Introduction
The Island of Elba is a wonderful destination for people who love the sea in all its forms – not just for swimming or relaxing on the beach. Thanks to ventilated bays, crystal‑clear waters and spectacular seabeds, it is also a paradise for fans of surfing and windsurfing . This dedicated guide, prepared by the staff of Hotel Giardino, leads you to the island’s best spots, suitable for beginners and seasoned athletes. Because Elba’s coasts face many directions and the seasonal winds (Mistral, Scirocco, Libeccio and more) blow from various quadrants, you can find good conditions throughout the year . Among the most famous places is Lacona, on the south coast: a wide sandy bay that is both sheltered and well ventilated, ideal for windsurfing and courses for novices. Here you will find schools and rental centres offering boards and sails, individual or group lessons and assistance at sea . If you seek stronger waves and steadier wind, the Procchio and Biodola area (north coast) is perfect when the Mistral blows, while the western villages of Chiessi and Pomonte are favoured by experienced surfers for their open sea and constant wind . On the eastern side, Naregno and Lido di Capoliveri are popular windsurfing spots; here the water is calmer and the winds more regular, ideal for improving technique or practicing safely . Beyond waves and wind, surfing or windsurfing on Elba means enjoying unique panoramas: bays surrounded by wild nature, emerald‑coloured waters and sunsets that make every session unforgettable .
In the following sections we will explain why Hotel Giardino in Lacona is an ideal base for surfers and windsurfers, list the best beaches for surfing and windsurfing (with tables summarising wind exposure, wave type and recommended level), give tips for beginners and experts, indicate the best seasons, show where to rent equipment or take lessons, and suggest nearby villages and activities to enrich your holiday .
Hotel Giardino: an ideal base in Lacona for surfers and windsurfers
Immersed in the greenery of the pine forest at Lacona, Hotel Giardino lies within a shaded park of about 30 000 m² . The hotel offers direct foot access to the sea via a short path that crosses protected coastal dunes . Staying here has many advantages for those who want to surf or windsurf:
- A strategic location close to the sea – The long sandy beach of Lacona is less than 100 m away and can be reached in about five minutes. You can check the wind and waves every morning simply by walking to the shore .
- Comfort and services – Hotel Giardino is a welcoming family‑run property. Rooms are functional and have air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, safe and private bathrooms. Many rooms have independent entrances with balcony or patio overlooking the park. The hotel offers a rich buffet breakfast, home‑style cooking, parking for each room, free Wi‑Fi, bike storage and collaboration with diving and watersport centres for discounts and ferry ticket deals .
- Central position on the island – Lacona is roughly mid‑way between the main tourist villages. In under half an hour you can reach Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro or Portoferraio. This central location lets you chase the best wind or waves on different coasts depending on the day . In high season there are bus and shuttle connections, but having a car or scooter makes it easy to explore remote bays and return to the hotel for lunch or dinner.
- Collaboration with watersport schools – On Lacona beach there are windsurf and sailing schools offering courses and equipment rental; the hotel can help book lessons and provide information on local conditions. Staff are friendly and can advise about the best spots depending on the wind and your level of experience.
Thanks to these features, Hotel Giardino is an excellent base for exploring Elba’s surf and windsurf scene .
Where to surf on Elba
The island offers a variety of surf spots that work with different winds and swells. Below we describe the main beaches and coves, followed by a summary table.
Main surf spots
- Cavoli (south) – A beach break known for powerful waves when the Scirocco (southeast) or Libeccio (south‑west) blows, especially in autumn and winter. It produces well‑formed peaks up to 2 m. Suitable for experienced surfers; the bay gets crowded on good days.
- Marina di Campo (south) – The island’s longest sandy beach (almost 2 km). Its reef and sandy bar create fun waves up to 1.5 m when there is swell; with calm conditions it is ideal for beginners. Shops and surf schools rent boards and provide lessons .
- Lacona (south) – A wide sandy bay open to south. Waves up to 1.5–2 m form with Scirocco or Libeccio; with north‑west wind the sea stays flat, so you can practice paddling or take windsurf lessons. The beach has a surf and windsurf centre where you can rent equipment and sign up for lessons.
- Margidore (south‑east) – Pebble beach next to Lacona. A reef break that works with south‑west swells; waves wrap around the reef and can be hollow. Recommended for intermediate or advanced surfers; avoid with strong cross‑shore wind.
- Lido di Capoliveri (south‑east) – A fine sand beach exposed to Scirocco and Libeccio. On moderate swells the waves are fun for all levels; with strong south winds it becomes choppy and suits experienced riders..
- Procchio (north) – A long sandy beach that works with Ponente (west) and Maestrale (north‑west) winds. With offshore Scirocco the water is flat near shore but small waves form on the reef off Paolina Island, creating a playful contrast. Suitable for intermediates; there is a surf school on site .
- Capo Bianco (north) – A point break under white cliffs. When a strong Maestrale blows, waves can reach 5–6 m; this spot is for expert surfers only and requires caution due to rocks .
- Biodola/Scaglieri (north) – These neighbouring beaches receive long, rolling waves after storms and are perfect for intermediate surfers. They offer scenic rides but not suitable when winds exceed 20 knots because the wind becomes gusty .
Summary table – Main surf spots
| Spot | Exposure/ideal winds | Wave type | Recommended level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cavoli | Scirocco (SE), Libeccio (SW) | Powerful beach break with peaks up to 2 m | Advanced |
| Marina di Campo | Maestrale (NW), Scirocco (SE) | Long beach break; soft waves good for beginners | Beginner – Advanced |
| Lacona | Maestrale (NW) and Scirocco/Libeccio (SE/SW) | Wide sandy beach; flat water with NW, fun waves with S | All levels |
| Margidore | Libeccio and south‑west swells | Reef break; hollow waves | Intermediate – Advanced |
| Lido di Capoliveri | Scirocco (SE), Libeccio (SW) | Sandy beach; manageable waves in moderate wind, choppy in strong wind | Beginner in light wind – Advanced in strong wind |
| Procchio | Ponente (W), Maestrale (NW); Scirocco offshore | Sandy beach; flat water with offshore wind, small waves on reef | Beginner – Intermediate |
| Capo Bianco | Maestrale (NW) | Point break under cliffs; huge waves 5–6 m | Advanced |
| Biodola/Scaglieri | Moderate Maestrale (NW) | Semi‑sheltered bay; long, mellow waves | Intermediate |
Tips for surf beginners
If you are approaching surf for the first time, choose spots with sandy bottoms and gentle waves. Marina di Campo, Lacona (on small‑wave days) and Procchio are the safest places to learn. Avoid reefs like Cavoli, Margidore and Capo Bianco until you have gained experience . Local surfers can offer advice on where to go and when to wait for the right swell.
Spots for experienced surfers
Advanced surfers looking for powerful waves should focus on Margidore when south swells arrive, Capo Bianco for massive Maestrale waves and Cavoli in winter . The west coast around Chiessi also produces steep waves when the Maestrale blows, but the rocky shoreline is dangerous – bring appropriate boards and beware of currents . Many experts carry a quiver of boards to adapt to varying conditions.
Where to windsurf on Elba
Elba’s jagged coastline and thermal breezes provide ideal conditions for windsurfing all year. Some spots are perfect for beginners, others challenge the most skilled riders. Below we list the main windsurfing beaches with their typical winds, characteristics and recommended level, followed by a summary table.
Main windsurf spots
- Chiessi/Pomonte (south‑west) – Famous for its summer Maestrale thermal wind (12–22 knots) and strong afternoon Scirocco. The wind is constant and the open sea produces sizable waves; launching from the rocky shore is tricky. Reserved for advanced riders.
- Lacona (south) – With a large sandy bay, Lacona works with moderate Maestrale and Scirocco/Libeccio. North‑west wind creates flat water for speed and freestyle; southerly winds bring playful waves. Services and schools on the beach make it suitable for all levels .
- Marina di Campo (south) – Protected bay with sandy bottom; ideal for beginners thanks to safe launching channels. The Mistral and Scirocco blow consistently; with strong winds moderate waves develop. Many centres rent boards and offer lessons .
- Procchio (north) – Receives consistent Ponente/Maestrale and also offshore Scirocco. Flat water near the shore with offshore wind allows freestyle and speed training; small chop forms with onshore wind. A sailing and windsurfing school operates here .
- Biodola/Scaglieri (north) – Semi‑open bay that works best with medium‑strength Maestrale (around 15 knots). Long residual waves after storms and clear water create beautiful rides. Avoid when winds exceed 20 knots because gusts become irregular; best for intermediate riders .
- Lido di Capoliveri (south‑east) – Easily accessible sandy beach. Moderate Maestrale and Scirocco provide relaxing rides; with strong winds the sea becomes choppy and wave action increases. The local windsurf centre offers rentals and courses, but novices should go out only with light winds .
- Innamorata (south) – A small, scenic cove exposed to south. Light Scirocco or Ostro winds produce flat or slightly choppy water. It’s quiet and suited to intermediate riders; no rental services .
- Naregno (east) – Sandy and shingle beach at the end of the Porto Azzurro gulf. Best winds are Levante (east) and also Grecale (north‑east) or Scirocco (south‑east). When other coasts are wind‑shadowed, Naregno accelerates air coming through the Piombino channel . Flat water with Levante and slight chop with Scirocco make it enjoyable for intermediate riders; there is a sailing school for beginners .
- Schiopparello/Magazzini (north‑east, Gulf of Portoferraio) – Inside a closed gulf, the sea stays almost always flat even when strong winds blow outside . This makes these spots perfect for safe practice, for example during a strong Ponente that elsewhere generates waves. The level required is low; recommended for practicing jibes and speed runs. There are no rentals on site, so bring your equipment.
Summary table – Main windsurf spots
| Spot | Typical winds | Spot characteristics | Recommended level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiessi/Pomonte | Thermal Maestrale 12–22 knots, strong Scirocco | Constant wind and formed waves; rocky launch | Advanced |
| Lacona | Moderate Maestrale (NW); Scirocco/Libeccio (SE/SW) | Wide sandy bay; flat water with NW, fun waves with south winds; services on beach | All levels |
| Marina di Campo | Maestrale (NW) and Scirocco (SE) | Protected sandy bay; safe for learning; moderate waves with south winds | Beginner – Advanced |
| Procchio | Ponente/Maestrale (W/NW); Scirocco offshore | Sandy bay; flat water with offshore winds; chop with onshore winds | Beginner – Intermediate |
| Biodola/Scaglieri | Light Maestrale; local thermal winds | Semi‑open bay; best with medium‑light winds; residual long waves | Intermediate |
| Lido di Capoliveri | Maestrale (NW) and Scirocco (SE) | Open sandy beach; easy with moderate wind; challenging with strong wind; windsurf centre on site | Beginner (light wind) – Advanced (strong wind) |
| Innamorata | Scirocco (SE), Ostro (S), light Libeccio | Small cove; usable only with moderate wind; tranquil setting | Intermediate |
| Naregno | Levante (E); Grecale (NE); Scirocco (SE) | Eastern bay; flat with east wind; chop with SE wind; local riders frequent; sailing school | Intermediate; beginners with light wind |
| Schiopparello/Magazzini | Strong Ponente (W); moderate Scirocco (SE) | Closed gulf; flat water even with strong wind; ideal for practicing safely | Beginner |
Where can beginners learn windsurfing on Elba?
Beginners will find Elba an ideal environment if they choose the right beaches and perhaps rely on a windsurf school. Marina di Campo is perfect: the protected sandy bay offers non‑gusty wind and calm water. In summer a 10–15 knot thermal breeze from the west allows novices to practice starts and sailing across and back to shore . The local windsurf centre provides large boards, light rigs and qualified instructors. Procchio is also recommended: with a 12 knot Ponente the water remains flat and there is plenty of space . There is a school organising courses for children and adults. Lacona is another beginner‑friendly spot, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the wind is lighter; the shallow sandy bottom allows you to stand up if you fall . The sailing centre has a safety boat. Schiopparello, inside the gulf of Portoferraio, is almost like a lake; you can practise gybes and tacks without waves . For novices it is better to avoid rocky and wave‑exposed spots like Chiessi/Pomonte, Lido in strong winds, and beaches with shore‑break. There are windsurf schools and rentals on most large beaches (Scaglieri, Procchio, Marina di Campo, Lacona, Margidore, Lido di Capoliveri, Innamorata, Naregno) – taking lessons with a qualified instructor will allow you to learn much faster.
Which windsurf spots are suited to experts seeking strong wind?
Experienced riders looking for adrenaline should try Chiessi/ Pomonte for the strongest thermal Maestrale, with gusts over 20 knots and formed waves; proper equipment and caution are essential . On days when a strong Scirocco blows, Lido di Capoliveri becomes a wave spot with disordered but challenging peaks where you can jump and attempt wave riding . For flat‑water speed runs with powerful wind, head to Schiopparello during a strong Ponente; inside the gulf the water remains flat and you can test your top speeds . Advanced riders also enjoy crossing from Capo Sant’Andrea to the little Paolina Island: a downwind/upwind loop far offshore with ocean‑like waves; only attempt this if you have full control and are accompanied by locals .
When is the best period for surfing or windsurfing on Elba?
Elba offers something in every season, but the ideal period depends on whether you are more interested in wave surfing or windsurfing. In general, autumn and winter (October to March) are best for wave surfing: Mediterranean storms generate Scirocco, Libeccio and Maestrale winds that produce quality waves on exposed coasts . November and March often bring the most swells. Water temperatures drop to 14–17 °C, so you need a proper wetsuit, but the line‑ups are empty. During the winter of 2023, some Elba spots saw spectacular waves . Summer (June to August) is unbeatable for windsurfing: prevailing Maestrale and Scirocco breezes refresh the air and inflate sails almost every afternoon . The water is warm (26–28 °C) and conditions are ideal for learning. Surfing is limited in summer, except when occasional Scirocco storms bring small swells . Autumn (September–November) offers a good compromise: warm water until mid‑October, fewer tourists, strong winds and first swells . Winter (December–February) is the season of big waves: Maestrale, Tramontana and Scirocco storms create five‑metre waves at Cavoli and Capo Bianco ; windsurfing is still possible with a thick wetsuit and conditions can be extreme . Spring (March–May) is a transition period with occasional swells and moderate winds: good for windsurfing and early swims . There is no single “best” period – it depends on what you are looking for. Windsurfers seeking quantity should come between May and September; surfers chasing waves should watch autumn and winter forecasts and plan last‑minute when a depression approaches . In any case, Elba is windy and sometimes wavy twelve months a year; you just need to find the right side of the island .
Summary of seasons and conditions
| Season | Conditions and advice |
|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Paradise for windsurfing with thermal breezes and warm water (26–28 °C); limited surf waves; beaches crowded; sail early or late . |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Best balance: mild temperatures, strong Libeccio/Scirocco winds creating waves; Maestrale storms produce north‑coast swells; fewer tourists and good prices . |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Big‑wave season: strong winds generate huge swells at Cavoli and Capo Bianco; windsurfing possible with thick wetsuit; check forecasts and bring proper gear . |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Transition period: occasional winter swells and moderate spring breezes; good for windsurfing and first swims; few tourists . |
Can you rent equipment or take surf and windsurf lessons on Elba?
Yes. Elba is well equipped with water‑sport schools and rental centres on its main beaches. On large and popular beaches such as Scaglieri, Procchio, Marina di Campo, Lacona, Margidore, Lido di Capoliveri, Innamorata and Naregno you will find centres that offer windsurf and sailing courses and rent boards and sails . Many also provide SUP, kayaks and sometimes surfboards in autumn when waves are likely . Here are some specifics:
- Windsurf rental – If you do not have your own equipment, you can rent boards and sails in various places: Lacona has a rental near the campsite; Marina di Campo hosts several centres on the beach; Procchio has a school with gear for hire; Lido di Capoliveri houses the Wind Surf Center Lido with a wide range of beginner and freeride boards . Expect around €20‑25 per hour for a board and sail, with discounts for half‑day or multi‑day rentals . In high season (July/August) it is wise to book in advance, especially if you need small sails or foil boards .
- Surf/SUP rental – Pure surfboard rental is less common because waves are not guaranteed every day. Some beach concessions keep SUP boards and longboards that can be rented by the hour when the sea is rough, for example at Cavoli and Marina di Campo . At Lacona and Lido you may find surfboards at windsurf centres. SUP rental costs around €10‑15 per hour . If you plan to surf frequently, consider bringing your own board or buying a second‑hand one on the island .
- Courses – Most windsurf schools offer private or group lessons. Introductory courses (3–5 lessons) teach how to hoist the sail, start, sail and return to the starting point. Instructors are qualified and there are courses for children from 6‑7 years and for adults . Intensive 2‑3 day courses are organised for tourists . Prices start at €30‑40 per hour for a private lesson, with reductions for packages. In August it is advisable to book a few days in advance; in June or September you can often find a place at short notice . There are no permanent surf schools because waves are sporadic; however, many windsurf/kite instructors are also surfers and will offer surf lessons when conditions allow . Local communities are small and sportspeople are flexible: ask on site and you will find someone to teach you safely .
- Contacts – Useful references include: Beach Sport Center and Club del Mare in Marina di Campo; Elba Water Sports in Procchio; Centro Velico Lacona; Lido Beach Sports in Lido di Capoliveri . Most centres operate on WhatsApp for quick information and bookings .
Renting equipment on Elba is easy and convenient: the variety of centres ensures you will find staff who speak English and German, flexible hours and the chance to try various gear. Many schools renew their boards every 1‑2 years, so you may rent the latest models . You do not need to fill your car with sails and boards – travel light and make use of the local services .
What to visit near Hotel Giardino (Lacona)
After riding waves and gliding through the wind, it is worth exploring the beauty of Elba around Lacona. Hotel Giardino’s strategic position allows you to reach some of the most picturesque villages and viewpoints in minutes . Below are suggestions within about 15 km (10–20 minutes by car or bus):
- Capoliveri (10 km) – A delightful hilltop village at 167 m above sea level. Capoliveri is one of Elba’s most characteristic and lively centres, rich in history and charm . Stroll through its narrow paved alleys (known as chiassi) with arches and stairways, discover craft shops, wine bars and hidden gelaterias . Don’t miss the Belvedere of Capoliveri in Piazza del Cavatore with panoramic views over the Gulf of Porto Azzurro and the surrounding hills . The Sea Museum displays artefacts recovered from an ancient Roman shipwreck. Above the village lies Monte Calamita with old iron mines; guided tours and the Museum of the Old Workshop reveal the miners’ hard life and sparkling minerals . Capoliveri hosts festivals like the Grape Festival (October) and the Legend of the Innamorata (14 July), offering music and folklore .
- Portoferraio (15 km) – The island’s capital and main port. Founded by Cosimo I de’ Medici in the 16th century, Portoferraio has impressive Medici fortifications: Forte Stella and Forte Falcone are connected by panoramic walkways . Visit the Palazzina dei Mulini, Napoleon’s residence during his 1814‑15 exile, and Villa San Martino, his summer residence . The old town around Piazza della Repubblica is full of boutiques and taverns, and nearby Ghiaie Beach offers turquoise waters and white pebbles . Portoferraio combines history, culture and seaside charm .
- Porto Azzurro (13 km) – A charming fishing village on the eastern side. Its bay is sheltered by Forte San Giacomo, a 17th‑century Spanish fortress (now a prison). The heart of the town is Piazza Matteotti by the harbour; summer evenings are magical with outdoor bars, gelaterias and live music . Enjoy a swim at the nearby Pianotta Beach or hike to the Sanctuary of Madonna di Monserrato for panoramic views . Weekly craft markets line the waterfront and restaurants serve local fish dishes such as grilled tuna and spaghetti all’elbana .
- Marina di Campo (11 km) – Beyond its role in surfing and windsurfing, Marina di Campo is a lively tourist centre with Elba’s longest beach (almost 2 km of golden sand). Take a leisurely walk along the seafront lined with boutiques, gelaterias and pubs . Visit the Elba Aquarium, considered one of Italy’s most complete private Mediterranean aquariums . Nearby villages San Piero and San Ilario showcase rural Elba with granite quarries and narrow streets . End your day with an aperitif at sunset while watching the sun set behind Montecristo .
- Laconella and other nearby coves (2–3 km) – West of Lacona lies the small bay of Laconella. Reach it on a short footpath near the Falco residence. The white sand beach is set between Punta Contessa and the Fonza promontory, offering turquoise water and fewer crowds . From the trail you have a splendid view over the Gulf of Lacona . Another gem is Margidore (previously mentioned for surf); even without waves it is a peaceful spot with a beautiful view of Capo Stella . The Capo Stella promontory separates Lacona from Golfo Stella – a gentle path takes you to the point through fragrant scrub, with views of both bays . East of Lacona is the Capo Pini cliff with small rocky coves accessible by kayak or SUP; excellent for snorkelling among posidonia and reef fish .
Staying in Lacona means being immersed in nature yet close to historic centres and cultural attractions. You can spend the morning windsurfing, the afternoon visiting Napoleonic museums in Portoferraio and the evening dining in a village square – all while returning comfortably “home” to Hotel Giardino . Numerous hiking and mountain bike trails start nearby; for instance, trail 118 from the Tonietti Mausoleum near Lacona climbs to Monte Tambone for sweeping views . The western ring trail leads towards Pomonte and Chiessi, offering a wild coastal landscape . If you want a break from paddling and rigging, consider a day trip to Pianosa or Capraia by boat (from Marina di Campo or Portoferraio) or relax at the San Giovanni thermal baths . Elba’s variety of experiences will enrich your sport holiday.
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to decide where to surf or windsurf on Elba. We explored the best spots for every level, provided practical advice on winds, equipment rental and courses, and suggested nearby attractions around Lacona, with Hotel Giardino as the ideal starting point . Now all that remains is to wish you a safe trip and fair winds – Elba awaits with board under arm and sail in hand, ready to offer days of sport and nature that you will remember for a long time!