Location
Via Don Sebastiano Leone, 65, Pratoranieri, Follonica (GR) Italy
Cala Martina is one of the most fascinating and unspoiled coves of the Maremma coast in Tuscany. Located within the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, between Follonica and Punta Ala, this small inlet overlooks the Gulf of Follonica and is surrounded by pristine natural landscapes.
Compared to more famous beaches in the area, such as Cala Violina, Cala Martina has preserved a quieter and more authentic atmosphere. Here you won’t find beach clubs or tourist facilities: the beauty of the place lies in its wild nature, Mediterranean vegetation, crystal-clear sea and peaceful surroundings.
In this guide you’ll discover where Cala Martina is located, how to get there, what the beach is like and the best time to visit one of the most charming coves on the Maremma coast.
Cala Martina is located in the municipality of Scarlino, in the province of Grosseto, along the stretch of coastline between Follonica and Punta Ala.
The cove lies within the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, a large protected area characterized by pine forests, Mediterranean scrub and scenic hiking trails leading to some of the most beautiful beaches in Maremma.
Thanks to its position, Cala Martina offers stunning views over the Gulf of Follonica and is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a more natural and less urbanized seaside experience.
To reach Cala Martina, you need to walk along one of the trails inside the nature reserve.
By car you can reach the authorized parking areas near the Bandite di Scarlino reserve. From there, you continue on foot along a path surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation.
The trail is easy and well marked, but it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during the summer months.
The trail to Cala Martina crosses a landscape typical of the Maremma coastline, among the scents of myrtle, lentisk and maritime pines.
The distance is about 2 kilometers, with a walking time that usually ranges between 25 and 40 minutes, depending on your pace.
During the walk you will encounter scenic viewpoints overlooking the sea and small rocky coves. This path through nature is part of what makes visiting Cala Martina such a unique experience.
Cala Martina beach is very different from the long sandy beaches typical of other areas of Maremma.
The cove is mainly composed of pebbles and rocks and is surrounded by dense Mediterranean vegetation. The sea is usually crystal clear, with waters that become deeper more quickly compared to sandy beaches.
For these reasons, Cala Martina is particularly appreciated by visitors who love:
There are no beach facilities, so it is advisable to bring everything you may need for the day.
Beyond its natural beauty, Cala Martina is also a place of historical significance.
In 1849, after the fall of the Roman Republic, Giuseppe Garibaldi reached this very cove to embark and continue his escape into exile.
Today this historical event is commemorated by a monument dedicated to Garibaldi located near the cove, adding cultural importance to the area.
The best time to visit Cala Martina is from spring to early autumn.
The months of May, June and September are ideal to enjoy the sea and nature in a quieter atmosphere.
During July and August the trail and the cove can become more crowded, especially in the middle of the day. For this reason, it is advisable to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Thanks to its location between Follonica and Punta Ala, Cala Martina can easily be reached during a holiday on the Maremma coast.
Staying by the sea allows you to combine relaxing beach days with excursions along coastal trails and the discovery of the most beautiful coves in the area.
Golfo del Sole, a seaside resort in Follonica, is an ideal base to explore the territory and easily reach some of the most beautiful beaches of Maremma, such as Cala Martina, Cala Violina and Cala Civette.
To reach Cala Martina you need to walk along a 2 km trail inside the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve. The walk usually takes between 25 and 40 minutes.
No, Cala Martina beach is mainly composed of pebbles and rocks, making it more natural and less crowded than sandy beaches nearby.
No, Cala Martina is a completely natural beach with no beach clubs or tourist services.
The trail to Cala Martina is about 2 kilometers long and usually takes between 25 and 40 minutes.
Because of the walking trail and the pebbly beach, Cala Martina is more suitable for hikers and nature lovers rather than families with very small children.
Via Don Sebastiano Leone, 65, Pratoranieri, Follonica (GR) Italy
