Elba, a pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, offers sandy beaches, rocky coves, hills covered in Mediterranean scrub and historic villages. The staff of Hotel Giardino in Lacona welcome families, couples and groups every year and have compiled this guide to the island’s most family‑friendly beaches. Each section includes a description, answers to frequently asked questions, and a summary table with key characteristics. Information is drawn from official sources and our own experience to ensure accuracy .
Hotel Giardino: A Strategic Base in Lacona
Hotel Giardino is a family‑run hotel located in the heart of Lacona bay, surrounded by a 30 000 m² park and just a short walk from the long sandy beach of Lacona . The atmosphere is warm and informal: guests enjoy a buffet breakfast with homemade cakes and jams, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, satellite TV and safes, and a kitchen that caters to children and special dietary needs . From the garden a protected dune path leads directly to the beach, avoiding summer traffic . Thanks to its central location the hotel is 10–15 minutes by car from Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio . Trekking and mountain‑bike trails start from the garden; the hotel offers bike storage, free Wi‑Fi and partnerships with diving centres and ferry companies .
Guests appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and shaded garden, the recently renovated and clean rooms, and the convenience of reaching the beach via a short path . Distances between the hotel and the main beaches are indicated throughout this guide to help you plan your days.
How We Evaluate a Family‑Friendly Beach
When recommending beaches for families we consider several factors :
Type of shore and water depth – fine sandy beaches with gently sloping seabed are ideal for children who want to walk or play in the water .
Services and safety – the presence of bars, toilets, showers, beach clubs with umbrella rental and play areas makes the stay more comfortable; some beaches offer lifeguards or anti‑jellyfish nets .
Accessibility – we check whether the beach can be reached with a pushchair or wheelchair, whether there are paths or convenient parking areas and whether there is natural shade .
Crowding and recommended period – famous beaches can be very crowded in July and August; June and September offer a more relaxing experience .
Beaches Near Hotel Giardino and Their Family Features
Lacona – Our “Home” Beach
Description – Lacona is Elba’s second‑longest beach (almost 1.2 km) with intact coastal dunes. Fine golden sand and a seabed that remains shallow for tens of metres make it perfect for families . The beach lies between Capo Stella and Capo Fonza and overlooks the Gemini islets . There are many free areas and several beach clubs, bars, restaurants and windsurfing and diving schools . Behind the beach a pine forest provides play areas, picnic tables and shade .
FAQs: Lacona is absolutely safe for children thanks to its shallow sandy bottom and play area . Beach clubs have toilets, showers and baby‑clubs . Parking is available along the coastal road; in high season arrive early or walk/cycle from the hotel . Activities include windsurf, sailing, SUP, diving and evening aperitifs .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance from Hotel Giardino
Lacona (Capoliveri)
Fine golden sand; dunes; shallow seabed; pine forest with play area
Beach clubs, bars, restaurants, surf and diving schools
100 m on foot via dunes
Lido di Capoliveri – The All‑Rounder
Description – About 4 km from the hotel, Lido di Capoliveri is a 460 m long sandy beach backed by hills covered with Mediterranean scrub . Its central location and numerous services make it perfect for families and young people .
FAQs: The sandy, shallow seabed is safe for children, and there are beach clubs with mini‑clubs . Two well‑marked roads lead to the beach, with car parks and shuttle buses . Restaurants and bars line the shore . Activities include pedal boats, kayaks, SUP, water‑skiing and windsurfing courses .
Description – Located on the south‑western coast, Marina di Campo is Elba’s longest sandy beach (1 300 m) . Fine granite sand and shallow water for up to 50 m make it ideal for children . It offers free and equipped sections, a pine forest with playground and a public park behind the beach .
FAQs: The seafront is flat and some beach clubs provide boardwalks and “Job” chairs for people with reduced mobility . Nearby attractions include ice‑cream parlours, parks and a small aquarium . Services include umbrella rentals, pedal boats, sailing and windsurfing schools, bars and shops .
Description – This north‑coast beach forms a wide bay of fine sand about 860 m long . The seabed slopes gently and crystal‑clear water invites long swims . The village of Procchio behind the beach offers shops, bars, gelaterie and a small park .
FAQs: Accessible to people with disabilities thanks to boardwalks and a special beach wheelchair . Several beach clubs offer sailing and windsurf courses and diving equipment . Parking is available but limited; bus lines connect Procchio to Marina di Campo and Portoferraio . The soft sand and gentle seabed make it safe for children .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Procchio (Marciana)
Wide beach of fine sand; shallow seabed; accessible
Description – This 200 m bay between Punta Fetovaia and Monte Cenno has golden sand with tiny granite grains and turquoise water . Rocks protect the bay from winds, creating a mild microclimate .
FAQs: The calm, shallow water makes it safe for children, but the beach is narrow and very crowded in July and August; visit early or in low season . Beach clubs offer umbrella and sunbed rentals, bars and restaurants; there are accessible paths and a beach wheelchair . Snorkelling is recommended along the rocky sides .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Fetovaia (Campo Nell’Elba)
Sandy bay; calm water; mild microclimate; crowded in high season
Beach clubs, bars, paid parking, disabled access
25 km (~40 min)
Biodola – A Natural Amphitheatre
Description – Biodola forms a perfect arc of about 600 m surrounded by green hills . Fine golden sand and a gently sloping seabed make it ideal for children. There are restaurants, bars and rental centres for pedal boats, water‑skiing, diving and surf lessons .
FAQs: The beach is well equipped and families can spend the entire day there . It is about 6 km from Portoferraio; arrive early to find a parking space . A surf school and rentals are available .
Cavoli – The Young People’s Beach (with Family Services)
Description – Cavoli is a 350 m beach on the south‑west coast known for coarse sand and Caribbean‑blue water . Protected by a headland, it has a warm microclimate allowing swimming until October . Although famous for beach parties and a youthful atmosphere, the gently sloping seabed makes it suitable for families .
FAQs: The sandy bottom and facilities (showers, toilets, umbrella rentals) are convenient, but the beach becomes very crowded and noisy in summer; visit in the morning or off‑season . Parking is limited and early arrival is essential . Cavoli is famous for clear water and nightlife .
Description – Near Portoferraio, Le Ghiaie is famous for its white pebbles and incredibly clear water where fish can be seen near shore . It has been part of a biological reserve since 1971; there is a promenade with a large Ferris wheel, and a public garden with a play area behind the beach . Accessibility is provided by a boardwalk and “Job” chairs .
FAQs: The beach consists entirely of smooth pebbles; bring water shoes and consider nearby Padulella or Capo Bianco for more sand . Lifeguards are present in summer and special rules protect marine life . Parking is available nearby or you can walk from central Portoferraio .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Le Ghiaie (Portoferraio)
White pebbles; clear water; shaded park with play area; accessible
Bars, restaurants, rentals, Ferris wheel
14 km (~25 min)
Padulella – A Gem Between White Cliffs
Description – Padulella is a small 170 m beach north‑west of Portoferraio surrounded by white cliffs . The shore is a mix of white gravel and sand; crystal‑clear water and nearby rocks make it perfect for snorkelling . A bar, restaurant and umbrella rentals are available .
FAQs: The seabed is initially pebbly then sandy; water shoes are recommended . Access is via a stepped path; parking is limited, so walking from Portoferraio or Le Ghiaie is advised . Suitable for families who enjoy snorkelling; small children may prefer sandier beaches .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Padulella (Portoferraio)
White gravel & sand with cliffs; crystal‑clear water; good for snorkelling
Bar, restaurant, umbrella rentals
14 km (~25 min)
Capo Bianco – Cliffs and White Pebbles
Description – Between Padulella and the Portoferraio pools, Capo Bianco is about 280 m long and characterised by white pebbles and sand beneath limestone cliffs . The water becomes even clearer when the scirocco wind blows . Caution is needed near the cliffs due to the risk of falling rocks .
FAQs: Suitable for families with children who can swim or enjoy snorkelling among pebbles; use water shoes and portable umbrellas because there is little natural shade . Small kiosks offer drinks and umbrella rentals; parking is paid and the final stretch is steep .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Capo Bianco (Portoferraio)
White pebbles and sand; spectacular cliffs; clear water
Small kiosks, umbrella rentals; paid parking
15 km (~25 min)
Forno – A Village‑Like Cove
Description – Forno is a 120 m beach in the Biodola bay with fine sand and some pebbles on one side . Pastel‑coloured houses and fishing boats give it a village atmosphere . The shallow sandy bottom makes it ideal for children; a small pier is popular for diving .
FAQs: There is a restaurant/bar on the beach and a small facility renting umbrellas and pedal boats . Access via a road to a small car park followed by a 220 m path; alternatively walk from Biodola or take the Marebus shuttle . The beach fills quickly in high season .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Forno (Portoferraio)
Fine sand with some pebbles; tranquil village atmosphere; shallow seabed
Bar, restaurant, umbrella & pedal‑boat rental
18 km (~30 min)
Scaglieri – Biodola’s Little Sister
Description – Scaglieri is a 140 m sandy beach in the Biodola bay bordered by coloured cottages and trees . Nearby are markets, bars, restaurants and a windsurfing school .
FAQs: Its soft sand and gentle seabed are ideal for children, but it can get crowded; arrive early . Services include bar, restaurant, small market, umbrella rentals and windsurf school . Snorkelling is possible along the side cliffs .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Scaglieri (Portoferraio)
Golden sand; sheltered atmosphere
Bar, restaurant, market, windsurf school
18 km (~30 min)
Enfola – Historic Isthmus and Nature
Description – Enfola is on an isthmus connecting the mainland to Capo Enfola; the southern side hosts a 150 m pebble beach with emerald water . Snorkellers and divers appreciate the submerged rocks and rich marine life . The promontory hosts an old tuna fishery (now headquarters of the National Park) and a scenic trail past WWII fortifications . Facilities include bar, restaurant, umbrella rentals, pedal boats, diving centre and free parking .
FAQs: The pebbly shore is less comfortable than sand but water is shallow near the isthmus; wear water shoes . Access is via the Portoferraio–Marciana road; there is a large free parking area and the “Anello dell’Enfola” hiking trail for adventurous visitors . Visit the old tuna fishery, park museum and bunkers .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Enfola (Portoferraio)
Pebble beach on a double isthmus; good for snorkelling; easy access
Bar, restaurant, rentals, diving, historic trail
20 km (~35 min)
Sansone – Currently Closed (2025 Update)
The spectacular Sansone beach, famous for white pebbles and crystal‑clear water, is currently closed due to a landslide that damaged the access path in September 2025 . Check the Portoferraio municipality website for reopening updates. Meanwhile choose alternatives like Capo Bianco or Padulella .
Sant’Andrea – Polished Granite and Turquoise Sea
Description – On the north‑west coast in Marciana, Sant’Andrea is a 150 m bay with granular sand and emerald water . On both sides are Cote Piane, polished granite slabs used as sunbathing platforms and home to succulents; a path leads to tiny Cotoncello beach .
FAQs: The sandy bottom slopes gently, making it safe for children; the Cote Piane provide flat platforms for towels . Activities include snorkelling, walks along the rocks and the spring bloom of succulents . In summer a “Marebus” shuttle connects Sant’Andrea to Marciana Marina .
Bars, restaurants, rentals, diving schools, bus service
30 km (~50 min)
Cotoncello – A Natural Pool for Children
Description – Adjacent to Sant’Andrea, Cotoncello is a tiny shell‑shaped beach surrounded by polished granite that forms a natural pool . The sea is clear and calm; rock pools allow children to play safely . There are no services, so bring water and a sunshade . Reach it via a wooden walkway over the rocks .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Cotoncello (Marciana)
Tiny sandy beach with natural pools; perfect for small children
No services on the beach; bars and restaurants nearby in Sant’Andrea
31 km (~50 min)
La Paolina – A Romantic Islet a Few Steps from Shore
Description – Near Procchio, La Paolina is a 90 m beach of sand mixed with small pebbles . A small rocky island named after Paolina Bonaparte lies opposite; shallow water allows you to walk or swim to it . There is a small beach club offering a bar and rentals .
FAQs: The left side of the beach is sandier and better for children . Access involves parking along the provincial road and descending 75 steps, though a Marebus runs from Procchio in summer . A small bar provides basic services .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
La Paolina (Marciana)
Sand/pebbles with shallow water; island reachable by wading
Small bar/rental
20 km (~30 min)
Spartaia – A Sheltered Golden Cove
Description – Spartaia is a 160 m sandy bay between Procchio and Paolina, surrounded by vegetated cliffs . It has golden sand and a gentle seabed, sheltered from winds except northerlies . Bar and restaurants are available .
FAQs: Named after the “sparto” plant once used to make ropes . Its gentle sandy bottom and quieter atmosphere make it ideal for families . Access via a small road with limited parking; a Marebus runs in summer .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Spartaia (Marciana)
Sheltered sandy bay; gentle seabed; less crowded
Bar, restaurant, small beach club
20 km (~30 min)
Felciaio – Pools and Posidonia
Description – A hidden gem in the Gulf Stella near Lido di Capoliveri, Felciaio consists of two small coves. The first has a bar and accumulations of posidonia giving a wild appearance; the second is protected by a natural and artificial reef creating a sandy‑bottomed pool . Surrounding coves with pebbles are reachable on foot along the rocks . Water is clear and good for snorkelling, but the beach is completely free, so bring shade and supplies .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Felciaio (Capoliveri)
Two coves: one wild with posidonia; one pool‑like for children
Small bar; no beach clubs; large pay parking
5 km (~10 min)
Margidore – A Long Pebble Beach
Description – Margidore stretches west of Lacona beneath Capo Stella. Over 750 m long and 25 m wide, it is covered in smooth pebbles with sandy stretches . Mostly free, with a small central section managed by a local hotel, it offers a bar/restaurant and rentals of canoes, pedal boats and surfboards . A pier allows boats to be launched .
FAQs: Suitable for families if you bring water shoes; its width means there is space even in high season . Access via Viale dei Golfi from Lacona; there is a private pay car park . A beach wheelchair and boardwalks are available .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Margidore (Capoliveri)
Smooth pebbles with sandy parts; wide and quiet; sandy seabed
Bar/restaurant, canoe/pedal‑boat rental, pier
3 km (~8 min)
Laconella – A Small Wild Oasis
Description – Hidden behind Capo Fonza, Laconella is a 210 m beach with fine light sand and some boulders on the right . Its clear water and shallow seabed are ideal for children . It is less crowded than Lacona and has a wild atmosphere . Rocks at Punta della Contessa are perfect for snorkelling and a trail leads to WWII ruins . There are no services, so bring everything .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Laconella (Capoliveri)
Fine sand; shallow seabed; less crowded; wild
No services – bring water, food, shade; rocky snorkelling
4 km (~10 min)
Norsi – The Black‑Sand Beach
Description – Norsi runs 400 m along the Gulf Stella and is split by a rock tongue: one side has fine dark sand, the other black gravel . The seabed is very shallow with clear water; the left side has stones that make entry harder, while the right side is better for children . A lush Mediterranean vegetation grows behind the beach; two bars and a small beach club provide umbrellas and chairs .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Norsi (Capoliveri)
Dark sand and black gravel; very shallow water; right side good for children
Two bars, small beach club, limited parking
6 km (~12 min)
Ortano – Beach and Island for an Adventure
Description – On the east coast near Rio Marina, Ortano is a 150 m beach of pebbles and sand . The Ortano Islet stands just offshore and can be reached by swimming or walking along the rocks . An anti‑jellyfish net allows worry‑free swimming . There are bars, shops and free parking .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Ortano (Rio Marina)
Pebble and sand beach; anti‑jellyfish net; offshore islet
Bars, shops, parking; accessible
25 km (~40 min)
Naregno – The Bay of Spanish Forts
Description – On the eastern coast of Monte Calamita, Naregno is a 500 m beach with sand and small pebbles . Shallow water makes it safe for children. Two Spanish forts guard the bay entrance and can be reached on short walks . The beach offers sailing and windsurf schools, canoe and pedal‑boat rentals, diving and facilities for people with disabilities .
Summary table:
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Naregno (Capoliveri)
Sand & small pebbles; shallow water; playground; sailing schools
Bars, restaurants, rentals, shuttle and boat service
10 km (~15 min)
Barabarca and Zuccale – Hidden Bays in Golfo Stella
Barabarca is a small bay with sand mixed with light gravel and a semi‑circular cliff . Ideal for snorkelling, it has a bar with umbrella and pedal‑boat rentals; access is via a stairway, so not suitable for strollers . Parking is 200 m away .
Zuccale, near Barabarca, is a scenic bay divided into two parts by a landslide . Golden sand with pebbles and clear water; services include bar, umbrella and boat rentals . A staircase connects the parking lot to the beach .
Beach
Family features
Services
Distance
Barabarca (Capoliveri)
Sand & light gravel; sheltered bay; clear water
Bar, umbrella & pedal‑boat rentals; stairs (no strollers)
8 km (~12 min)
Zuccale (Capoliveri)
Golden sand & pebbles; divided into two coves; calm water
Bar, umbrella & pedal‑boat/canoe rentals; stairs
8 km (~12 min)
Morcone – A Lively Bay at the Foot of Monte Calamita
Description – Morcone is a 270 m beach with golden sand and small pebbles . The clear water and gentle seabed are ideal for families. Beach clubs, bars and restaurants provide services; there are facilities for people with disabilities and boat rentals . In spring broom flowers perfume the air and, in 2021, sea turtles hatched here .
Elba has over 130 beaches. The following are worth visiting but less suitable for very young children :
Acquarilli – Small naturist cove with dark pebbles in the Gulf Stella. No facilities; steep path; great for snorkelling.
Fonza – Pebble beach with deep water frequented by boats; no services.
Madonna delle Grazie – Shaded bay near Capoliveri with gravel and posidonia; great for snorkelling but steep access.
Innamorata – Long historic bay tied to the legend of Maria and Lorenzo; mixed sand and pebbles; services and rentals; suitable for families but crowded .
Attractions Near the Hotel: Villages, Nature and History
Elba is not only beaches. From Hotel Giardino you can easily reach charming villages, museums and scenic trails :
Capoliveri – A hilltop village with narrow alleys, lively squares and panoramic terraces. Stroll among artisan shops and try local dishes like octopus “all’elbana” or the raisin‑and‑nut cake schiaccia briaca. Evening concerts and markets enliven the main square. Numerous hiking and MTB trails start from here and nearby wineries offer Aleatico wine tastings .
Porto Azzurro – A pretty harbour 15 minutes from Lacona. Walk along the waterfront, admire the boats and enjoy gelato. The Spanish fort San Giacomo now houses a prison. A short walk leads to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Monserrato; the emerald‑green Lake Terranera (formed by an old pyrite mine) is another excursion .
Portoferraio – The island’s capital with Medici fortifications (Forte Stella and Forte Falcone) and Napoleon’s residence Villa dei Mulini . The historic centre hosts museums, baroque churches and markets, and city beaches like Le Ghiaie, Padulella and Capo Bianco invite a swim after sightseeing .
Marina di Campo & Monte Capanne – From Marina di Campo port you can ride the cable car up to Monte Capanne (1 019 m) for panoramic views; trails lead through chestnut and oak forests. In town visit the aquarium and stroll along the seafront .
Mines and Museums – In Rio Marina and Capoliveri you can visit old iron mines; the Rio Marina museum and Capoliveri mining park museum tell the miners’ story . Guided tours take you into tunnels, an educational outing for children.
Trekking and Nature – Hundreds of kilometres of trails cross Elba. From Hotel Giardino you can walk the trail across Capo Stella to Poggio Turco; other hikes include the Enfola Loop (WWII bunkers), the Volterraio path to a medieval fortress and routes on Monte Capanne .
Boat Trips – Many beach clubs organise boat tours along the south and east coasts. From Lacona you can reach hidden coves like Cala dei Frati, Baia dell’Acquarilli and Cala dei Conigli. Evening tours offer sunset views, while others visit the nearby island of Pianosa .
Practical Tips for a Family Holiday
Best period – June and September offer pleasant temperatures and less‑crowded beaches; July and August are hot and lively, so book early and arrive at beaches early .
Transport – Having a car or scooter gives you freedom; buses link Portoferraio to Capoliveri, Marina di Campo and other towns . In high season free shuttles run from the hotel to Capoliveri .
Packing list – Bring hats, sunscreen, water shoes for pebble beaches (Le Ghiaie, Capo Bianco, Felciaio), masks and fins for snorkelling, a reusable water bottle and bags for rubbish . Respect the environment and take your rubbish with you .
Pets – Hotel Giardino is pet‑friendly; some beaches allow dogs (e.g., Fonza, Mola, parts of Norsi). Ask at reception for details .
Safety – Always follow lifeguards’ instructions and respect swimming rules; avoid venturing beyond marked areas in strong winds . Bring enough water to stay hydrated.
Conclusion
Elba is a paradise for families, offering a variety of beaches, clear waters, nature trails and charming villages . Each beach has unique characteristics, but all share generous nature and services suitable for families. Hotel Giardino in Lacona, thanks to its central location, proves to be an ideal starting point to discover the entire island; within minutes you can move from the golden dunes of Lacona to the white pebbles of Capo Bianco or the granite rocks of Sant’Andrea . We hope these insights help you plan your holiday; we look forward to welcoming you and sharing our stories and legends of Elba.
