Spiaggia delle Ghiaie

Spiaggia delle Ghiaie, located near the historic center of Portoferraio on the northern side of the island of Elba, is a beach of unique beauty. The beach is characterized by small polished eurite pebbles, said to be stained with gray-blue drops from the sweat of the Argonauts who, according to legend, landed there in search of the Golden Fleece. The beach is 280 meters long and is surrounded by breathtaking views of the Medici fortifications, the Scoglietto islet with its lighthouse, and the open sea.

The beach is part of the Marine Reserve of Scoglietto, a richly biodiverse area that encourages snorkeling due to the abundance of fish that can even be fed by hand. The southern winds, especially the Scirocco, make the water color similar to that of a swimming pool, creating a perfect environment for swimming and diving. The beach is also home to a public garden with a playground, making it a suitable location for families with children.

Several amenities are available at the beach, including bars and restaurants, as well as beach establishments that offer rental of sunbeds and umbrellas. Additional amenities such as canoes, pedalos, and Wi-Fi are also available. A tree-lined avenue separates the beach from the public gardens.

There is paid parking available along the road near the beach. However, finding parking can sometimes be challenging due to the beach's popularity. The beach can be reached by car or public transportation and is very close to the ferry port. It is also a comfortable 10-15 minute walk from the center of Portoferraio.

Despite its popularity, especially during the months of July and August, Spiaggia delle Ghiaie manages to maintain a relatively uncrowded atmosphere. Even at night, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the sea thanks to a night lighting system installed since 2016. For tourists staying far from Portoferraio, a visit to Spiaggia delle Ghiaie on the day of departure for a last swim before taking the ferry is recommended.