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Although Pisa is mostly famous for the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistry, and the Monumental Cemetery, it has one of the most bewitching coastlines in the Tuscany region. Called Terre di Pisa by the locals, the coastline stretches along the Tyrrhenian Sea and has multiple popular sandy beaches, dunes, and pine forests. While some of the coastline is part of the San Rossore Migliarino Massaciuccoli Natural Park, the rest comprises beaches such as Marina di Pisa, Tirrenia, and Calambrone. If you are planning a visit to Pisa, you must grab the chance to spend some time at some of the best nearby beaches that this region has to offer.
Marina di Pisa is the most popular beach near Pisa, and one can tell why by looking at its beautiful sandy and pebbly shores. It is a seaside village located on the left banks of the River Arno since the late 1800s. A lively atmosphere with beach clubs, cafes, restaurants, and shops makes Marina di Pisa a perfect spot for families and tourists alike. The beach also offers an opportunity for you to witness the Bocca d’Arno, an area where the Arno River meets the sea. You can leave your car in any of the parking lots near the promenade and go for a walk in town to see the Art Nouveau architecture. Make sure to visit early to secure a parking space, especially during the peak summer months.
Activities: | Watch the Arno River meet the Tyrrhenian Sea at Bocca d’Arno, Art Nouveau strolls, Fishing and boat tours |
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Tirrenia beach is named after the Tyrrhenian Sea and is situated between the Marina di Pisa and Calambrone beaches. Encircled by a pine forest, the beach is often described by visitors as a small oasis. One can fully relax on the long sandy seafronts with beach clubs and resorts. You can even choose from free and private bathing options on-site. And if accompanied by kids, you can plan their adventure at the nearby waterpark and amusement parks. As for yourself, there are water sports, bars, and even golf courses for an outdoor holiday.
Activities: | Pine forest walks, Golfing, Water sports, Family and amusement parks |
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Calambrone was once a site for building colonies and a popular seaside resort for children during the fascist era. While most of these camps were transformed into accommodations, the buildings were retained in a form similar to the past. Nature lovers would love this place as it has been awarded for maintaining clean and high environmental standards. The beach is less crowded than the others around Pisa, and you can surely go for a walk in the pine forest after soaking up the sun all day. You get a quiet atmosphere that allows you to escape into tranquillity and beautiful sunsets. Not to worry, Calambrone also has a couple of beach clubs for those looking for entertainment.
Activities: | Sunset photography, Bird watching, Historic seaside colonies |
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You can find multiple private and public beaches with different kinds of beach clubs and restaurants at Viale del Tirreno beach. Its golden sand, stunning coastline and the calm shallow waters make it one of the most famous beaches near Pisa. The beach also has a path built for those who enjoy scenic bike rides along the coastline. It offers you a chance to swim and relax under the sun, while also providing active recreation options, such as water sports. If you are to dine in at one of the beach clubs here, then make sure to ask for the reserved parking service for your car, as they usually provide it to their guests.
Activities: | Cycling, Beach clubs and dining, Paddleboarding, Kite surfing |
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Marina di Vecchiano beach can be located in the municipality of Vecchiano. The beach is less commercialised since it is an area protected under the Parco Regionale Migliarino San Rossore Natural Park. Despite that, it offers a blend of free and equipped areas that you can explore as a means to relax in nature. The golden sandy coastline stretches as far as 4 km and features dunes, Mediterranean vegetation, and a backdrop of the Apuan Alps. Go for a walk or a horseback ride along the shoreline to soak in the natural beauty of this area.
Activities: | Horseback riding, Wildlife watching, Dune exploration, Nature photography |
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Viareggio beach is part of the northern Pisan region called Versilia. With a lively atmosphere crowded by locals and tourists alike, this place allows you to interact with them in the most fun way possible. The seafront promenade even has shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlours for you to spend time leisurely. And if you arrive at the right time during the winter months, you can also attend the famous local Carnival, which showcases detailed papier-mâché floats.
Activities: | Carnival events, Nightlife, Beach sports, Seafront promenade |
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Considering that most of the beaches are within proximity to each other, it takes about 15-30 minutes to reach any of them. We have created a table to help you get an idea about the necessary travel details from the Pisa city centre to the beaches.
Beach | Distance | Route |
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Marina di Pisa | 12 km | Pisa city center → Via Francesco Crispi → Viale del Tirreno towards Marina di Pisa |
Tirrenia | 12 km | Pisa city center → Via Francesco Crispi → Viale del Tirreno towards Tirrenia |
Calambrone | 13 km | Pisa city center → Take Via Aurelia (SS1) → Calambrone → Via del Littorale |
Viale del Tirreno | 12 km | Pisa city center → Via Francesco Crispi → Viale del Tirreno |
Marina di Vecchiano | 13 km | Pisa city center → Via Aurelia (SS1) → Marina di Vecchiano → Via del Canale |
Viareggio Beach | 23 km | Pisa city center → Via Aurelia (SS1) → Viareggio → Lungomare Europa |
Considering that beaches are located within a short distance from Pisa, you can choose from different modes of transport to move as per your convenience.
At just 12 km from the Pisa city centre, Marina di Pisa is the closest beach that allows you to make a quick seaside trip. And if you have a car, then you can cover the distance in just under 20 minutes.
A mix of sandy and rocky beaches can be explored on the Pisa coastline. You can visit Marina di Pisa for sandy and pebbly shorelines, and take a stroll on the long sandy stretches on the Viale del Tirreno and Tirrenia beaches. And if you are into natural and wild sandy dunes, then you must visit Marina di Vecchiano.
Yes, both free and paid parking options are available at most beaches in and near Pisa. Parking areas at beachfront spaces are taken up quickly during the summer due to the convenience. Even though a reserve and paid parking service is offered by some of the private beach clubs, it is always best to arrive early to secure a spot for your vehicle, particularly during peak travel seasons.
The shallow waters and waterpark options at Tirrenia and Viale del Tirreno beaches make them the most family-friendly Pisa beaches. Beach clubs at these places offer entertainment options for the guardians as well. Additionally, the promenade and safe swimming spots at Marina di Pisa make it a popular choice among families.
Yes, you can visit multiple beaches near Pisa in a day, as most of them are only 10–20 minutes apart. For that, you can refer to the table above to plan your visit and decide which beaches to explore based on the travel time and proximity.
Pisa beaches can be best explored from June to September to enjoy the hot and sunny weather. However, the spring and autumn seasons have pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, which makes it an ideal time to experience peaceful evening walks while watching the sunsets.