Spiaggia della Crocetta is a picturesque small beach located in Marciana Marina on the eastern coast of the island of Elba, Italy. Known for its secluded and tranquil atmosphere, the beach is a natural gem characterized by its unique colors and shades. The beach is only fifty meters long and is composed of granitic gravel and green gravel, which gives it a distinctive color. The large white stones scattered across the beach create beautiful reflections on the water, which ranges from green and turquoise to deep blue.
The beach is surrounded by white and black rocky walls, resembling a natural pool and offering stunning views of the sea, the coastline, the harbor, and sailboats returning to dock. The clear waters of the beach contrast with the dark and light cliffs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Visitors can observe various colorful fish species that inhabit the area. However, due to its rocky nature, it's recommended to bring swim shoes for comfort and safety.
The beach is quite exposed to the open sea and is particularly affected by northern winds. It is recommended to visit in the morning or after lunch, as the beach is only sunny until early afternoon due to its exposure. The beach has a gradual slope, making it ideal for swimming within the small bay, while being cautious of passing boats.
Accessing the beach is not very easy as there are no services available directly on the beach or in the nearby vicinity, making it potentially unsuitable for families with children or those who have difficulty hiking. To reach Spiaggia della Crocetta, visitors need to take a dirt path that starts from the provincial road just before entering the town of Marciana Marina. The path is not marked, so it may require some exploration to find it. The descent to the beach is through a path that passes through dense vegetation and leads to a long staircase partially carved into the rock.
Parking near the beach can be challenging, especially during the summer months. Visitors must park along the road and walk back, being mindful of the lack of sidewalks. Despite these challenges and its secluded location, the beach can be quite crowded during the peak season. However, the return journey, though strenuous, offers a panoramic view from the top before descending to the beach, making the effort worthwhile for those seeking a pristine natural environment to relax in.
