Where is the most beautiful sea on the island of Elba?

Introduction

The island of Elba, the third largest in Italy, is a paradise of colours and fragrances. Its 150‑kilometre coastline alternates between long golden beaches, small coves of white pebbles, wild cliffs and transparent seabeds . Each corner has its own character: a sheltered bay where the water looks like a swimming pool, a fine sandy beach backed by pines, a shore of dazzling white stones that make the turquoise sea stand out even more. It’s natural to ask where the most beautiful sea is, but the answer is personal because the island offers such variety . This guide, written by the staff of Hotel Giardino, will help you discover the most evocative coastlines and unmissable experiences with practical questions and answers, summary tables and tips on what to visit nearby .

Hotel Giardino in Lacona: our ideal starting point

About the hotel

Before exploring the beaches, meet our home. Hotel Giardino is a family‑run hotel set in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona on the southern side of Elba. It is immersed in a 30 000 m² park of pine trees and Mediterranean scrub . A protected dune area separates us from the golden sands of Lacona Beach, just 100 m away on foot . The location is strategic: Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio can all be reached in 10–15 minutes by car .

Hospitality and services

The hotel offers a simple, welcoming atmosphere. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat‑screen satellite TV, private bathroom with shower and hairdryer, and a safe . Some rooms face the garden or have a balcony or private patio . Guests enjoy free Wi‑Fi in the lounge, bar and common areas; there is a covered car park, bicycle storage and a large shaded park with a playground for children . Our kitchen serves buffet breakfasts with fresh homemade products and prepares authentic Elban dishes for lunch and dinner, catering for children and those with intolerances . We have agreements with ferry companies for discounted tickets and are pet friendly . The hotel also collaborates with local sporting events such as the Capoliveri Legend Cup and the Elbaman Triathlon .

Why choose Lacona

Lacona lies in the municipality of Capoliveri but belongs to the Campo nell’Elba area. It is a peaceful resort facing one of the island’s longest sandy beaches, surrounded by dunes and pine forest . From our hotel you can walk not only to the main beach but also to hidden coves such as Laconella, or easily drive to other destinations. The charm of Lacona lies in its central position: within a few kilometres you can reach the spectacular beaches of Fetovaia, Cavoli and Marina di Campo to the west, or Capo Bianco, Sansone and Portoferraio to the north . This makes our hotel a great base for exploring all the faces of Elba’s sea.

Discovering the island’s most beautiful beaches

Elba offers an incredible variety of beaches: sandy strands, white‑pebble coves, granite cliffs, serviced lidos and wild shores . Below we focus on the most famous beaches and those easily reached from our hotel, describing their main features and how to get there.

Lacona

• Beach type: fine golden sand .
• Location: Gulf of Lacona (Campo nell’Elba), southern side .
• Features: The nearest beach to the hotel, over 1 km long with a gently shelving sandy bottom, ideal for families . Behind the beach are protected dunes and a pine wood. It is equipped with beach clubs, bars and kayak and pedal‑boat rentals .
• Why we like it: Perfect for those seeking convenience. From Hotel Giardino it takes five minutes on foot through the dunes . An early‑morning or sunset walk along the shore is pure poetry .

Laconella

• Beach type: light sand in a small sheltered bay .
• Location: at the western end of Lacona Gulf, reachable on foot in 20 minutes or by car plus a short path .
• Features: A 210 m bay surrounded by a promontory with Mediterranean vegetation . The fine sand and crystal‑clear sea with a gently shelving bottom attract those who love tranquillity. It is less crowded than Lacona and offers a small refreshment point. On the western side, the Punta della Contessa has low cliffs and rich seabeds perfect for snorkelling .
• Why we like it: You reach it via a brief walk through scrub; the atmosphere is wild and romantic . From Punta della Contessa there are views of the Gulf Stella and you can see remains of WWII batteries .

Fetovaia

• Beach type: golden sand .
• Location: south‑west coast, Campo nell’Elba, about 30 minutes by car .
• Features: About 200 m long and 40 m wide, it is protected by a rocky promontory and Monte Cenno, creating a mild microclimate . The shallow sea, fine granite sand and turquoise water make it ideal for families; there is a paid car park, facilities and a walkway for people with reduced mobility .
• Why we like it: A concentrate of beauty: soft sand, emerald water and scrub vegetation offering natural shade. Arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere before the crowds in high season .

Cavoli

• Beach type: coarse sandy granules .
• Location: south‑west coast between Marina di Campo and Seccheto, about 25 minutes by car .
• Features: Named after the granite blocks (cavoli), this 350 m beach is divided by a rocky spur into two sectors: a larger serviced area and a quieter western stretch . South‑facing and sheltered from winds by Monte Capanne, it enjoys a microclimate that permits swimming in spring and autumn . The sand, composed of quartz and biotite crystals, does not stick to the skin . The nearby Blue Grotto is reachable by pedal boat or a short swim .
• Why we like it: Perfect for young people and beach lovers; the music from the beach bars, transparent water and pedal‑boat or SUP excursions make Cavoli one of the liveliest beaches .

Biodola

• Beach type: fine sand .
• Location: north coast in the municipality of Portoferraio, about 30 minutes by car .
• Features: Together with nearby Scaglieri it forms a 600 m bay of golden sand . The beach is set in a natural amphitheatre of hills and offers shallow turquoise water. Hotels, campsites, bars and restaurants line the bay; you can practise water sports such as sailing, windsurfing and snorkelling .
• Why we like it: The combination of fine sand, crystal‑clear water and services makes Biodola one of the island’s most complete beaches. Late afternoon, when the sun sets behind the hills, the atmosphere is enchanting .

Sansone & Capo Bianco

• Beach type: white pebbles .
• Location: north coast near Portoferraio, about 35 minutes by car .
• Features: Capo Bianco is about 280 m long and features white pebbles mixed with sand . It is considered among the most beautiful places on the island and offers an incredibly clear sea . Sansone, slightly to the west, consists of white pebbles; landslides damaged the path in 2024, and the beach reopened in mid‑2025 after safety work . Both beaches have rocky seabeds ideal for snorkelling .
• Why we like them: The visual impact of white pebbles against turquoise sea is breathtaking . Wear rock shoes and avoid visiting in strong wind or when landslide risk is reported .

Other beaches on the eastern and southern sides

The south and east of Elba offer many coves within minutes of Hotel Giardino :

• Innamorata – A bay associated with a romantic legend, surrounded by cliffs; it has a lido and hosts the Festa dell’Innamorata on 14 July .
• Morcone & Pareti – Once fishing villages south of Capoliveri, these coves now feature services and clear water .
• Felciaio – A natural cove with flat rocks and natural pools .
• Naregno & Madonna delle Grazie – Quiet beaches on the eastern side: Naregno is a long sandy beach with sailing schools; Madonna delle Grazie lies in a cove with a mixed sand and stone seabed .
• Norsi & Lido di Capoliveri – Two sandy beaches between Lacona and Capoliveri; Lido is well equipped while Norsi is more natural with limited parking .
• Barabarca & Zuccale – Small coves of light sand and clear water a few kilometres from Capoliveri; accessible by paths and steps and ideal for tranquillity .
• Galenzana – Near Marina di Campo; a shaded sandy beach reachable only on foot or by boat .
• Margidore – East of Lacona; a calm pebble beach facing the Gulf Stella .

Questions and answers: how to choose the most beautiful sea

Which beach is best for families with children?

Beaches with shallow seabeds, soft sand and services are ideal for families. Lacona is perfect with its long, wide beach and gentle bottom . Biodola and Fetovaia also have gently sloping sand but can be crowded in high season . The Fenicia beach in Marciana Marina is pebbly but suitable for children thanks to its calm sea and proximity to the village .

Which beach has the clearest water?

Many Elban beaches boast clear water, but white pebbles enhance transparency. Capo Bianco and Sansone offer incredibly turquoise seas due to the contrast with the pebbles . Felciaio and Barabarca also have transparent waters and rocky seabeds ideal for snorkelling . Cala della Contessa at Laconella, with rocks and rich seabeds, is a paradise for divers .

Are there beaches accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Many Elban lidos invest in inclusive services. Fetovaia has walkways and special chairs for entering the sea . Lacona and Biodola also offer walkways, accessible bathrooms and dedicated services . We recommend contacting individual beach establishments for the latest information .

Which beaches are recommended for snorkelling?

Snorkelers will be delighted. Laconella, thanks to the cliffs of Punta della Contessa, has seabeds rich in fish and seagrass . Sansone and Capo Bianco are renowned for their clear water and dramatic cliffs . Chiessi and Pomonte on the west coast also offer interesting seabeds; at Pomonte you can explore the wreck of the merchant ship Elviscot just metres from shore .

Where can I surf or windsurf?

The southern side of Elba, exposed to wind, is ideal for water sports. Lacona has windsurf schools and SUP rentals; spring and autumn conditions suit experienced surfers . On the eastern coast, Naregno has a sailing school; at Procchio and Marina di Campo you can windsurf thanks to afternoon breezes .

Which beach is the least crowded in high season?

In July and August the main beaches can be crowded. For tranquillity we recommend Felciaio, Capo di Fonza and Galenzana, where visitor numbers are lower thanks to more difficult access . Norsi and Naregno also offer larger spaces. Avoid Sansone on summer weekends: limited parking causes queues and the access is not always safe .

Can I take my dog to the beach?

Many beaches allow pets outside the serviced area. Lacona has dedicated dog areas; Felciaio and Norsi are often chosen by owners with animals . Remember to respect local regulations (lead, waste collection) and bring water and shade for your four‑legged friend .

Which beach is best for sunsets?

On the south‑western side, Fetovaia and Seccheto offer spectacular sunsets over the sea; the sun sets behind Monte Cristo and Pianosa, colouring the sky orange and pink . Procchio and Biodola also provide suggestive sunsets. On the eastern side you can enjoy sunrise at Capo Bianco or Naregno .

Do beaches have bars and restaurants?

Yes. Many mentioned beaches have lidos with services: Lacona, Fetovaia, Cavoli, Biodola and Lido di Capoliveri offer bars, restaurants, sunbed hire, sporting equipment and showers . Smaller coves such as Laconella, Felciaio, Barabarca and Zuccale are largely free, so bring everything you need .

How can I reach Sansone if the path is closed?

In 2024 a strong storm caused landslides on the access path to Sansone. The authorities have secured the trail and the beach reopened in mid‑2025 . We still advise checking with the Portoferraio tourist office before going. Alternatively, visit Capo Bianco, which has similar scenery, or book a boat excursion that includes a stop at Sansone .

Which beaches are ideal for kayaking or SUP?

The calm waters of the Gulf of Lacona are perfect for paddling: you can depart from Lacona and reach Laconella or Margidore . The jagged coast of Capoliveri allows exploration of numerous caves and coves between Zuccale, Barabarca and Innamorata . On the north side, the area between Biodola and Viticcio offers sheltered waters and picturesque scenery .

Where can I dive?

Elba is renowned for its rich underwater life. Numerous diving centres are located in Lacona, Margidore, Marciana Marina and Capoliveri . Famous dive sites include the Punta della Contessa shoal, the wrecks of Pomonte, the caves of Punta Falcone in Portoferraio and the Scoglietto banks .

Which beach is the most scenic?

Capo Bianco and Sansone provide spectacular views over the Gulf of Portoferraio and the Piombino Channel . Fetovaia fascinates thanks to the panorama of the protecting peninsula . From the promontory of the Torre di San Giovanni in Campo nell’Elba you enjoy a view embracing Marina di Campo, Fetovaia and the island of Montecristo .

Are there footpaths to reach the beaches?

Absolutely. From our hotel you can take the panoramic path to Laconella . The Passeggiata Carmignani links Porto Azzurro to Barbarossa Beach . In Marina di Campo a path leads to Galenzana through the scrub. Many coves such as Barabarca and Zuccale require short walks along stairways immersed in greenery .

Can I visit the beaches by bus?

Elba is served by local buses connecting the main centres. In summer an evening shuttle runs from the car parks to Capoliveri’s historic centre . However, to reach secluded coves we recommend a car or e‑bike. Many guests use our bike storage and rent e‑bikes to travel along panoramic routes .

Which beach is best in low season?

In spring and autumn Elba’s climate is mild and beaches are less crowded. Cavoli’s microclimate allows swimming from March to November . Biodola and Lacona are perfect for long walks on the sand. In October and November the western coast offers breathtaking sunsets and the flowering of wild rosemary .

Where can I find beaches equipped for people with reduced mobility?

Besides Fetovaia, Marina di Campo has walkways to the shore and accessible services . Biodola and Lacona have establishments with amphibious chairs. Contact the lidos directly to confirm availability .

Which beaches are recommended for couples seeking romance?

Smaller coves are perfect for romantic moments. Barabarca, Zuccale, Felciaio and Cala della Contessa offer privacy and evocative views . In the evening you can go to Innamorata for the torchlit festival on 14 July . Another romantic experience is a sunset boat trip along the Gulf Stella .

Which beaches are linked to legends or traditions?

Innamorata owes its name to the legend of two lovers, Lorenzo and Maria, whose boat was hit by a storm on the night of St Lawrence; Maria threw herself into the sea and her shawl was found on the beach . Every 14 July the story is reenacted with a torchlit procession . Sansone is linked to pirate stories, while Laconella preserves the remains of a WWII battery .

Are there snorkelling spots suitable for children?

Felciaio has shallow water and natural pools where even the little ones can observe fish . Pomonte, although farther away (about 45 minutes), offers the Elviscot wreck just metres from the shore – a unique experience for children with masks and fins . Margidore has calm waters and a pebble seabed full of marine life .

Can I take boat trips to visit several beaches in one day?

Yes. From the ports of Marina di Campo, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio boat excursions depart to various coves . A circumnavigation of the island often includes stops at Cala dei Frati, Cala Bagnaia, Sant’Andrea and Punta Polveraia . You can rent dinghies or join guided trips with lunch on board .

Which beaches are known for aperitifs on the shore?

In summer many beaches organise aperitifs and DJ sets at sunset. Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia are famous for their beach venues . The seafront at Biodola also has cocktail bars overlooking the bay .

Which beaches have ample parking?

The most serviced beaches have large paid car parks: Lacona, Fetovaia, Cavoli, Biodola and Lido di Capoliveri . Parking is limited at Sansone and Capo Bianco – arrive early or use Portoferraio’s shuttle service . Barabarca, Zuccale and Felciaio also have limited spaces .

What should I bring for a day at the beach?

Always take high‑protection sunscreen, plenty of water, a hat and an umbrella if you choose free beaches . In July and August arrive early to avoid the heat and secure a spot. For rocky coves, bring rock shoes and a mask .

Where can I rent a pedal boat or kayak?

Almost all serviced beaches rent pedal boats, SUP boards and kayaks. At Lacona you can hire pedal boats from several lidos . At Fetovaia and Cavoli you will find SUP and canoes to explore the coast; Biodola and Naregno also have sailing schools and rentals .

What to visit nearby: villages, museums and nature

Elba is not only about the sea. From our hotel you can easily reach picturesque villages, museums linked to Napoleonic history, Medici fortresses and nature parks .

Capoliveri: between mines and panoramas

Perched on a 167 m hill, Capoliveri is one of Elba’s most characteristic villages . Its historic centre retains the appearance of a medieval village with vaulted alleys called chiassi lined with craft shops and taverns . The name may derive from Caput Liberum, a place dedicated to Bacchus thanks to surrounding vineyards, or from the shape of the promontory “free” because it is surrounded by the sea .

What to see in Capoliveri

• Museum of the Sea: exhibits artefacts from the wreck of the steamship Polluce recovered in 2012 and tells the story of local seafaring .
• Pieve di San Michele: Romanesque church from the 12th century .
• Sanctuary of Madonna delle Grazie: near the beach of the same name; houses a painting attributed to Marcello Venusti .
• Monte Calamita mines & Old Workshop Museum: guided tours recount the history of iron extraction; from the top of Monte Calamita there is a spectacular view .
• Forte Focardo: 17th‑century Spanish fortress on a promontory over the sea .

Events and traditions

Capoliveri is lively with events: the Grape Festival in October, during which the four quarters of the town compete with floats and tastings ; the Festa dell’Innamorata on 14 July that reenacts the legend of Lorenzo and Maria with a torchlit procession on the sea ; and the Cavatore Festival in May, in honour of the miners . In summer an evening shuttle bus connects external car parks to the centre .

Porto Azzurro: the village on the Gulf of Mola

Porto Azzurro overlooks the Gulf of Mola, the most welcoming inlet on the eastern coast . Formerly called Porto Longone, it was renamed in 1947 to adopt a more evocative name . Today it is a renowned seaside resort and a tourist port perfect for exploring the eastern coasts .

What to see in Porto Azzurro

• Fortress of San Giacomo: built in 1603 by Don Garcia de Toledo with a star‑shaped plan and impressive bastions; part of it is now a prison and can be visited only with permission .
• Piazza Matteotti: the town’s centre, facing the sea and surrounded by shops and restaurants; hosts concerts and events .
• Chiesa della Madonna del Carmine and Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Mary: baroque churches from the 18th century in the heart of the village .
• Piccola Miniera: a small‑scale reconstruction of a mine where a train runs through tunnels, illustrating the island’s mining history .
• Sanctuary of Madonna del Monserrato: built in 1606 by the Spanish governor Pons y Léon on a hill .

Nearby beaches

The municipal territory includes sandy beaches such as Barbarossa (reachable via the Carmignani walkway), Reale and Rossa; Terranera is gravelly and features a mining lake, while Pianotta alternates sand and rocks .

Marina di Campo and Campo nell’Elba: between beaches and villages

Campo nell’Elba occupies the southern, flat part of the island, stretching from the Gulf of Lacona to Pomonte . The main town, Marina di Campo, is a fishing village with a long maritime tradition . The town’s beach, facing the gulf, is the island’s longest and features golden sand, a shallow bottom and a pine forest .

What to see in Marina di Campo

• Cylindrical tower: a Pisan tower 25 m high with an external staircase and panoramic terrace; it once served as a lighthouse .
• Historic centre: the village dates back to the 17th century and is characterised by alleys and porticoes .
• Church of San Gaetano: a small church in the centre .
• Sant’Ilario & San Piero: hill hamlets with medieval atmospheres, Romanesque churches and views over the gulf; the Pieve di San Giovanni is the island’s largest Romanesque building . Along the road to Monte Perone are the Torre di San Giovanni and the Butterfly Sanctuary, a nature trail where over 50 native species can be observed .
• Island of Pianosa: ferry connections from Marina di Campo lead to this flat island (maximum height 29 m) once a penal colony and now a protected area .

Nearby beaches

Besides the long town beach, Campo nell’Elba offers Fetovaia, Cavoli, Seccheto, Galenzana, Colle Palombaia and Fonza . The first three alternate sand, rocks and pebbles. Fonza is a wild bay reachable only on foot or by boat .

Portoferraio: the capital of Elba

Portoferraio is the capital and main port of the island, located on the north‑eastern coast . Founded by the Medici in 1548 under the name Cosmopoli, it was designed to be an impregnable fortress. Today it preserves imposing Medici fortresses – Falcone, Stella and Linguella – connected by massive ramparts . The historic centre features cobbled streets, lively squares, churches and museums .

What to see in Portoferraio

• Medicean forts (Falcone, Stella & Linguella): built in the 16th century by the Medici to defend the city; Forte Falcone offers a lovely sea view .
• Palazzina dei Mulini: Napoleon’s residence during his exile in 1814‑1815 .
• Villa San Martino: Napoleon’s summer residence purchased in 1814; includes a neoclassical gallery built by Prince Anatolio Demidoff that houses 19th‑century prints .
• Linguella Archaeological Museum: displays finds from the 8th century BC to the 5th century AD recovered on Elba and the Tuscan islands .
• Foresian Art Gallery: a collection donated by Mario Foresi featuring artworks, musical and literary items .
• San Giovanni thermal baths: the island’s only spa, set in the salt marsh .
• Volterraio Castle: a Pisan castle from the 12th century on a peak. Reinforced in the 15th century, it resisted the Turkish attack of 1544 .

Nearby beaches

Portoferraio offers beaches for every taste: Scaglieri and Forno (sandy), Bagnaia, Ottone, Le Viste and Viticcio (mixed sand and pebble), Le Ghiaie, Magazzini, Capo Bianco and Seccione (pebbly) .

Marciana and Marciana Marina: between sea, mountains and history

On western Elba, Marciana is one of the island’s oldest villages; it lies on the slopes of Monte Capanne at 375 m . In the Middle Ages it was a residence of the Appiani family and has a Pisan fortress with four towers . Its cool, mountain atmosphere contrasts with the maritime resorts nearby .

What to see in Marciana

• Pisan fortress: built in the 12th century and reinforced by the Appiani; from the walls you admire a panorama from Monte Capanne to the coast .
• Churches of San Lorenzo and San Cerbone: the former is Romanesque and now a ruin and national monument; the latter was erected in honour of Saint Cerbonius .
• Civic Archaeological Museum: housed in the Palazzo del Pretorio; preserves prehistoric, Etruscan and Roman artefacts .
• Poggio Terme: a village surrounded by woods, famous for the spring “Fonte di Napoleone” .
• Sanctuary of Madonna del Monte: a 14th‑century sanctuary on the slope of Monte Capanne .
• Monte Capanne: Elba’s highest peak (1 019 m), reachable on foot or by cable car; from the top you see Pianosa, Capraia, Montecristo, Gorgona and Corsica .
• Beaches: The area offers sandy beaches at Paolina, Procchio and Spartaia; mixed beaches at Sant’Andrea; and rocky coves at Punta Nera, Chiessi and Pomonte .

Events in Marciana

On 18 August the Palio di Sant’Agabito features folklore games and historical parades . At the end of October the Chestnut Week celebrates mountain products; traditional dishes include sburrita (fish soup with herbs) .

Marciana Marina

Marciana Marina is Elba’s smallest municipality; its territory surrounds a semicircular bay overlooked by Mount Giove and Monte Perone . It is known as the “little Marseille” for its maritime importance in the early 20th century .

Key sights include the Appiani Tower, a 16th‑century lookout ; the Church of Santa Chiara with its Baroque facade ; and the Cotone district, an old fishermen’s quarter with colourful houses . Beaches include the pebbly Fenicia, Crocetta and Cala with crystal waters . Diving trips depart from the harbour . Events include the Tagliagambe cycling and running race in June and the Santa Chiara festival with processions and fireworks on 11‑12 August . Local specialities include buzzamaglia (tuna offal stew with peas) and gallette used for panzanella .

Other unmissable destinations

• Rio nell’Elba & Rio Marina: villages on the east coast famous for their iron mines. At Rio Marina you can visit the Mining Park on a train tour of the workings; at Rio nell’Elba you’ll find museums of rural culture and the Eremo di Santa Caterina .
• Volterraio: the island’s oldest fortification, offering a spectacular panoramic view .
• Tuscan Archipelago National Park: Elba is part of a national park that also includes Pianosa, Capraia, Gorgona, Montecristo, Giglio and Giannutri. Boat excursions allow visits to some of these islands .

Food, wine and traditions

Elban cuisine is a journey through time, combining Ligurian, Tuscan and Spanish influences. At our hotel we serve traditional dishes with local ingredients and enjoy telling the stories behind each recipe .

Typical dishes

• Schiaccia briaca: a cake with raisins, pine nuts, walnuts and Aleatico wine; it began as an alcohol‑free tart brought by Barbary pirates and later enriched with sweet wine .
• Sburrita: a fish soup made with humble fish (boghe or cod), stale bread and aromatics such as garlic, parsley and chilli . In the Rio Marina version dried cod is used .
• Gurguglione: a vegetable stew (aubergines, courgettes, peppers) similar to ratatouille .
• Stoccafisso alla riese: stockfish cooked with potatoes and tomatoes, typical of Rio nell’Elba .
• Cacciucco dell’Elba: the island’s version of the classic Tuscan fish soup .
• Buzzamaglia: a stew of tuna offal and peas, typical of Marciana Marina .

Wines and produce

Elba is famous for Aleatico dell’Elba DOCG, a dessert wine made from Aleatico grapes that pairs with the schiaccia briaca . Other wines include Elba Bianco and Elba Rosso, made from native varieties and perfect with fish dishes . The countryside produces olive oil and honey, and in recent years the Birra dell’Elba craft beer has been born .

Food festivals

Every village celebrates its own products and dishes: the Grape Festival in Capoliveri, the Chestnut Week in Marciana , fish festivals in Porto Azzurro and Rio Marina . In Campo nell’Elba you can taste schiaccia briaca and Aleatico during food fairs .

Natural excursions and outdoor activities

Elba is a paradise for those who love hiking and outdoor activities. In addition to beaches, we recommend experiences immersed in nature :

• Monte Capanne and the Marciana cable car: At 1 019 m, Monte Capanne is the island’s highest peak. From the summit you can see the other Tuscan islands and Corsica . You can hike up along CAI trails or take the two‑seat cable car from Marciana (April–October). Mouflons and birds of prey live on the mountain; in spring and autumn the woods are filled with flowers and mushrooms .
• Trekking and mountain bike: The Monte Calamita area in Capoliveri has a bike park with trails of varying difficulty and hosts international races such as the Capoliveri Legend Cup . The Granito Trail through Campo nell’Elba connects the beaches of Fetovaia, Cavoli, Seccheto and Pomonte . Hikers can tackle the GTE (Grande Traversata Elbana), a three‑day route crossing the island from east to west .
• Butterfly Sanctuary: Along the road to Monte Perone there is a nature trail dedicated to butterflies, where over 50 native species can be observed – an experience suitable for children .
• Diving and snorkelling: Diving centres in Lacona, Margidore, Marciana Marina and Portoferraio organise dives for all levels . Spectacular sites include the Fetovaia shoal, the Elviscot wreck at Pomonte and the caves of Punta Falcone .
• Running and cycling: Sporting events animate the island year‑round: the Elba Island Marathon, the Legend Cup and the ElbaMan Triathlon attract athletes from across Europe. The scenic routes between sea and mountains make Elba an ideal place to train .

How to reach Elba and Hotel Giardino

Elba is connected to the mainland by ferries departing from Piombino to Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo. The crossing takes about an hour . Our guests can take advantage of discounted tickets by booking through the hotel . Once landed, follow the signs to Capoliveri and Lacona; in 15 minutes you will be immersed in our park . For those arriving by plane, La Pila airport is in Campo nell’Elba and links the island with several Italian and European cities during the summer season . We provide a transfer service on request.

Summary tables

Beach distances from Hotel Giardino

Beach	Type	Distance from our hotel	Key features
Lacona	Golden sand	0.1 km (5 min walk)	Longest beach on the south coast; shallow bottom; protected dunes
Laconella	Light sand	1 km (20 min walk)	Quiet bay, crystal‑clear water; snorkelling at Punta della Contessa
Fetovaia	Golden sand	20 km (30 min by car)	Protected by promontories; mild microclimate; services & disabled walkway
Cavoli	Coarse sand	18 km (25 min)	Lively atmosphere; warm microclimate; Blue Grotto
Biodola	Fine sand	25 km (30 min)	Wide bay; turquoise water; hotels & campsites
Sansone	White pebbles	27 km (35 min)	White pebbles; difficult access; snorkelling; check reopening
Capo Bianco	White pebbles	26 km (30 min)	280 m beach; white pebbles; scenic
Innamorata	Mixed sand & rocks	15 km (20 min)	Linked to a lovers’ legend; festival on 14 July
Morcone	Sand & gravel	14 km (20 min)	Former fishing village; now a seaside resort
Pareti	Sand & rocks	14 km	Quiet cove with services
Felciaio	Rocks & natural pools	12 km	Flat rocks and natural pools; ideal for snorkelling
Naregno	Sand	14 km	Long beach with sailing schools
Madonna delle Grazie	Mixed sand	14 km	Secluded bay near the sanctuary
Norsi	Dark sand	12 km	Free beach in wild nature
Lido di Capoliveri	Sand	13 km	Wide, serviced beach suitable for families
Galenzana	Sand	22 km	Isolated beach reachable on foot; ideal for peace
Margidore	Dark gravel	1.5 km	Free pebble beach with view over Gulf Stella

Main localities and attractions

Locality	Distance from hotel	Main attractions
Capoliveri	8 km	Medieval centre with chiassi, Museum of the Sea, Monte Calamita mines, Forte Focardo
Porto Azzurro	10 km	San Giacomo fortress, Piazza Matteotti, Piccola Miniera, Monserrato sanctuary, beaches of Barbarossa & Terranera
Marina di Campo	12 km	Longest beach on Elba, Pisan tower, Sant’Ilario & San Piero, ferries to Pianosa
Portoferraio	14 km	Medici fortresses (Falcone, Stella, Linguella), Palazzina dei Mulini, Villa San Martino, archaeological museum, art gallery, San Giovanni thermal baths
Marciana	30 km	Pisan fortress, churches of San Lorenzo & San Cerbone, archaeological museum, Monte Capanne, Poggio Terme, Madonna del Monte sanctuary
Marciana Marina	32 km	Appiani Tower, Santa Chiara church, Cotone quarter, beaches Fenicia/Crocetta/Cala, diving and maritime traditions
Rio Marina & Rio nell’Elba	22 km	Mining park, mining museums, Eremo di Santa Caterina
Volterraio	18 km	12th‑century Pisan castle with panoramic views
Monte Capanne	35 km	Highest peak, hiking and cable car, panoramic views of the archipelago
Butterfly Sanctuary	25 km	Nature trail with over 50 butterfly species

Conclusion: The most beautiful sea on Elba? A matter of emotion

At the end of this long guide, the initial question retains its charm: where is the most beautiful sea on Elba? After exploring beaches, trails, villages and traditions together, the answer can only be personal. Elba is a palette of colours that changes with the light, seasons and your desires. Some will be enchanted by the white pebbles of Capo Bianco, others will never want to leave the golden sands of Fetovaia, and others will feel at home in the calm sea of Lacona. Our advice, as locals and hosts of Hotel Giardino, is to experience the island slowly: explore a different beach each day, savour local cuisine, climb Monte Capanne to view the archipelago from above . Let emotions guide you and don’t rush to crown a single beach as “the most beautiful” – Elba will give you unforgettable memories around every corner . We look forward to welcoming you at the Giardino to share our passion for this island and help you choose the sea that best suits your dreams .