Biodola is the postcard beach of Elba's north coast — a kilometre-long arc of fine golden sand backed by pine woods and four substantial hotels. The sand is real sand, unlike the pebbles closer to Portoferraio, and the swimming is gentle on the long shallow shelf out from the shore. The bay is sheltered by headlands on both sides, which keeps the sea calm even when there is wind elsewhere.
There are two free public sections and a long stretch of stabilimenti with rental umbrellas and chairs (book ahead in August). Beach bars and a couple of restaurants run the length. The neighbouring Spiaggia di Scaglieri, immediately around the western headland, is smaller and quieter and has the same fine sand and clear water. From Portoferraio, Biodola is about a 15-minute drive over the wooded hills; a regular bus also runs in summer.