One of the main characteristics of this, the largest island in Tuscany, is the extraordinary diversity of the places we encounter.

The beaches on Elba are numerous, each being quite unique; long beaches of golden sands or tiny stones, equally beautiful beaches of black sand, white pebbles or cliff bases of smooth granite rocks.
Spectacular panorama and crystal clear water make these beaches simular to the caribbean, but second to none.

Elba’s 147 kilometres of coastline have been divided into four geographical catogories for simplification.

The graph below indicates only the main beaches as listing all of Elba’s beaches would be almost impossible.
This graph will make choosing the perfect beach to pass unforgettable days of sunbaking and swimming, an easier task.

The depth of most of the waters increases rather rapidly, with the exception of la Biodola, Marina di Campo, Lacona and Procchio where the water remains shallow for for up to 30-40 metres.

Most of the island’s beaches are classifiable as "free". On the main beaches however, bathers will find privately run establishments that offer changing rooms, sun lounges and beach umbrellas on a rental basis. Furthermore, many of these establishments rent a range of equipment for various water sports. (see "Beaches - advise and regulations").

Advices and rules you should observe:

1. The limit of sea reserved for the bathers is 200 metres from the water-line. This limit is signed on the watched beaches with red buoys.
2. The limit of the safe waters (- 1,60 metres) is signed with white floats.
3. Sailing-boats, motor-boats and water-scooters can get to the beach only through the signed passages, unless you row as far as the water-line. In any case boats can’t moor within 200 metres from the water-line.
4. It’s forbidden to bathe in the waters of the ports, where the ferry-boats pass and stop, and within the passages reserved for the pleasure-boats.
5. It’s forbidden the underwater-fishing with loaded weapons within 500 metres from the beaches.
6. All boats must have the salvage equipment according to the kind of navigation.
7. Remember that the bathing structures have salvage service and first aid-material from 9.30 to 19.30.
8. It’s forbidden to take animals on the beach during the holiday season.

   Don’t bathe alone.
9. After eating wait at least 3 hours before bathing. If you’re hot, go into the water gradually.
10. In case of rough sea be careful and don’t bathe near the reefs.
11. Don’t swim far from the water-line, even though you are an excellent swimmer.
12. Don’t bathe, if you aren’t very well.
13. Don’t bathe, when the red flag is displayed.
14. Dive with or without cylilnders only if you have already attended a specific course and, when you are under water, draw attention to yourself with the special small red flag.
    

In case of necessity call the "Medical service of emergency":
Tel. 118 or the Coast-guard (harbour-master’s office): Tel. 1530

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