Introduction
The island of Elba is a small jewel in the Tyrrhenian Sea where sea, nature and history coexist in harmony. Its coastline alternates between golden sand beaches, white cliffs plunging into clear water, hidden bays and quaint hill‑top villages. Because the landscape changes from bay to bay, there is no single “best” beach on Elba; rather, everyone can find their own favourite. This guide, written by the staff of Hotel Giardino in Lacona, picks out ten beaches not to miss and explains what makes each special, who will enjoy them most (families, couples, snorkellers, hikers, etc.), how to reach them from the hotel and what to expect once you arrive . Practical Q&As and a summary table help readers compare the beaches at a glance. Finally, the guide presents Hotel Giardino as an ideal base for exploring Elba because of its central position between Marina di Campo and Portoferraio, allowing guests to discover a different part of the island every day without changing accommodation .
1 – Cavoli (Campo nell’Elba): a young bay with crystalline water
Cavoli is one of the most famous beaches on the south‑western coast. About 300 metres long, it consists of light, granular sand and is protected by hills that create a warm microclimate . Emerald‑coloured water and a gently sloping seabed make the shoreline feel like a natural salt‑water pool . Granite slabs at the sides are perfect for sunbathing and provide good snorkelling spots because many fish hide among the rocks . The beach faces south and is sheltered from north winds by Monte Capanne, so you can sunbathe even out of season . Cavoli is also known for its summer party atmosphere: in the afternoon bars organise DJ sets and happy hours on the sand, attracting many young people . In the morning and off‑season it remains relaxed and is also appreciated by families thanks to calm water and safe swimming . The beach can get very crowded in high season, so arrive early to find a spot .
How to reach & useful information. Hotel Giardino in Lacona is about 15 km away; the drive along the provincial coast road takes around 15 minutes and is well signposted . Park along the roadside or in small paid car parks (around €6–8/day) . There is a beach bar where you can buy sandwiches, salads, ice cream and drinks and enjoy sunset parties . Families should go early to avoid the midday crowds; the sea is shallow but busy later in the day .
2 – Fetovaia (Campo nell’Elba): tropical scenery and sheltered cove
Often described as a tropical paradise, Fetovaia is a narrow spit of fine golden sand flanked by two headlands. The turquoise water is so transparent that it resembles a swimming pool and a natural microclimate makes the beach pleasant even in spring or autumn . The seabed is shallow and sheltered from most winds, so Fetovaia is ideal for families with children, while snorkellers enjoy exploring around the Scoglio della Seghettina offshore . The scenery – turquoise water, lush vegetation and the dramatic ridge of Monte Capanne in the background – attracts photographers and couples . Because of its popularity, the beach fills up quickly in summer; arrive early or visit outside peak season to appreciate its beauty.
How to reach & useful information. Fetovaia is about 18 km from Hotel Giardino and can be reached in 20 minutes by car via the narrow coastal road . Parking is limited and paid (arrive early to secure a space). There are beach clubs offering umbrellas, sunbeds and pedal‑boat/canoe hire, a couple of bars, toilets and rescue services . The beach is suitable for families (calm water and shallow seabed), couples (exotic scenery) and landscape photographers .
3 – Sansone (Portoferraio): white pebbles and turquoise water
Sansone is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. It lies beneath white cliffs and consists of small white pebbles that make the water glow turquoise. It forms part of the northern coast’s marine protected area . Access is via a 15‑minute path from the parking area; there are no services on the beach itself, just a small bar at the start of the path . The water is crystal clear and rich in fish, making Sansone a paradise for snorkellers . Because the beach is narrow and access is via a steep path, it is best for adults and couples who appreciate nature; it is less suitable for small children or those with reduced mobility.
How to reach & useful information. From Hotel Giardino it takes about 25 minutes by car to reach the parking area. The path is steep and can be slippery, so wear suitable shoes and avoid carrying heavy equipment . Parking is either along the road or in a paid lot (around €18/day). The beach is free and unserviced – bring water, snacks and shade . Sansone is ideal for snorkelling, adventurous nature lovers and couples seeking an intimate setting .
4 – Capo Bianco (Portoferraio): white cliffs and calm water
Capo Bianco offers a similar experience to Sansone but is slightly less busy. It is framed by brilliant white cliffs and composed of white pebbles that make the water turn a vivid turquoise . A staircase (about 80 steps) leads down from the small cliff‑top parking area . Part of the beach is equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds; the rest is free. A bar/restaurant sits above the beach. Because of the rocks around the shore, Capo Bianco is perfect for snorkellers and couples who enjoy a photogenic setting . The lack of shade means it is best visited in the morning or early afternoon; later the cliffs cast the beach in shadow .
How to reach & useful information. Capo Bianco is about 20 minutes by car from Lacona. The small parking area above the beach is free or charges a fee depending on the season . There are no services on the beach itself; the bar and toilets are above at road level .
5 – Biodola (Portoferraio): a long sandy bay with all facilities
The long bay of Biodola (about 600 m) is famous for its soft golden sand and calm, azure water . Surrounded by green hills, it is considered one of Elba’s “VIP” beaches because several hotels occupy parts of the shore; however, free areas remain accessible. The shallow, gradually sloping seabed makes it ideal for families. Adjacent beaches Scaglieri and Forno, connected by short paths, offer smaller and more secluded alternatives . Biodola features diving, sailing and windsurfing schools, and there are bars, restaurants and shops nearby .
How to reach & useful information. Biodola is roughly 30 minutes by car from Hotel Giardino via Procchio. There is a free parking area which fills up in August and a paid lot near the hotels . Its combination of comfort, services and natural beauty appeals to families, couples and even celebrities .
6 – Sant’Andrea (Marciana): granite pools and romantic sunsets
This small bay on the west coast is flanked by large granite slabs forming natural platforms and crystal‑clear pools . The beach itself is sandy but narrow; many people choose to lie on the granite rocks (Cote Piane) and swim from there. The water is transparent and home to various marine species, making Sant’Andrea popular with snorkellers . The nearby Cotoncello cove is reached by a footpath and offers further secluded bathing spots . Sant’Andrea is romantic at sunset and recommended for couples and those seeking a quiet natural setting .
How to reach & useful information. It takes about 45 minutes by car from Lacona via a narrow mountain road. Parking in the village is limited; spaces are either free or paid . A short walk from the parking area leads to the beach. There is one small lido with sunbeds, canoe/SUP hire and two seaside restaurants/bars .
7 – Lacona (Capoliveri): the “queen of the south” and home beach of Hotel Giardino
Lacona, the largest bay on the south coast, is a 1.2 km sweep of golden sand backed by dunes and a pine forest . The gently sloping seabed and shallow, transparent water make it safe for children. There are many amenities: beach clubs, sailing and windsurf schools, pedal‑boat/kayak hire, bars, restaurants and campsites behind the dunes . Part of the beach is free; another part is equipped. Being centrally located, Lacona is a perfect base for exploring other beaches and towns – guests at Hotel Giardino can reach it in a 5‑minute walk through the pine wood . The dunes host rare plants such as the sea daffodil; please stick to the wooden walkways to protect the habitat.
How to reach & useful information. From Hotel Giardino the beach is a short walk (no parking needed). For visitors arriving by car there are several paid parking areas along the road and a summer bus service from Portoferraio . Lacona suits families, groups of friends (sports and ample space) and anyone looking for a convenient central beach .
8 – Laconella (Capoliveri): a hidden pearl next to Lacona
Just west of Lacona lies the little gem of Laconella. This 180 m beach is nestled between Punta Contessa and Capo Fonza . It has fine, light‑coloured sand and shallow, turquoise water . The beach is surrounded by dunes and Mediterranean vegetation, giving it a wild, unspoilt feel . There are no facilities here, so bring everything you need and take all rubbish away. The right‑hand end of the bay has granite rocks ideal for snorkelling . When the sea is calm, you can swim out to Scoglio della Contessa to explore submerged crevices . Because it is small, Laconella fills quickly in peak season; go early or in low season to enjoy solitude .
How to reach & useful information. From Lacona drive towards Marina di Campo for a few hundred metres and turn right at the brown “Laconella” sign. Follow a narrow road that becomes a dirt track; it ends at a small free car park (10–15 cars) . From there a 5‑minute downhill path leads to the beach; the final section is steep and uneven, so sturdy sandals are advisable . The path is not suitable for pushchairs or people with mobility issues. For adventurous families, Laconella is delightful: the shallow sandy seabed is ideal for children but access requires a short hike and there are no services . Alternatively you can hike from Lacona along the coastal path around Capo Fonza (20–30 minutes, suitable for experienced walkers) .
9 – Innamorata (Capoliveri): romance, legend and golden sunsets
The Innamorata beach lies on the south‑eastern coast at the foot of Monte Calamita. About 280 m long, it consists of dark sand mixed with small pebbles, and looks out over two small islands called Gemini . The beach is framed by rocky promontories covered in Mediterranean scrub. At sunset the light turns the sky and sea shades of pink and gold , making it the perfect place for a romantic picnic or evening stroll. The name (“Lovers’ beach”) comes from a 16th‑century legend: Maria threw herself into the sea to rescue her lover Lorenzo who had been taken by pirates; every 14 July Capoliveri commemorates this story with the “Leggenda dell’Innamorata”, a torchlit procession and swimming contest .
How to reach & useful information. Innamorata is about 15 km from Hotel Giardino; it takes roughly 20 minutes by car via Capoliveri . A large paid car park lies just behind the beach; there is also a summer shuttle bus from Capoliveri . Two beach establishments rent umbrellas and sunbeds; two restaurants/bars offer meals, ice cream and aperitifs . The bay remains largely free and has calm water with a gradually deepening seabed. A path on the right leads to flat rocks where you can sunbathe alone and explore nearby coves . The beach suits families in the morning, young people who like to jump from rocks, and couples seeking a romantic evening. Don’t miss the torchlight festival on 14 July .
10 – Terranera (Porto Azzurro): a black beach with a green lake
Terranera, near Porto Azzurro on the eastern coast, showcases the island’s geological diversity. The small 80‑m beach is formed from dark sand and gravel rich in hematite and pyrite, sparkling with metallic flecks . Immediately behind it lies a small green lagoon separated from the sea by a narrow strip of land; the vivid colour comes from sulphur and dissolved minerals . The contrasting colours – blue sea, green lake, black sand and red hills – create a stunning vista . The area was once mined for iron; traces of old equipment remain underwater, making snorkelling unusual here . Terranera is wild and unserviced; there are no bars or umbrellas. Swimming in the lake is prohibited because its mineral‑rich water is stagnant and potentially unsafe【889779791414399†L940-L1003】.
How to reach & useful information. Terranera is about 20 minutes by car from Hotel Giardino. Drive to Porto Azzurro, turn towards Reale beach and park in the free lot there . A 5‑minute path through shrubs leads to the lagoon and beach . Bring water, food, an umbrella and water shoes – there are no services and little shade . Swimming in the lake is forbidden; enjoy the view from a distance and swim in the sea . Terranera is ideal for geology enthusiasts, photographers and snorkellers who appreciate unusual seascapes .
Summary table of the 10 beaches
| Beach & location | Landscape and highlights | Access & parking (distance from Hotel Giardino) | Services | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cavoli (Campo nell’Elba) | Light, granular sand; protected bay with flat granite slabs; emerald water | Directly off the coast road; 15 min by car from Lacona; parking along road or paid lots | Bar/chiosco with music; beach clubs with rentals; showers | Young people (afternoon vibe), snorkellers (rocks), families (morning) |
| Fetovaia (Campo nell’Elba) | Fine golden sand; narrow tropical spit; green‑turquoise water | Narrow asphalt road; ~20 min by car; paid parking near beach (limited) | Beach clubs, canoe/pedal‑boat hire, 1–2 bars | Families (calm sea), couples (scenery), photographers |
| Sansone (Portoferraio) | White pebbles; white cliffs; turquoise water | 15 min walk along steep path from parking; ~25 min by car; parking on road or paid (€18/day) | Free beach; bar on the path; no services on the beach | Snorkellers, nature lovers, couples |
| Capo Bianco (Portoferraio) | White pebble beach under brilliant cliffs; very clear blue water | Staircase (~80 steps) from small parking area; ~20 min by car | Small section of umbrellas; bar/restaurant above; no services on beach | Couples, photographers, snorkellers |
| Biodola (Portoferraio) | Long golden sand (600 m); calm azure bay | 30 min by car via Procchio; free and paid parking | Many services: hotel lidos, bars, restaurants, sailing & diving schools | Families (shallow water), those seeking comfort and a trendy environment |
| Sant’Andrea (Marciana) | Small sandy bay with flat pink‑granite slabs and natural pools | Narrow mountain road; 45 min by car; limited parking | Lido with sunbeds; canoe/SUP hire; 2 seafront restaurants | Couples (romantic sunset), snorkellers, those seeking quiet nature |
| Lacona (Capoliveri) | Wide sandy beach (1.2 km) with dunes and pine wood; shallow, clear water | 5‑minute walk from Hotel Giardino; paid parking along road; bus from Portoferraio | Many services: sailing/windsurf schools, pedal‑boat/kayak hire, bars, restaurants, campsites | Families, groups of friends, anyone seeking a convenient central beach |
| Laconella (Capoliveri) | Secluded sandy cove (180 m) with turquoise water and rocky snorkelling corner | Narrow road + 5 min downhill path; 5 min by car from Lacona; small free car park | No services; wild beach | Those seeking tranquillity and unspoiled nature; snorkellers; adventurous families |
| Innamorata (Capoliveri) | Dark sand/pebble bay framed by Gemini islands; romantic sunsets | Asphalt road to beach; ~20 min by car; large paid car park; summer shuttle | Two beach clubs, two restaurants/bars; rental of pedal boats; lifeguard | Couples (legend and sunsets), families (calm water & services), snorkellers |
| Terranera (Porto Azzurro) | Small black‑sand beach backed by a green lagoon and red hills | 5 min walk along path from Reale; ~20 min by car; parking at Reale | None; bring all necessities | Geology enthusiasts, photographers, snorkellers looking for something unusual |
Hotel Giardino: an ideal base for exploring Elba
After learning about the island’s best beaches, it’s important to choose accommodation that allows you to enjoy them. Hotel Giardino in Lacona is a two‑star, family‑run hotel set within a 30,000 m² private pine and holm oak park, just 100 metres from the long sandy beach of Lacona . Its location offers three key advantages: centrality on the island (10–15 minutes by car to Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Marina di Campo or Porto Azzurro), immediate proximity to the sea, and peace amid nature . Guests can walk to the beach in five minutes through the pine wood and have their own reserved, shaded parking space on site .
The hotel has a warm, family atmosphere: the owners and staff know guests by name and offer personalised tips on excursions (many visitors discover hidden beaches like Laconella or Felciaio thanks to their advice) . The large garden with hammocks, a playground, table tennis and shaded relaxation areas encourages guests to unwind while children play . The on‑site restaurant serves home‑style Tuscan and Elban cuisine with fresh fish, home‑made pasta and garden vegetables; weekly outdoor dinners and barbecues are a highlight . A buffet breakfast includes home‑baked cakes and artisanal jams . Rooms are simple but comfortable, with air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, safe, renovated bathroom and some with balcony or garden access . The hotel provides free Wi‑Fi, bicycle use, ferry discounts for guests, and is pet‑friendly . Many guests return year after year because of the central location, good food and family feel .
What to visit near Hotel Giardino (Lacona and Capoliveri)
Staying in Lacona allows visitors to explore not only the beaches but also scenic trails, historic villages and cultural sites nearby. Suggestions include:
- Santuario della Madonna della Neve (Lacona). A 20–30 minute walk from the hotel leads to this small white church surrounded by holm oaks. From its terrace there are panoramic views over the Gulf of Lacona, especially at sunset . According to local legend, an apparition of the Virgin Mary occurred here during a summer snowfall.
- Forte Focardo (Capo Perla). Around 10 km east of Lacona, this 18th‑century Spanish fort stands on Capo Perla and offers sweeping views over the sea and coast . Although the interior is a military base and cannot be visited, the short walk to the fort is worthwhile for the panoramas at sunset.
- Capoliveri and the Calamita mining area. The medieval hill town of Capoliveri (8 km from the hotel) has narrow alleys lined with artisan shops, wine bars and restaurants . From Piazza Matteotti there are views over the Stella and Porto Azzurro bays . The nearby Sea and Mineral Museum displays samples of minerals extracted from Monte Calamita . Guided tours in jeeps or on foot visit the old iron mines of Calamita and Ginevro, where tunnels and open pits tell the island’s mining story .
- Capo Stella loop trail. Path 82 encircles the promontory of Capo Stella. Starting about 1 km from the hotel, the 3 km loop (1.5 hours) climbs through lentiscus and rockrose to the summit, offering 360° views over the Golfo di Lacona, the Stella Gulf, Capoliveri, Monte Calamita and even the distant islands of Pianosa and Giglio on clear days .
- Nearby hidden coves. Within a short drive from the hotel are less‑frequented beaches: Margidore (15 minutes’ walk or a few minutes by car) is a dark shingle beach with a small marina; Felciaio (4 km) is a tiny twin‑cove with shallow natural pools ideal for small children ; Lido di Capoliveri (10 minutes) offers services and restaurants ; Fonza (8 km via a dirt road) is a secluded shingle bay near a sea cave . These “minor” beaches provide variety without travelling far .
Conclusion
Elba offers an extraordinary variety of beaches: from party‑vibe Cavoli and tropical‑looking Fetovaia to the wild seclusion of Laconella and the surreal black sands of Terranera. Each beach has its own personality and is best visited at certain times or by certain types of travellers. With its central location, Hotel Giardino provides the perfect base to explore them all: guests can set off each day for a different bay, knowing they will return to a peaceful family‑run hotel surrounded by pine trees. Whether you are travelling with children, looking for a romantic hideaway, or craving snorkelling and adventure, you’ll find your ideal spot among these ten beaches. Use the table above to match your preferences and plan your own Elban beach odyssey.