Introduction
Lacona is one of the most iconic beaches on Italy’s Elba Island. The Hotel Giardino team prepared this guide to explain why this wide, golden arc of sand is perfect for families, couples and anyone seeking relaxation . You will learn what the sea conditions are like, where to park and how to make the most of your day in the Gulf of Lacona.
Overview of Lacona Beach
Lacona sits on the southern coast of Elba, backed by rolling hills and pine forests. It is the second‑longest beach on the island, stretching about 1.2 km . The sand is fine and golden, and the beach is protected from southern winds. A maritime pine wood runs almost the entire length, providing natural shade . The seabed is sandy and slopes very gently, so the water remains shallow for tens of metres – ideal for children and less confident swimmers . Natural dunes behind the beach host rare sea‑lily plants; volunteers monitor the area each year. The turquoise sea is often calm and transparent, though small waves can form when the wind blows from the south .
Key features
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | ~1 200 m (second longest beach on Elba) |
| Sand type | Fine golden sand |
| Orientation | South (protected from southern winds) |
| Seabed | Sandy, gently sloping; shallow warm water near the shore |
| Natural shade | Coastal pine forest provides shade along most of the beach |
| Recommended winds | Best when Tramontana, Grecale or Maestrale blow; sheltered from southern winds |
| Parking | Several paid public car parks along the provincial road; average cost €6–8/day |
What Makes the Sea Special
Lacona’s sea is renowned for its turquoise colour and transparency. The shallow water near the shore forms a natural lagoon where children can play safely . The sandy bottom allows the water to warm up quickly, while further out the seabed turns into posidonia meadows near Capo Stella and Capo Fonza, popular for snorkelling and diving . Visitors often ask why the sea is so special: the answer lies in its clarity and the fact that it remains shallow for a long distance . The fine, golden sand is comfortable for walking barefoot .
Q&A: Sea and Sand
- Why is the sea at Lacona unique? Because the water is clear, shallow and calm near the shore, forming a safe lagoon for children .
- What is the sand like? The beach is covered in fine golden sand, even in the natural, unserviced sections .
Access and Parking
Lacona is easy to reach by car or public transport. From the main road (SP 25 between Portoferraio and Capoliveri) several turn‑offs lead to different access points . Bus line 118 (Portoferraio–Bagnaia–Lacona) also stops near the beach .
Parking Options
Most visitors arrive by car and can choose among various paid public car parks along the provincial road and at the eastern end of the beach . During the summer these car parks fill up quickly, so it is best to arrive early in the morning. Prices typically range from €6 to €8 per day . Some larger beach clubs offer private parking reserved for guests . Parking on nearby side roads may be free in low season, but spaces are limited .
Getting there without a car
If you prefer to leave the car behind, take the local line 118 bus from Portoferraio to Lacona, which stops close to the beach .
Services and Activities on the Beach
Lacona is a well‑equipped beach offering both serviced sections and wide free areas . Along the shoreline you will find numerous beach clubs, bars and restaurants . Popular spots include the Miramar Bistrot with views of Montecristo and the Laconella Beach Bar . The pine forest behind the beach hosts small kiosks serving sandwiches, salads and ice cream.
Watersports and rentals
Thanks to its calm waters, Lacona offers a range of water sports. Visitors can rent kayaks, stand‑up paddle boards, pedal boats and small boats . There are diving centres and sailing and windsurf schools along the beach . Snorkelling in the posidonia meadows is a favourite activity for those who enjoy underwater exploration .
Q&A: Services and Dining
- Are there beach clubs and water sports? Yes, Lacona has several beach clubs with sunbed and umbrella rentals, as well as centres for snorkelling, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and diving .
- Where can I eat nearby? In addition to the beach bars, there are restaurants and pizzerias both on the beach and in the adjacent pine forest where you can enjoy fresh fish and traditional Tuscan dishes .
Natural curiosities
Lacona’s dunes are home to the rare sea lily (Pancratium maritimum). Volunteers monitor the dunes each summer, and in 2023 a nest of loggerhead turtles (caretta caretta) hatched on the beach – a record number of 89 hatchlings . Visitors are encouraged to respect these protected natural areas.
Hotel Giardino – Ideal Base for Exploring Lacona
The guide highlights the Hotel Giardino as an excellent base for your stay. This two‑star family‑run hotel is immersed in a 30 000 m² park and is less than 100 m from the beach . Guests appreciate its rustic yet welcoming atmosphere and the natural shade provided by the surrounding pine trees . Rooms are simple but comfortable, equipped with air conditioning, television and a private bathroom; many have direct access to the garden or a private balcony .
Location and atmosphere
- Central position: The hotel sits in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona and is 10–15 minutes by car from Marina di Campo, Porto Azzurro, Capoliveri and Portoferraio .
- Family vibe: The staff are friendly and attentive; the hotel feels like a country house with ample common areas to relax after the beach .
Main services
| Service | Availability |
|---|---|
| Free Wi‑Fi | Available in common areas such as the dining room, bar and relaxation area |
| Private parking | Shaded, with numbered spaces |
| Bike storage | Secure, covered space for bikes |
| Restaurant & bar | Tuscan home‑style cooking; buffet breakfast with homemade products |
| Barbecue area | Available in the garden for outdoor dinners |
| Pet‑friendly | Small and medium dogs allowed (notify at booking) |
| Children’s play area | Ping‑pong, table football and a playground |
| Daily cleaning | Highly rated for cleanliness |
Q&A about the hotel
- Why choose Hotel Giardino? For its enviable location close to the sea, tranquil environment in nature and family‑run hospitality .
- Is it suitable for families? Yes. Rooms can accommodate families, the restaurant offers child‑friendly dishes and there is a playground and large green park .
- Are pets allowed? Small and medium dogs are accepted; there is a dedicated green area for them .
- How are the rooms? Simple yet functional, all with air conditioning, TV and a private bathroom; many have direct garden access or a balcony .
- Is the food good? Guests praise the buffet breakfast with homemade products and the restaurant’s fresh fish and Tuscan dishes .
- Services for hikers? There is a covered bike depot, maps and advice on local hiking routes and discounts for sports events .
What to See Nearby
Thanks to its central position, Hotel Giardino allows easy exploration of southern Elba. Recommended excursions include:
- Capoliveri: A medieval hilltop village with narrow streets, summer markets and panoramic viewpoints like Monte Calamita .
- Marina di Campo: A lively resort with the island’s longest sandy beach, ideal for evening walks and shopping .
- Porto Azzurro: Picturesque fishing harbour with Spanish fortifications and seafood restaurants .
- Portoferraio: The island’s capital, rich in history, including Napoleon’s residences Villa dei Mulini and Villa San Martino .
- Monte Capanne: The island’s highest peak (1 019 m), accessible by cable car from Marciana, offering spectacular views .
- Nature trails: From Lacona there are numerous hiking routes, such as the Capo di Stella trail with views towards Montecristo, and more demanding paths like the Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE) .
- Nearby beaches: Wild coves such as Laconella (0.9 km) and Margidore (1.1 km) are within walking or short driving distance . For tranquillity, head to the nearby Acquarilli or Norsi bays .
Conclusion
Lacona Beach offers a unique combination of long, shallow golden sands, crystal‑clear waters and convenient services. Whether you come for a day of sun or a longer holiday, you’ll find plenty of activities, from snorkeling in posidonia meadows to exploring nearby villages and hiking trails. Parking is well organised but fills quickly in summer, so plan to arrive early. With its prime location close to the beach, family‑run atmosphere and thoughtful amenities, Hotel Giardino makes an ideal base for discovering Elba’s southern coast and beyond.