Corsica, the ‘Island of Beauty,’ is a Mediterranean paradise for those looking for a summer getaway. With its stunning coastline stretching for nearly 1,000 kilometers, the beaches of Corsica are surrounded by majestic mountains, pink cliffs, and copper-tinted rock faces – all full of breathtaking sights and activities.
Nature lovers can explore reserves and deep-blue coves, while adventurers can hike mountains or climb cliffs. The island is also known for its traditional cheeses, honey, and other delicacies.
Check out some of the best beaches in Corsica and start planning a vacation you will never forget.
Most Popular Beach In Corsica
Palombaggia Beach (Plage De Palombaggia)
Palombaggia beach is renowned for its white sand, orange-red rocks, and umbrella pines, all nestled in a beautiful semicircular cove.
The surrounding turquoise waters of the Mediterranean and the Cerbiales islands on the horizon create a stunning backdrop. The beach runs 2km and is divided into three beaches in Corsica — the most popular being Tamaricciu.
Despite its popularity, the coastal area has been left largely untouched. No buildings or construction are to be found, just a few restaurants and tall pine trees. This makes Palombaggia one of the best beaches in Corsica and Europe!
Unfortunately, the beach can become overcrowded during the balmy summer months, so make sure to come early to find a spot to lay your beach mat/towel on.
We recommend staying till sunset as the low sun casts a golden light on the pink granite, intensifying the already beautiful pink, red, and orange shades of the rocks.
Where To Stay
Hôtel Palombaggia: Offering an outdoor pool, free WiFi, and stunning views, Hôtel Palombaggia is an ideal spot for a stay in Porto-Vecchio. Just a 5-minute walk away is Palombaggia Beach, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Guests can enjoy pool views and garden views from the bedrooms. This accommodation also provides a garden, terrace, bar, and luggage storage for added convenience.
Best Beaches In Corsica For Families
Beach Rondinara (Plage De Rondinara)
Rondinara beach is a sight to behold! Located between Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio, it is one of the most stunning beaches of Corsica.
Formed in a half-moon shape, the bay is surrounded by two points jutting out into the Mediterranean. With its gentle slope, swimming is a breeze, and the sea is rarely ever rough.
The summer season brings in a lot of tourists, all eager to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and bask in the sun. To make things more convenient, there’s a straw hut next to the car park where visitors can rent out mattresses. You’ll also find many boats anchored in the well-protected bay, providing a picturesque backdrop.
The beach is also an excellent spot for families and children, as the shallow waters make it perfect for them to play in. Plus, you’d be in for a surprise if you happened to catch a few cows strolling around the beach towels.
Where To Stay
Hotel Version Maquis Santa Manza: this hotel is situated in the picturesque Bonifacio countryside and overlooks the stunning Santa Manza Bay, home to many of the most beautiful beaches of Corsica.
Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, such as an outdoor pool, free shuttle service to the beach, a beautiful garden, and free Wi-Fi. A delicious buffet breakfast is provided daily, and the hotel also has an onsite bar.
Bodri Beach (Plage De Bodri)
This beach in Corbara is the ideal spot for anyone looking to relax, have fun and experience a memorable holiday. Accommodations are close to the beach and perfect for groups of friends and family alike.
Little ones will get to experience a beach with a Mediterranean vibe, while adults can rest by the sea. It’s also a safe place for kids, with lifeguards on duty. Teens can entertain themselves with activities like beach volleyball and soccer.
As one of the most beautiful beaches of Corsica, Bodri Beach is sure to surprise visitors with its limitless activities. There’s a large car park for those traveling by car, and it’s easy to access by train too.
Where To Stay
Hotel Davia: this hotel is located in Corbara and 1.5 km from the center of L’Île-Rousse. Bodri Beach is a 5-minute drive away. Each air-conditioned room has a TV, an electric kettle, a minibar, and a balcony (or terrace) with partial or panoramic sea views.
Hotel Davia has gardens, a heated outdoor swimming pool, and large outdoor terraces. The establishment also has a shared library lounge, luggage storage, ironing facilities, and free parking closed at night.
Lotu Beach (Plage Du Lotu)
Located in a small bay in the Agriates desert, Loto Beach (also called Lodo, Lodu, or Lotu Beach) stretches over 400 meters of fine white sand, bordered by magnificent maquis and boasting some of the most transparent turquoise waters in all of the beaches in Corsica.
This beach is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the seabed, as its shallow waters are ideal for children. Loto Beach is totally wild and undeveloped, so remember to pack a beach tent and plenty of water and food.
If you want to get to the beach, you can take the maritime shuttle from the port of St Florent (available from June to September) or try your luck and attempt to drive the 4*4 track from Casta.
However, be warned that the road is quite bad, and the last bit must be done on foot. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can embark on a 4h45 coastal path walk or a 1h30 interior path to Saleccia beach.
Hôtel – Restaurant U Santu Petru is also close to this beach.
Best Beaches In Corsica For Water Sports
Cupabia Beach (Plage de Cupabia)
Cupabia Beach, nestled between Porto-Pollo and Coti-Chiavari in the Serra di Ferro region, is one of the most beautiful and preserved beaches of Corsica. Sitting in the stunning bay of Cupabia, the beach is easily accessible by car.
The central part is most crowded in the summer, while the edges boast quiet coves perfect for those seeking more peace and privacy. The beach has a slight incline, making swimming easy and enjoyable, and visitors can take advantage of the beach restaurant and toilets available onsite.
If you’re an adventurer, you can enjoy different water activities like a catamaran, jet skis, or even a trip to the nearby water park. The beach boasts crystal turquoise waters and pure golden sand, so you don’t need special shoes.
It’s suitable for different types of people, whether traveling alone or looking for a relaxing getaway. The area is also not overcrowded in the season, which makes it an excellent option for those seeking quieter beaches in Corsica.
Where To Stay
Les Terrasses Du Grand Large: Enjoy a beachfront getaway at Les Terrasses Du Grand Large! This accommodation offers self-catering apartments with air-conditioning, a terrace, a seating area, a kitchen, a refrigerator, and private bathrooms with showers.
Guests can take in the stunning views of the sea and pool from their apartments. Plus, Les Terrasses Du Grand Large features a tennis court, water sports facilities, and plenty of activities for guests to enjoy, such as horse riding, fishing, and windsurfing.
Best Beaches In Corsica For Surfing
Capo Di Feno Beach (Plage De Capo Di Feno)
Located in the vicinity of Golfe d’ Ajaccio, Capo di Feno beach is one of the most renowned surfing spots in the south of Corsica.
The beach is split in two by a meadow: the “Grand Capo” is the bigger, more visited beach, while Sevani beach, also known as the “Petit Capo,” is smaller but very pleasant and quite tranquil.
Huge waves often hit the region, so you needs to be extra mindful of the warning flag on the beach.
A footpath connects the two Corsica beaches across the headland at the north end of the Petit Capo beach. This path only takes a few minutes to traverse and is also quite picturesque, so one is encouraged to take it even just to check out the other beach.
Where To Stay
Hôtel-Restaurant Marina Di Lava – Grand Ajaccio: At Marina Di Lava, guests can enjoy a beachfront stay with stunning views of the beaches of Corsica. The hotel offers a restaurant and bar with a terrace, as well as free WiFi access in all rooms and complimentary public parking.
Start each day with a delicious buffet breakfast, and enjoy Mediterranean specialties like seafood, pizza, meat dishes, and salads in the restaurant. Guests can try out various water sports on the beach, including windsurfing, canoeing, and jet skiing.
Best Beaches In Corsica That Are Less Touristy
Cala D’Agulia Beach (Plage De Cala D’Agulia)
Cala d’Agulia Beach is a hidden gem nestled in a rocky notch on the southwestern tip of Corsica. A 3-hour hike is necessary to access its turquoise waters and white sand, so don’t forget your sunscreen!. The natural scenery is exceptionally picturesque, with trees providing natural shade. It is a perfect spot for travelers seeking a peaceful respite.
The beach offers crystal-clear turquoise water and golden, fine sand. Its shallow entrance is excellent for people of all ages. Even during peak season, the beach is practically deserted.
Where To Stay
Hôtel Du Golfe: Set in Sartène, close to Cala di Tromba Beach, the Hôtel Du Golfe offers guests private parking, a bar, and a terrace. This 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, a private bathroom, and stunning sea views. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast every morning.
The Lavezzi Islands (Les îles Lavezzi)
From the port of Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio, visitors can take a shuttle for a 20-minute crossing to the Lavezzi Islands archipelago. Spanning 200 hectares, visitors will discover an abundance of beaches in Corsica to explore.
To the east of the island of Lavezzo, you’ll find Cala di Veccia beach and Cala di Chiorneri beach.
Up north, there is Cala di Chiesa beach sitting next to Elephant rock. Go a little further for other smaller beaches of Corsica.
To the west, you can find Cala di u Lioni beach. There is also the famous Achiarina beach, which overlooks Cala Lazarina, a bay where many boats come to anchor.
Hidden around the rocks are other tiny little Corsica beaches and pretty coves waiting for travelers to explore. From the sea to the shore, the Lavezzi Islands offer something for everyone.
Where To Stay
Hotel & SPA des Pecheurs: Hotel & SPA des Pecheurs is located on the Cavallo island between Corsica and Sardinia. The elegant hotel offers a swimming pool in its garden, a spa center, and a French and Italian restaurant.
In addition, the hotel bar features a terrace that provides direct access to the private beach. Other activities include a tennis court, concierge service, and diving activities. Massages are available at an additional cost.
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Other Popular Beaches In Corsica
Saleccia Beach (Plage De Saleccia)
Plage de Saleccia was once a safe haven for submarines during the war, its hidden location being ideal for secret operations.
Nowadays, the 1km long strip of gorgeous white sand only welcomes intrepid travelers and the occasional chocolate-colored cow having a peaceful snooze. Those who venture along the beaten path through the pines at the beach’s northern end will discover a rustic snack bar.
Saleccia beach in St Florent is found in the Agriates desert, a few kilometers away from Loto beach. It has 1 km of exquisite white sand, surrounded by fragrant maquis and Corsican pines.
To complete the picture-perfect scenery, you can often spot the local cows taking a nap at the beach – a rather common sight on the beaches of Corsica.
Where To Stay
Hôtel – Restaurant U Santu Petru: This is the perfect place to stay while exploring the beautiful beach of Saleccia. Located 9 km from Saint-Florent, it’s just 3 km away from the start of the path/track that leads to it. The hotel features a terrace and free parking, and its stylish rooms come with free Wi-Fi. Breakfast can be requested for an additional cost, and the on-site restaurant serves delicious Corsican dishes.
Ostriconi Beach (Plage De l’Ostriconi)
Ostriconi beach is a stunning destination that lies about 15km from L’Ile-Rousse, in the direction of Bastia. It’s a paradise on Corsica’s coastline and is situated near the Agriate desert.
You can only reach the beach on foot via a tranquil path from the old main road. In exchange, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view. 800 meters of fine sand and white dunes make Ostriconi one of the most sought-after beaches of Corsica for both locals and tourists alike.
The beach is located at the mouth of the river with the same name and is situated in the middle of a wild, untouched landscape. You’ll even see cows lounging around here!
At the far end of the beach, you’ll find the start of a coastal footpath that connects Saint Florent with the exquisite Ghignu and Saleccia – two other beautiful beaches in Corsica.
Check the weather before heading out, especially on windy days: the waves can be dangerous for both adults and children.
Where To Stay
Hôtel & Restaurant Les Mouettes: Located just 10 minutes from Ile-Rousse and 2 km from Lozari beach, and at the entrance to the Agriates desert, guests of Hotel & Restaurant Les Mouettes can enjoy breathtaking views of the nearby beaches of Corsica and gardens.
Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, private parking, and electrical terminals. For dining, Hotel & Restaurant Les Mouettes serves breakfast every morning on its garden terrace.
Arone Beach (Plage D’Arone)
For those seeking sun-drenched paradise-like beaches of Corsica, Arone beach is the ideal destination. Just 14 km southwest of Piana, Arone features one of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica. Visitors will be treated to a 750-meter stretch of white sands, surrounded by pink rocks and maquis, with a view of Capo Rosso.
There are plenty of amenities along the beach, including restaurants, bars, camping, and vacation rentals. For those looking for extra comfort, there are three private beaches in Arone and a restaurant with a panoramic view of the bay.
In addition to its natural beauty, Arone beach has a fascinating history. It served as a landing point for the Casabianca submarine as early as 1942.
To reach the beach, it takes around 20 minutes by car. Though parking can be tricky in high season, the drive offers scenic views of the Gulf of Porto and Capo Rosso. There is also a lifeguard station which is open in summer.
Where To Stay
Hotel Scandola: Located 12 km from Porto Marina, Hotel Scandola invites guests to relax and unwind in Piana. With free Wi-Fi access and a bar that serves tapas, visitors can enjoy their stay in comfort. A delicious buffet breakfast with pastries, juice, and hot drinks is served each morning in the dining room or in the privacy of their room.
Roccapina Beach (Plage De Roccapina)
The Grand Valinco region of Corsica’s southwestern corner is home to Roccapina beach, a 400m stretch of powder-soft white sand, bounded by rocks on each side and cradled by crystal clear turquoise waters. This protected area is known for its natural beauty and its numerous prehistoric sites and castles.
The road leading to Roccapina beach is 2.5 km long but be warned – the potholed piste requires slow and careful driving. Once you reach your destination, you’ll find a small parking area with very little shade. The beach is a safe bathing spot, but it can get quite busy in the summer months.
On the hilltop overlooking the beach is the rock formation of Capu di Roccapina, shaped by erosion into the form of a crouching lion. Legend has it that this is the result of a lord called ‘the Lion,’ who invoked death and turned into a stone in agony due to unfulfilled love. Climbing the rock formation is exceptionally dangerous and is only for the most experienced of climbers!
In the same area lies Torra di Roccapina, which can be reached via a stony path starting at the beach. Be sure to keep left at the fork while following the path, and you will soon come across this remarkable landmark.
Where To Stay
Auberge Coralli: Located in Sartène, Auberge Coralli is a hotel featuring a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and a restaurant. It is 2.8 km from Roccapina Beach and 2.6 km from The Lion of Roccapina.
A continental breakfast is served every morning at Auberge Coralli. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in and around Sartène, such as hiking and snorkeling on the beaches of Corsica.
Barcaggio Beach (Playa de Barcaggio)
For those looking for picturesque beaches in Corsica, Barcaggio’s Cala Beach (also called Barcaggio Beach) may be just the place. Stretching for 1km along a customs footpath that leads to the beaches of Macinaggio, the further east you go, the more unspoiled and wild the beach becomes!
With a few dunes bordering it, which is a rarity on the island, adventurers can continue past the Agnello tower to reach the beaches of Corsica around Santa Maria tower. Don’t forget about the hut located on this beach for a convenient resting spot!
Where To Stay
Hotel Le Saint Jean: Hotel Le Saint Jean offers breathtaking views of the mountains and sea in the north Corsican Mountains. At the Saint Jean’s restaurant, guests can enjoy traditional cuisine and drinks on the hotel’s panoramic terrace. A delicious breakfast is available in the mornings. Nature lovers will find many hiking trails in the countryside around the hotel.
Calanques de Piana
Piana, a village situated in the Corse-du-Sud department on the Gulf of Porto, is renowned for its stunning coastline and its calanques. This area is a wonder of Corsica, boasting vertiginous landscapes and lush vegetation, that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for three decades. The views of the red granite formations, sculpted by erosion, are a sight to behold from the top of the cliffs.
The Calanques de Piana offers a variety of stunning beaches in Corsica, including the remarkable Ficajola beach. It’s located in the heart of the Calanques de Piana and is accessible by car.
Ficajola beach consists of two parts, a pebble part with old fishermen’s houses and a sandy part that provides a magnificent view of the Gulf of Porto.
Also, don’t miss out on Arone beach, the most famous beach of the Calanques de Piana. It’s directly accessible by car and is a magnificent white sand beach located at the foot of Capo Rosso. It’s one of the most ideal beaches in Corsica for a family day out in the creeks of Piana, as it features a restaurant with feet in the sand.
Where To Stay
Hôtel Capo Rosso: With its prime location in Piana, just 8 km from the beach and 11 km from Porto, this hotel is the perfect place for a seaside getaway. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant with panoramic views of some of the best beaches in Corsica.
The rooms at Hôtel Capo Rosso feature a private balcony or terrace with sea views, air conditioning, and an en suite bathroom complete with bathrobes and slippers. Breakfast includes a wide selection of over 60 products, including Corsican specialties and homemade cakes, while the restaurant serves regional cuisine.
Santa Giulia Beach (Plage de Santa Giulia)
Santa Giulia beach in Porto Vecchio Corsica is renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Corsica. It’s sheltered in a well-protected gulf with a shallow and rocky seabed that provides incredible clarity.
The beach comprises many smaller beaches in Corsica, all providing gentle slopes for swimming. With such a picturesque landscape, it’s no wonder that this beach is popular during the summer.
Santa Giulia bay provides an array of activities for those seeking thrills, like water-skiing, towed buoys, and flyboarding. Or, if you’d rather explore, the area offers plenty of ways to discover the undersea world, like diving and boat rides.
Plus, the bay has everything you need to relax and recharge, with restaurants, huts, and bars open all day, serving up gastronomic, traditional Corsican specialties, and more.
Where To Stay
Hôtel Castell’Verde: Surrounded by a garden and located 300 m from Santa Giulia Bay, this hotel offers an outdoor heated pool, tennis court, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the sea. Each air-conditioned room has a simple décor and a terrace with sea or garden views.
The restaurant offers a buffet breakfast that is served on the terrace; from here, guests can enjoy panoramic views of some of the beaches of Corsica. Activities in the nearby area include canoeing, snorkeling, and hiking.
Enjoying the Best Beaches In Corsica
Corsica is an adventurer’s paradise featuring a stunning range of landscapes and activities. From rocky cliffs, towering mountains, lush gorges, and crystal-clear waters, the beaches of Corsica have plenty to offer.
Corsica’s highlands are home to magnificent calanques, which are rocky curtains that drop to the sea on the west coast. The island’s coastal towns also provide a glimpse into the past and plenty of soft sand for beachgoers to lounge on.
These are just some of the best beaches in Corsica to explore and be amazed by!
