Spiaggia di Fetovaia

Perhaps the most photographed beach on the island of Elba, and it’s easy to see why. Besides the near white sand and incredibly clear blue water the beach is protected by the 800 metre headland of Punta di Fetovaia. This granite finger of rock, covered in lush Mediterranean vegetation points out into the Tyrrhenian Sea forming a long, narrow and sheltered bay.

The beach is also sheltered to the north by the slopes of Monte Capanne meaning the only winds that can get into this suntrap is the southeasterly Sirocco. All this adds up to a great family beach. There are plenty of amenities with the beach having a free section along with the paying beach clubs, and the little village of Fetovaia is just behind.

Such beauty does come at a price - Fetovaia is probably the most popular beach on Elba. Given the beach is only around 200 metres you will be hard-pressed to find a patch of sand to yourself during the summer months. This isn’t so much of a problem out of season or if you get here early enough.

Boats are generally not allowed in the cove, which is great news for swimmers and snorkelers. There is a small slipway on the northern side of the beach where local fishermen pull their boats up. If you keep walking past this you’ll arrive at an area of flat granite slabs that are an ideal spot to throw a towel down, sunbathe, swim and avoid the crowds.