Portoferraio
Portoferraio
Portoferraio is the largest town on Elba. It is famous amongst residents and visitors as the centre of the "Costa Bianca”, the part of the island’s north coast which features a series of beaches of white pebbles with delicate touches of blue. This is said to be a legacy of the visit of Jason’s crew, the Argonauts. Ghiaie, Padulella, Capo Bianco and Sansone have often been included in lists of Italy’s top beaches and provide both beach clubs, for people in search of comfort, and open-access space for those who prefer to enjoy the seaside on their own terms. The centre of Portoferraio also offers plenty of amenities, from the supermarkets to the craft stores on Calata Mazzini, the seaside promenade closed to traffic on summer evenings.
Portoferraio
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Beaches
The beaches of Portoferraio offer a varied and easily accessible seaside experience, ideal for those staying in the main town of Elba Island or wishing to combine beach time with convenient services. The coastline around the town alternates between pebble beaches, gravel shores and mixed stretches, often characterised by clear waters and interesting seabeds.
Among the best-known beaches are Le Ghiaie, Padulella and Capo Bianco, all located a short distance from the centre. These beaches are composed of smooth white pebbles and are particularly appreciated for their transparent waters and seabeds that become deep quite quickly, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The setting is scenic and easily reachable without long travel.
Continuing north, you reach Sansone and Seccione, two of the most scenic beaches in the area. Sansone is famous for its light pebbles, turquoise sea and rocky seabeds, while Seccione, slightly wilder, offers pebbles and rocky sections in a striking natural environment. Both are particularly appreciated by those who enjoy clear waters and snorkelling.
On the eastern side of the gulf lies Magazzini Beach, characterised by gravel mixed with dark sand and a more sheltered, peaceful setting. Here the sea is generally calm and the seabed more regular, making it suitable for those seeking relaxation and less crowded beach days.
Overall, the beaches of Portoferraio allow visitors to choose between convenient options close to the town and more natural, panoramic coves, offering a varied and high-quality seaside experience.
