The main beach at Marciana Marina runs along the town's waterfront, sheltered by the harbour breakwater on one side and the headland on the other. The sand is coarse and the water clear; in midsummer it is genuinely busy but never as overwhelmed as the more famous beaches further east on the island. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for hire from the beach operators.
The beach is most enjoyable in June, early July, and September — warm enough to swim comfortably, but without the August crowds. Snorkelling is good along the rocky sections at the western end of the beach where the water is clean and the fish numerous.