Tutti al mare: An Insider’s Guide to a Versilia Beach Holiday
From the wild dunes of La Lecciona to the exclusive luxury of Forte dei Marmi: how to experience the Tuscan summer like a true local.
The beaches of Versilia are famous for a reason: a long stretch of golden sand, elegant beach clubs, centuries-old pine forests, and the dramatic peaks of the Apuan Alps framing the landscape.
From Viareggio to Forte dei Marmi, passing through Lido di Camaiore and Marina di Pietrasanta, every town offers a different atmosphere. Whether you are looking for luxury, a relaxing family stay, or untamed coastal nature, Versilia has the perfect beach for you.
Here is our selection of the best beaches on the coast and practical tips to enjoy them like a local.
1. La Lecciona: The Wild and Untamed Paradise
If you love nature and want to escape the summer crowds, La Lecciona beach is a small paradise. Located between Viareggio and Torre del Lago, it is the last large stretch of completely free coastline in Versilia, protected within the Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli Natural Park.
- The Vibe: Kilometers of dunes, golden sand, Mediterranean scrub, and the scent of helichrysum. There are no sunbeds, umbrellas, or bars: silence rules here.
- What to Do: Behind the beach lies a path immersed in maritime pines. It connects Viareggio to the mouth of the Serchio river and is perfect for a morning walk or bike ride.
- Useful Tips: Being a protected area, it has no facilities. Remember to bring water, food, a beach umbrella (important if you travel with children or pets), and comfortable shoes to walk through the dune path.
- Good to Know: Right in the middle of the path between Viareggio and Torre del Lago is one of the most famous and historic official naturist beaches in Tuscany.
2. Viareggio: Tradition, Liberty Style, and Relaxation
Viareggio is the historic heart of Versilia, famous for its Art Nouveau (Liberty style) promenade, its Carnival, and its prestigious shipbuilding tradition. It offers wide beaches and clubs ideal for those seeking comfort and excellent seafood.
RECOMMENDED BEACH CLUBS:
- Bagno Sauro Fuori Onda (Città Giardino Area): Combines great professionalism, excellent beach services, and a seafood restaurant that locals absolutely love. [Discover their Instagram profile]
- Bagno Rossella (Marina di Levante): Located in a quieter area, it is ideal for those seeking relaxation, well-kept cabins, large shaded areas, and a great culinary selection. [Discover their Instagram profile]
THE THURSDAY MORNING RITUAL:
If you are in the area on a Thursday morning, drop by the large open-air market that spreads along the Promenade and the downtown streets. If you walk as far as Piazza Cavour, stop for a coffee paired with the legendary baked bombolone (custard-filled pastry) at Pasticceria Patalani.
AFTERNOON AND APERITIVO:
After the beach, cool down with gelato from Laboratorio del Gelato. For an aperitivo, the go-to spots for locals are Enoteca Sergio or Mamo Food & Drinks.
3. Lido di Camaiore: Casual Vibe and Families
Nestled between Viareggio and Marina di Pietrasanta, Lido di Camaiore is a dynamic yet relaxed destination, much loved by families. The seafront promenade and the modern pier, perfect for enjoying a sunset aperitivo, are the focus of town life.
RECOMMENDED BEACH CLUBS:
- Bagno Belmare: Young, fresh, and welcoming. Its main highlight is the panoramic terrace, ideal for a light lunch or a sunset aperitivo suspended between the sea and the mountains. On summer evenings, it is pleasant to stay for some live music. In addition, the club provides free bicycles for guests, perfect for a ride along the promenade. [Discover their Instagram profile]
4. Marina di Pietrasanta: Elegance and Premium Comfort
The areas of Tonfano and Marina di Pietrasanta represent the perfect balance between family relaxation and high-level services. The waters are shallow and sandy, ideal for children, and many beach clubs offer pools, play areas, and evening dining.
WHERE TO GO TO THE BEACH:
- Bagno Carlo: A historic beach club in an excellent position in Tonfano, perfect as a base if you want to take a break from the sea on Saturday morning to visit the characteristic local market. [Visit the website]
- Exclusive Luxury: If you are looking for an elite experience, the Panama Beach Restaurant Versilia by Borsalino offers private tents, a Carrara marble pool, VIP areas, and a refined restaurant open from breakfast until late at night.
GOURMET PITSTOPS:
If you want to taste the classic local focaccine (thin, savory filled focaccias), you can't go wrong at:
5. Forte dei Marmi: The Icon of Italian Luxury Lifestyle
Forte dei Marmi needs no introduction: it is the definitive symbol of beach elegance in the Mediterranean. Here, holidays are spent between exclusive beach clubs with wide spaces between the tents, high-fashion boutiques, and historic cafes.
THE MOST RENOWNED BEACH CLUBS:
International guests choose Forte dei Marmi for its total discretion. Among the best-known spots are the historic Bagno Piero, Alpemare, Bagno Alcione, and the private Bagno Santamaria, which features only 30 tents and 20 umbrellas to guarantee maximum privacy.
THE "EASY CHIC" ALTERNATIVE:
- Levante del Forte (formerly Bagno alle Boe): A great newcomer accessible to everyone that recovers the authentic spirit of Forte dei Marmi from the '60s and '70s, reinterpreted in a contemporary and relaxed key. [Discover their Instagram profile]
THE PERFECT DAY AT THE FORTE:
A perfect day includes a quick focaccina at Da Valé, an aperitivo at the iconic Caffè Principe, and an evening stroll among the lights of the town center. On Wednesday and Sunday mornings, the appointment is in Piazza Marconi with the famous Mercato del Forte, where you can find iconic clothing and unique items.
Find Your Perfect Home in Versilia
Whether you are looking for a holiday filled with luxury, wild nature, or family relaxation, the best way to experience Versilia is from a private, exclusive, and comfortable base.
Explore our selection of villas and exclusive properties close to the sea to live the Tuscan summer like a true insider:
• La Costa
-> Discover all our properties in Versilia and book your stay for the summer