Barbarossa beach in Porto Azzurro, on the Island of Elba

Barbarossa beach is surrounded by a small, lush green bay that faces south opposite the peninsula of Calamita.

The beauty of the entire area is unique in the choice of contrasts it offers: in the background you have the high summits of Monte Capanne and Cima di Monte standing proud, while in the foreground you have the lush woods that cover practically all of Monte Calamita.

The beach consists of fine, smooth and dark coloured shingle mixed with sand. It is about 160 metres long and 30 metres wide.

Interesting facts There are several explanations as to the origins of the name of Barbarossa beach. Some say it comes from the Turkish pirate Khayr-al-Din Barbarossa, who seemingly came to plunder and raid the Island of Elba in the XVI century; others say it comes from the red colour of the cliffs overlooking a small inlet on the left of the beach that from far away looks just like a beard You can also get to Barbarossa beach by walking down the rocks, but it is also within swimming distance .

Since this beach is both the longest and nearest to Porto Azzurro, it tends to be quite busy. The fact that there are several hotels, campsites and tourist facilities nearby makes the beach perfect not just for teenagers but also for families with small children.

The beautifulrocky inlets at either side are ideal for snorkelling lovers.

What also makes the beach special is that it is connected to Porto Azzurro by the Carmignani walk, a scenic pathway that is both easy and short (about 1 km), that goes along the perimeter of the wall around Forte San Giacomo.

Since 2014, on Barbarossa beach attempts have been made to keep jellyfish away: a certain area in the water has a protective net around it so you may go in for a swim without worrying about being stung bya jellyfish.  

The beach caters for the disabled.

How to get to the beach

As well as the path that you can follow on foot, Barbarossa beach is also easy to get to by car: just follow the signs along the main road for Rio Marina. After about 1 kilometre from Porto Azzurro you will see a clearly signposted turning for the beach.

You can also get to Barbarossa by the Marebus beach service run by the town council of Porto Azzurro.

Information and facilities