Cala del Gesso
A hidden gem on Monte Argentario, Cala del Gesso offers pristine turquoise waters and a unique pebble beach, accessible via a scenic hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Cala del Gesso
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem on Monte Argentario, Cala del Gesso offers pristine turquoise waters and a unique pebble beach, accessible via a scenic hike.
"The hike is challenging, but the breathtaking landscape and crystal-clear waters make Cala del Gesso a true paradise."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike down and back up is steep. Leave the flip-flops at home and opt for trainers or hiking shoes.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the beach, so pack all your essentials.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters
The Sea
Crystal clear, vibrant turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Expect abundant marine life.
Pebble Beach
The Shoreline
A unique beach composed of smooth, polished pebbles, offering a different texture than sandy shores.
16th Century Tower Ruins
Overlooking the Bay
Ancient tower remnants provide a historical backdrop and stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Hike is Part of the Adventure
Pack Smart for Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike down and back up is steep. Leave the flip-flops at home and opt for trainers or hiking shoes.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the beach, so pack all your essentials.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited on the panoramic road. Arrive early or be prepared to walk further.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The clear waters are teeming with fish, making it ideal for underwater exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike down and back up is steep. Leave the flip-flops at home and opt for trainers or hiking shoes.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities at the beach, so pack all your essentials.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited on the panoramic road. Arrive early or be prepared to walk further.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The clear waters are teeming with fish, making it ideal for underwater exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cala del Gesso is widely praised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Argentario region, boasting stunning turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling. While the hike down is challenging, visitors agree the breathtaking landscape and pristine environment make it absolutely worth the effort. The lack of facilities means visitors must come prepared, but this also contributes to its wild, natural charm.
"One of the best beach and sea in monte Aegentario natural reserve!! Is a long walk down from cliff but is worth it!! Awesome lamdscape from the cliff!! The sea is amazing and clear with rocks and lots of fishes ideal for snorkeling!! 🇮🇹🛥️🌞"
Davide Danti
"A little paradise in Monte Argentario.
We went in April, it was like a desert.
A bit difficult to reach; you need to park along the main street and then hike for a kilometer.
Bring with you water and foods,"
Massimo
"There are a few little places and bays that you can approach only with a little hiking between Cala Piccola and Cala Grande, but worth a little extra time. Don't forget to take some snacks and water with you. ;)"
Babett Czigány
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cala del Gesso is located on Monte Argentario. You'll typically drive along the panoramic road (Strada Panoramica) and park your car. From there, a hike of about 20-25 minutes, often steep, leads down to the beach. +1
Parking is very limited along the panoramic road. There's a small paid parking area, but it fills up quickly. Be prepared to park higher up and walk down.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of the trailhead are limited. It's best to reach Monte Argentario by car or taxi and then proceed with the hike.
The hike is described as steep and can be challenging, especially on the way back up. It's a significant part of the experience, so wear appropriate footwear.
Due to the steep hike, Cala del Gesso may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or very young children.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cala del Gesso is a natural beach and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is free.
As a natural beach, Cala del Gesso is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment of the scenery.
There is no entrance fee for Cala del Gesso itself. Parking fees may apply if you find a designated paid spot.
Yes, you can visit Cala del Gesso year-round. Visiting in April, for example, meant it was like a desert, offering a more tranquil experience.
There are no specific entry restrictions, but it's a natural reserve, so visitors are expected to respect the environment and leave no trace.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cala del Gesso features a beautiful beach made of smooth, polished pebbles, not sand. The water is exceptionally clear and turquoise.
The clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The rich marine life makes it an excellent spot for underwater exploration.
No, there are no facilities such as restrooms, showers, or cafes directly at Cala del Gesso. It's a wild, natural beach.
It's essential to bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and snorkeling gear if you plan to explore the underwater world.
Crowds can vary. It's less crowded in the off-season (like April) but can be popular during peak summer months. Arriving early can help avoid the biggest crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the cliff path leading down to the beach are stunning. The turquoise water and the ancient tower ruins also make for iconic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone photography is possible and offers spectacular aerial views of the bay and coastline, as seen in some social media content.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for underwater shots.
The 16th-century tower ruins overlooking the bay are a significant landmark for photography, adding a historical element to your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family enjoys an adventure and is prepared for the trek, the clear waters are fantastic for supervised swimming and exploring. Remember to pack all necessary supplies, as there are no facilities at the beach. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like early mornings in the shoulder seasons, to make the experience more manageable with children. The unique pebble beach can be fun for kids to explore, and the snorkeling opportunities are a great way to engage them with nature.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Adventure Seekers
Once you arrive, the reward is a stunning natural cove perfect for a refreshing swim or a snorkeling session. The rugged beauty of Monte Argentario is on full display, making the entire excursion a memorable adventure. Don't forget to pack plenty of water and snacks to refuel after your trek.
🐠 Snorkelers & Nature Lovers
Beyond the water, the natural beauty of the cove, with its pebble beach and surrounding cliffs, appeals to nature lovers. The relatively untouched environment offers a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with the wilder side of the Tuscan coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Cala del Gesso
It's crucial to be prepared for this trek. Unlike more developed beaches, Cala del Gesso is a natural, wild spot. This means no amenities like restrooms, cafes, or beach chair rentals. Therefore, packing essentials such as ample water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat is non-negotiable.
For those who find the direct hike challenging, exploring nearby coves accessible with a bit of extra hiking between Cala Piccola and Cala Grande might be an option, though these also require effort.
Experiencing the Pristine Waters and Marine Life
The seabed is rich with marine life, offering snorkelers a chance to see a variety of fish and underwater flora. Many reviewers specifically mention the abundance of fish, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy exploring beneath the surface.
While the beach is beautiful, it's important to remember its natural state. There are no services available, so visitors should come prepared with their own gear for enjoying the water, such as masks and snorkels. The combination of clear, inviting waters and vibrant marine life makes Cala del Gesso a true natural paradise for water enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit