Sant'Andrea beach in Marciana, on the Island of Elba

Take the main road that goes from Marciana to Marina di Campo; from the top of the road you will see the beaches and coves below, and be able to admire the breathtaking view all around, with that of the Islands of Capraia and Corsica on the horizon, and breathe in the Mediterranean scrub perfumes.

Bend after bend, as you start going downwards towards the sea, you get the impression Elba is getting further and further away and that you're entering a new reality: that of an island within an island.

The beauty of the famous tourist resort of Sant'Andrea, surrounded by granite, will leave you speechless.

Although the beach is quite small (only about 150 metres long and 10 metres at its widest point) it is very nice, since it is made up of light grey, granite sand and the sea is turquoise and crystal clear.

In the past, the beautiful beach of Sant' Andrea was where the ships from the mainland came in to be loaded with the wine that was produced from the grapes that grew on the numerous terracings in the surrounding area. What remains of the pier can still be seen on the western side of the beach.

The water is shallow till quite far out and it is perfect for scuba diving.

There are several bars and restaurants right on the beach.

If you want to fully appreciate one of the Island of Elba's most beautiful coastlines, whether you go to the east or to the west of the beach you will see all the rocks that are perfect for sunbathing and diving.

On the right hand side of the beach, facing the sea, you will see a short path along the top of the rocks, and this gets you to Cotoncello, a small and truly enchanting sandy beach.

Head west and you get to Capo Sant'Andrea. Here the smooth, granite rocks that the people in Elba call Cote Piane are easy to get to and walk across so they are very popular. All the granite that you see from Cotoncello to Capo Sant'Andrea is absolutely beautiful because the thousands of feldspat crystals make it sparkle in the sun, and in April and May, the spectacular view of the fuchsia coloured flowers of the Hottentot figs in full bloom is an absolute must.

How to get to Sant'Andrea beach

Whether you start off from Marciana or Marina di Campo it is easy to get there by car; just follow the western ring road around Monte Capanne until you get to the junction (it is clearly signposted) for Sant'Andrea then head downwards towards the beach.

You will see the spacious car park on your left about 100 metres before the actual beach, and here you will find about twenty free, parking spaces while the others have an hourly cost:
50 cents per hour from May 1st to May 31st, and 1 euro per hour from September 16th to October 15th

During the summer months you can also get to the beach thanks to the Commune of Marciana Marebus shuttle service to and from the main road in La Zanca, Cotoncello and Sant'Andrea.

Information and facilities