The beach of Sant'Andrea on the Island of Elba
Among the most beautiful beaches on the island
The beach of Sant'Andrea is located in the northwestern part of the island and falls within the territory of the municipality of Marciana. It can be reached by following the Western Elba Ring Road, which connects Marina di Campo to the town of Marciana. After a few kilometers, there is a well-marked deviation indicating "Spiaggia di S.Andrea" (Sant'Andrea Beach).
The beach of Sant'Andrea is not very extensive. On the left side, there is a rocky part frequented mostly by sunbathers who like to lie on the large smooth granite rocks. In the center, there is a section of the beach with fine golden sand. The seabed is divided into two zones: the first part on the left gradually slopes, and the second part on the right features a long cliff that protects the beach and forms a small natural pool with a shallow bottom of about 40 cm, perfect for young children. On the left side of the beach, a narrow scenic path connects it to the small beach of Cotoncello, which is formed by fine sand and surrounded by charming granite rocks smoothed by the sea.
The beach of Sant'Andrea is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Island of Elba. Its seabeds are ideal for diving and snorkeling, as they surround the characteristic cliffs in that area. The beach gets very crowded in summer, but it is possible to find a quiet spot on the adjacent rocks. To facilitate their use, umbrellas can be planted in the specially made holes in the hard granite.
Sant'Andrea Beach is well-equipped, and all services are available including a bar, restaurant, umbrella and sunbed rentals, boat rentals, and pedal boats.
The parking area for Sant'Andrea Beach is quite large, although a significant number of spaces are paid parking.
Characteristics of Sant'Andrea Beach
Sant'Andrea Beach is a highly sought-after tourist destination. It stretches for about 150 meters and reaches a maximum depth of ten meters, framed by impressive granite cliffs. The white granite sand contrasts with the intense turquoise color of the sea, offering breathtaking views.
The natural landscape is very evocative. On the left, there is the promontory of Capo Sant'Andrea, overlooking the small beach, which can be reached by a short walk along the cliffs. On the other side, to the right, extend the granite cliffs that, through a spectacular path carved into the granite, lead to the small beach of Cotoncello.
The white rocks of Capo Sant'Andrea are called "Cote Piane" by the locals. They are smooth and polished by the sea and weathering. Moreover, they are easily accessible thanks to paths and wooden bridges carved into the rocks. Observing the sea from the crevices formed by the pristine granite rocks of the Sant'Andrea promontory is very suggestive and offers unique emotions.
The seabed in this area of the island gradually slopes in the initial part and then descends steeply. This particular characteristic is highly appreciated by enthusiasts of underwater activities since it is possible to dive directly from the beach.
The numerous rocks both around and inside the sea promote the proliferation of marine life, making this place particularly suitable for snorkeling. Even less experienced individuals can engage in amateur diving to admire the fabulous landscape hidden among the rocks that surround Sant'Andrea Beach.
The beach is completely immersed in the Tyrrhenian Sea with all its colors and the typical scents of the Mediterranean scrub. Not to mention the flavors. The bars and restaurants present offer typical delicacies that can captivate even the most discerning palates.
The available services allow tourists of all kinds to find entertainment and fun. It is a lovely place suitable for families with children, as well as for young people and groups of friends. In fact, there are several bars and restaurants, as well as a newsstand and shops. For entertainment, you can rent canoes, kayaks, boats, and pedal boats to explore the nearby coasts. Furthermore, for those who want a vacation focused on exploring the sea, there is a buoy field with thirty buoys available for boaters. The boat lanes also allow bathers to enjoy their stay safely without having to worry about jet skis, pleasure craft, and so on.
The beach and the rocks are mostly free, but there are also equipped bathing establishments offering umbrella and deck chair rentals, providing guests with the opportunity to relax on the beach.
How to get to Sant'Andrea
You can reach Sant'Andrea Beach by car from Marciana or Marina di Campo. The road to the destination is a provincial road that surrounds Monte Capanne. The road signs are comprehensive, with well-marked intersections and junctions. When the road starts to descend towards the sea, it's important to pay attention because it can be narrow and winding in some spots.
There are parking lots near the beach, with about twenty free spaces, while all the others are paid parking with meters at a low price. It's recommended to arrive early in the morning if you only plan to visit Sant'Andrea Beach for a day trip to enjoy its beauty. The cost of the parking meter is 50 cents per hour from May 1st to May 31st and from September 16th to October 15th, while it's one euro per hour from June 1st to September 15th.
For those who intend to stay in nearby hotels, they are well-equipped with parking areas reserved for guests.
The 360-degree aerial photo of Sant'Andrea beach on the Island of Elba.
The map of Sant'Andrea Beach in Marciana, Elba Island