Punta Ala
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Punta Ala

Punta Ala

Tuscan seaside resort on a pine-covered promontory, with a marina and long Tyrrhenian beaches.

Punta Ala is one of Tuscany's most exclusive seaside resorts, a manicured promontory jutting into the Tyrrhenian Sea with views toward the Island of Elba. Unlike the crowded Versilia coast further north, Punta Ala feels contained and unhurried — a place of pine-shaded paths, a well-kept marina, and long sandy beaches backed by Mediterranean scrub.

The name means "Wing Point," after the shape of the headland. Two sixteenth-century watchtowers, Torre Nuova and Torre Hidalgo, still stand on the hills above, built by Eleonora of Toledo to guard against Barbary pirates. The modern resort grew up in the twentieth century around a golf course and sailing club, and it retains that quietly upmarket character — polo matches, regattas, and long lunches by the water.

What makes Punta Ala worth a stop is the coastline. The beaches south of the marina stretch for kilometres, alternating between broad sandy stretches and rocky coves accessible only by boat. Cala Violina, a short drive or hike away through pine forest, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany — the quartz sand squeaks underfoot when you walk on it. The surrounding Maremma countryside offers Etruscan ruins, thermal springs, and hill towns within easy day-trip distance.

Guide

Beaches

The coastline around Punta Ala alternates between broad sandy stretches and sheltered rocky coves. Private beaches (called "lido" or "bagni") offer loungers, umbrellas, showers, and changing rooms for a fee. Public stretches sit between the private concessions and are free to use.

South-west of the marina, the sandy beach runs for kilometres before breaking up into smaller coves only accessible by sea or on foot. The rocky stretches between the sandy beaches are good for snorkelling — bring rubber sandals for the rocks.

Cala Violina, accessible by foot through the Diaccia Botrona nature reserve or by boat, is the standout beach in the area — a crescent of white quartz sand with exceptional water clarity. The sand there makes an unusual squeaking sound underfoot.

Guide

Things to Do

Punta Ala is built for outdoor pursuits. The mild Maremma climate means you can be active year-round — golf, sailing, and horse riding are the headliners, but the network of coastal paths and mountain bike trails through the pine forests gives you plenty of ways to work up an appetite before lunch. The marina is the social hub and the starting point for boat trips to the beaches south of the headland. The Medici watchtowers above the resort are worth the short walk for the views.