Introduction
Elba, the third‑largest island in Italy, is a paradise of colours and scents. Its nearly 150 km of coastline alternates between long golden beaches, coves of white pebbles, wild cliffs and crystal‑clear depths. Each corner has a different character and evokes its own emotions: a sheltered bay where the water looks like a swimming pool, a fine‑sanded beach backed by pine trees or a shoreline of gleaming pebbles that make the turquoise sea stand out even more . Travellers naturally ask where they can find the most beautiful sea on Elba, but the answer depends on personal tastes, because the island is so varied that everyone can find their own paradise . This practical Q&A guide, prepared by the staff of Hotel Giardino, explores the most evocative shores and nearby experiences, summarises key information in tables and offers tips on what to visit nearby . As hosts in Lacona, we love sharing the beauty of our island in every season.
Hotel Giardino in Lacona: our ideal starting point
Before diving into the beaches, let us present our home. Hotel Giardino is a family‑run hotel in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona on the island’s south side. It sits within a 30 000 m² park of pines and Mediterranean scrub . The beach is just 100 m away: walk through the protected dunes to reach the golden sand. Within 10–15 minutes by car you can reach Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio , making the hotel a perfect base for exploring the whole island.
Hospitality and services
The hotel offers a simple, welcoming atmosphere. Rooms have air conditioning, flat‑screen satellite TV, private bathroom with shower and hair dryer, and a safe . Some rooms overlook the garden or have a private balcony or patio. Guests enjoy free Wi‑Fi in the lounge, bar and common areas . There is covered parking, bicycle storage and a large shady park with a play area for children . Our cuisine, inspired by Elban traditions, serves buffet breakfasts with fresh homemade products and prepares simple dishes for lunch and dinner, accommodating children and those with intolerances . We collaborate with ferry companies to offer discounted tickets . Pets are welcome and we have arrangements with local sporting events such as the Capoliveri Legend Cup and Elbamann Triathlon .
Why choose Lacona
Lacona belongs administratively to Capoliveri but lies within the municipality of Campo nell’Elba. It is a quiet village 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 . Lacona’s appeal lies in its central position: within a few kilometres you can reach spectacular beaches on the west (Fetovaia, Cavoli, Marina di Campo) or the north (Capo Bianco, Sansone and Portoferraio) . This makes our hotel an excellent base for anyone wishing to explore all the facets of Elba’s sea.
Discovering the island’s most beautiful beaches
Elba offers an incredible variety of beaches – sandy, white‑pebble, granite cliffs – with facilities or immersed in unspoilt nature. Below we describe the most famous beaches and coves within easy reach of the hotel, listing their key features and how to get there. At the end of this section a table summarises all the mentioned beaches and their highlights.
Lacona beach
Type: fine golden sand.
Location: Gulf of Lacona (Campo nell’Elba), south side.
Features: The closest beach to the hotel; more than a kilometre long with a gently sloping sandy bottom, ideal for families . Dunes and a pine forest line the back of the beach. Equipped with beach clubs, bars and kayak/pedal‑boat rental .
Why we like it: Perfect for those seeking convenience – a five‑minute walk across the dunes from the hotel . A stroll along the shore at sunrise or sunset is pure poetry.
Laconella beach
Type: light sand, small sheltered bay.
Location: At the western end of the Lacona gulf; reachable on foot in about 20 minutes or a short drive plus a short path .
Features: A 210 m bay surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. Fine sand and crystal‑clear, gently sloping water attract those who love tranquillity . Less crowded than nearby Lacona and offers a small refreshment point. The western side, Punta della Contessa, has low cliffs and fish‑rich seabeds ideal for snorkelling .
Why we like it: Reachable via a short walk through the scrub; the atmosphere is wild and romantic. From the Punta della Contessa you can enjoy views over the Gulf of Stella and see remains of World War II batteries .
Fetovaia beach
Type: golden sand.
Location: South‑west coast (Campo nell’Elba), about 30 minutes by car from the hotel .
Features: One of Elba’s most famous beaches. About 200 m long and protected by a rocky promontory and Monte Cenno, creating a mild microclimate . Fine sand, turquoise waters and shallow seabeds make it ideal for families. Parking (paid) and facilities available; a boardwalk helps people with mobility issues .
Why we like it: A concentrate of beauty: soft clear sand, emerald water and shaded Mediterranean scrub. Arrive early to enjoy the quiet before crowds gather in high season .
Cavoli beach
Type: coarse sand (quartz and biotite granules).
Location: South‑west coast between Marina di Campo and Seccheto, about 25 minutes’ drive .
Features: Named after the granite boulders (“cavoli”) on the beach. Approximately 350 m long, divided by a rocky spur into a larger east section with facilities and a quieter west section . Sheltered by Monte Capanne’s wall, it enjoys a microclimate enabling bathing from spring through autumn . The sand does not stick to the skin. The nearby Grotta Azzurra is accessible by pedal‑boat or a short swim .
Why we like it: Perfect for young people and beach‑life lovers. The lively beach bars, clear waters and opportunities for pedal‑boat or SUP excursions make Cavoli one of Elba’s most vibrant beaches .
Biodola beach
Type: fine sand.
Location: North coast (Portoferraio), about 30 minutes by car .
Features: Together with neighbouring Scaglieri, Biodola forms a 600 m bay of golden sand surrounded by hills . Shallow turquoise water and facilities such as hotels, campsites, bars and restaurants make it popular with families and young people . Sailing, windsurfing and snorkelling are available.
Why we like it: The mix of fine sand, clear water and services makes Biodola one of the island’s most complete beaches. The atmosphere is enchanting in late afternoon when the sun sets behind the hills .
Sansone and Capo Bianco
Type: white pebbles.
Location: North coast near Portoferraio, about 35 minutes’ drive .
Features: Two beaches of smooth white pebbles. Capo Bianco is about 280 m long and mixes pebbles and sand ; Sansone lies slightly west. Until 2025 access to Sansone has been partially closed due to landslides, so check before visiting . Both offer exceptionally clear water and rocky seabeds ideal for snorkelling .
Why we like it: The visual impact of white pebbles against turquoise sea is breathtaking. Wear water shoes and avoid the area in strong winds or if landslide risk is reported .
Other beaches on the eastern and southern sides
Beyond the main beaches, the south and east of Elba offer numerous coves just minutes from the hotel :
- Innamorata: A bay linked to a romantic legend. Surrounded by cliffs, it has a beach club and on 14 July hosts the Festa dell’Innamorata .
- Morcone, Pareti and Felciaio: Three coves south of Capoliveri. Once fishing villages, Morcone and Pareti now have facilities and clear water; Felciaio is a natural cove with flat rocks and pools .
- Naregno and Madonna delle Grazie: Quiet beaches on the east; Naregno is a long sandy beach with sailing schools, while Madonna delle Grazie is a pebbly cove .
- Norsi and Lido di Capoliveri: Two sandy beaches between Lacona and Capoliveri. Lido is well equipped; Norsi remains more natural with limited parking .
- Barabarca and Zuccale: Small sandy coves a few kilometres from Capoliveri, reached via footpaths and steps; ideal for tranquillity .
- Galenzana: Near Marina di Campo; shady and sandy, accessible only on foot or by boat .
- Margidore: East of Lacona; a shingle beach facing the Gulf of Stella .
Q&A: how to choose the most beautiful sea
Which beach is best for families with children?
Look for beaches with shallow water, soft sand and services. Lacona is ideal: long, wide and gently sloping with beach clubs and children’s games . Biodola and Fetovaia also have fine sand and shallow water, though they can be crowded in high season . For a quieter option, Spiaggia della Fenicia in Marciana Marina has pebbles but calm water and proximity to the village .
Which beach has the clearest water?
White pebbles enhance transparency, so Capo Bianco and Sansone are renowned for their turquoise water . Felciaio and Barabarca also have clear water and rocky seabeds, ideal for snorkelling . The small Cala della Contessa at Laconella has rock ledges and rich marine life – a paradise for divers .
Are there beaches accessible to people with disabilities?
Many bathing establishments have invested in inclusive services. Fetovaia has boardwalks and “Job” chairs for entering the water . Lacona and Biodola also provide boardwalks, accessible toilets and dedicated services; check with each establishment to confirm availability .
Which beaches are best for snorkelling?
Laconella (Punta della Contessa) offers fish‑rich seabeds and Posidonia meadows . Sansone and Capo Bianco are famous for their clear water and steep cliffs . On the west coast, Chiessi and Pomonte have interesting seabeds; at Pomonte you can explore the Elviscot wreck just metres from the shore .
Where can I surf or windsurf?
The southern side, more exposed to wind, is ideal for water sports. Lacona has windsurfing schools and SUP rentals . In spring and autumn conditions are perfect for experienced surfers. On the east coast, Naregno hosts a sailing school; at Procchio and Marina di Campo you can windsurf thanks to afternoon breezes .
Which beach is least crowded in high season?
In July and August the main beaches can be busy. Those seeking tranquillity should try Felciaio, Capo di Fonza and Galenzana, which are less visited due to more challenging access . Norsi and Naregno also offer more space. Avoid Sansone at summer weekends as parking is limited and access is not always safe .
Can I bring my dog to the beach?
Many beaches allow pets outside the private areas. Lacona has designated dog zones, while Felciaio and Norsi are often chosen by owners with dogs . Remember to follow local regulations (lead and waste collection) and bring water and shade for your four‑legged friend .
Which beach is best for enjoying the sunset?
On the south‑western coast, Fetovaia and Seccheto offer spectacular sunsets over the sea; the sun setting behind Monte Cristo and Pianosa tints the sky orange and pink . Procchio and Biodola also have evocative sunsets. On the east side you can enjoy sunrise at Capo Bianco or Naregno .
Do the beaches have bars and restaurants?
Yes, many of the mentioned beaches have beach clubs. Lacona, Fetovaia, Cavoli, Biodola and Lido di Capoliveri offer bars, restaurants, sunbed rentals, sports 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 trail is closed?
In 2024 a strong storm caused landslides on the access path to Sansone. The path was secured and the beach reopened in mid‑2025, but always check with the tourist office before visiting . As an alternative, visit Capo Bianco 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: from Lacona you can reach Laconella or Margidore . The jagged coastline 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 go diving?
Elba is renowned for its rich marine life. Numerous diving centres are located in Lacona, Margidore, Marciana Marina and Capoliveri . Popular dive sites include the reef of Punta della Contessa, the wrecks at Pomonte, the caves of Punta Falcone (Portoferraio) and the banks off lo Scoglietto .
Which beach offers the best panorama?
Capo Bianco and Sansone provide spectacular views over the Gulf of Portoferraio and the Piombino Channel . Fetovaia captivates with the panorama of the peninsula that shelters it . From the tower of San Giovanni in Campo nell’Elba you can admire Marina di Campo, Fetovaia and Monte Cristo .
Are there paths to reach the beaches on foot?
Yes. From the hotel you can follow the panoramic path to Laconella . The Passeggiata Carmignani links Porto Azzurro with Barbarossa beach . In Marina di Campo, a path through the scrub leads to Galenzana . Many coves such as Barabarca and Zuccale require short walks down staircases immersed in greenery .
Can I visit the beaches by bus?
Elba is served by bus lines connecting the main towns. In summer a free evening shuttle runs from the Capoliveri car park to the old town . However, to reach secluded coves it’s better to have a car or e‑bike. Many guests use our bike storage and rent e‑bikes to ride along scenic routes .
Which is the best beach in low season?
In spring and autumn Elba’s climate is mild and the beaches are less crowded. Cavoli’s microclimate allows swimming from March to November . Biodola and Lacona are perfect for long walks along the sand. In October and November the west coast offers breathtaking sunsets and the blooming of wild rosemary .
Where can I find beaches equipped for people with reduced mobility?
Besides Fetovaia, the beach of Marina di Campo has boardwalks to the water and accessible services . Biodola and Lacona have establishments with amphibious chairs. Always contact the beach operators to confirm availability .
Which beaches do you recommend for couples looking for romance?
Small coves are perfect for couples: Barabarca, Zuccale, Felciaio and Cala della Contessa offer privacy and evocative panoramas . In the evening visit Innamorata for the 14 July torchlight procession . Another romantic experience is a sunset boat trip along the Gulf of Stella .
Which beaches are associated with legends or traditions?
Innamorata is linked to a tragic love story: two young lovers, Lorenzo and Maria, were caught in a storm and Maria’s shawl was found on the beach. Every 14 July the tale is re‑enacted with a torch procession . Sansone is connected to pirate stories, while Laconella still bears the remains of a World War II battery .
Are there snorkeling beaches suitable for children?
Felciaio has shallow water and natural pools where even little ones can observe fish . Pomonte, though further away (about 45 minutes), offers the Elviscot wreck just offshore – an exciting experience for children with masks and fins . Margidore has calm waters and a stony seabed full of fauna .
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 tours visit various coves. 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 best for an aperitivo by the sea?
In summer many beaches host sundowners and DJ sets. Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia are known for their beach bars . The promenade at Biodola also offers cocktail bars overlooking the bay .
Which beaches have large car parks?
The most equipped beaches have ample paid parking: Lacona, Fetovaia, Cavoli, Biodola and Lido di Capoliveri . Parking at Sansone and Capo Bianco is limited; arrive early or use the Portoferraio shuttle . Car parks are limited at Barabarca, Zuccale and Felciaio .
What should I bring for a day at the beach?
Always pack high‑SPF sunscreen, plenty of water, a hat and umbrella if you choose a free beach . In July and August arrive early to avoid the heat and secure a spot. For rocky beaches bring water shoes and a mask .
Conclusion
Elba’s coastline is incredibly diverse, ranging from long sandy bays to tiny pebble coves and wild cliffs. There is no single “best” beach – it depends on what you’re looking for: convenience, clear water, family facilities, romance or adventure. By staying at Hotel Giardino in Lacona you can easily explore the island’s different sides and find the sea that suits you best. Whether you’re seeking shallow sandy shores for children, white‑pebble coves for snorkelling or secluded bays for sunsets, Elba has something for everyone.