Cala di Feola – Isola di Ponza

One of the most famous moorings on the island of Ponza, Cala di Feola is a great way to spend the day and night at anchorage away from the crowded ports of Ponza, but with the possibility of using the services of the nearby village of Le Forna.

Cala di Feola is located in the northwestern part of the island, offering shelter from quadrant II and III winds, while it is open to westerly winds like all bays on this side of Ponza Island. The natural cove of Feola is sheltered by a small pier used for mooring by fishing boats, not usable for recreation. It is possible to anchor in the anchorage in front of the pier on mixed rock and sand bottoms 10 to 15 meters deep.

As with all bays on the western side of the island, it is necessary to have up-to-date information on marine weather conditions because the exposure to the west can put anchorage at risk in case of sustained winds. Especially in the summer, then, it can ‘happen that there are boats without crew on board in the anchorage, increasing the danger in case of problems to’ anchorage. A Port Authority order warns of the danger of landslides and falling rocks.

Cala di Feola is famous for the presence of pools carved by the sea into the tuff, forming real natural pools in which it is possible to swim. The light color of the sand of the seabed, the clarity of the water and the blue sea of Ponza complete a picture of extraordinary beauty. Also very impressive are the houses carved into the tuff by the first settlers of the bay that can still be seen intact. No longer present, however, are the monk seals that until a few decades ago populated the cliffs of Cala di Feola in winter.

The fine pebble beach at the end of the bay is equipped with eateries, bars and restaurants, sunbeds and umbrellas, and the possibility of renting diving equipment. Both the beach and anchorages are very busy in summer, but certainly less so than the eastern part of the island. The village of Le Forna can be reached on foot via a steep but well-equipped and easy walking path. All basic services can be found in the village: bars, restaurants, small supermarket, scooter rental etc. The walk also provides a beautiful view of the entire Cala di Feola and nearby Cala dell’Acqua, separated by a small promontory.