Capalbio, Italy Capalbio, Italy

9 Best Beaches in Capalbio, Italy 🇮🇹: Coastal Guide With Beach Activities & Seaside Travel Tips

You’re planning a trip to Capalbio — the ultimate Tuscan coastline getaway for mature travelers, couples, and small groups who want genuine atmosphere, natural beauty, and no-fuss, trustworthy advice. The beaches in Capalbio (and its wild, unspoiled surroundings) stretch over 12 km, offering everything from private clubs to windswept dunes. This guide is built for mobile, with quick scans and real feel from a seasoned traveler’s point of view.

Best Hotels in Capalbio🔥

Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃

  • 🏜️ Wild Dunes & Nature — Spiaggia di Macchiatonda
  • 🌊 Tranquil Sands — Spiaggia di Torba
  • 🌅 Crystal-Clear Escape — Ultima Spiaggia
  • 🏖️ Club Life & Chic — La Dogana Beach
  • 🤿 Dark Sands & Birdlife — Playa La Torba
  • 🚶‍♂️ Cliffside Adventure — Cala del Gesso Beach
  • 🦢 Lagoon Sanctuary — Burano Lake Beach
  • 🌄 Dune Strolls — Spiaggia delle Dune Beach
  • 🏰 History by the Sea — Spiaggia di Chiarone Beach

1. Spiaggia di Macchiatonda: Wild Dune Landscape with Mediterranean Scrub

Soft sand warms your feet as you walk through rolling dunes, the scent of juniper and wildflowers mixing with the salty breeze. I loved starting my mornings here, spotting rare birds near the WWF Oasis of Lake Burano. This 3 km sandy beach is best from May to September — the Mediterranean scrub gives shade, and the water is calm for swimming and paddleboarding.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park near Macchiatonda Club and follow the coastal trail along the Capalbio coastline to La Dogana Beach Club, passing the promontory of Monte Argentario and the first Italian WWF oasis in southern Tuscany. The dune walk through juniper bushes is a local favorite for quiet reflection and a serene glimpse of the beaches of Capalbio. Early mornings mean fewer crowds and cooler sands on this mostly free beach alternate; arrive by car for easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Capalbio.

  • Pro: Unmatched natural beauty and birdwatching.
  • Con: Limited facilities; bring water and snacks.

Best For: Nature lovers and peaceful beachgoers.
Skip If: You need buzzing nightlife or lots of amenities — head to a beach club instead.

Best Hotels near Spiaggia di Macchiatonda

💎 Luxury hotels

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Maremmano BnB — Cozy B&B with bright rooms and a relaxed garden setting, within easy driving distance of Capalbio’s sandy beaches.
  • Delizioso Appartamento a Capalbio con Vista — Self-catering apartment featuring a panoramic terrace and convenient access to Capalbio’s historic center and coast.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • Capalbio RelaxHouse — Simple, comfy holiday home with garden space and parking, a practical base for low-cost beach days.

2. Spiaggia di Torba: Quiet Beach with Dark Volcanic Sand and Calm Sea

Barefoot on dark, cool sand, you’ll notice how the sea here is crystal clear, even on windy days along the Lazio border. One afternoon, I discovered a hidden cove behind the beach called Spiaggia del Frigidaire — a peaceful spot cherished by locals for its breathtaking views. This 2.5 km mix of sand and pebbles is perfect from June to August, with a gently shelving seabed and soft waves for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding.

Spiaggia di Torba, Capalbio
Spiaggia di Torba, Capalbio
Spiaggia di Torba, Capalbio

Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Explore the Ansedonia Promontory, visit the Burano Lake Reserve, or wander the village of Capalbio after your swim to soak up the surroundings of Capalbio. The hidden cove is ideal for a quiet picnic along long stretches of free beach and a few stretches of free beach alternate. Park near the Aurelia road and walk to the beach, or take the local bus to Capalbio Scalo station, and check local boards for seasonal events in Capalbio.

  • Pro: Calm waters and unique dark sand.
  • Con: Pebbles can be tough on bare feet; bring sandals.

Best For: Couples and families seeking tranquility.
Skip If: You want white sand and lots of action — try Ultima Spiaggia.

Best Hotels near Spiaggia di Torba

💎 Luxury hotels

  • La Torricella Capalbio — Charming hilltop guesthouse offering panoramic countryside views, airy rooms, and convenient parking for seaside day trips.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Villa Enli — Private villa option with spacious interiors and a garden, ideal for small groups planning beach day trips.
  • Il Chiosco Giallo — Simple countryside stay with air-conditioned rooms and parking, a short drive from Macchiatonda and Torba.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • Podere Oca Bianca — Agriturismo stay with countryside views and relaxed outdoor areas, within easy reach of Capalbio’s dunes and lagoons.

3. Ultima Spiaggia: Unspoiled Sandy Beach with Crystal-Clear Water

This beach shimmers — the water is so clear, you can see small fish dart between your toes. I watched the sunset from a rocky point here, a favorite with local photographers. The 1.8 km sandy stretch is best from July to September, with sunbeds and lifeguards for safe swimming and snorkeling.

Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Chiarone Village is located near Capalbio, and the WWF Lake Burano Oasis — the first WWF oasis in Italy — is a short drive. The Tuscan Maremma Park offers hiking trails and hosts cultural moments tied to Capalbio Libri in summer. The rocky sunset point is the local’s secret for peace and photos. Parking is easy near Chiarone; avoid weekends for a quieter vibe.

  • Pro: Clean, shallow waters and good facilities.
  • Con: Can get busy in peak season.

Best For: Swimmers and snorkelers.
Skip If: You want a wilder, more natural setting — try Spiaggia delle Dune Beach.

Best Hotels near Ultima Spiaggia

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • B&B Valle d'Oro — Friendly B&B offering a homely vibe, daily breakfast, and easy road links to the Ultima Spiaggia coastline.
  • Agriturismo Il Mirto — Farm stay surrounded by olive trees with rustic rooms and outdoor spaces, good for a quiet beach base.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • Agriturismo Farfollie — Rustic farm retreat offering peaceful rooms and a natural setting ideal for quiet coastal getaways.

4. La Dogana Beach: Exclusive Beach Club with Upscale Facilities

Imagine lounging on a sunbed, cocktail in hand, with the Tyrrhenian stretching to the horizon. The vibe here is relaxed luxury, and the 1.5 km sandy beach has sunbeds, showers, and a rustic beach bar serving local seafood. Open Easter through September, it’s a favorite for couples and small groups.

La Dogana Beach, Capalbio
La Dogana Beach, Capalbio
La Dogana Beach, Capalbio

On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Terre di Sacra Reserve and Macchiatonda Beach are nearby, as is the Lake Burano Oasis with calm shallows suitable for children. The beach bar is known for its seafood, aperitifs, and traditional Tuscan cuisine served at sunset. Club opens daily from June; arrive by car and park onsite if not staying at Hotel Residence Valle del Buttero nearby.

  • Pro: Top-notch amenities and chic atmosphere.
  • Con: Can be pricey in peak season.

Best For: Couples and small groups wanting comfort.
Skip If: You’re on a tight budget — opt for a free beach stretch.

Best Hotels near La Dogana Beach

💎 Luxury hotels

  • Macchie Basse Guest House — Simple, clean guest house amid olive groves with relaxed outdoor spaces and a short drive to sandy stretches.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Clori — Modern apartment-style lodging with kitchen facilities and balcony options for relaxed longer stays near the sea.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

5. Playa La Torba: Anthracite-Black Sandy Beach with Serene Atmosphere

Walking here feels like stepping onto another planet — the sand is almost black, the sea calm, and the air scented with wild herbs. I met locals walking their dogs along paths lined with Mediterranean scrub. This 2 km sandy beach is best from May to October, with both free and private sections.

Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Ansedonia Ruins, Capalbio Park, and the lush Mediterranean vegetation are all close. The quiet walking paths are loved by locals for evening strolls. Access by local bus or car; park near Capalbio Scalo station.

  • Pro: Unique black sand and tranquil setting.
  • Con: Not ideal for those seeking golden sands.

Best For: Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Skip If: You want classic golden sand — La Dogana Beach has it.

Best Hotels near Playa La Torba

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Appartamento Il Torrione — Country house near Ansedonia offering garden space and convenient access to Torba and Orbetello.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • Agriturismo Da Lorena — Friendly rural property featuring homestyle rooms, on-site dining, and convenient access to Macchiatonda and Torba.

6. Cala del Gesso Beach: Rocky Cove with Turquoise Waters and Cliffs

Clamber over smooth rocks to find a hidden cove where the water glows turquoise. I snorkeled here, spotting colorful fish in the clear depths. This 800-meter pebble beach is accessible from late spring through early autumn, perfect for adventurous swimmers and divers.

Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Monte Argentario Promontory, Fisherman’s Harbor, and the coastal trail are close where the seabed has a gentle sandy bottom. The small underwater cave is a local secret for snorkeling and occasionally draws curious vips who value privacy when the light is calm. Parking is limited; best to walk from Argentario as the path lies Capalbio along the ridge toward quieter coves.

  • Pro: Fantastic snorkeling and dramatic scenery.
  • Con: Pebble beach not ideal for lounging.

Best For: Adventurous swimmers and divers.
Skip If: You need easy access and sandy shores — try Ultima Spiaggia.

Best Hotels near Cala del Gesso Beach

💎 Luxury hotels

  • Tenuta La Parrina — Historic estate with winery, gardens, and rustic-chic rooms, ideal for combining beach time with tastings and countryside walks.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Podere L'Olmaia — Agriturismo with a peaceful rural setting, comfortable rooms, and a short drive to the Сapalbio beaches.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • Manciano’s Panorama — Budget-friendly apartment with balcony views and kitchen facilities, good for self-catering beach breaks.

7. Burano Lake Beach: Unique Lagoon Beach Inside WWF Oasis with Rich Flora and Fauna

This isn’t your typical beach — it’s a long sandy spit bordering a lagoon teeming with birds and butterflies. I spent hours photographing herons and egrets here. The shallow waters make it safe for families, best from spring to autumn.

The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Lake Burano Reserve and Capalbio Village are nearby, as is lush Mediterranean scrub in the coastal dunes di Capalbio. The butterfly garden is a local highlight close to Club La Macchia on quieter days. Enter near Aurelia State Road; guided tours available.

  • Pro: Exceptional for birdwatching and nature photography.
  • Con: Not for swimming in deep water.

Best For: Birdwatchers and nature photographers.
Skip If: You want classic sea swimming — head to Spiaggia di Torba.

Best Hotels near Burano Lake Beach

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Agriturismo La Siesta — Laid-back farm stay with shaded outdoor areas and on-site parking, handy for beach-hopping around Capalbio.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • Holiday Properties Le Vele — Holiday home option near the coast with tidy interiors and easy parking for day trips to Capalbio .

8. Spiaggia delle Dune Beach: Long Sandy Stretch with Rolling Dunes and Untouched Nature

Stretch your legs on 3.5 km of wild, sandy beach, where dunes roll into the distance and the only sounds are waves and wind. I watched the sunset from a dune-top viewpoint, a spot locals love for its peace. This free beach is best from May to September, with natural vegetation for shade.

Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The WWF Burano Oasis and the Terre di Sacra estate are just a short distance away, adding to the sense of wild, untouched nature around Spiaggia delle Dune. A favorite local secret is climbing the highest dunes at sunset, when the sky glows pink and orange and the coastline stretches endlessly in both directions. Access is easiest by car, with parking areas near the main beach entry points, though a short walk through the dunes makes the arrival feel even more special.

  • Pro: Endless space and natural beauty.
  • Con: Few facilities; bring supplies.

Best For: Beach walkers and solitude seekers.
Skip If: You need amenities and services — try La Dogana Beach.

Best Hotels near Spiaggia delle Dune Beach

💎 Luxury hotels

  • Casa ai Poggi dell'Argentario — Spacious villa option near Orbetello lagoon offering privacy, a garden, and good access to the Argentario coast.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Agriturismo Il Quarto — Simple, well-kept rooms on a working farm with easy car access to dunes, lagoons, and coastal trails.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • La Casa di Nonna Libia — Charming countryside house offering quiet rooms and a garden, ideal for couples seeking a peaceful base.

9. Spiaggia di Chiarone Beach: Quiet, Sandy Beach Next to Medieval Village Ruins

Soft sand, calm waves, and the ruins of Chiarone Village nearby make this 1.7 km beach feel timeless. I enjoyed lunch at the beachside restaurant, a local favorite for traditional Tuscan dishes. Best from June to September, with both free and club sections.

Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The medieval walls of the old Chiarone settlement and the Aurelia State Road are both close, giving the area a blend of history and easy modern access. A small beachside restaurant here is a favorite among locals, known for its fresh seafood pasta and traditional Tuscan dishes served right by the shore. Reaching the beach is straightforward — the Aurelia offers direct road access, and you’ll find both parking areas and a convenient bus stop nearby, making it easy whether you come by car or public transport.

  • Pro: Historic atmosphere and good local food.
  • Con: Can feel remote if you’re without a car.

Best For: History buffs and calm swimmers.
Skip If: You want action and water sports — Cala del Gesso Beach is your spot.

Best Hotels near Spiaggia di Chiarone Beach

💎 Luxury hotels

  • Fattoria La Campigliola — Farm stay with pool and tranquil rural setting, great for families seeking a base close to Capalbio and Maremma beaches.

⭐ Best Value Hotels

  • Bed and Breakfast La Marianaccia — Cozy countryside B&B with bright, simple rooms, ample parking, and easy road access to Capalbio’s beaches and medieval village.

💶 Smart Budget Hotels

  • Camera Graziosa — Simple private room with air conditioning and straightforward access to nearby beaches by car.

FAQ

What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Capalbio?

Expect to spend €10–20 per day on sunbeds and umbrellas at beach clubs, €10–25 per meal at local trattorias, and consider renting a car (€40–70/day) for easy beach-hopping.

Which beaches in Capalbio are best for families with young children?

Ultima Spiaggia and Spiaggia di Torba offer calm, shallow waters and lifeguards, while Macchiatonda and Chiarone have space for running and playing.

Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Capalbio?

Cala del Gesso is great for snorkeling, while the free stretches near Macchiatonda and Spiaggia delle Dune are popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.

What is the best time of year to visit Capalbio’s beaches?

May through September is best for swimming and sunbathing, with July and August the busiest; late spring and early autumn offer quieter visits with mild temperatures.

How can you easily get around Capalbio’s beaches?

A car makes beach-hopping easiest, but local buses run to Capalbio Scalo and Chiarone; cycling and coastal walks also connect many stretches.

Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Capalbio?

Spiaggia delle Dune Beach and the hidden cove behind Spiaggia di Torba are local favorites for peace and seclusion.

What practical tips should visitors know when going to Capalbio’s beaches?

Bring water, snacks, and sun protection for free beaches; arrive early to secure parking in summer; dogs are welcome in many areas.