Spiaggia di Sansone
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Spiaggia di Sansone Elba

4.7
·7k reviews·Portoferraio, Italy

A stunning Elba beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters and a unique white pebble shore, framed by dramatic cliffs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May or September

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Spiaggia di Sansone

Spiaggia di Sansone Elba

Best Time

May or September

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Elba beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters and a unique white pebble shore, framed by dramatic cliffs.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"Absolutely magical beach. We were blown away! The water is perfect."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Bring Water Shoes

Essential for comfort on the pebble beach. Protect your feet!

🚗 Park Smartly

Arrive very early or pay for parking to avoid fines.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Turquoise Waters

Crystal Clear Turquoise Waters

The sea

Experience incredibly transparent water, perfect for swimming and spotting fish and pebbles below.

InstagramReddit
Pebble Beach Beauty

Pebble Beach Beauty

The shoreline

A stunning beach composed of small, white pebbles that create a unique and picturesque landscape.

Instagram+1
Dramatic Cliffside Scenery

Dramatic Cliffside Scenery

Surrounding cliffs

Admire the striking cliffs that frame the beach, adding to its dramatic and natural beauty.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Parking & Prime Spots

Parking fills up fast, often before 8:30 AM, with paid options costing around €18. Arrive very early to secure a spot or be prepared for a walk. The beach itself also gets packed quickly, so an early start ensures a better chance for space. Reddit+1

Footwear is Key for Comfort

Spiaggia di Sansone is covered in small, white pebbles that can be uncomfortable underfoot. Water shoes are highly recommended for optimal comfort while walking and swimming. Reddit

Best Times

When
May or September
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Early morning (before 8:30 AM)
Why
Secure parking and beach space
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Il problema non è l’andata ma il ritorno 😅 sì, ovviamente siamo all’isola d’Elba 🫶🏻 #isoladelba #elba #spiaggeitaliane
@martinapieruzzini
114.5K likes • 1.1M views

🥾 Bring Water Shoes

Essential for comfort on the pebble beach. Protect your feet! Reddit

🚗 Park Smartly

Arrive very early or pay for parking to avoid fines. Reddit

Le spiagge di Biodola, Scaglieri e Forno - fra le più note e amate dai turisti - si sono riempite di detriti dopo il nubifragio che ha colpito Portoferraio, capoluogo dell'Isola d'Elba, nella giornata di martedì 9 settembre.
@local.team
5.6K likes • 340.3K views
La #spiaggia di #Sansone a #Portoferraio ##Elba nel video di @francesca_manfredini Continuate a taggare le vostre foto con #isoladelbaapp il tag delle vostre #vacanze all'#isoladelba _____ #elbainsel #elbaisland #visitelba #arcipelagotoscano #toskana #toscana #tuscany #visittuscany #italia #toscanaOvunqueBella
isoladelbaapp
1.5K likes • 32.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Be Prepared for a Walk

Access involves a 10-15 minute hike downhill and back up. Reddit+1

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

There's a bar uphill, but bring your own for the beach. Reddit

🇮🇹 Sansone Beach - Elba Island - Tuscany #sansonebeach #beach #spiaggia #toscana #tuscany #fpv #drone #nature #sea #sunrise #blue #light #mare #summer #vogliadipartire✈️ #vogliadimare🌊 #vogliadimare #vogliadiviaggiare
_ilcantodelvento_
307 likes • 4.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Bring Water Shoes

Essential for comfort on the pebble beach. Protect your feet! Reddit

🚗 Park Smartly

Arrive very early or pay for parking to avoid fines. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Be Prepared for a Walk

Access involves a 10-15 minute hike downhill and back up. Reddit+1

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

There's a bar uphill, but bring your own for the beach. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Drone footage and photos showcase the stunning scenery. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Spiaggia di Sansone's breathtaking beauty, particularly its crystal-clear turquoise waters and striking white pebble shore. The stunning natural scenery is consistently highlighted as a major draw. However, many note the challenging access via a steep, pebbly path and the difficulty of finding parking, especially during peak season. Reddit+1

"I visited Spiaggia di Sansone beach on Saturday and was truly impressed! The beach is beautiful with clean sand, and the water was warm and crystal clear, just like in the photos. The water was so transparent that you could easily see the fish and pebbles on the bottom. It’s a perfect spot for both relaxing and swimming. I highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates natural beauty and cleanliness. A truly amazing place!"

Liivia Panker

"Great beach, bring water shoes to be optimally comfortable. With flip flops or sandals you won't be comfortable, the beach is made of little rocks that go under your feet and hurt a little. The beach can be accessed with a 10 minute hike, nothing major but not accessible with wheelchairs or strollers. The bar on top of the beach is great for a snack and a drink."

matteo visentin

"We read a lot of reviews before going and only read come early to get a free parking.

Early means prior 8.30 I would say, we were there at that time and already looked pretty full.

LOOK AT THE SIGNS on the street! A lot of people parked on the street and ended up with a fine about 29€. At the point it is better to pay for the parking which costs 18€.

The parking also has limited spaces available.

To go to the beach you have to walk a bit, the way goes down and then back up.

You will first find a small beach and then the Sansone beach.

You can get umbrella and sunbeds for 40€ for the entire day.

The beach at 10 is already full and packed. Forget about having a lot of space, where your towel ends another begins.

Except of that the water is crystal clear and it is very beautiful 😊."

Denise H

What People Like

Crystal clear turquoise water
Beautiful white pebbles
Stunning natural scenery

What People Dislike

Difficult access path
Limited parking
Crowded in summer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Spiaggia di Sansone is located near Portoferraio on Elba Island. Access involves a walk of about 10-15 minutes downhill from the parking area. The path is steep in parts and has steps, making it less accessible for those with mobility issues or young children. Reddit+1

Yes, there is a paid parking lot, which costs around €18 daily. It fills up very quickly, often before 8:30 AM. Be cautious of street parking, as it can result in fines. Reddit

While public transport can get you to Portoferraio, the final leg to Spiaggia di Sansone requires a walk or a taxi. It's advisable to check local bus routes for the closest stop. TikTok

No, due to the steep, uneven path with steps, Spiaggia di Sansone is not recommended for strollers or wheelchairs. Reddit+1

The walk is about 10-15 minutes, downhill on the way to the beach and uphill on the way back. It's described as steep in places. Reddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Spiaggia di Sansone is a public beach and does not require an entrance ticket. However, parking is paid. Reddit

As a natural beach, Spiaggia di Sansone is accessible at all times. However, parking availability and amenities like beach bars may have specific operating hours. Reddit

There is no entry fee for the beach itself. The costs are associated with parking and optional services like sunbed rentals. Reddit

To avoid the biggest crowds, visit during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September) or very early in the morning, ideally before 8:30 AM, especially during peak summer months. Reddit+1

The main restriction is the accessibility for those with mobility issues or strollers due to the terrain. During peak season, the beach can become very crowded. Reddit+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Spiaggia di Sansone is characterized by small, white pebbles, not sand. This is a key feature that contributes to its unique beauty and the clarity of the water. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The water is renowned for being crystal clear, warm, and transparent, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. InstagramReddit

Basic facilities might be limited directly on the beach. It's advisable to check for nearby amenities or come prepared. There is a bar located a short walk uphill. Reddit

Yes, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, typically in the central part of the beach. This service can be quite expensive, with prices around €40 for the day. Reddit

Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and simply relaxing are the main activities. The clear waters are perfect for observing marine life. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There isn't a bar directly on the beach itself. However, there is a bar located a short walk uphill from the beach, offering snacks and drinks. Reddit

For more extensive dining options, you'll need to head back towards Portoferraio or explore other areas of the island. Many visitors recommend places like La Taverna dei Poeti. TikTok

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is a great idea, especially since direct beachside dining options are limited. This also helps save money. Reddit

It can be, but be mindful of the terrain and the need to carry your items. Bringing a blanket or mat is recommended. Reddit

The bar typically offers snacks, drinks, and light refreshments suitable for a beach day. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offer beautiful light. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning, with the golden hour casting a magical glow. Instagram+1

The combination of the white pebbles, incredibly clear turquoise water, and dramatic surrounding cliffs makes it highly photogenic. Drone shots are particularly effective. Instagram+1

The path leading down to the beach offers some great elevated views. Once on the beach, exploring the edges and the rocky outcrops can provide varied perspectives. TikTok

Drone usage is popular here, capturing the beach's beauty from above. Always check local regulations regarding drone operation before flying. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Waterproof protection for your camera is advisable if you plan on getting close to the water. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

Spiaggia di Sansone is generally not ideal for families with very young children or strollers. The steep, uneven path with steps makes access difficult and potentially unsafe for little ones or those needing assistance. Reddit+1 The pebble beach can also be uncomfortable for toddlers. If you have older children who can manage the walk, the clear, shallow waters are great for supervised swimming and exploring. Consider bringing water shoes for everyone to ensure comfort on the pebbles. Reddit

For families seeking easier access and sandy shores, other beaches on Elba might be a better fit. However, if your family is adventurous and prepared for the hike, the stunning beauty of Sansone can still be a memorable experience. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is also recommended, as amenities directly on the beach are limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

While Spiaggia di Sansone itself is free to access, costs can add up. Parking is paid and can be expensive (€18), and it fills up very early. Reddit Renting sunbeds and umbrellas is also pricey, around €40. Reddit To save money, pack your own food and drinks for the day, as the uphill bar is your only option for refreshments. Reddit Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, September) when parking might be slightly less competitive and the overall atmosphere more relaxed. Reddit

💑 Couples and Romantic Getaways

Spiaggia di Sansone offers a picturesque and somewhat secluded feel, especially if you visit outside peak hours or during the shoulder seasons. The stunning natural beauty, clear waters, and dramatic cliffs create a romantic backdrop. Instagram+1 Consider visiting for a sunrise or sunset to capture the most magical light and enjoy a more intimate experience. Instagram The effort to reach the beach can feel like a shared adventure. Remember to pack a picnic to enjoy with a view, making for a perfect romantic escape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain and Access

Reaching Spiaggia di Sansone involves a dedicated walk, typically 10-15 minutes downhill from the parking area. This path is not for the faint of heart or those with mobility challenges, as it can be steep and includes steps. Reddit+1 Visitors with strollers or wheelchairs will find it inaccessible. The effort, however, is widely considered worth it for the reward of the stunning beach. Reddit+1

Parking is a significant consideration. The paid parking lot (€18) fills up extremely early, often before 8:30 AM during peak season. Reddit Many visitors have reported receiving fines for parking on the street, making the paid option a safer, albeit costly, choice. Planning your arrival time is crucial to avoid disappointment and potential fines. Reddit

Accessibility is a key factor for many travelers. The hike down and back up means this beach is best suited for those who are reasonably fit and do not have young children in strollers or mobility aids. Reddit+1 The unique landscape, while beautiful, presents these access challenges.

The Unique Pebble Beach Experience

Unlike many sandy beaches, Spiaggia di Sansone is covered in small, smooth, white pebbles. Instagram+1 This distinctive feature contributes to the exceptionally clear water, as the pebbles don't stir up sediment like sand can. However, walking barefoot on these pebbles can be uncomfortable for some. Reddit

To fully enjoy the beach, water shoes are highly recommended. Reddit They provide comfort for walking on the pebbles and are also useful for swimming and exploring the rocky areas. The visual appeal of the white pebbles against the vibrant turquoise water is striking and makes for beautiful photographs. Instagram+1

While the pebbles are a defining characteristic, they also mean that setting up a beach spot requires a bit more care. Many visitors opt for renting sunbeds and umbrellas for added comfort, though this can be a significant expense (€40). Reddit Alternatively, bringing a thick beach mat can help create a more comfortable lounging area.

Capturing the Magic: Photography at Sansone

Spiaggia di Sansone is a photographer's dream, offering a stunning combination of natural elements. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are a major draw, allowing visibility of the seabed and marine life. InstagramReddit The white pebble shoreline contrasts beautifully with the vibrant sea, and the surrounding dramatic cliffs add depth and texture to any shot. Instagram+1

Drone photography has become incredibly popular here, providing breathtaking aerial perspectives of the beach's unique shape and its integration with the coastline. Instagram+1 Videos showcase the expansive beauty and the journey down to the shore. For ground-level photography, the early morning and late afternoon light (golden hour) offer the most flattering illumination, creating a magical atmosphere. Instagram

When planning your photo session, consider the time of day for the best light and the crowds. Early mornings are ideal for capturing the serene beauty without many people. The unique composition of pebbles, clear water, and rugged cliffs ensures that almost any angle will yield a compelling image. Instagram

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