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

Following the provincial road that goes from the town of Marciana to Marina di Campo, from the top of the road you can overlook the beaches and coves below and admire breathtaking panoramic views, while losing yourself in the scents of the Mediterranean scrub. The islands of Capraia and the distant Corsica form the backdrop.

Curve after curve, descending towards the sea, you gradually leave behind Elba and enter a reality of an island within the island: the renowned tourist location of Sant'Andrea, where granite reigns, will leave you speechless.

The beach, although modest in size (it is about 150 meters long and a maximum of 10 meters deep), is charming and made of light granite sand, bathed by a turquoise sea.

Fun Fact: The sweet beach of Sant'Andrea was once the landing place for sailing ships coming from the mainland to load wine, which was produced in abundance on the terraced land of the area. Evidence of this activity is still visible in the dock at the western edge of the beach.

Here, the seabed gently slopes in the first few meters, then drops off quickly, making it very interesting for those who enjoy underwater activities, as they can dive directly from the beach.

Directly on the beach, there are several well-equipped bars and restaurants.

To enjoy one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline on the Island of Elba, you can head east or west of the beach, where vast rocky expanses are available for sunbathing and swimming.

On the right, looking out to sea, by following a pleasant path on the rocks, you can reach Cotoncello, a small but enchanting sandy beach.

To the west, head towards Capo Sant'Andrea. Here, the smooth granite rocks, called Cote Piane by the locals, are perfect for sunbathers and are easily accessible. From Cotoncello to Capo Sant'Andrea, the granite is particularly beautiful, dotted with thousands of white feldspar crystals, and between April and May, the fuchsia bloom of the Ottentotti figs is a spectacle not to be missed.

Fun Fact: In the summer of 2022, many little Caretta caretta turtles were born unexpectedly.

How to reach Sant'Andrea Beach

Sant'Andrea Beach is accessible by car, from Marciana or Marina di Campo, by following the western ring road around Mount Capanne. From the provincial road, when you reach the junction for Sant'Andrea (well-signposted), you begin to descend towards the sea; be careful of the road, which is narrow and winding in some sections.

Near the beach, there is a fairly large parking area, well-signposted on the left, about 100 meters before reaching the sea. There are about twenty free spaces, and the rest is paid with a parking meter. The cost is:
€0.50/h from May 1 to May 31 and from September 16 to October 15
€1.00/h from June 1 to September 15

Information and facilities