Elba Island is a natural paradise that conceals hidden spots of unique charm. Among these, the Wreck Beach stands out—a picturesque cove located near the village of Pomonte on the western coast. Known for the submerged remains of a vessel that sank in 1972, this beach is today a must‑visit destination for sea and snorkeling enthusiasts. Let’s discover how to get to Marina di Campo’s Wreck Beach, what to do nearby, what services are available, and useful tips to fully enjoy this Elban gem.
Where is Wreck Beach located
Wreck Beach is located in the small village of Pomonte, a hamlet of the municipality of Marciana, on the south‑western coast of Elba Island. Although often associated with the more famous Marina di Campo, this beach can also be reached easily from there by car in just a few minutes, which is why it is often named in guides as “Wreck Beach Marina di Campo“. This small cove features a mixed shoreline of light gravel and pebbles, surrounded by largely untouched natural surroundings. The water is crystal‑clear and the seabed slopes gently, making it suitable even for less experienced swimmers. However, the real treasure lies just a few meters from shore: the Pomonte Wreck, the skeleton of the merchant vessel Elviscot, which sank in 1972 after hitting the rocks of Ogliera Shoal.
How to get to the beach?
Reaching Wreck Beach from Marina di Campo is easy. The distance is approximately 12 km and takes about 20 minutes by car via the scenic SP25 road, which offers breathtaking sea views. It’s recommended to start from the center of the Marina di Campo village, a lively locality well connected by sea and public transport.
Visitors arriving on the island by ferry can choose to disembark at Portoferraio. From there, Marina di Campo is about a 30‑minute drive. During the summer season, buses also operate between Portoferraio, Marina di Campo and Pomonte, although less frequently than car travel.
Once in Pomonte, you can park near the village center and walk for a few minutes to the beach. The trail is easy and well‑marked.
What to see and do
The main reason why Marina di Campo’s Wreck Beach is so appreciated is the chance to swim above a real submerged wreck. The Elviscot lies just a few meters from shore, at a depth of about 12 meters. On clear days, you can clearly see its outline even without fully submerging. It’s the perfect spot for snorkeling: fins, mask and snorkel are enough to admire the wreck covered in corals and algae and inhabited by numerous fish species.
For more experienced visitors, scuba diving is also possible, perhaps with the support of local diving centers. The wreck isn’t particularly deep nor dangerous, but it’s always best to have experience or go with an authorized guide. Besides the wreck, the area is ideal for scenic walks, especially at sunset when light reflects off the cliffs creating a unique atmosphere. Photography enthusiasts will find inspiration in the contrast of blue sea, white pebbles and corroded metal of the wreck.
If you’d like to alternate relaxation and excursions, you can also visit the nearby Marina di Campo beach, which is larger and equipped—perfect for families with children or those seeking convenience without losing the island’s natural charm.
Services at Marina di Campo’s Wreck Beach
Wreck Beach is one of the most evocative but least equipped beaches on the island. There is no beach establishment and no services such as bars, restaurants or sunbed rentals directly on the beach. This helps preserve its wild charm intact, but requires a bit of planning.
If you plan to spend the entire day here, you should bring everything you need: water, food, umbrella and perhaps rock‑swimming shoes useful for walking on the gravel. In Pomonte, however, there are small shops, bars and restaurants where you can get supplies or take a break.
