Sottobomba beach in Portoferraio, on the Island of Elba

The Sottobomba Beach is located in the characteristic white coast stretch of Portoferraio. With its wild and untouched appearance, the cove is quite similar to the more famous and nearby beaches of Capo Bianco, Sorgente, and Sansone.

The beach is just under 200 meters long and very narrow, especially in some areas on the right, where it is about 3 meters wide.

It consists of white pebbles of varying sizes, with a few small stretches of coarse white sand. On the left side, facing the sea, the sand is mixed with large stones, which are not very comfortable for lying down.

Behind the sea, a white cliff with varying heights of 20 to 40 meters, covered by low Mediterranean scrub, protects Sottobomba from southern winds and helps create a scenic effect.

Thanks to the seabed made up of white pebbles, especially on days with a scirocco wind, when the sea becomes turquoise and crystal-clear, the place becomes fantastic and ideal for snorkeling.

A small protruding rock in the middle of the beach can also be fun for children, who can try small jumps.

How to reach Sottobomba

Coming from Portoferraio along the coastal road (one-way), pass the beaches of Le Ghiaie and Capo Bianco and after a small descent, at a right turn, a sign indicates the entrance to the beach, which is reached by descending 109 steps.

Nearby, there are two parking areas: one free and another paid parking lot. The price for cars is €10.00 for the whole day (8-20) and €6.50 for half a day (8-13 / 13-20), and for motorcycles, €3.00.

In the summer, the beach is also accessible thanks to the urban bus service.