed by olive trees and wildflowers. I spent an afternoon here, listening to the rhythmic crash of waves and marveling at the way the light played on the water. The beach is about 150m of pebble and rock, with deep water close to shore, so it’s best for confident swimmers and those who love to dive. Visit from late May to September for warm water and calm conditions.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park in Porto Santo Stefano and take the scenic footpath along the coast to Cala Grande — the walk is a highlight within the municipality of Monte Argentario, with views over the Tyrrhenian Sea and Isola del Gardino that make this stretch feel like a public beach set in wild scenery. Nearby, the Capo d’Uomo viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama, while the hidden cove just north of Cala Grande is a local favorite for its privacy and clear water, an ideal beach for confident swimmers rather than a beach with shallow water.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery, great for diving and photography.
- Con: Pebble beach, not ideal for young children or sunbathing.
Best For: Adventurous swimmers, photographers, and fans of rocky shores.
Skip If: You want soft sand or shallow water; try Giannella or Feniglia.
Best Hotels near Cala Grande Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Il Molino Porto Ercole — Charming stay in a historic mill setting near the waterfront, walkable to the old town and marina.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Argentario Holiday Home — Bright apartment near the harbor, ideal for day trips to Cala del Gesso and Cala Grande.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Villa Flora Argentario — Guesthouse-style lodging with garden areas and easy road access to Cala Grande.
7. Cala della Fornace Beach: Windsurfer’s Dream
Cala della Fornace, between Porto Ercole and Feniglia, catches reliable sea breezes, making it a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. The shore here is a mix of sand and small pebbles, about 300m long, with open water that’s perfect for catching waves. I watched surfers carve across the bay one breezy afternoon, their sails bright against the blue. The beach faces south, so it’s sheltered from the worst of the wind, and the water is clean and inviting. Best from June to early September, when the winds are steady and the sea is warm.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the small lot near the beach and walk down to the shore on the Monte Argentario peninsula; equipment rentals are available nearby and convenient for those coming from hotels or campsites. The nearby Torre delle Cannelle offers sweeping views over the Argentario coast toward the centre of the lagoon, and the path to Cala del Gesso is a local favorite for a quiet stroll that also hints at the wild character of the Feniglia Nature Reserve and the shaded Feniglia pine forest. For a quiet swim, head to the tiny cove east of the main beach — rarely busy even in summer, close to Bagni di Domiziano and the Cosa ruins.
- Pro: Excellent for wind sports, clean water, and scenic views.
- Con: Mixed sand and pebble, not ideal for classic sunbathing.
Best For: Windsurfers, kiteboarders, and anyone who loves active beaches.
Skip If: You want calm, shallow water for swimming; opt for Giannella or Feniglia.
Best Hotels near Cala della Fornace Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- BI Hotel — Modern apartment accommodation with clean design and convenient access to Orbetello’s seaside promenade.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Maremmano BnB — Friendly B&B vibe with airy rooms and a convenient base for exploring the Cala della Fornace coast.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Valle D'Oro — Quiet countryside B&B serving homemade breakfasts, handy for day trips to Cala della Fornace coves.
8. Cala del Gesso Beach: Wave Chasers
Cala del Gesso is another wind-lover’s paradise, with a small sandy cove overlooking the sea and lively surf that attracts surfers and bodyboarders along a narrow strip of land. The cliffs here echo with the crash of waves, and the air is salty and fresh in this protected nature reserve setting. The beach is about 100m of sand and rock, with deeper water close to shore — perfect for a quick dip or a surfing session with sunbeds and umbrellas sometimes set at the front of the beach in summer. Visit from June to September for the best waves and warmest sea, easily reached from Porto Ercole by a scenic coastal path.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park in Porto Santo Stefano and follow the coastal path to Cala del Gesso; the walk is scenic, with sea views all the way and can also be a pleasant walk or cycle route. The Torre della Cala del Gesso offers a panoramic lookout located near Porto Ercole, and the tiny beach bar above the cove is a local favorite for a post-surf beer. For a quieter spot, nip around the rocky point to the east, where the water is calmer and the crowds thin out, and note that Orbetello is located nearby with boardwalks around the wetlands because Orbetello Lagoon is one of Tuscany’s great coastal ecosystems.
- Pro: Great surf, dramatic scenery, and a lively vibe.
- Con: Small, rocky in places, and can get crowded with surfers.
Best For: Surfers, bodyboarders, and anyone who loves energetic beaches.
Skip If: You want calm, shallow water; Giannella or Feniglia are better options.
Best Hotels near Cala del Gesso Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casa La Marinella Sul Porto — Waterfront apartment overlooking the marina, perfect for evenings on the terrace after beach days.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Beatrice Albinia — Comfortable Albinia apartment near shops and the Cala del Gesso road for quick beach runs.
9. Cala del Pozzo Beach: Hidden Escape
Cala del Pozzo is a tucked-away gem on Monte Argentario’s western edge — a tiny pebble beach surrounded by cliffs, accessible via a steep footpath from Porto Santo Stefano. The water here is crystal-clear, ideal for a refreshing swim after the hike down. I had this cove almost to myself one weekday morning, listening to the waves and the calls of seabirds overhead. The beach is about 50m long, with deep water close to shore — perfect for a quick, invigorating dip. Visit late May to early October for the warmest water and calmest conditions.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park in Porto Santo Stefano and take the marked trail to Cala del Pozzo — the descent is steep but rewarding, with sea views all the way across this rugged corner of the region of Tuscany. Nearby, the Torre di Cala del Pozzo watchtower offers a stunning panorama, and the rocky platform just west of the cove is a local secret for sunbathing in peace near an ancient Roman villa open to visitors along the coast. For the ultimate escape, visit on a weekday outside peak hours, when you might have the beach to yourself, then plan a restorative stop later at Sense Resort.
- Pro: Secluded, clear water, and a true hidden-gem feeling.
- Con: Small, steep access, and pebble beach.
Best For: Adventurous souls, snorkelers, and anyone seeking solitude.
Skip If: You have mobility issues or want classic sandy shores.
Best Hotels near Cala del Pozzo Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- The Apartment Porto Santo Stefano — Bright, contemporary apartment close to the harbor, ideal for exploring Cala del Pozzo and Cala Grande.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Pensione Week End — Classic budget-friendly pensione near cafés and the seafront, with straightforward rooms and welcoming hosts.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Turchetti’s Rooms — Minimalist rooms in a central spot, a straightforward base for exploring the lagoon and coast.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Orbetello?
Expect to pay €10–15 for a beach umbrella and sunbed at equipped lidos on a typical stretch of sand where the beach is located beside a vast pine forest, around €20–30 for a casual lunch at a beach bar, and a few euros for parking or bike rental, with prices rising slightly in July and August.
Which beaches in Orbetello are best for families with young children?
Giannella Beach and Feniglia Beach are both excellent for families, offering gentle slopes, shallow water, and pine-shaded picnic areas, while Osa Beach’s calm waves and campsites make it a great base for longer stays.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Orbetello?
Giannella Beach is popular for sailing and windsurfing, and the beach provides natural shelter thanks to the pine forest behind, while Cala della Fornace and Cala del Gesso are top choices for windsurf, kiteboarding, and surfing due to their reliable breezes and open water.
What is the best time of year to visit Orbetello’s beaches?
Late May through September offers the warmest water (22–26°C) and sunniest weather, with June and September being less crowded than July and August, ideal for mature travelers seeking tranquility.
How can you easily get around Orbetello’s beaches?
Most beaches are accessible by car, with parking lots near Giannella, Feniglia, and Osa Beaches, while Porto Santo Stefano serves as a hub for reaching Monte Argentario’s coves by foot or bike; Orbetello Scalo train station connects you to the lagoon area.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Orbetello?
Cala del Pozzo, Cala Piccola, and the wild northern stretches of Giannella and Feniglia offer quieter alternatives to the main beaches, especially outside peak hours and in early summer or September.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Orbetello’s beaches?
Arrive early to secure parking and shade, bring your own water and snacks for wilder stretches, use reef-safe sunscreen, and respect nature reserve rules—binoculars are a must for birdwatchers at the lagoon.
