Isola del Giglio, or Giglio Island, is a bit of a hidden secret among Italians that is considered a pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea. An exotic paradise that is 90% covered by wild Mediterranean vegetation and boasts around 700 botanical species and that is surrounded by crystalline waters in shades of emerald green and azure blues, it is a scenic beauty. While the terrain is mountainous and there are all sorts of routes to trek and take in the beautiful views that abound, the coast of the island is the most popular feature among tourists. You can explore the dramatic landscapes of the rocky cliffs and beaches, you can go scuba diving to admire the fish, caves and ancient shipwrecks, you can go boating, you can spot dolphins and whales, you can take in the sunsets or you can simply hang out.
There are four main beaches, which are as follows:
1. Campese Beach
The largest beach on the island, located in the bay next to a village called Giglio Campese, it features a dramatic cliff to the south and an ancient tower to the north, as well as uniquely reddish sand. The most popular beach, it can be reached by buses that run from Giglio Porto every half hour and which cost €2 for a single trip. There are bars, restaurants, bathing establishments, diving centers, boat rentals and taxi boats all available in the area and this is also where you will catch some truly stunning sunsets.
2. Cannelle Beach
Cannelle Beach is the second largest on the island and has a grainy white sandy beach, shallow warm waters and a family-friendly atmosphere. However, it is also one of the busiest beaches as it is only a fifteen minute walk from the port and many are too lazy to go any further. Like Campese, it has rental facilities, activities and bars and restaurants nearby.
3. Arenella Beach
Located to the north of the harbor, it can be reached by sea by boat or water taxi. Small and thin, it has soft granite sand that creates golden reflections and gem-like water. It also has the biggest crowds of discerning locals. As such, it is best to come early as many pop over after a day's work!
4. Caldane Beach
Just south of Cannelle Beach, it is a pretty and small beach that is the most secluded and private of all of Giglio’s beaches. Wild and romantic, it can feel like you're on a private island. Bear in mind that the choppy waters make it a little dangerous for children and a better option for couples or groups of adults.
There are several beaches to enjoy on the island and each has its own charms so, if you've booked a villa on the Tuscan Coast and are looking for a great day trip idea, set aside a day and book a boat trip to the island. You can come and enjoy any or all of these stunning beaches and get a taste of this paradise that locals love in Italy.
1. Campese Beach
The largest beach on the island, located in the bay next to a village called Giglio Campese, it features a dramatic cliff to the south and an ancient tower to the north, as well as uniquely reddish sand. The most popular beach, it can be reached by buses that run from Giglio Porto every half hour and which cost €2 for a single trip. There are bars, restaurants, bathing establishments, diving centers, boat rentals and taxi boats all available in the area and this is also where you will catch some truly stunning sunsets.
2. Cannelle Beach
Cannelle Beach is the second largest on the island and has a grainy white sandy beach, shallow warm waters and a family-friendly atmosphere. However, it is also one of the busiest beaches as it is only a fifteen minute walk from the port and many are too lazy to go any further. Like Campese, it has rental facilities, activities and bars and restaurants nearby.
3. Arenella Beach
Located to the north of the harbor, it can be reached by sea by boat or water taxi. Small and thin, it has soft granite sand that creates golden reflections and gem-like water. It also has the biggest crowds of discerning locals. As such, it is best to come early as many pop over after a day's work!
4. Caldane Beach
Just south of Cannelle Beach, it is a pretty and small beach that is the most secluded and private of all of Giglio’s beaches. Wild and romantic, it can feel like you're on a private island. Bear in mind that the choppy waters make it a little dangerous for children and a better option for couples or groups of adults.
There are several beaches to enjoy on the island and each has its own charms so, if you've booked a villa on the Tuscan Coast and are looking for a great day trip idea, set aside a day and book a boat trip to the island. You can come and enjoy any or all of these stunning beaches and get a taste of this paradise that locals love in Italy.