What is the sea like in Follonica?

À Follonicathe sea is generally shallow, with a sandy bottom that slopes down gently: it's handy for wading and for children, but don't always expect water as clear as in a rocky cove. The sand can cloud the water, especially when it's windy, crowded, or after several swims in the same spot. In calm weather, it's often clearer in the morning. The shoreline is easy to reach from town, with free beaches and beach resorts.

The downside is that the seafront is urban and can be crowded July and August, especially on weekends; if you're looking for peace and quiet, aim for the morning or the beaches farther from the center, toward the pine grove. The bottom stays shallow for quite a distance — in places, you have to walk several dozen meters before the water is above your knees — which suits families well, less so those who want to swim quickly in deep water. After heavy rain or near river mouths, check for any temporary swimming bans: the usual quality of an area doesn't guarantee it's swimmable every day.