Elba Island beaches

The beaches on Elba are numerous and unique—long beaches of golden sands or tiny stones, equally beautiful beaches of black sand, white pebbles or cliff bases of smooth granite rocks. Spectacular panorama and crystal clear water make these beaches similar to the Carribean, but second to none. Elba’s 147 kilometres of coastline have been divided into four geographical categories for simplification. The depth of most of the waters increases rather rapidly, with the exception of la Biodola, Marina di Campo, Lacona and Procchio where the water remains shallow for for up to 30-40 metres. Most of the island’s beaches are classifiable as "free". On the main beaches however, bathers will find privately run establishments that offer changing rooms, sun lounges and beach umbrellas on a rental basis. Furthermore, many of these establishments rent a range of equipment for various water sports.

The following beaches are the most well known:

La Biodola. On leaving Portoferraio, halfway along the road to Procchio, you cannot help but notice one of Elba’s most picturesque bays on the right. Six hundred metres of fine sand, Mediterranean maquis reaching down to the seashore, splendid hotels and a camping site right on the beach. The seabed slopes gradually down, making it easy to walk and paddle in the water. A path over the rocks leads to the adjoining beach of Scaglieri, which is similar to Biodola. The beach has numerous bars and restaurants and some private areas where deck-chairs, beach umbrellas and pedal-boats can be hired.

Procchio. The ancient Cervinia is today one of longest and best-equipped sandy beaches on the island; in olden times it was an important centre for iron and copper working, as testified by archaeological finds, among which a smelting oven and Roman ship with its precious cargo of amphorae, still perfectly conserved. The beach can be reached by car from Campo all’Aia, while the thoroughfare that leads to the beach from the pretty little village of Procchio is for pedestrians only. There are numerous tourist services and good car-parking facilities.

Crocetta. On the road from Procchio, about half a kilometre before you arrive at Marciana Marina, this splendid little cove comes into view on the right. To get to this picturesque little inlet - one of the smallest on the island - walk through the small green gate and down the steep path with a few steps at the bottom. The transparent water and magnificent seabed are an ideal playground for many snorkelling fans.

Cavo. Situated at the entrance to the little village of Cavo, S.Bennato is easily reached by car, as it is close to the road from which it is separated by a low stone wall.

Cavoli. The beach of coarse sand overlooks a splendid bay surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. Cavoli is an ideal spot for young people and fun-lovers and for anyone seeking an eye-catching suntan. Easily reached by car: follow the road signs along the road on the western side of the island.

Fetovaia. Fine golden sand, granite reefs, crystal-clear water, sheltered by a rugged, maquis-covered, 800 metre long promontory. This is  Fetovaia, one of the finest beaches on the island. Situated on the south-west side of Elba, its beauty is so widely renowned that it is usually crowded in the summer months. If you prefer a quieter area of the beach, the large, smooth granite rocks nearby are ideal for relaxing.