Aliva beach in Campo nell’Elba

Aliva beach, also known as Alga cove, is located along the south-western coast of the Isola d'Elba, on the stretch between Fetovaia and Pomonte, in one of the island's most wild and unspoilt areas. Like the nearby Tombe beach, it is characterised by dark pebbles and rocks, which can become very hot in the sun.

About 90 metres long and almost 20 metres wide, Aliva has a distinctly natural appearance. A large part of the beach is often covered with washed-up Posidonia, whose presence may vary throughout the year depending on storms and sea conditions.

Behind the beach there are no buildings or tourist facilities: the surroundings are dominated by Mediterranean scrub, the rocky coastline and the open sea. On the clearest days, looking towards the horizon, it is possible to make out the islands of Pianosa and Montecristo.

Aliva is a beach particularly suited to those who love secluded, uncrowded places and are not discouraged by a demanding access route. During the summer it is often a destination for recreational boaters, who can reach the cove by boat and avoid the long walk. Those who choose to tackle the trail give up some comfort, but are rewarded by the beauty of one of the wildest and most unspoilt stretches of coastline on the Elba.

Both the beach and the cliffs on the right, when facing the sea, have historically been frequented by naturists (FKK). Naturism has traditionally been practised and tolerated, although Aliva is not an officially authorised naturist beach.

Aliva beach is completely free and has no services: there are no beach clubs, bars, refreshment points or equipped areas. There is also no shelter from the sun. It is therefore important to bring water, food, sun protection and everything else needed for the day.

How to reach Aliva beach

Reaching Aliva beach is not easy and the route is recommended mainly for those accustomed to walking on steep trails and rough terrain. The descent takes approximately 15-20 minutes, with particular care required especially on the final section.

Coming from Marina di Campo, about 1.4 km after the junction for Fetovaia beach – or about 500 metres after the start of the trail to Punta di Fetovaia – along a straight stretch of road, there is a small parking area on the left, with space for approximately a dozen cars.

About 80 metres before the parking area, near a pine tree below the road, take trail no. 173, which descends towards the sea through the Mediterranean scrub.

The route becomes progressively more challenging as it approaches the coast. The final section of the descent is very steep and requires particular caution.

Warning: we have been informed that the ropes used to assist the descent on the final section leading to the beach are currently damaged. Trail conditions may also change over time due to rain and erosion. It is therefore recommended to assess the condition of the route on site and not attempt any sections that do not appear safe.

Infoelba recommends: to walk the trail, it is essential to wear comfortable, closed shoes with good grip. Slippers and flip-flops are strongly discouraged.

Aliva beach can also be reached on foot from the nearby Tombe beach, covering about 430 metres along the coast and over the rocks. This route is also demanding and crosses rough terrain, so it is suitable only for people accustomed to moving confidently over rocks.