La Pianotta beach in Porto Azzurro, Island of Elba

La Pianotta is one of the two beaches in the town of Porto Azzurro. It is about 40 metres long and lies at the far end of the town and away from the tourist port.

It consists of fine shingle mixed with large rocks at the far end that are perfet for sunbathing. The water here is crystal clear and a of a deep blue colour and the magnificent sea bed is perfect if you enjoy doing snorkelling or deep sea diving.

The whole beach is free and there are no bathing establishments, and right behind the pedestrian-only zone there are many bars, restaurants and shops. The fact that it is so near the town of Porto Azzurro where you will find supermarkets, banks and many other types of facilities make it a very practical beach.Not only the locals love this beach but it is also very popular among tourists who often live nearby so tend to prefer beaches that they can get to on foot.

Another reason for its popularity is that it is ideal for going windsurfing.

A little farther along from the beach (near the start of the Carmignani walk) there are some very pleasant rocks in a quieter and less crowded part of the beach that you can sunbathe on.

If you look out across the sea you have a wonderful view of the gulf of Mola with the Naregno promontory and Fort Focardo - that the Spaniards had built to reiforce the defense of the bay - in the foreground.

How to get to Pianotta beach

It is easy to get to, just walk along the sea front in Porto Azzurro until you get to the pier behind the beach. The fact that it lies right in the town of Porto Azzurro means there are several car parks in the area, both free and fee paying.