Those who know Elba Island well are aware of the golden rule: to make the most of the island’s sea, always check the Elba weather forecast first. Thanks to its jagged coastline, full of coves and opposing headlands, there is always a sheltered, pool-like stretch of coast on Elba, no matter which way the wind blows. You just need to know where to go.
Among the most frequent summer winds is the Maestrale, which blows from the north-west. When this wind cools the air and stirs up the waters on the northern coast, the solution is to head to the southern side of Elba. In this practical guide by Blu Navy, you will find out where to go on Elba when the Maestrale is blowing to find calm, transparent waters.
The secret of the wind on Elba’s beaches
📷 Photo: Fabio Pani /Wikimedia Commons – Marina di Campo, Elba, Italy (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The relationship between weather, wind and beaches on Elba Island is a simple but fundamental science: the Maestrale hits the northern coast head-on (from Portoferraio to Marciana Marina). At the same time, the entire opposite coast is perfectly sheltered thanks to the inland mountains (dominated by Monte Capanne), which act as a natural shield.
While the northern coast has waves, the southern beaches of Elba offer a flat sea, ideal for families, swimmers and snorkelling enthusiasts.
Where to swim with the Maestrale: the southern coast beaches
📷 Photo: Westernelba /Wikimedia Commons – Spiaggia di Fonza (isola d’Elba) (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Here is a selection of the best beaches on the southern coast of Elba Island, that truly come into their own on Maestrale days.
The jewels of Costa del Sole: Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia
Located along the Western Ring in the municipality of Campo nell’Elba, these three granite-sand beaches are among the most famous on the island and are spectacular when the northerly winds blow.
• Cavoli beach: sheltered by high cliffs, the Maestrale reveals its incredibly transparent water and a calm sea. The golden sand does not blow away and the bay turns into a natural swimming pool.
• Seccheto beach: smaller and quieter than its neighbours, this cove offers both sand and comfortable smooth rocks. With the north-westerly wind, the sea is flat and perfect for children.
• Fetovaia beach: considered one of the most beautiful on the island, it is sheltered by a headland roughly 800 metres long covered in Mediterranean scrub. This natural barrier completely cancels out the effects of the Maestrale, creating turquoise, calm waters.
The large bay of Marina di Campo
The Marina di Campo beach, with its very long stretch of fine sand, is partially sheltered from the Maestrale thanks to the La Pila headland that closes the gulf to the west. The part of the beach closest to the village harbour guarantees the calmest sea on these days, ideal for those looking for convenience and full services.
Wild and hidden coves: Galenzana and Fonza
If you are looking for peace away from the crowds, Maestrale days are the perfect time to explore these two bays:
• Galenzana beach: just a short walk from the centre of Marina di Campo but accessible only on foot, this sand and pebble beach is one of the most sheltered on the entire island. Enclosed in a small gulf, it is immune to almost all winds, including the Maestrale.
• Fonza beach: located shortly before the Gulf of Lacona, it is a wild cove of sand and pebbles. With the north-westerly wind the water becomes crystal-clear and perfect for lovers of unspoilt nature.
Palombaia: spectacular cliffs and pebbles
Just past Cavoli beach heading east, you reach Palombaia beach (also known as the “hundred-step beach”). Made up of dark gravel and smooth pebbles, it is a wild and deep beach. The Maestrale completely clears its waters of algae and suspended particles, making it a must for snorkelling enthusiasts.
How to plan your beach day
📷 Photo: Carlo Pelagalli /Wikimedia Commons – Spiaggia della Palombaia o dei Cento Scalini (CC BY-SA 3.0)
To make the most of every minute of your Elba holiday, follow these simple tips:
• Check the weather in the morning: winds on Elba Island can change intensity throughout the day. Check a local weather app before deciding on your destination. If the wind shifts from the south (Scirocco), you will need to do the exact opposite and head to the northern beaches.
• Move early: southern beaches, especially Cavoli and Fetovaia, are among the most popular on the island. On Maestrale days, when all the tourists flock there, car parks fill up quickly. Arriving early in the morning will guarantee you the best spots.
Finding calm waters on Elba Island is simply a matter of knowing which way to head: once you grasp the logic, every shift in the wind becomes an opportunity to discover a new beach.
And for your journey to and from the mainland, Blu Navy ships guarantee a smooth and comfortable 60-minute crossing, the ideal bridge for your sunny, relaxing holiday.
Cover photo: 📷 Photo: hermannmaurer /Flickr – Beach Seccheto (CC BY 2.0)
