Introduction
Lacona Beach on the south coast of Elba is one of the island’s widest and most popular beaches. It stretches for about 1.2 km between the headlands of Fonza and Capo Stella and is backed by green hills and coastal dunes . The beach’s fine golden sand and shallow, clear water attract families, couples and groups of friends looking for comfort and high‑quality services. This guide – prepared by the staff of Hotel Giardino – explains where Lacona is, what the beach is like, which beach clubs operate there and how much sunbeds and umbrellas cost. We also provide tips on where to stay (with a focus on Hotel Giardino) and what to see nearby . The guide is formatted as a set of questions and answers with summary tables for easy consultation .
Where is Lacona Beach?
Question: Where exactly is Lacona and how do you get there?
Answer: Lacona is a seaside resort in the municipality of Capoliveri on the south side of Elba. The beach lies in the middle of one of the island’s largest bays, facing south toward Montecristo. It is bordered by the Fonza peninsula to the west and the narrow Capo Stella promontory to the east . Lacona is about 8 km from Capoliveri and about 11 km from the port of Portoferraio; the drive from Portoferraio takes roughly 15 minutes . There are also bus services from the port (line 118, about 30 minutes) and taxis or rental cars available. Because Lacona is centrally located, you can reach Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio in 10–15 minutes by car . To reach Elba itself, the most common option is the ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio (about one hour; booking ahead is advised in high season) . There is also a small airport at Marina di Campo with seasonal flights from cities such as Pisa, Florence and Milan .
What is the beach like?
Lacona forms a sweeping arc of fine golden sand approximately 1.2 km long . It is one of the few beaches on Elba with intact coastal dunes where sea lilies and Mediterranean vegetation still grow . Behind the dunes, a pine forest provides natural shade and picnic areas. The seabed slopes gently and stays shallow for 30–40 metres, making it safe for children and non‑swimmers . In deeper areas farther out there are Posidonia meadows and rocky zones for snorkelling . The bay faces south and is protected by surrounding headlands, so it is sunny and sheltered from wind . These natural features make Lacona a spacious, family‑friendly beach with both sunny and shaded areas .
Is Lacona suitable for families?
Yes. Families appreciate Lacona’s soft sand, shallow water and wide free areas . The pine forest behind the beach offers shade for midday breaks, and nearby you’ll find a pharmacy and minimarket. Several beach clubs cater to families with facilities like changing rooms, showers, lifeguards and mini‑clubs (for example, Lacona Beach Club) . To get a good spot in high season it’s best to arrive early; June and September are quieter months for families .
Is Lacona good for young people and couples?
Lacona offers something for everyone. Young people enjoy long stretches of free beach for beach‑volley and socialising, and beach bars such as Il Cantone and White Hole organise sunset aperitifs and live music . There are also nearby discos in Portoferraio and Cavoli. Couples can take romantic sunset walks, dine at restaurants such as Bagni Orano or relax in the bohemian atmosphere at Il Cantone . Renting a double kayak or hiking to Capo Stella are popular couples’ activities . After dark the beach becomes quiet, perfect for stargazing and listening to the waves .
Free beach vs. beach clubs
Large sections of Lacona are free to access. You can set up your own umbrella, picnic and use public showers, but there are no lifeguards or services in these stretches. In addition, there are several well‑run beach clubs offering umbrellas, sunbeds and services. The main establishments are listed below with their distinctive features . All lidos include lifeguard service and maintain their beach areas well.
| Beach club | Highlights | Extra services |
|---|---|---|
| Bagni Orano | Family‑run lido with excellent seafood restaurant; canoe/kayak rental and SUPs; friendly atmosphere . | Bar, restaurant, changing rooms, showers. |
| Sun Beach | Centrally located near the dunes; classic services and kids’ play area . | Restaurant and cocktail bar; rental of SUP, pedalos and beach sports. |
| Tortuga Beach Club | Lively vibe popular with young people; private parking; SUP and kayak hire . | Snack bar and lounge area; often hosts music events. |
| Lacona Beach Club | “All‑in‑one” with bar, restaurant, sports activities and a mini‑club; accessible facilities (ramps, disabled beach wheelchairs) . | Organises concerts, SUP courses and events; offers reserved parking. |
| Il Cantone Beach Bar | Bohemian‑chic establishment with live music and typical Elban dishes . | Offers craft cocktails; hosts art exhibitions and sunset events. |
| Lacona Resort | Part of the Uappala resort; complete hotel services; open to external guests . | Restaurant, pool (for hotel guests), lounge bar; boat and bike rentals; mini‑club. |
How much do sunbeds and umbrellas cost?
Prices vary by season and by the row of umbrellas. On average, an umbrella plus two sunbeds cost €25–45 per day in high season . In June and September you can expect €20–30; in July about €25–35; and in August up to €40 for the first row . Renting a single sunbed or deckchair costs €10–25. Stand‑up paddleboards or pedalos rent for about €10–35 per hour . Many lidos offer discounts for multiple days or half‑day rentals . The free beach sections remain free but you need to bring your own equipment; showers may cost a small fee .
Water sports and activities
Lacona is not just sunbathing. A range of water sports and activities are available, often organised by the beach clubs or local operators:
- Snorkelling: The clear water and rocky areas near Capo Stella and Margidore harbour abundant fish. Equipment is easy to rent and some lidos organise guided snorkelling tours .
- Diving: Diving centres such as Sottolonda Diving and Blu Immersion at Capo Stella offer courses and guided dives for beginners and advanced divers . Dive sites include the “Scoglio di Corbella” and other south‑coast reefs.
- Swimming and freediving: The calm gulf is ideal for long swims or freediving; remember to use a marker buoy if you go far from shore .
- Windsurf, sailing and kite: Lacona’s moderate winds are suitable for windsurfing and small sailboats, with schools offering lessons and rentals. Kite surfing is less common due to the protection of the headlands .
- Stand‑up paddle and canoes: SUPs and canoes are widely available for hire. They are perfect for exploring the bay, reaching Laconella or Golfo Stella; expect to pay about €10–15 per hour .
- Pedalo and water games: Many lidos rent pedalos. There are also water toys such as banana boat rides and wakeboard hire .
- Boat tours and rental: You can rent small motorboats without a licence to explore the coast or join organised excursions departing from Marina di Campo or other ports .
- Other activities: Beach tennis, racchettoni and jogging are popular, as are hiking and mountain‑bike trails in the surrounding hills. Horse‑riding excursions are also available. Some lidos offer relaxing beach massages or yoga sessions .
Nature walks and excursions
The area around Lacona offers many opportunities for hikers and nature lovers. Here are a few suggestions:
- Capo di Stella loop: A 3 km loop trail along the narrow promontory east of Lacona offers panoramic views of both Lacona and the Gulf of Stella. It is moderately difficult and best walked in the morning or at sunset; guided tours are sometimes available .
- Laconella Bay: A path leads from Lacona to the secluded beach of Laconella. This small bay has white sand and clear water; parking is limited, so it is better to go on foot or by bicycle .
- Margidore Beach: A 500 m gravel beach accessible by a short walk offers peace and excellent snorkelling. There are small boat rentals and a sailing club; the beach is mostly free and has a Napoleonic history .
- Monte Orello trails: Mountain‑bike and trekking trails in the nearby hills form a 13 km loop that passes old WWII fortifications and scenic viewpoints. These trails are popular for events like the Capoliveri Legend Cup, and Hotel Giardino offers secure bike storage for guests .
- Santuario della Madonna della Neve: A small church close to Lacona, celebrated on 5 August, with a festival of stalls and fireworks .
- Monte Perone & Butterfly Sanctuary: Approximately 30–40 minutes away by car, this area offers high‑altitude hikes and a butterfly sanctuary within the National Park .
Nearby towns and attractions
Lacona’s central location makes it easy to explore other towns and attractions on Elba. Below is a summary of notable sites within a short radius . Distances are measured from Lacona (by car):
| Destination & distance | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Capoliveri – 10 km (15 min) | Hilltop village with panoramic terraces, craft shops and lively evenings. Visit Piazza Matteotti, Calamita mining museum (Vecchia Officina) and nearby beaches; events like the Grape Festival and Legend of the Innamorata . |
| Portoferraio – 13 km (18 min) | Medici fortresses (Falcone and Stella), Napoleonic residences (Villa dei Mulini, Villa San Martino), mineral museum, beaches such as Le Ghiaie and Capo Bianco, lively harbour promenade . |
| Porto Azzurro – 11 km (15 min) | Picturesque fishing village with the Spanish San Giacomo fort (exterior), Monserrato sanctuary and romantic waterfront markets; many harbour‑side restaurants . |
| Marina di Campo – 11 km (15 min) | Long sandy beach with promenade, shops and bars; boat trips to Pianosa; Elba Aquarium nearby . |
| Marciana (west) – 30 km (45 min) | Medieval mountain village; cable‑car to Monte Capanne (1,019 m), spectacular views, Pisan fortress and Madonna del Monte sanctuary . |
| Rio nell’Elba (east) – 18 km (25 min) | Santa Caterina hermitage with botanical garden (Orto dei Semplici); mining museum at Rio Marina; authentic village atmosphere . |
| Nature areas | Capo Stella (panoramic trek); Monte Orello (mountain‑bike and hiking); Laconella (small secluded beach); Margidore (pebble beach with snorkelling); Monte Perone & Butterfly Sanctuary (nature trails) . |
Because everything is within a short distance, you can plan a different excursion every day. The reception at Hotel Giardino provides maps, museum opening times and recommendations for hikes and wine tastings .
Hotel Giardino – the ideal base to explore Elba
After exploring the beach and surroundings, the article turns to accommodation. Hotel Giardino in Lacona is presented as the perfect base for visiting the beach and the whole island .
Where exactly is Hotel Giardino?
Hotel Giardino is located at Viale dei Golfi 936, Lacona, in the municipality of Capoliveri . Set in the green heart of the Lacona Gulf, it is only 100 m from the beach. A short path through the dunes leads directly to the sand . The hotel is on a quiet side street, clearly signposted and easy to reach by car . Its central position means you can drive to Capoliveri, Portoferraio, Marina di Campo or Porto Azzurro in 10–15 minutes . Surrounded by a large private park, the hotel is insulated from traffic noise and offers a peaceful oasis .
What type of hotel is it?
Although rated 3 stars, Hotel Giardino is praised for its homely atmosphere and well‑kept essential services . It is a family‑run hotel with three low buildings spread over a 30,000 m² pine park . Rooms are situated in separate units, ensuring peace and allowing each to have a balcony, patio or small private garden . Features include:
- Rooms and comfort: Each room has a private bathroom with shower, flat‑screen TV, safe, telephone and (in many cases) air conditioning . The rooms are simple and functional but scrupulously clean . Some rooms overlook the garden .
- On‑site services: The hotel offers free Wi‑Fi in common areas, an internal bar for coffee, drinks and aperitifs, and a bright restaurant . Outside there are tables and chairs for relaxing in the park . A covered and secure bike storage facility is available . Guests receive discounted ferry tickets through the hotel . Each room has its own numbered parking space inside the pine park – a major advantage in high season when public parking is scarce . The hotel is pet‑friendly and dogs are welcome on the grounds .
- Restaurant and bar: Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the hotel’s restaurant. Breakfast is a generous buffet with homemade cakes and savoury options . Lunch and dinner feature Tuscan and Elban dishes made with quality ingredients and fresh fish . The kitchen is flexible, accommodating children’s preferences and dietary intolerances . Some evenings the hotel organises outdoor barbecues in the garden . The bar serves drinks and cocktails; you can enjoy a glass of Aleatico Passito or Limoncino on the terrace .
- Reception & excursions: The friendly reception team provides tourist information, maps, ferry/bus schedules and can book excursions for guests . They also assist with scooter or car rental and share insider tips on less‑known beaches and restaurants . Free Wi‑Fi is available in common areas and some rooms . Children have a play area, table football and table tennis . The hotel sometimes provides bicycles or can arrange rentals and offers discounts and flexible hours for athletes participating in events such as the Giro Podistico, Capoliveri Legend Cup and Elbaman triathlon . A discount code for ferry tickets is available for guests . Daily housekeeping and laundry service (on request) are provided .
Is the hotel suitable for families?
Absolutely. The hotel has triple and quadruple rooms and some ground‑floor units with small private gardens where children can play safely . The large enclosed park allows kids to run around under parental supervision . The play area, table football and ping‑pong keep children entertained . The restaurant offers child‑friendly menus and flexible mealtimes . Parents appreciate the secure, relaxed environment and the proximity to the beach; you can return to the hotel quickly if a child needs a nap . Families highlight the staff’s attentiveness in meeting special requests and making children feel welcome .
Is it suitable for couples?
Yes. Despite its family appeal, the hotel also caters well to couples. The extensive park and separated buildings create quiet corners and privacy . Couples can enjoy romantic dinners under the porch or in the garden, with the hotel arranging special touches like champagne on request . The hotel’s central position makes it easy to reach romantic spots like the sunsets in Capoliveri or the harbour restaurants of Porto Azzurro . The intimate, informal atmosphere and good value make it attractive for couples on a budget .
Why is Hotel Giardino a great base for visiting Elba?
- Central position: Lacona lies almost in the geographic centre of Elba. From Hotel Giardino you can reach destinations east (Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Rio) or west (Marina di Campo, Marciana, Pomonte) in 15–30 minutes by car . This makes it easy to plan day trips without retracing long roads. The only longer drive is to the far western village of Pomonte (about 40 minutes) .
- Proximity to beaches: Besides having Lacona at your doorstep, you are close to other renowned beaches such as Lido di Capoliveri (10 min), Felciaio and Norsi (15 min), or the northern white‑pebble beaches of Portoferraio like Padulella, Capo Bianco and Le Ghiaie (20 min) . If wind from the south roughens Lacona, you can simply drive to a north‑facing beach for calm water .
- Evening variety: In 15 minutes you can choose a different village each night for dinner or a stroll—Portoferraio for gelato, Capoliveri for cocktails, or Marina di Campo for dancing. Staying at Lacona avoids long nocturnal drives on Elba’s winding roads .
- Organised excursions: Many guided tours depart from nearby towns. Hotel Giardino helps guests join boat tours, island‑round buses or guided trekking events like the Walking Festival in spring and autumn .
- Relaxation: After a day exploring the island, it’s pleasant to return to the tranquillity of the hotel. You can finish your day with a dip at Lacona or a nap under the pines . A guest summarised: “We toured Elba all day and in the evening returned to this peaceful corner two steps from a wonderful beach – the best end to the day” .
Conclusion
Lacona is one of Elba’s jewels, a wide sandy bay with intact dunes, shallow turquoise water and a pine forest that offers natural shade. The beach balances free areas and well‑equipped lidos, giving visitors the freedom to choose the experience that suits them. Sports enthusiasts will find a variety of water activities, while hikers and nature lovers can explore nearby trails and scenic headlands. Thanks to its central location, Lacona makes a perfect base for exploring the whole island.
Hotel Giardino embodies the authentic, laid‑back hospitality of Elba. Nestled in a 3 hectare pine park just 100 m from the beach, it offers simple yet comfortable rooms, a friendly family atmosphere, good food, secure parking, free Wi‑Fi, bike storage, and discounts on ferries. Families appreciate the safe environment and play areas, while couples enjoy the peaceful garden and romantic dinners. Its central location allows day trips to towns, beaches and nature sites all over the island, returning each evening to a quiet refuge. Whether you’re travelling with children, as a couple or with friends, Lacona and Hotel Giardino provide everything you need for a relaxing and memorable holiday on Elba.