Corsica, the stunning “Island of Beauty” in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its breathtaking beaches along its 1,000-kilometer coastline. From the white sandy shores of Plage de Saleccia in the north to the turquoise waters of Santa Giulia and Palombaggia in the south, Corsica offers an array of beautiful beaches for every taste. Explore the unspoilt beaches of the west coast near Ajaccio and Porto Vecchio, or venture to the wild and rugged beaches of southern Corsica near Bonifacio. This guide will help you discover the best beaches in Corsica, from the famous Santa Giulia and Palombaggia to hidden gems like Cupabia and Piantarella.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Corsica💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hôtel Ambassador Palombaggia
- ✨ 5-Star: Les Regalia & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Le Pinarello
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel Palombaggia
- 💸 Cheap: Résidence San Roccu
- 🏡 Villa: Les Villas du Sud
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Village Vacances U Livanti
- 🏩 For Couples: Résidence Santa Giulia Palace
Favorite Beaches in Corsica: Quick Overview 📃
- 👨👩👧👦 For Family: Pinarellu Beach
- 🌴 For Tropical Vibes: Palombaggia Beach
- 🏊♂️ For Swimming: Rondinara
- 🏞️ For Natural Beauty: Saleccia Beach
- 🌊 For Water Sports: Santa Giulia Beach
1. Palombaggia Beach – Best for Postcard-Perfect Scenery 🌴
🎨 Colorful Landscape: Palombaggia Beach offers a stunning mix of colors, with fine white sand, orange-red rocks, and crystal-clear turquoise water. This vibrant palette creates a breathtaking and memorable landscape that captivates visitors. The contrast of colors makes Palombaggia one of the most photogenic beaches in Corsica.
🏝️ Cerbicale Islands View: On clear days, visitors can see the protected Cerbicale Islands on the horizon from Palombaggia Beach. These small, uninhabited islets add an extra layer of beauty to the already stunning scenery. The view of the islands creates a sense of tranquility and remoteness, enhancing the beach’s allure.
🌿 Umbrella Pines: Palombaggia Beach is lined with sweet-scented umbrella pine trees, providing a picturesque backdrop and welcome shade. These iconic trees add to the beach’s postcard-perfect appearance and create a soothing, natural atmosphere.
🏖️ Soft White Sand: Palombaggia boasts some of the finest, whitest sand in Corsica, which is soft and pleasant underfoot. The pristine sand is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying the sensation between your toes.
🌊 Shallow Waters: The water at Palombaggia Beach remains shallow for quite a distance, making it perfect for wading and swimming. The gentle slope of the seabed allows for a gradual entry into the water, which is particularly suitable for children and less confident swimmers.
🌅 Scenic Sunrises: The east-facing orientation of Palombaggia Beach offers stunning sunrise views over the Mediterranean Sea. Early risers can witness the sky transform into a canvas of warm colors as the sun emerges from the horizon.
Best Hotels Near Palombaggia Beach 🏨
- Hôtel Ambassador Palombaggia – This luxurious hotel is just steps away from one of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica. The rooms offer stunning sea views, and the hotel’s restaurant serves delicious Corsican cuisine. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing beach getaway.
- Hôtel Palombaggia – Nestled among umbrella pines, this charming hotel is only a 5-minute walk from Palombaggia Beach. The hotel features a lovely outdoor pool and offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility near the beach.
- Résidence Belvedere de Palombaggia – This residence offers spacious apartments with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The infinity pool is a highlight, and the beach is just a short walk away. It’s a great choice for families or groups wanting to experience one of Corsica’s best beaches.
2. Santa Giulia Beach – Best for Shallow Waters and Water Sports 🏄♀️
🏖️ Shallow, Crystal-Clear Water: Santa Giulia Beach is known for its shallow, crystal-clear turquoise water that gently laps the shore. The water remains shallow for quite a distance, making it perfect for wading, swimming, and playing.
🌿 Natural Surroundings: Santa Giulia Beach is nestled between a lagoon and the mountains, offering a stunning natural setting. The beach is backed by umbrella pines that separate it from the lagoon, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere.
🏄♂️ Water Sports Haven: Santa Giulia is one of the most dynamic water sports centers in the region, offering a wide range of activities. The beach’s conditions are suitable for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts.
🐚 Shelling and Beachcombing: The long stretches of beach at Santa Giulia are perfect for shelling and beachcombing. Families can spend hours searching for unique seashells, driftwood, and other treasures washed ashore by the sea.
🌊 Ideal Swimming Conditions: The shallow, calm waters of Santa Giulia create perfect swimming conditions for visitors of all ages. The absence of strong currents or sudden drops makes it a safe and enjoyable place to swim and float.
🌴 Shaded Picnic Areas: The pine trees lining Santa Giulia Beach provide natural shade and create perfect spots for picnics. The shaded areas offer a respite from the sun and a pleasant setting for families and groups to gather.
Best Hotels Near Santa Giulia Beach 🏨
- Résidence Santa Giulia Palace – Perched on a hill overlooking Santa Giulia Bay, this residence offers stunning views and easy access to the beach. The apartments are modern and well-equipped, and the large pool area is perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
- Résidence Mobydick – Located just a stone’s throw from Santa Giulia Beach, this residence offers comfortable apartments with beautiful sea views. The garden setting is peaceful, and you can easily walk to the beach to enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
- Résidence Les Hameaux de Santa Giulia – This charming residence is set in a beautiful garden, just a short walk from Santa Giulia Beach. The apartments are spacious and well-equipped, and the pool area offers a relaxing alternative to the beach.
3. Calvi Beach – Best Sandy Beach for Scenic Views 🏖️
🏰 Citadel Views: Calvi Beach offers stunning views of the historic Genoese citadel that towers over the town. The citadel provides a dramatic backdrop to the beach, adding a sense of history and grandeur to the coastal scenery. Visitors can admire the impressive fortifications while relaxing on the soft sand or swimming in the clear water.
🌴 Pine Forest Shade: The beach is backed by a lush pine forest that offers welcome shade and a picturesque setting. The forest also provides a pleasant aroma and a soothing natural atmosphere, enhancing the beach experience.
🏖️ Long Sandy Stretch: Calvi Beach is an extensive stretch of fine, white sand that extends for nearly 6 kilometers along the bay. The vast expanse of sand provides ample space for visitors to find their own spot and enjoy the beach without feeling crowded.
🌊 Shallow, Clear Water: The water at Calvi Beach is shallow and crystal-clear, making it ideal for swimming and wading. The gentle slope of the seabed allows for a gradual entry into the water, which is particularly suitable for children and less confident swimmers.
🎨 Colorful Sunsets: The west-facing orientation of Calvi Beach offers breathtaking sunset views over the Mediterranean Sea. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted in a palette of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, creating a stunning spectacle.
🎭 Cultural Events: Calvi Beach hosts various cultural events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. The most notable event is the “Calvi on the Rocks” music festival, which transforms the beach into a lively stage for international artists.
Best Hotels Near Calvi Beach 🏨
- Hostellerie de l'Abbaye – This elegant hotel is housed in a former 17th-century monastery, just steps away from Calvi Beach. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the hotel’s garden is a peaceful oasis. It’s the perfect blend of history and beach proximity.
- Hôtel Le Méditerranée – Situated right on Calvi Beach, this hotel offers stunning sea views and direct beach access. The rooms are comfortable and modern, and the beachfront restaurant is a great place to enjoy local cuisine while watching the sunset.
- Résidence Le Home – This residence is just a short walk from Calvi Beach and offers comfortable apartments with sea views. The rooftop pool is a highlight, providing a great alternative to the beach and offering panoramic views of the bay and mountains.
4. Saleccia Beach – Best for Unspoiled Beauty and Seclusion 🏝️
🏖️ Pristine White Sand: Saleccia Beach boasts over a kilometer of pristine, fine white sand that remains untouched by development. The sand is soft and powdery, inviting visitors to sink their toes in and enjoy the natural beauty of the beach. The unspoiled nature of the sand adds to the beach’s allure and sense of seclusion.
🌊 Turquoise Waters: The beach is lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters that create a stunning contrast against the white sand. The vibrant color of the water is mesmerizing, inviting visitors to take a refreshing swim or simply admire the view.
🐄 Grazing Cows: One of the unique features of Saleccia Beach is the presence of grazing cows on the sand and nearby paths. The cows add a rustic charm to the beach and serve as a reminder of the area’s agricultural heritage.
🚶♂️ Secluded Location: The beach is not accessible by car, which helps maintain its pristine and secluded nature. Visitors can reach Saleccia either by boat or by hiking through the Agriates Desert, adding a sense of adventure to the beach experience.
🌿 Dunes and Mountains: Saleccia Beach is backed by white sand dunes and framed by the mountains of Cap Corse in the distance. The combination of the dunes, mountains, and turquoise water creates a breathtaking landscape that feels like a true paradise.
🏞️ Agriates Desert: Saleccia Beach is located within the Agriates Desert, a protected natural area known for its rugged beauty and unique ecosystem. The desert features a mix of rocky terrain, maquis shrubland, and sandy beaches, offering a diverse and captivating landscape.
Best Hotels Near Saleccia Beach 🏨
- Hôtel Flor – While not directly on Saleccia Beach, this charming hotel in Saint-Florent is a great base for exploring the wild beaches of the Desert des Agriates, including Saleccia. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a lovely garden, perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
- Hôtel Santa Maria – Located in Saint-Florent, this hotel is a good starting point for boat trips to Saleccia Beach. The rooms are comfortable, and the hotel’s restaurant serves delicious Corsican specialties. It’s a great choice for those wanting to explore the secluded beaches of northern Corsica.
- Résidence San Roccu – This residence in Saint-Florent offers spacious apartments and is a good base for visiting Saleccia Beach. The pool area is lovely, and the staff can help arrange boat trips to the beach. It’s ideal for those who want the flexibility of self-catering accommodation.
5. Rondinara Beach – Best for Secluded and Pristine Beauty 🌊
🌙 Crescent-Shaped Bay: Rondinara Beach is a stunning crescent-shaped bay with white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. The unique shape of the bay creates a sheltered and intimate atmosphere, making it feel like a hidden gem.
🌿 Unspoiled Environment: The beach is located in a secluded and unspoiled area, surrounded by nature and free from excessive development. The pristine environment adds to the beach’s charm and allows visitors to escape the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
🏝️ Headlands and Anchoring: Rondinara Beach is flanked by two headlands that almost touch, creating a narrow entrance to the bay. These headlands provide excellent anchoring for boats, making the beach a popular spot for yachts and sailboats.
🐠 Snorkeling Opportunities: The clear waters and rocky areas around Rondinara Beach offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. The sheltered nature of the beach creates calm conditions, making it suitable for snorkelers of all levels to discover the beauty beneath the surface.
🌊 Swimming and Water Activities: The crystal-clear turquoise water at Rondinara Beach is perfect for swimming and various water activities. The bay’s sheltered nature creates calm conditions, making it suitable for swimmers of all levels to enjoy the refreshing Mediterranean Sea.
🌄 Sunset Colors: The west-facing orientation of Rondinara Beach offers breathtaking sunset views over the Mediterranean Sea. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, creating a magical atmosphere.
Best Hotels Near Rondinara Beach 🏨
- Les Terrasses de Rondinara – This beautiful property offers stunning views of Rondinara Bay and is just a short drive from the beach. The apartments are spacious and well-equipped, and the infinity pool is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Les Chambres de Mila – While not directly on Rondinara Beach, this charming B&B in Bonifacio is a great base for exploring the beautiful beaches of southern Corsica. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and the hosts are incredibly welcoming.
- Résidence Santa Monica – Located near Porto-Vecchio, this residence is a good base for visiting Rondinara Beach and other beautiful beaches in the area. The apartments are modern and well-equipped, and the pool area is perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
6. Ostriconi Beach – Best for Unspoiled Natural Beauty 🏝️
🌈 Vibrant Colors: Ostriconi Beach is known for its intense and vibrant colors, with striking contrasts between the deep blue water, white sand, and lush green vegetation. The combination of these colors creates a stunning visual palette that captivates visitors.
🏞️ Wild and Unspoiled: Located at the entrance to the famous Désert des Agriates, Ostriconi Beach is a wild and unspoiled stretch of sand. The beach is surrounded by pristine natural landscapes, including fragrant maquis shrubland and rugged rocky outcrops.
🌊 Crystal-Clear Waters: The waters at Ostriconi Beach are renowned for their exceptional clarity and turquoise hues. The transparency of the water allows visitors to see the sandy bottom and appreciate the pristine quality of the sea.
👣 Scenic Walking Path: To access Ostriconi Beach, visitors must follow a scenic walking path that winds through the natural surroundings. The walk to the beach is an enjoyable experience in itself, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the Corsican landscape.
📸 Photography Paradise: With its vibrant colors, unspoiled landscapes, and grazing cows, Ostriconi Beach is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The beach offers countless opportunities to capture stunning images of the turquoise waters, white sand, and lush vegetation.
Best Hotels Near Ostriconi Beach 🏨
- Les Mouettes – This charming hotel offers stunning views of the Corsican coastline and is just a short drive from Ostriconi Beach. I loved relaxing by the pool and enjoying meals on the terrace overlooking the sea. The rooms are comfortable and the staff is very welcoming.
- Le Domaine de Marie – Set in beautiful gardens, this peaceful hotel is a great base for exploring Ostriconi Beach and the surrounding area. The rooms are spacious and nicely decorated. I especially enjoyed the delicious homemade breakfasts served each morning.
- Ferme La Canardière – This rustic farmhouse hotel offers a unique stay near Ostriconi Beach. I loved the authentic Corsican atmosphere and home-cooked meals made with local ingredients. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the location is perfect for beach trips.
7. Loto Beach – Best for Turquoise Waters and Seclusion 🌊
⛱️ White Sandy Beach: Loto Beach, also known as Plage du Lotu, boasts a stunning white sandy beach that stretches along the shore. The fine, soft sand is a delight to walk on and provides a comfortable surface for sunbathing and relaxation.
🌴 Secluded Paradise: Located in the heart of the Désert des Agriates, Loto Beach is a secluded paradise that offers a sense of tranquility and isolation. The beach is only accessible by boat or on foot, which helps maintain its unspoiled beauty and keeps crowds at bay.
🌊 Turquoise Lagoon: The waters at Loto Beach are an enchanting turquoise color, reminiscent of a tropical lagoon. The shallow, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply admiring the mesmerizing hues.
🚤 Boat Access: One of the most popular ways to reach Loto Beach is by boat from the nearby town of Saint-Florent. Regular boat trips are available during the summer season, providing a scenic and enjoyable journey to the beach.
🍀 Natural Surroundings: Loto Beach is surrounded by the untamed beauty of the Désert des Agriates, a protected natural area known for its rugged landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. The beach is backed by hills covered in dense maquis vegetation, providing a lush and aromatic backdrop.
🏊♀️ Snorkeling Spot: The clear turquoise waters of Loto Beach are ideal for snorkeling, as the visibility is excellent and the underwater world is teeming with life. Snorkeling at Loto Beach is a fantastic way to appreciate the beauty both above and below the water’s surface.
Best Hotels Near Loto Beach 🏨
- Hôtel La Roya – This beachfront hotel offers easy access to Loto Beach and other beautiful beaches nearby. The rooms are elegant and many have sea views. I enjoyed relaxing by the pool and dining at the excellent restaurant overlooking the water.
- Résidence Suarella – Located in Saint-Florent, this residence is a great base for visiting Loto Beach. The apartments are spacious and well-equipped. I loved having a kitchen to prepare meals and a balcony to enjoy the views.
- U Pezzo – This small hotel offers a peaceful retreat near Loto Beach. The rooms are cozy and the garden is beautiful. I enjoyed chatting with the friendly owners who gave great tips on exploring the area.
8. Pinarellu Beach – Best for Pine Forests and Water Sports 🌲
🌴 Pine Tree Backdrop: Pinarellu Beach is nestled amidst a picturesque pine forest that provides a lush and fragrant backdrop to the sandy shore. The tall pine trees offer natural shade and create a serene and refreshing atmosphere.
☀️ Soft Sandy Beach: The beach itself is a long stretch of soft, golden sand that gently slopes into the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The sand is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk along the shore.
🌊 Clear Turquoise Waters: Pinarellu Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters that are inviting and refreshing. The transparency of the water allows visitors to see the sandy bottom and appreciate the pristine quality of the sea.
🏄♂️ Water Sports Haven: The beach is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfers and kitesurfers. The consistent winds and the beach’s orientation create ideal conditions for these thrilling activities.
🍹 Beachside Amenities: Pinarellu Beach has a range of amenities to enhance visitors’ comfort and convenience. There are beachside restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy refreshing drinks, snacks, and meals while taking in the stunning views.
Best Hotels Near Pinarellu Beach 🏨
- U Paesolu – Just steps from Pinarellu Beach, this hotel offers a perfect location for a beach vacation. The rooms are modern and comfortable. I loved being able to walk right onto the sand and swim in the crystal-clear water.
- Les Régalia & Spa – This luxurious hotel near Pinarellu Beach offers top-notch amenities including a spa and gourmet restaurant. The rooms are elegant and spacious. I enjoyed pampering myself with spa treatments after days at the beach.
- Le Pinarello – Overlooking Pinarellu Beach, this hotel offers stunning sea views and direct beach access. The rooms are bright and airy. I loved watching the sunset from my balcony each evening.
9. Plage de San Giovanni – Best for Shallow Waters and Family Fun 👨👩👧👦
🥥 Vast Stretch of Sand: Plage de San Giovanni Beach offers a vast stretch of sand with several zones bordered by pines. The beach extends for a considerable length, providing ample space for visitors to find a spot even during the peak summer season.
🌴 Pine Tree Borders: The beach is bordered by picturesque pine trees that provide a refreshing and shaded backdrop. The pines offer a natural and aromatic environment, creating a pleasant contrast to the golden sand and turquoise waters.
🌊 Shallow Waters: One of the standout features of San Giovanni is its shallow waters, making it ideal for families with young children. The beach gently slopes into the sea, allowing for a gradual and safe entry into the water.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, attracting visitors with children of all ages. Parents can relax while keeping a watchful eye on their little ones playing in the sand and sea.
🏄♂️ Water Sports Activities: San Giovanni offers a variety of water sports activities for those seeking a bit of adventure. The beach’s length and shallow depth provide ideal conditions for trying out new water sports or honing existing skills.
Best Hotels Near Plage de San Giovanni 🏨
- Les Villas du Sud – These villas offer a home-away-from-home near San Giovanni Beach. I enjoyed having plenty of space and a private pool. The location is peaceful but still close to restaurants and shops.
- Résidence Ribellinu – This residence offers comfortable apartments just a short walk from San Giovanni Beach. The pool area is lovely and the staff is very helpful. I appreciated having a kitchen to prepare meals.
- Macchie e Fiori – Set in beautiful gardens, this small hotel offers a tranquil stay near San Giovanni Beach. The rooms are charming and the breakfast is delicious. I loved relaxing in the peaceful surroundings.
10. Campomoro Beach – Best for Seaside Amenities and Relaxation 🏜️
🏜️ Vast Sandy Beach: Campomoro Beach, located in the center of Belvédère-Campomoro, is a vast sandy beach that extends over 750 meters. The soft, golden sand is perfect for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely walks along the shore.
⛑️ Lifeguard Supervision: During the months of July and August, Campomoro Beach is supervised by lifeguards. The presence of trained lifeguards ensures the safety of swimmers and beachgoers, providing peace of mind for families and individuals alike.
🌊 Clear Turquoise Waters: The beach is lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters that are inviting and refreshing. Swimming and snorkeling in these waters is a delightful experience, as the clarity and color create a mesmerizing underwater world.
🌅 Stunning Sunsets: Campomoro Beach is an ideal spot to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
🚗 Easy Accessibility: Campomoro Beach is easily accessible by car, as it is located directly in the village of Belvédère-Campomoro. However, it’s important to note that parking can be challenging during the peak summer months due to the beach’s popularity.
Best Hotels Near Campomoro Beach 🏨
- Lecci e Murta – This lovely hotel is just a short walk from Campomoro Beach. The rooms are comfortable and many have sea views. I enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and delicious Corsican cuisine served at the restaurant.
- Village Vacances U Livanti – This holiday village offers a fun stay for families near Campomoro Beach. The accommodations are simple but comfortable. I loved all the activities available and the easy beach access.
- Hôtel Campomoro – Located right on Campomoro Beach, this hotel offers unbeatable views and beach access. The rooms are bright and comfortable. I enjoyed falling asleep to the sound of the waves each night.
FAQs about Trip to Top 10 Corsica Beaches ❔
Are Corsica beaches sandy?
Yes, Corsica has many beautiful sandy beaches, especially in the south. Some of the most famous sandy beaches include Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, and Calvi Beach. However, there are also some pebble and rocky beaches on the island
Is north or south Corsica better?
It depends on your preferences, but south Corsica is generally considered better for beaches. The south has a higher density of beautiful sandy beaches with clear turquoise water. However, the north also has some stunning beaches like Ostriconi and Saleccia, as well as more rugged, mountainous scenery.
Where is the clearest water in Corsica?
Some of the beaches with the clearest water in Corsica include Palombaggia and Santa Giulia in the south, and Calvi Beach in the north. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Which side of Corsica has the best beaches?
The south of Corsica is widely regarded as having the best beaches on the island. The region around Porto-Vecchio in particular, with famous beaches like Palombaggia, Santa Giulia and Rondinara, is considered a beach-lover’s paradise.
