Galenzana Beach

Galenzana is a secluded bay just beyond the village of Marina di Campo, reachable only on foot or by sea. The beach, split into several sections by erosion and lined with tamarisk trees, is made of sand and fine shingle; the water is very clear and the seabed, shallow in several places, is rich in posidonia seagrass and marine life. Along the shore you can still spot the remains of old iron working.

Getting there

The footpath starts from the flight of steps at the far end of Marina di Campo, in piazza da Verrazzano, and crosses the hill behind the village through Mediterranean scrub: about 1.5 km on an easy route suitable for everyone, taking 10-20 minutes. You can't drive there, so leave the car in one of the village car parks. If you come by boat, there is a small concrete jetty at the right-hand end of the bay.

Which wind to go with

Protected by the surrounding hills, Galenzana is sheltered from almost every wind and only slightly exposed to easterlies. It is the right beach on days with a south wind, the libeccio (south-west wind) or a west wind.

Facilities and tips

There are no beach clubs or bars on the beach: bring water, something to eat and an umbrella, because the only natural shade comes from the tamarisks. The clear water and posidonia meadows make for pleasant snorkelling. A few hundred metres away are the coves of Salandro, served by the same path; restaurants and shops are in Marina di Campo.