Padulella beach in Portoferraio, on the Island of Elba

Padulella beach is one of the white-sands beaches to the north of Portoferraio, and thanks to its suggestive beauty is without a doubt one of the most popular beaches among both locals and tourists.

The beach is to the east of Punta di Capo Bianco that shelters it from winds from the west. To the right some cliffs separate it from Ghiaie beach and from Cala dei Frati beach.

The brilliant white of the tall cliffs all around the beach that seem to plunge right down into the water stand out against the crystal clear, turquoise colour of the sea. The beach faces north, so its beauty is even more enhanced when a southern wind is blowing because it makes the sea even clearer, and thanks to the white sea bed it goes from emerald green to turquoise and blue.

It is about 170 metres long and consists of small, white, smooth pebbles ; depending on the winds, you will sometimes see heaps of dried posidonia on the beach brought in by the tide.

This beach is within the Protected Biological Area that goes from Punta di Capo Bianco as far as Punta Falcone and the Scoglietto out at sea (included).

In 1971 it was classed as a marine protection area, and this, plus the fact that there are many sand beds to the right of the beach, means the sea is rich in fauna so is perfect if you want to go snorkelling.

It is a very popular beach so you will find every type of facility: bars, restaurants, sun bed and sun umbrella as well as pedalo rental.

How to get to the beach

You can get to either end of the beach, just follow the road from Portoferraio in the direction of Le Ghiaie beach and follow the signs for Padulella, Enfola. Once you have passed Le Ghiaie beach keep going for another 300 metres and you will see a road on the right for pedestrians only (a barrier across the road prevents vehicles from going through).

After a short distance you will get to the beach, and as you walk along, make sure you admire the beautiful panorama of the nearby coastline and the majestic, Medicean walls around Portoferraio. If you want to get there by car bear in mind that unfortunately there is nowhere to park.

If you choose to get there from the other road, keep going for about 200 metres and follow the signs for Capo Bianco until you get to a large car park where you have to pay.

Once you have parked your car, walk along a short road on the right that goes past some villas, and a few dozen metres further along you will get to the beach.