Patresi Beach is a serene coastal spot located in the town of Patresi, within the commune of Marciana on the Island of Elba. The beach is nestled at the tail end of the Patresi Valley, enveloped by steep rocky formations. A distinctive feature of the beach is the white lighthouse, Punta Polveraia, situated on its western edge.
The beach is approximately 150 meters long and is bifurcated into two sections by large rocks. The first section of the beach comprises medium to large granite pebbles, while the second section consists of finer pebbles and is generally preferred by swimmers. Due to the pebbly nature of the beach, visitors are advised to bring a beach mattress for comfortable sunbathing.
Patresi Beach offers several amenities for its visitors. A cement platform on the right side of the beach provides rental services for sunbeds and umbrellas. There is also a bar and restaurant located behind the platform, serving food and beverages. The beach is equipped with a launching area and a mooring lane for boats, catering to the needs of boating enthusiasts.
Despite its attractions, Patresi Beach is not typically crowded, offering a peaceful and quiet environment. The water at the beach is crystal clear, a result of the currents and breezes from the western coast. The sea bed is teeming with various species of fish, shellfish, and marine flora, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
The beach affords a stunning view of Capraia and the silhouette of Corsica on clear days, providing a beautiful setting for breathtaking sunsets. There is also a nearby beach, Punta Polveraia (or della Guardia), which can be accessed by boat or by walking down a steep path from Patresi Beach.
To reach Patresi Beach, visitors can follow the signs indicating "beach" from the town of Patresi, taking the Via il Faro route for about 1.3 km alongside the Punta Polveraia lighthouse. Parking facilities are available on the side of the road or in a nearby car park, although spaces in the car park are limited and come at a fee. The beach is also accessible by local bus service, and a shuttle bus service provided by the Commune of Marciana Marebus operates during the summer months.
