The most beautiful beaches of Southern Corsica
The south of Corsica has earned its reputation as a beach paradise for good reason. This is where you'll find the island's most famous bays, with water reminiscent of the Seychelles but only a few hours' flight away. The beaches around Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio are world-renowned, but the lesser-known bays along the south coast are equally worth a visit. Here's an overview of the highlights.
Palombaggia
Corsica's most famous beach. Two kilometres of golden sand, framed by pink granite and umbrella pines, with views of the Iles Cerbicale. Shallow, clear water. Busy at the northern entrance during peak season; walk south for more space. Free parking, but arrive early.
Santa Giulia
A large, shallow lagoon with crystal-clear water and fine white sand. The water is so shallow that children can walk dozens of metres in without it getting deep. Plenty of water sports, restaurants, and sun lounger hire make this a complete beach outing. Located south of Porto-Vecchio, via the T10 towards Bonifacio.
Rondinara
The perfect semicircular bay, voted the most beautiful beach in France on multiple occasions. Two headlands nearly enclose the bay, keeping the water remarkably calm. Fine sand, gentle slope, warm shallow water — ideal for families. Halfway between Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio, via the D158. Parking costs 5 euros per day in summer.
Piantarella and Petit Sperone (near Bonifacio)
Piantarella is a long beach with a turquoise strip of water that leads like a path to the small island of Piana. Kitesurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding available. Ten minutes further along the coastal path lies Petit Sperone: a hidden bay with the softest white sand on Corsica. No facilities, so bring everything yourself.
Roccapina
A dream beach on the southwest coast, sheltered by two rock walls. The access road is in moderate condition, so some walking is necessary. But the reward is great: a beautiful bay that's much less crowded than the more famous beaches. Right next to it lies Erbaju beach, where you can be alone even in peak season. Combine it with a visit to the Torra di Roccapina. There are no restaurants or snack bars, so bring food and drinks.
Iles Lavezzi
An archipelago of 23 rocky islets in the Strait of Bonifacio, only accessible by boat. Small but spectacular beaches with granite rocks and an abundance of underwater life. The best snorkelling spot on all of Corsica.
Favone
A quiet alternative to the busier beaches around Porto-Vecchio. This white sand beach lies along the Cote des Nacres, 30 minutes' drive north of Porto-Vecchio. Less spectacular than Palombaggia or Santa Giulia, but the water and sand are excellent and it's never overcrowded. Easily accessible and suitable for families.
Canella (near Solenzara)
A beautiful sandy bay that's also well suited for snorkelling. Enter the water on the left side along the rocks for a fun underwater exploration. Located between Solenzara and Favone. Parking is difficult in summer; police hand out fines for illegal parking along the road.
Plage Saint-Antoine (near Bonifacio)
Located at the foot of white cliffs near Cap de Pertusato, the southernmost point of Corsica. The cliffs have been shaped into spectacular formations. The beach is small; the surroundings are the attraction. Park near the lighthouse, then take a steep path down.
Tip The beaches in the south are very popular in July and August. If you're looking for peace and quiet, visit in June or September. The water is still warm, the weather stable, and you'll have the most beautiful bays much more to yourself. And remember: the further you walk from the car park, the quieter it gets.