Which Are the Best Beaches on Elba Island for Children?

Introduction

Elba’s coastline includes more than 200 beaches ranging from long sandy arcs to tiny hidden coves. Hotel Giardino’s staff compiled this guide (updated for 2025) to help families choose safe and comfortable beaches for their children . Drawing on decades of experience hosting Italian and foreign families and official tourist information, the guide offers detailed descriptions, summary tables, FAQs and practical tips so that parents can imagine their children happily building sandcastles or spotting fish in shallow waters .

Why Make Hotel Giardino Your Base?

A green oasis close to the sea

Hotel Giardino is a family‑run property situated in a private 30 000 m² park with pine and holm‑oak trees. It stands on the Gulf of Lacona, one of the widest bays on Elba, only 100 m from Lacona beach . Guests reach the sea via a shaded lane and can relax in the cool park, which offers playgrounds, picnic tables and hammocks . The small size and family management mean personalised attention; meal times and menus can be adapted, with homemade baby food and dishes suitable for allergies .

Rooms and family‑oriented services

The simple yet comfortable rooms include private bathrooms with showers, satellite TV, telephone, safe and balconies or terraces overlooking the park or hills . Fans or air conditioning are provided in warm months. Upon request, the hotel supplies cots, bed guards, bottle warmers and baby baths . Breakfast features homemade cakes, organic jams, seasonal fruit and local cold cuts, while lunch and dinner menus highlight fish and Tuscan dishes . Weekly barbecues in the garden and picnic baskets for beach outings are available . Services include free Wi‑Fi, internal parking, bike storage and rentals, a small playground with ping‑pong, laundry on request, and a pet‑friendly policy . The hotel cooperates with diving and snorkelling centres and organises guided walks and MTB tours .

Strategic location for exploring

Because Hotel Giardino sits near the island’s centre, guests can drive to Marina di Campo, Portoferraio, Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro in about 10–15 minutes . Although close to the provincial road, the property remains peaceful; transfers from ports and airports or car/scooter rentals can be arranged . Thanks to partnerships with ferry companies, the hotel offers discounted ferry tickets and can book boat trips to Pianosa, Capraia or Montecristo . A large garden offers shady areas, loungers, swings and a fenced play area; in summer the hotel organises gardening and nature workshops for children .

How to Choose a Child‑Friendly Beach

With so many beaches on Elba, parents should consider a few criteria when selecting the best spot for children :

1. Sand type and gradient: Fine sand and a gently sloping seabed are safest for toddlers. Lacona and Marina di Campo both offer soft sand and shallow entry .
2. Services and lifeguards: Beach clubs with umbrellas, showers, toilets, cafés and lifeguards provide comfort and safety. Lacona, Marina di Campo, Procchio and Lido di Capoliveri have well‑equipped resorts .
3. Natural shade: Pine woods or tamarisk groves offer respite at midday. Lacona, Marina di Campo and Procchio are backed by pine forests .
4. Accessibility: Families with prams or reduced mobility should choose beaches with nearby parking and wooden walkways. Fetovaia, Procchio and Lido di Capoliveri provide accessible services .
5. Wind exposure: Knowing each beach’s orientation helps families avoid rough seas. Lacona is sheltered from the Mistral but more exposed to the Scirocco; Fetovaia is well‑protected and enjoys a mild microclimate .
6. Natural interest: Older children may enjoy snorkelling. Some beaches belong to protected areas where fish and plants can be observed near shore, such as Spiaggia delle Ghiaie .

Beach Descriptions

Lacona – the home beach

Why it’s ideal: Lacona is Elba’s second‑longest beach (about 1 200 m). Its golden sand and very gentle slope allow children to play safely in the water. Dunes with sea lilies and a natural pinewood provide shade .

Services: Several beach clubs rent umbrellas and chairs and have bars, restaurants and windsurf/kayak schools. There are diving centres, pedal boat and canoe rentals, a beach‑volleyball court and boat hire. A free section remains close to services; the pinewood has picnic tables. Lifeguards increase rescue staff during peak periods .

Access: Hotel guests can walk to the beach in minutes. From other towns the beach is accessible from the provincial road with paid and free parking; arrive before 10 a.m. in high season . Public buses serve the beach in summer.

Best time: Lacona is exposed to the Scirocco, which can roughen the sea; when the Mistral blows the water is calm and clear . Mornings and late afternoons are preferable; spring and autumn offer quieter visits .

Curiosities: The dunes host protected sea lilies; please avoid trampling them. A coastal path from the eastern end leads to Laconella cove, perfect for snorkelling .

Marina di Campo – queen of family beaches

Why it’s special: At nearly 1 300 m long, Marina di Campo is the island’s longest beach. Its sandy seabed slopes gradually for tens of metres, ideal for children. The soft golden sand is perfect for sandcastles .

Facilities: The beach borders the town, so visitors can walk from the centre. The promenade is lined with bars, restaurants, ice‑cream parlours and shops . Many establishments offer showers, changing cabins, toilets, restaurants and play areas . A pine forest in the La Foce area has a playground. Some resorts have accessible walkways and amphibious chairs . Evening markets and entertainment enliven the promenade.

Extras: The town hosts an aquarium showcasing Mediterranean species – ideal for windy or rainy days. Boat trips depart from the harbour to discover other beaches along the south‑west coast, and trails lead up San Piero hill to the medieval tower of San Giovanni .

Fetovaia – a golden paradise

Features: Fetovaia is a jewel on the south‑west coast – a 200 m sandy cove enclosed by scrub‑covered promontories. The golden sand forms a soft carpet and the turquoise sea is calm thanks to the shelter of Punta Fetovaia and Monte Cenno . The shallow seabed suits children.

Services: Free sections sit alongside resorts offering sun‑beds, umbrellas, bars and restaurants. Disabled access via walkways and amphibious chairs is available. A paid car park behind the beach fills quickly; arrive early. A path on the left promontory leads to viewpoints and the nearby Cavoli cove .

When to visit: Very popular in July and August, so go early or in June and September. Facing south‑west, Fetovaia is protected from the Mistral but exposed to the Libeccio wind .

Lido di Capoliveri – sand and services

This 460 m crescent of golden sand on the south‑east coast is easily reached and well serviced. Its sandy seabed and wide shore, together with bars and restaurants, make it family‑friendly . Resorts provide umbrellas, showers, toilets and windsurf schools; pedal boat and canoe rentals are available . A large car park lies behind the beach. A small pinewood on the east side offers shaded tables and play equipment . The beach is exposed to southerly winds; in high season it may be crowded and noisy, so families seeking tranquillity can head to Felciaio or Norsi .

Procchio – comfort and scenery

Procchio boasts a beach almost 1 km long, divided into three sections (central lido, Campo all’Aia and Guardiola). Fine sand forms an arc around turquoise waters; the seabed slopes gently and suits children . Resorts provide accessible services, toilets, showers, bars and restaurants, and an amphibious chair service allows entry to the sea . Pedal boats, canoes, SUP and sailing boats can be rented; courses are available. Parking is paid; a shuttle bus runs in high season . Views stretch towards Capraia and Corsica and sunsets are spectacular.

Biodola – elegance and nature

Biodola, near Portoferraio, is a 600 m beach in a bay surrounded by scrub and pine forest. Its fine sand and green‑to‑turquoise water and shallow seabed attract families . Hotels, restaurants and bars line the shore; resorts rent umbrellas, chairs and pedal boats. Water sports such as water skiing and windsurfing are offered . Parking is limited and costly in peak season; the elegant atmosphere may not suit those seeking tranquillity. From Lacona it’s about 20 minutes by car – you can park at Biodola’s paid lot or at Scaglieri and walk along the coast .

Cavoli – crystal‑clear water and fun

The 350 m beach of Cavoli has coarse sand that doesn’t stick. Sheltered by granite hills and scrub, it boasts a warm microclimate, allowing swimming from March to November. The limpid, deep‑blue water invites swimming; the seabed slopes gradually and is safe for children . In summer the beach is popular with young people and music from resorts can be noisy . Bars, restaurants and rentals of umbrellas, chairs, pedal boats and boats are available. Some resorts have floating platforms and play areas. Paid parking above requires a short stairway; Cavoli is about 25 minutes by car from Lacona . Boat trips to the Blue Cave depart from here.

Sant’Andrea – granite charm

Sant’Andrea, in Marciana, is a small 150 m cove with golden sand tinged with ochre. Smoothed granite slabs flank the beach, creating natural sunbathing platforms. The clear water has a shallow zone for children and becomes deeper – perfect for snorkelling . A few resorts offer bars, restaurants and chair rentals; free sections remain. Trails lead to viewpoints and to the nearby Cotoncello mini‑cove . Parking is limited and the access road is narrow but scenic. The beach’s small size means it fills quickly; its shelter from winds and fine sand make it suitable for families .

Spartaia – sheltered bay

Spartaia is a 160 m bay between Procchio and La Paolina. Golden sand and surrounding rocks and vegetation protect it from winds, creating an intimate and safe environment . The seabed is shallow for several metres and rocks at the sides appeal to snorkellers . A small resort with bar and umbrella rental operates alongside free areas. Access is via a path from the main road; parking along the road may be paid in summer . From Lacona it takes about 25 minutes by car.

Le Ghiaie – biological reserve and ferris wheel

Located a short walk from Portoferraio’s harbour, Le Ghiaie is a protected beach of white pebbles whose legend tells that Jason’s Argonauts stained them with their sweat. Fishing has been banned here since 1971, and children can observe marine life near the shore . In 2025 a ferris wheel was installed behind the beach, offering views of Portoferraio and the coast . Bars, restaurants and an accessible path serve the beach, which is lit at night. Water shoes and mats are useful for comfort .

Other recommended beaches

The guide also suggests several lesser‑known coves suitable for families with older children :

• Sansone and Sottobomba: White‑pebble beaches near Portoferraio with very clear water. Access via paths and steps; they are not suitable for pushchairs but are perfect for snorkelling. Go early to avoid crowds .
• Padulella: Another white‑pebble beach beside the Ghiaie reserve; difficult with a pushchair but quiet and clear .
• Enfola: A narrow isthmus linking the coast to a promontory. Crystal water and a rocky seabed attract fish; trails depart from here through the Mediterranean scrub .
• Felciaio: A small cove near Lido di Capoliveri with coarse sand, shallow water and small rocks; it is often secluded because vegetation hides it .
• Norsi: A dark sand and pebble beach on the southern side; basic services and deeper water after a few metres make it suitable for older children seeking tranquillity .

Summary Table of Family‑Friendly Beaches

Beach	Sand & seabed	Approx. length	Key services & notes
Lacona	Golden sand; gently sloping seabed	~1 200 m	Resorts, bars, pinewood, canoe rental, snorkelling
Marina di Campo	Fine sand; gradual depth	~1 300 m	Resorts, pinewood with playground, promenade
Fetovaia	Golden sand; shallow bottom	~200 m	Resorts, bar, disabled access, parking
Lido di Capoliveri	Golden sand; sandy bottom	~460 m	Resorts, bars, windsurf school, parking
Procchio	Fine sand; gentle seabed	~1 000 m	Resorts, bars, disabled facilities, shuttle bus
Biodola	Fine sand; turquoise water	~600 m	Hotels, bars, water sports, parking
Cavoli	Coarse sand; shallow bottom	~350 m	Resorts, bars, youth vibe, Blue Cave trips
Sant’Andrea	Ochre sand; granite slabs	~150 m	Resorts, bars, scenic trails
Spartaia	Golden sand; sheltered bay	~160 m	Resort, bar, limited parking
Le Ghiaie	White pebbles; protected area	~400 m	Bars, restaurants, ferris wheel, accessible path

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the safest beach for very young children?

The guide suggests Lacona, Marina di Campo and Procchio for families with children under three because they offer fine sand, gently sloping seabeds and shady pinewoods . Fetovaia has calm water but is small and crowded in high season; Cavoli has little natural shade and a youthful atmosphere .

Which beaches have access for prams and people with disabilities?

Fetovaia, Procchio and Marina di Campo provide wooden walkways and amphibious chairs . Lido di Capoliveri has convenient access but not always amphibious chairs; it suits prams due to nearby parking. Le Ghiaie offers a level path suitable for wheelchairs .

Where can we find natural shade?

The pinewoods of Lacona, Marina di Campo (La Foce) and Procchio offer large shaded areas. Lido di Capoliveri has a small pinewood. Wild coves like Felciaio and Norsi are surrounded by vegetation and provide shade .

Can we go snorkelling with children?

Yes. Easy snorkelling beaches include Lacona (near the rocks), Le Ghiaie, Sansone, Padulella, Enfola, Felciaio and Spartaia. Bring masks, snorkels and short wetsuits for little ones .

Are there coral reefs or underwater archaeological sites?

Elba has no coral reefs, but certain seabeds conceal Roman‑era wrecks such as the shoal of Santa Lucia near Porto Azzurro, which can be visited with diving centres from age ten. For simple snorkelling, the protected area of Le Ghiaie allows children to watch numerous fish .

When is the best time to visit the beaches with kids?

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) provide mild temperatures, often calm seas and fewer crowds . July and August are the hottest and busiest months, so arrive early and reserve umbrellas. In winter most services close, but the wild landscapes are ideal for walks .

Places to Visit near Hotel Giardino

Beyond beaches, Elba offers museums, villages, fortifications, mines and scenic landscapes . From the hotel you can easily visit:

• Capoliveri: Ten minutes’ drive away, Capoliveri sits on a hill at 167 m altitude. Its narrow alleys and small shops retain medieval charm, and festivals like the Grape Festival and Feast of the Innamorata animate summer nights . Attractions include the Sea Museum (exhibiting the Polluce shipwreck), the Romanesque church of San Michele, guided tours of the magnetite and pyrite mines with a train ride, and Forte Focardo – a Spanish fortress with panoramic views .
• Portoferraio: Twenty minutes away, Elba’s capital was founded by the Medici in the 16th century and preserves impressive fortifications. Highlights include Fort Falcone, Fort Stella and the Linguella Tower; Napoleon’s residences Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa San Martino; Vigilanti Theatre; the Church of the Misericordia; and the small Spiaggia delle Viste where Napoleon bathed .
• Porto Azzurro: This eastern harbour village has a lively square and craft shops. Fort San Giacomo dominates the town and Barbarossa beach lies nearby, with a trail to Fort Focardo .
• Rio Marina and the Mining Park: On the eastern coast, the park offers train rides through open‑pit quarries, educational workshops and a museum where children can collect mineral samples .
• Marciana and Monte Capanne: In the northwest, Marciana is the starting point for the cable car to Monte Capanne, Elba’s highest peak (1 019 m). The ride offers panoramic views and, at the top, trails and picnic areas. Children may spot mouflons; the Archaeological Museum in Marciana exhibits Etruscan and Roman artefacts .
• Western Elba: Behind Marina di Campo lie the granite villages of San Piero and Sant’Ilario. Nearby Monte Perone offers trekking and MTB routes through chestnut forests with views of Marina di Campo and the Costa del Sole .

Recommended Itineraries for Families

To help parents plan around children’s energy levels, the guide proposes three itineraries starting from Hotel Giardino :

3‑day itinerary

1. Day 1: Morning at Lacona; picnic in the pinewood prepared by the hotel; afternoon in Capoliveri with ice cream in the square and stroll through the chiassi; evening barbecue or local festival .
2. Day 2: Early departure for a day at Fetovaia; late afternoon transfer to Sant’Andrea to admire the sunset from the granite cliffs; stop in Marciana Marina for an evening walk .
3. Day 3: Visit Portoferraio’s Medici forts and Napoleonic residences; lunch in the historic centre; afternoon snorkelling at Le Ghiaie beach and a ride on the ferris wheel .

5‑day itinerary

1. Day 1: Same as Day 1 of the three‑day itinerary .
2. Day 2: Day at Marina di Campo – morning on the beach; lunch on the promenade; afternoon visit to the Elba Aquarium; evening stroll in the La Foce pinewood .
3. Day 3: Visit Porto Azzurro and the Rio Marina Mining Park; children enjoy the mine train. On the way back stop for a swim at Norsi or Felciaio .
4. Day 4: Excursion to Procchio and Spartaia; afternoon visit to Marciana and ride the Monte Capanne cable car .
5. Day 5: Spend the day on the eastern side: stop at Biodola beach for an elegant change; have lunch in a restaurant; then visit Enfola with its coastal path; return via Portoferraio for shopping and an aperitif .

7‑day itinerary

In addition to the five‑day programme:

1. Day 6: Boat trip to Pianosa or Capraia departing from Marina di Campo or Porto Azzurro; tours include guided visits, lunch on board and swimming stops .
2. Day 7: Active day – take a kayak or SUP course at Lacona or rent bikes to explore Monte Perone trails. Alternatively, relax at Cavoli and visit the Blue Cave .

Activities and Experiences for the Whole Family

Elba offers many activities besides sunbathing :

• Sailing and windsurfing courses: Clubs in Lacona, Procchio and Marina di Campo teach children from age five in safe conditions .
• Kayak and SUP tours: Paddling along the coast reveals caves and coves accessible only from the sea; equipment rental and guided trips often include snorkelling stops .
• Guided snorkelling: Protected areas such as Le Ghiaie, Sansone and Capo Bianco are ideal for discovering marine life; some diving centres offer family tours with marine biologist guides .
• Hiking in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park: Trails like the Monte Capanne path, the Cammino della Rada in Portoferraio and the Grande Traversata Elbana provide breath‑taking views. There are easy routes for children and more challenging ones for older kids and adults .
• Horse riding: Riding schools in Marina di Campo and Campo all’Aia organise beach and woodland rides for children from age six .
• Mountain biking: A dense network of MTB trails covers the island. Guests can rent e‑bikes at the hotel or nearby and follow routes such as the western loop or Monte Calamita trails .
• Museum visits: Besides Napoleonic museums, families can visit the Archaeological Museum in Marciana, the Sea Museum in Capoliveri and the mineral museums of Rio .
• Star‑gazing: In summer, amateur astronomy associations organise star‑watching evenings on Monte Perone or Lacona beach – a magical experience for children .

Practical Tips for a Stress‑Free Holiday

1. Book early: Elba is popular; reserve ferry tickets, accommodation and beach umbrellas ahead of time. Hotel Giardino offers ferry discounts and can reserve associated beach clubs .
2. Protect against the sun: Apply high‑SPF sunscreen and have children wear hats and T‑shirts during the hottest hours .
3. Bring suitable equipment: Lightweight pushchairs, child carriers and water shoes are useful on trails and pebble beaches; pack beach toys and snorkelling gear .
4. Respect the environment: Many beaches lie within protected areas; do not leave rubbish, remove sand or stones, or use soaps in the sea .
5. Check weather and wind: Scirocco winds roughen the south coast, while the Mistral clears the south but creates waves in the north .
6. Plan shaded breaks: Children tire quickly; schedule rests under umbrellas or in pinewoods and offer light snacks and water .
7. Be flexible: If your chosen beach is crowded or windy, ask hotel staff for alternative sheltered bays .

Conclusion

With its variety of beaches – from the long sands of Lacona and Marina di Campo to hidden coves like Spartaia and Sant’Andrea, and the protected biotope of Le Ghiaie – Elba offers something for every family. Hotel Giardino’s central location, shaded park and family‑run atmosphere make it an ideal base for exploring. By considering sand type, services, shade, accessibility, wind exposure and natural interest, parents can select beaches that meet their children’s needs. The hotel’s knowledge of the island and its relationships with local operators ensure guests receive up‑to‑date advice for a perfect holiday .