Travel guide
Discover Elba Island from the sea — Lacona and Capoliveri
Elba is the pearl of the Tuscan Archipelago: over 140 beaches, crystal-clear water, historic villages and a coastline that looks its very best from the sea. Here's our guide to making the most of Lacona, the Stella Gulf and the whole Capoliveri coast, departing from Margidore Beach.
The most beautiful beaches near Margidore
Capoliveri's southern side is home to some of Elba's best-loved beaches. Margidore Beach, with its fine gravel and the calm waters of the Gulf of Lacona, is the perfect starting point.
A few minutes' sailing away you'll find Lacona, long and sandy, ideal for families; Laconella, small and wild; then Zuccale and Barabarca, two gems tucked between the cliffs. Further east, Innamorata beach with its legendary sunset and views over the Gemini islets.
Hidden coves and boat itineraries
With a licence-free boat you can reach coves accessible only from the sea. Our favourite itinerary: from Margidore heading east along Punta Calamita, past old cliffside mines, emerald water and inlets that stay empty even in August.
With a full day you can reach Porto Azzurro or the beaches of Remaiolo and Istia, stopping to swim wherever you like. We provide a map and up-to-date advice on the day's conditions.
Snorkeling and marine life
Elba is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, one of the richest stretches of sea in the Mediterranean. With mask and fins you'll meet seabream, octopus, starfish and posidonia meadows swaying beneath the surface.
The best spots near us: the rocks of Innamorata, the Gemini islets and the rocky shoreline of Punta Calamita. Bring a mask — or ask us for one — and get ready to be amazed.
Family activities
The Gulf of Lacona is perfect for kids: shallow seabeds, sheltered water and well-equipped beaches. A pedal boat ride, a double canoe with mum or dad, a sandcastle and an ice cream in Capoliveri: the perfect day exists, and it's here.
For older kids: a first SUP experience in the early morning, when the sea is like glass, or a first boat outing with a dedicated briefing.
Sunsets and evening trips
Sunset seen from the sea is one of Elba's most beautiful experiences. From the waters off Lacona, the sun sinks behind the profile of Monte Capanne, setting the sky ablaze in orange and pink.
Local tip: leave an hour and a half before sunset, cruise west and bring something to toast with. On the way back, the lights of Capoliveri on the hill guide you home to the beach.
Things to know and travel tips
Getting here: ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio or Rio Marina (about 1 hour), then a 20-minute drive to Margidore. Book the ferry in advance in high season.
What to pack: reef-friendly sunscreen, rock shoes, a hat and water. The wind: mornings are almost always calm; the thermal breeze picks up in the early afternoon — perfect for windsurfing, worth planning around for SUP and canoe.