Introduction
The island of Elba, the largest of the seven pearls of the Tuscan Archipelago, is a microcosm of marine and terrestrial habitats. Its irregular shape, jagged coastline and countless bays offer sandy, pebbly and rocky beaches; the seabed ranges from posidonia meadows to dramatic walls covered with gorgonians and sponges . Elba’s clear waters, with visibility often exceeding 30 m, harbour colourful fish, octopus and even small coral formations. Thanks to weak currents and varied sea floors, the island accommodates everyone from beginners to experienced snorkellers .
The Mediterranean climate ensures long, warm summers and mild shoulder seasons. Spring and autumn are ideal for avoiding crowds while still enjoying pleasant water temperatures . Frequent ferries from Piombino make the island easy to reach; once on Elba, a car or scooter helps you explore remote coves .
Hotel Giardino: the perfect base to explore Elba
Structure and setting
Hotel Giardino stands in Lacona, in the municipality of Capoliveri. Despite its modest two‑star rating, it offers numerous services: rooms spread over three separate buildings within a 30 000 m² pine and Mediterranean scrub park . Most rooms have balconies or patios overlooking the garden. Amenities include numbered parking, satellite TV, free Wi‑Fi, safes and air‑conditioning; each room has an en‑suite bathroom . The hotel is only about 100 m from Lacona beach via a protected path through the dunes , letting you reach the sea without using your car.
Family hospitality and cuisine
The family owners give guests a warm welcome. Breakfast features home‑baked cakes, fresh fruit and local produce; lunch and dinner offer traditional Elban and Tuscan dishes with options for children, vegetarians and those with intolerances . In summer there are open‑air barbecues and seafood evenings .
Services and comforts
- Covered parking: each room has a numbered space; photovoltaic panels provide shade .
- Free Wi‑Fi in the dining room, bar and relaxation area as well as the rooms .
- Bike storage: a secure facility for guests who wish to cycle Elba’s many trails .
- Diving and snorkelling services: the hotel partners with local diving centres to provide contacts and discounts for guided dives and courses. It also offers ferry discounts and help in booking tours .
- Children’s play area: swings, ping‑pong and table football in the garden .
- Pet friendly: pets are allowed .
Location and connections
Lacona lies on Elba’s southern coast and the hotel’s central position allows you to reach Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio in 10–15 minutes by car . Local buses connect Lacona with the main towns and, in summer, a “Marebus” links Lacona to nearby beaches . A car or scooter is advisable to access remote coves and cliffs .
Why it’s an ideal snorkelling base
- Proximity to diverse beaches: Lacona is surrounded by sandy beaches with shallow water and rocky headlands teeming with marine life. Within a few minutes’ drive you can reach Felciaio, Norsi, Zuccale, Barabarca and Innamorata; a little further are Pomonte’s Elviscot wreck, Sansone and the bays around Portoferraio .
- Nearby diving services: Sottolonda Diving Center and Baiarda in Lacona offer PADI courses, guided excursions and equipment rental, while Blu Immersion at Margidore provides rentals and tank refills .
- Central position: from Lacona you can plan day trips in any direction and still return to the hotel for dinner .
- Suitable for families and couples: the tranquil garden and seaside location make it ideal for family holidays and romantic getaways .
Lacona area: nearby beaches and easy snorkelling
The Lacona area boasts some of Elba’s most varied beaches. Below are highlights within a short distance of the hotel:
Spiaggia di Lacona
One of Elba’s longest sandy beaches (around 1 km). Fine golden sand and gently shelving water make it perfect for children . Behind the beach are protected dunes with rare plants. The beach faces south and offers spectacular sunsets . It is 100 m from the hotel via a sheltered path through the dunes . There are both free and serviced sections with sun‑bed hire, canoes and wind‑surf schools . Snorkelling is possible on the rocky north and south ends where you can observe reef fish and posidonia .
Felciaio
A hidden gem in the Gulf of Stella: a small bay divided into two parts – a wild cove with posidonia drift and a natural pool bounded by an artificial breakwater . The transparent water and tropical colours attract nature lovers. There are no services; bring water and snacks . The natural pool is perfect for families learning to snorkel and hosts shoals of salema, mullet and sometimes moray eels .
Norsi
About 400 m long, this dark‑sand beach is divided by a rocky headland. The western half has fine sand and shallow water suitable for children, while the eastern part is pebbly . Bars, restaurants and rental facilities are located behind the beach . Visitors can access the shore via a steep path or a wider stroller‑friendly trail . Snorkellers can explore the shallow sandy section or the rocky promontory where octopus and starfish hide .
Lido di Capoliveri
A 400 m sandy beach equipped with beach clubs, restaurants, shops and water‑sport schools . Although the sandy seabed is not ideal for snorkelling, rocks along the edges host colourful fish . Many visitors use the Lido as a base for renting boats to reach adjacent coves .
Laconella
Hidden behind a headland, Laconella is a smaller (200 m) beach surrounded by dunes and Mediterranean scrub . The western rock outcrop hosts posidonia meadows and abundant fish .
Acquarilli and Pareti
Acquarilli is a small dark‑sand and gravel beach accessed by a steep path and is popular with naturists; octopus and triggerfish inhabit its rocky seabed . Nearby Pareti is sandy and fully equipped; snorkelling is best along the rocky edges .
Capoliveri side: beaches with nature and legends
Close to Lacona lies the Capoliveri area, home to secluded coves surrounded by Mediterranean scrub. Each has its own charm:
Zuccale
A 180 m golden‑sand beach divided by a landslide into two coves . The gentle slope and clear water make it popular with families and couples. Rocky sides host gorgonians and reef fish . Access is by steps from a paid parking area . Facilities include bar, sun‑bed hire and canoes .
Barabarca
Next to Zuccale, Barabarca is a 130 m beach with sand and pebbles. It is surrounded by lush vegetation giving it a wild feel . Transparent waters reveal schools of seabream, rainbow wrasse and parrotfish . A bar offers sun‑bed and canoe rental .
Innamorata
This 290 m pebble‑sand beach is tied to a legend: every 14 July a girl named Maria is said to wander searching for her lost lover . Half the beach is equipped and half is free . Opposite lie the Gemini Islets, reachable by swim or pedal boat. The waters around the islets teem with molluscs, gorgonians and nudibranchs .
Pareti and Morcone
Small sandy beaches with accommodation and a diving centre . They provide boat rentals and are convenient for those seeking full services .
Hidden coves
Between Pareti and Innamorata lie secluded coves such as Baia dell’Acquavivola and Punta Rossa, accessible only on foot or by boat .
North coast: white pebbles and turquoise water
Elba’s north coast boasts famous white‑pebble beaches and clear turquoise water . Although 20–30 minutes’ drive from the hotel, they are worth including in your itinerary.
Sansone
Often cited as Elba’s most beautiful beach, Sansone consists of white pebbles backed by limestone cliffs . A 2025 landslide damaged the access path, so check conditions before planning a visit . Under normal conditions the beach offers caves and submerged pinnacles brimming with fish .
Sorgente
A small pebble beach adjacent to Sansone. Accessed via a steep stairway, it offers a bar and sun‑bed rental and is ideal for light snorkelling .
Capo Bianco, Padulella and Ghiaie
Three white‑stone beaches near Portoferraio. Le Ghiaie is within a marine protected area with restrictions on fishing; Padulella is more secluded, and Capo Bianco offers a long beach with facilities . The protected zone supports groupers, amberjack and barracuda . Guided dives around the Scoglietto of Portoferraio are highly rated .
Enfola and Capo d’Enfola
Located on an isthmus, Enfola has two opposing beaches; the Capo d’Enfola cliff features a scenic path and the “Secca della Nave”, where experienced divers can spot red gorgonians at 15–40 m .
Western coast and the Pomonte wreck
The western coast from Fetovaia to Chiessi and Pomonte features wild landscapes and is about 35–45 minutes’ drive from the hotel .
Fetovaia and Punta Fetovaia
Fetovaia is a crescent of white sand sheltered by a juniper‑covered headland . Shallow water attracts families while Punta Fetovaia’s walls support red gorgonians and pelagic fish .
Pomonte and the Elviscot wreck
The Relitto beach near Pomonte is a 250 m pebble shore famous for the wreck of the Elviscot cargo ship, lying only 150 m offshore at a depth of about 12 m . The wreck is visible from the surface and can be explored with a mask and snorkel ; experienced divers can penetrate the ship with a guide . Practical tips include wearing water shoes, avoiding touching the wreck and respecting its inhabitants .
Chiessi, Ogliera and Le Tombe
These rocky stretches host greater amberjack, groupers and lobsters. Le Tombe is a long black‑pebble beach framed by volcanic cliffs – beautiful but undeveloped .
Guided tours and diving centres
Several operators organise boat tours to caves, islets and reefs accessible only from the sea. Below are some examples with 2025 prices.
Sottolonda Diving Center (Lacona)
This PADI 5 Star Eco Centre is 100 m from Lacona beach and offers courses, guided dives and snorkelling trips . Facilities include showers, lockers, equipment storage and Nitrox refills. Snorkelling gear is available for rent: masks and snorkels cost €3 each; complete kits €10–29 .
Itineraries include:
- Isola Corbella (Capo Stella) – a 2‑hour trip suitable for families, visiting posidonia meadows and rocky outcrops .
- Elviscot wreck and Blue Grotto – 3½‑hour tour visiting the Elviscot wreck and the Grotta Azzurra; minimum eight participants .
- Gulf of Stella circuit – a 3‑hour cruise exploring Aquarilli, Felciaio, Innamorata and the Gemini islands . Prices in 2025 are roughly €25 per adult (Isola Corbella) and €50 per adult for the wreck and grotto tours .
Baiarda excursions (Margidore, Lacona)
Licensed environmental guides operate half‑day or full‑day boat trips from Margidore. The half‑day Grotta Azzurra tour lasts four hours and includes mask, fins, snorkel, snack and drinks . Private half‑day tours cost €500 per boat and full‑day tours €800 .
Freedome
An online booking platform offering various excursions, including a 4‑hour snorkelling tour of the Blue Grotto with stops at several caves. Prices start around €45 per adult . Other tours visit the Bue Marino cave or the Whale Sanctuary; private boats start at €400 .
Blu Immersion Diving Center (Margidore)
Located near Margidore beach, Blu Immersion offers PADI courses, guided dives and equipment rental. Outings include Scoglio del Remaiolo, Capo Fonza, Punta Fetovaia and the Scoglietto of Portoferraio . Discounts are available for Hotel Giardino guests.
FAQs: tips for families, couples and advanced snorkellers
Families with children
- Which beaches have shallow water? Lacona and Lido di Capoliveri feature gently sloping sandy bottoms ideal for children. The western side of Norsi is also recommended .
- Are there guided activities for kids? Yes, Sottolonda’s 2‑hour Isola Corbella trip is suitable for families and includes equipment and simple marine‑life explanations .
- Which beaches offer full services (toilets, bars, shade)? Lido di Capoliveri and Lacona have numerous facilities .
- Are beaches accessible with strollers? Lacona and Lido di Capoliveri are stroller friendly; Norsi has a wide path, while Zuccale and Barabarca have steps .
- Where can children take snorkelling courses? Sottolonda offers basic courses and PADI Junior certifications; Blu Immersion provides private lessons .
Couples seeking romance
- Which beaches are romantic and uncrowded? Barabarca and Zuccale offer privacy thanks to their small size and natural setting . Felciaio with its natural pool is ideal for intimate moments . Evening visits to Norsi or Innamorata deliver spectacular sunsets .
- Are there private tours for couples? Yes. Baiarda offers private half‑day or full‑day tours and Freedome arranges private boats from €400 .
- Where to dine? Seaside restaurants near the hotel serve fresh fish; in Capoliveri you can taste local dishes like stoccafisso alla riese and stewed wild boar . The hotel also hosts barbecue dinners .
Experienced snorkellers and adventurers
- What are the most spectacular sites? The Elviscot wreck at Pomonte is a must – the ship lies at 12 m and is visible from the surface . Other highlights include the caves of the Costa del Sole (Grotta Azzurra, Grotta del Vescovo), the walls of Punta Fetovaia and the Marine Area Ghiaie–Capobianco–Scoglietto .
- Which centres offer advanced dives? Sottolonda provides courses up to Divemaster level and customised night or technical dives . Blu Immersion organises dives to deep reefs like Capo Fonza and the Scoglietto .
- Can I rent full equipment? Yes. Several centres rent complete kits (wetsuit, BCD, regulator, fins, mask) from €22 to €29 per dive .
- How to reach remote sites like Fetovaia or Pomonte? By car is best, although public buses and Marebus serve the area. Freedome and Baiarda tours include transport by boat .
Suggested itineraries
Planning your stay helps you make the most of your time. Below are three sample programmes for a weekend, five days and a week or more .
Weekend (2–3 days)
Day 1: arrive at Hotel Giardino, settle in and enjoy lunch. Spend the afternoon on Lacona beach to acclimatise. In the evening, stroll among the dunes and enjoy an aperitif by the sea .
Day 2: morning snorkelling trip to Isola Corbella with Sottolonda . Return to Lacona for lunch. In the afternoon visit Felciaio’s natural pool and watch the sunset at Norsi . Dinner in Capoliveri and evening stroll in the village .
Day 3: half‑day tour to the Blue Grotto with Baiarda . If you have an extra day, explore Portoferraio and the white beaches of Capo Bianco and Le Ghiaie .
Five days
Day 1: same as weekend.
Day 2: dedicate the day to the Capoliveri area: morning at Zuccale with snorkelling and packed lunch; afternoon at Barabarca with canoe rental . Dinner at Innamorata and sunset at the Gemini islets .
Day 3: drive to Pomonte (40 min) to visit the Elviscot wreck; snorkelling and lunch in Pomonte. Afternoon at Fetovaia and snorkelling at Punta Fetovaia .
Day 4: visit Portoferraio’s historic centre (Forte Falcone, Villa dei Mulini) and enjoy lunch in a local trattoria. Afternoon at Le Ghiaie within the protected marine area .
Day 5: take a boat trip to the Whale Sanctuary or a private tour of the Costa dei Gabbiani, returning for a farewell barbecue dinner at the hotel .
One week or more
For longer stays, add excursions to Pianosa (with pristine underwater ecosystems), hiking to Monte Capanne for 360° views, guided tours of the Capoliveri mining park and mountain‑bike loops around the western half of the island .
What to visit near the hotel
Elba has much more than sea and snorkelling. The following attractions are easily reached from Hotel Giardino:
- Capoliveri: a former mining village with cobbled streets and lively evening scene. Climb to the Belvedere del Cimitero for panoramic views over the Gulf of Stella.
- Portoferraio: the island’s main town with Medici fortresses, Napoleon’s residences and museums. Wander around the historic harbour and enjoy artisan gelato.
- Porto Azzurro: a picturesque fishing village dominated by the Spanish Fort of San Giacomo; great for evening strolls and craft markets.
- Marina di Campo: hosts the island’s longest sandy beach and is lively at night; from here boat trips depart to Pianosa and Montecristo.
- Marciana and Monte Capanne: take the cable car up Monte Capanne for 360° views; visit the medieval fortress in Marciana and the Butterfly Sanctuary on Monte Perone.
Equipment, safety and environmental tips
- Mask, snorkel and fins: choose quality gear for comfort. For longer excursions, a wetsuit may be useful.
- Buddy system: snorkel with a partner and use a buoy or float with a flag to signal your presence to boats.
- Respect the environment: avoid stepping on posidonia seagrass or touching corals and gorgonians. Do not collect shells or marine life and dispose of rubbish properly.
- Check the weather and currents: some coves can become choppy. Ask local dive centres for advice.
- Sun protection and hydration: wear sunscreen, a hat and rashguard; bring drinking water and snacks, especially to remote beaches.
Summary tables
Below is a quick reference table for some of the beaches mentioned:
| Beach | Distance from hotel | Facilities | Snorkelling highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lacona | 100 m | Beach clubs, bars, rentals | Rocky ends with reef fish |
| Felciaio | 10 min drive + 300 m walk | None | Natural pool, shoals of salema and mullet |
| Norsi | 10 min drive | Bars, restaurants, rentals | Sandy and rocky areas; octopus and starfish |
| Lido di Capoliveri | 5 km | Full services | Limited; rocks at edges |
| Zuccale | 7 km | Bar, sun‑beds, canoes | Reef fish, gorgonians |
| Barabarca | 7 km | Bar, sun‑beds, canoes | Seabream, rainbow wrasse, parrotfish |
| Innamorata | 8 km | Half equipped | Gemini Islets with molluscs and gorgonians |
| Sansone | ~20 km | None; check access | Caves and pinnacles; exceptionally clear water |
| Fetovaia | 35 km | Full services | Shallow sandy bay; walls with red gorgonians |
| Pomonte (Elviscot) | 40 km | Bar, rentals | Wreck visible at 12 m; abundant fish |
Conclusion
Elba’s crystalline waters, diverse seabeds and well‑protected marine areas make it one of the Mediterranean’s best destinations for snorkelling and diving. From sandy bays and natural pools to shipwrecks and sea caves, the island offers experiences for families, couples and adventurers alike. Hotel Giardino in Lacona provides a tranquil, central base with friendly hospitality, allowing you to explore hidden coves by day and relax in the shade of the pine forest by night. Whether you plan a quick weekend or a longer stay, use this guide to plan your underwater adventures on Elba.