If you’re searching for the best beaches in Porto Ercole, Tuscany, you’ve come to the right place. This coastal gem on the Monte Argentario promontory offers a mix of secluded coves, sandy expanses, and dramatic cliffs, all lapped by the Tyrrhenian Sea. From family-friendly shores to hidden romantic getaways, this guide covers the most beautiful beaches near Porto Ercole and how to experience them like a local.
Best Hotels in Porto Ercole🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort, Autograph Collection
- ✨ 5-Star: A Point Porto Ercole Resort & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Terrarossa Golf Resort
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Le Dimore di Terrarossa Argentario
- 💸 Cheap: B&B Corso Italia Orbetello
- 🏢 Apartment: Il Molino Porto Ercole
- 👪 For Families: La Casa di Ieia
- 🏩 For Couples: Agriturismo Pimpinnacolo
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Sandy Expanse — Feniglia Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Views — Cala del Gesso Beach
- 💕 Romantic Escape — L’Acqua Dolce Beach
- 🤿 Snorkeling & Adventure — Cala Mar Morto Beach
- 🌿 Tranquil Hideaway — Spiaggia Lunga Beach
- ☀️ Easy Access — Cala Galera Beach
- 🌳 Authentic Atmosphere — Viste Beach
- 🏝️ Offshore Escape — Cannelle Beach
- 🌊 Secluded Coves — Cala Piccola Beach
- 🏞️ Wooded Sanctuary — Le Viste Beach
1. Feniglia Beach: Long Sandy Beach with Calm Waters
Feniglia Beach is a sweeping stretch of golden sand over 5 kilometers long, connecting the Monte Argentario peninsula to the mainland near Orbetello in the province of Grosseto. The sand feels warm underfoot, and the water is shallow and calm, making it perfect for long swims and paddling kids. I walked for over an hour along the shore and barely saw the same person twice, even in August.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Follow the scenic road from Porto Ercole, park at the marked lots near the D’una Feniglia Nature Reserve in the heart of the Maremma, and walk through the refreshing pine forest. The path splits at several gates leading to the beach, with the quieter sections closer to Ansedonia. Locals love the area near the yellow-tent kiosk at Braccio Energy Beach, where a homemade tuna sandwich and a cold granita are the perfect midday treat. Visit mid-week to avoid crowds; the nearest parking is the Parcheggio Il Cavallaro.
- Pro: Offers a rare combination of vast, free beach space with lifeguarded zones and rental services.
- Con: Parking can fill up quickly in peak season; arrive before 9 a.m. or consider biking from Porto Ercole.
Best For: Families, dog owners, and those seeking long beach walks with pine shade.
Skip If: You’re after dramatic coastal scenery; opt for Cala del Gesso instead.
Best Hotels near Feniglia Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort, Autograph Collection — Championship golf resort with Italy’s only PGA National Course, organic wellness spa, and panoramic sea views across Monte Argentario.
- A Point Porto Ercole Resort & Spa — Contemporary 5-star design hotel with rooftop infinity pool, LED lighting features, and sleek glass architecture just minutes from Feniglia beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Bi Hotel — Simple 3-star property on the waterfront with mini-bars, beach club conventions, and family-friendly atmosphere near Porto Ercole’s marina.
- Turchetti's Rooms — Cozy guest rooms with modern amenities, air conditioning, and convenient location for exploring Monte Argentario’s beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Easy Stay Mare e Centro a Due Passi — Budget-friendly accommodation just steps from both the sea and town center, offering excellent value and convenient location.
2. Cala del Gesso Beach: Rocky Cove with Dramatic Cliffs
Cala del Gesso Beach is a secluded cove flanked by bright white limestone cliffs that glow at sunrise, a scene any travel guide would highlight in a detailed Porto Ercole travel guide. The bottom is pebbled, and the water is stunningly clear, perfect for snorkeling around submerged rock formations or a quiet dinghy drop just off the rocks. I followed the winding trail from Porto Santo Stefano via the coastal route past the old town viewpoints, and though the downhill path is steep, the view of the emerald cove below stopped me in my tracks.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
The hike starts near the turnoff for Cala Ponte, so don’t miss the small yellow signpost as noted in many a guide to Porto Ercole. Wear sturdy sandals — the path is rocky and uneven. Along the way, pause at the viewpoint above Cala del Gesso; it’s a favorite photo spot for wedding photographers and lines up beautifully with Forte Filippo and Forte Stella. The nearest access point is the dirt trailhead off Strada di Cala del Gesso, about a 20-minute walk from the parking by the small giardino lookout.
- Pro: One of the most photogenic coves in Tuscany, with crystal-clear water ideal for underwater exploration.
- Con: No facilities; bring water, snacks, and sun protection — the only shelter is under the cliffs.
Best For: Adventurous travelers and couples seeking a secluded swim.
Skip If: You need amenities or easy access; choose Cala Galera instead.
Best Hotels near Cala del Gesso Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Terrarossa Golf Resort — 4-star golf resort set among rolling Tuscan hills with modern amenities, restaurant, and easy access to coastal attractions.
- Santa Faustina Holy Apartment — Spacious apartment with full kitchen, comfortable living areas, and peaceful setting ideal for families or longer stays.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- 0.8 Guest House — Charming accommodation with garden views, free parking, and quiet setting just a short walk from beaches and town center.
- La Casa di Ieia — Welcoming bed and breakfast with terrace, à la carte breakfast, and authentic Tuscan hospitality in a peaceful neighborhood.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Cinema House Apartments — Modern apartments with fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living spaces, and stylish decor perfect for self-catering stays.
3. L’Acqua Dolce Beach: Sheltered Bay with Sandy Shores
L’Acqua Dolce Beach is a small, picturesque bay tucked between rocky outcrops, with a soft sandy bottom and gentle entry into the sea, and it’s one of the most photogenic beaches of Porto Ercole. The name, meaning “sweet water,” comes from a freshwater spring that surfaces nearby. The contrast of turquoise water against the dark volcanic rock makes it a favorite for Instagram shots around Monte Argentario. I found a quiet spot behind the small bathing establishment and floated for hours in the calm, wind-protected water near the historic centre of Porto Ercole.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Start at the marked path just south of the village center in Porto Ercole and follow the short, well-maintained trail directly to the beach. The trail is short and well-maintained, leading directly to the beach, and it links naturally with the coastal paths between Porto Ercole and porto santo for easy cove hopping. Nearby, you’ll pass the historic Forte Stella, open for sunset visits in summer, and you can also spot the silhouette of Forte Filippo on the ridge. Locals enjoy a pre-swim espresso at the kiosk at Bagno L’Acqua Dolce, which blends perfectly with the view of fishing boats bobbing offshore and lends a classic travel guide feel to the stop.
- Pro: Offers a rare mix of sandy comfort and scenic drama, just minutes from town.
- Con: Space is limited; it fills up fast — arrive by 10 a.m. for a prime spot.
Best For: Couples and small groups who appreciate charm and ease.
Skip If: You want a long beach or full services; Spiaggia Lunga is better suited.
Best Hotels near L’Acqua Dolce Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Il Molino Carlotta House — Charming traditional house with authentic Tuscan character, garden views, and convenient location near Porto Ercole’s beaches.
- La Casa Nella Macchia — Peaceful retreat surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation with private terraces, outdoor spaces, and tranquil atmosphere.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Finestra Sul Porto Porto Ercole — Apartment with stunning harbor views, balcony seating, and prime location overlooking Porto Ercole’s picturesque waterfront.
- Agriturismo Pimpinnacolo — Garden apartment with outdoor spaces, modern furnishings, and tranquil setting surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Corso Italia Orbetello — Central Orbetello B&B on the main street with clean rooms, friendly hosts, and easy access to Feniglia and L’Acqua Dolce beaches.
4. Cala Mar Morto Beach: Isolated Cove with Rock Platforms
Cala Mar Morto Beach is a rugged, remote cove accessible only by foot or boat, with large flat rock platforms that warm in the sun on Tuscany’s Monte Argentario. The water is deep and clear, ideal for cliff jumping and diving into the blue, and the cove feels wildly untamed compared to the gentler passages around Porto Ercole. The name, “Dead Sea,” hints at its stillness — sheltered from wind and waves where Argentario and the mainland meet. I swam out to the submerged reef and spotted octopus and colorful sea urchins just below the surface.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The trail begins near the Feniglia pine forest, following a narrow path that winds down through Mediterranean scrub around Porto Ercole’s lagoon edge. Along the way, watch for the mulberry trees near the old Spanish mill, Mulino Spagnolo, a quiet landmark locals use as a navigation point on this corner of Tuscany’s Monte Argentario. The unmarked path to the cove is easy to miss, but the sight of sunbathers on the rocks is a clear sign you’ve arrived, and hardy swimmers sometimes arrive by small pellicano-style dinghy when the sea is calm. The nearest formal attraction is the Laguna di Orbetello, about 3 km away.
- Pro: Offers thrilling swimming and snorkeling with minimal crowds due to its remote location.
- Con: The rocky terrain is awkward for young children; families should prefer Cala Galera.
Best For: Divers, snorkelers, and thrill-seekers.
Skip If: You need sand or shade; consider Viste Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Cala Mar Morto Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Noi 2 Vacanze Orbetello Centro — Central Orbetello apartment with modern furnishings, air conditioning, and excellent base for exploring Cala Mar Morto and lagoon.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Porto Ercole Guest House — Comfortable guest house with clean rooms, friendly service, and easy walking access to beaches and historic center.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Azzurra — Historic center apartment with authentic character, modern amenities, and walking distance to shops and restaurants.
5. Spiaggia Lunga Beach: Secluded Sandy Bay with Low Cliffs
Spiaggia Lunga Beach is a quiet, sandy bay backed by low cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation in southern Tuscany. The sand is fine and golden, and the water is calm and shallow near the shore, perfect for wading and for those planning to rent a boat along this coast. I arrived early and had the entire beach to myself, the only sound the soft lap of waves and distant seagulls before heading into Porto Ercole for restaurants in porto. The path down from the scenic road near Forte Stella is steep but short, offering panoramic views of Porto Ercole’s harbor and the wider headlands that define southern Tuscany.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park near the turnoff for Forte Stella and follow the well-marked 200-meter path around Porto Ercole’s coves. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of old stone walls, likely from the Spanish fortification era, and it’s easy to plan lunch at restaurants in porto after a swim. Locals favor the far end of the beach, where the sand is softest and the shade from the cliffs appears by late afternoon, and small kiosks can point out where to rent a boat for a quick spin along the shore. The nearest public transport stop is the bus to Orbetello, which stops at the junction above the path and connects much of southern Tuscany’s coastline.
- Pro: Offers a peaceful, uncrowded alternative to the busier beaches with excellent swimming conditions.
- Con: The steep path makes it less suitable for strollers or those with mobility issues.
Best For: Solitude seekers and swimmers who don’t mind a short hike.
Skip If: You need easy access or beach services; Cala Galera is more accommodating.
Best Hotels near Spiaggia Lunga Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Salto Nel Blu Porto Santo Stefano — Bright apartment in Porto Santo Stefano with sea views, balcony, and walking distance to ferry terminal for Spiaggia Lunga trips.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Affitti Brevi Toscana — Centrally located apartment with full kitchen, living area, and perfect base for exploring the village and nearby coves.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Casa Vacanze Santa Clara — Holiday home with spacious rooms, kitchen facilities, and comfortable family-friendly setup near beaches and attractions.
6. Cala Galera Beach: Sheltered Harbor Beach with Shallow Waters
Cala Galera Beach is a gentle, sandy beach located right next to the tourist port of Cala Galera, making it one of the most accessible in the area where Porto Ercole is located. The water is shallow and warm, ideal for young children who can wade far out while exploring nearby coves and inlets by the breakwater. I watched a family build a sandcastle while their kids splashed safely just offshore, enjoying the easy beach facilities on hand. The beach is split between a free section and a small bathing establishment, both popular with Italian families thanks to reliable beach facilities.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Drive to the free parking lot near the marina, then walk a few steps to the beach where beach facilities such as showers and rentals sit close to the pier. Nearby, stop by the Riva del Marchese Beach Club for a refreshing spritz with a view of yachts cruising in and out of the coves and inlets. Locals love the early morning here when the sea is glassy and the only sound is the gentle clinking of boat rigging, a calm window before families arrive and when Porto Ercole is located at its most peaceful. The best time to visit is between 8 and 10 a.m. to avoid the midday rush and secure shade near the beach facilities.
- Pro: Offers the easiest access and safest swimming for families in the Porto Ercole area.
- Con: It can get crowded in July and August; visit on a weekday for more space.
Best For: Families with young children and first-time visitors.
Skip If: You want a wild or remote feel; Cala Mar Morto is more adventurous.
Best Hotels near Cala Galera Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Argentario Holiday Home — Well-equipped apartment with kitchen facilities, comfortable bedrooms, and convenient Porto Santo Stefano location near beaches.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Affitti Brevi Toscana Ospitalità a P. Ercole — Short-term rental with Tuscan charm, comfortable furnishings, and convenient location for beach holidays.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- B&B Il Fenicottero — Charming flamingo-themed B&B with cheerful decor, homemade breakfast, and welcoming atmosphere near Cala Galera.
7. Viste Beach: Easily Accessible Bay with Mixed Sand and Pebbles
Viste Beach is the closest beach to Porto Ercole village, just a 10-minute walk from the historic center where the Bastione di Santa Barbara crowns the bluff. The shoreline is a mix of sand and small pebbles, with a free public section and a small equipped area close to some of the best restaurants for a post-swim lunch. The water is clean and calm, with a view of the bastion of Santa Barbara perched above, a landmark linking ercole and Porto Santo Stefano along the coast. I strolled here after lunch and found a perfect spot under the umbrella of a lone pine tree — a local’s secret for shade with easy access to the best restaurants nearby.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Follow the scenic route from the harbor, park in the small lot near the turnoff, and walk down the well-maintained path that skirts the Bastione di Santa Barbara outlook. Along the way, you’ll pass the Palazzo dei Governanti, a 16th-century building with a panoramic terrace, and it’s an easy detour to sample the best restaurants lining the waterfront between ercole and Porto Santo Stefano. The hidden cove of Riva del Marchese is a local favorite for sunset swims, especially when the light turns the water gold beneath the Bastione di Santa Barbara.
- Pro: Offers convenience and charm, perfect for a quick dip or sunset stroll.
- Con: The mixed sand and pebbles can be uncomfortable barefoot; water shoes are recommended.
Best For: Visitors staying in town who want a quick beach escape.
Skip If: You want a long, sandy expanse; Feniglia Beach is better suited.
Best Hotels near Viste Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Casa La Marinella Sul Porto — Harbourside property with stunning marina views, terrace seating, and prime location for waterfront dining and boat excursions.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Casetta 18 — Small cottage-style accommodation with home comforts, terrace, and authentic Italian atmosphere in a quiet residential area.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Taty House Studio Apartment — Compact studio with kitchenette, air conditioning, and efficient layout ideal for couples or solo travelers.
8. Cannelle Beach: Small Island Cove with Coral Reefs
Cannelle Beach is a tiny, picturesque cove on the island of Giglio, reachable by ferry from Porto Santo Stefano, one of the prettiest day trips from the Borghi Più Belli d’Italia along this coast. The sand is fine, and the water is incredibly clear, with vibrant coral reefs just offshore that whet the appetite for a plate of spaghetti with clams after a long swim. The beach is small but stunning, surrounded by olive groves and pine trees, and the scent of the sea practically calls to mind classic spaghetti alle vongole served on nearby waterfronts. I took the morning ferry and had the cove almost to myself, snorkeling over fish darting through the rocks.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
The ferry departs daily from the tourist port and takes about an hour, leaving enough time on return to savor spaghetti alle vongole before sunset. Once on Giglio, take a local bus or rent a scooter to reach the beach and plan a simple picnic instead of relying on restaurants not open off-season, a habit borrowed from trips through the Borghi Più Belli d’Italia. The trail from the road is short and marked, and a quick stop for lemon granita pairs nicely with thoughts of spaghetti with clams later back on the mainland. Locals recommend stopping at the small kiosk for a cold lemon granita — it’s the only refreshment on the island.
- Pro: Offers a pristine, almost Caribbean-like experience with excellent snorkeling.
- Con: Limited access; the ferry schedule is fixed — plan your return trip carefully.
Best For: Snorkelers and nature lovers seeking island beauty.
Skip If: You want a long beach or full amenities; Feniglia is more practical.
Best Hotels near Cannelle Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Casa Della Nonna Porto Santo Stefano — Cozy grandmother’s house with traditional warmth, homey atmosphere, and authentic Italian coastal living experience.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Bonanotte B&B — Friendly bed and breakfast with homemade breakfast, comfortable rooms, and warm hospitality creating a home-away-from-home experience.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Bruna Porto Santo Stefano — Porto Santo Stefano accommodation with balconies, harbor views, and proximity to ferry terminal for island excursions.
9. Cala Piccola Beach: Hidden Cove with Secluded Charm
Cala Piccola Beach is a tiny, rarely visited cove tucked between pine-covered hills, accessible only by a narrow, overgrown path that’s a short drive from porto along the scenic coast. The sand is soft, and the water is calm and sheltered, perfect for a quiet swim when Porto Ercole offers calmer morning seas. I found it while hiking from Porto Ercole and felt like I’d discovered a secret world, a hush that locals compare to the old pellicano-era glam of secluded coves. The only sounds were the rustle of pine needles and the soft splash of waves.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
The trail begins near the parking area for Sassi Verdi, just off the coastal road that’s a short drive from porto and well marked by a bend in the pines. Follow the faint path marked only by worn stones, keeping an eye on branching goat tracks even as Porto Ercole offers occasional signage on the main road. Along the way, look for the old stone watchtower, Torre di Cala Piccola, a favorite sunset perch for locals with a timeless pellicano-tinged view. The nearest village is Orbetello, about 6 km away. The best time to visit is early morning when the mist burns off the water.
- Pro: Offers true seclusion and untouched natural beauty, ideal for a romantic escape.
- Con: The path is not well-marked; bring a GPS or paper map to avoid getting lost.
Best For: Adventurous couples and solitude seekers.
Skip If: You need clear signage or facilities; Viste Beach is safer.
Best Hotels near Cala Piccola Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Casa La Marinella — Comfortable seaside accommodation with modern conveniences, clean rooms, and easy access to beaches and local restaurants.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- B&B Il Gabbiano Orbetello — Orbetello B&B with lagoon proximity, clean accommodations, and easy access to Cala Piccola Beach and nature reserve.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel La Posta di Torrenova — Rustic property with traditional charm, garden surroundings, and peaceful countryside setting near coastal routes.
10. Le Viste Beach: Wooded Bay with Panoramic Views
Le Viste Beach is a charming bay nestled between pine trees and rocky outcrops, offering expansive views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from the side of the Argentario where Porto Ercole is one of the most scenic coastal villages. The beach is partly sandy, partly pebbled, with a small bathing establishment and a free section clearly signed as free and paid. The water is clear and refreshingly cool, perfect for a midday dip with wide-open views across the side of the Argentario ridge. I found a quiet spot under the pines, where the scent of resin mixed with sea salt and the hush reminds you that Porto Ercole is one with the sea.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
The access is near the scenic road, just past the fork for Forte Filippo, and it’s easy to spot where free and paid areas begin. Park in the small lot and follow the shaded path down along the side of the Argentario slope toward the water. Along the way, pass the old lighthouse ruins, a quiet spot locals use for meditation, and note the small signboards that show which sections are free and paid. The nearby Orto Botanico Corsini is a peaceful garden worth visiting after your swim. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the sun casts golden light across the water and Porto Ercole is one calm, glowing amphitheater.
- Pro: Offers a blend of shade, views, and accessibility, ideal for a full-day stay.
- Con: The mixed terrain isn’t ideal for beach lounging; bring a thick mat.
Best For: Nature lovers and those who enjoy scenic variety.
Skip If: You want a long, sandy beach; Feniglia is better suited.
Best Hotels near Le Viste Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Arca di Noè casevacanzeargentario — Unique property with garden surroundings, pet-friendly policies, and peaceful setting perfect for nature lovers exploring the promontory.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Residenza della Laguna — Lagoon-view residence with peaceful atmosphere, modern amenities, and strategic location for exploring Orbetello’s natural attractions.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- RTA Sole dell'Argentario — Residence apartments with terraces, sea views, and self-catering facilities perfect for extended beach holidays on Monte Argentario.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Porto Ercole?
Expect moderate costs: meals range from €15–30, beach umbrella rentals are €15–20 per day, and local transport is affordable with regular buses connecting Porto Ercole, Orbetello, and Porto Santo Stefano.
Which beaches in Porto Ercole are best for families with young children?
Cala Galera Beach is ideal due to its shallow, sandy shore and easy access, while Feniglia Beach offers long, safe stretches perfect for swimming and sandcastle building.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Porto Ercole?
Cala del Gesso Beach and Cannelle Beach are top choices for snorkeling, while Cala Galera Beach is great for paddleboarding and kayaking due to its calm, protected waters.
What is the best time of year to visit Porto Ercole’s beaches?
The best months are June, September, and early October, when the weather is warm, the sea is swimmable, and crowds are smaller compared to July and August.
How can you easily get around Porto Ercole’s beaches?
You can walk or bike from town to nearby beaches like Viste and L’Acqua Dolce, while others like Feniglia and Cala del Gesso require a car or boat rental for convenient access.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Porto Ercole?
Yes, Cala Piccola Beach and Cala Mar Morto Beach are secluded coves rarely visited by tourists, offering peace and natural beauty away from the main routes.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Porto Ercole’s beaches?
Bring water shoes for rocky beaches, pack sunscreen and snacks as many coves have no facilities, and always check ferry schedules if visiting Giglio or Giannutri islands.
