Top 10 beaches in Corsica

With around 200 beaches spread across 1,000km of coastline, Corsica is a seaside lovers' paradise. Picturesque fishing ports and sandy coves lie to the east, pristine dive sites dot all around and achingly decadent beach boutiques and spas wait to be discovered far and wide.

Travelling to Corsica

Geographically French but with a distinct Italian culture, Corsica merges mountains with pretty coastal towns and hiking trails with superyacht hubs. As the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean it offers natural diversity, acorn-infused cold meats and unrivalled virgin olive oil.

Which part of Corsica has the best beaches?

Venture off the beaten path and you’ll discover the archipelago of Lavezzi, a collection of small granite islands and grouper-rich reefs in the Strait of Bonifacio.

Or seek out Santa Giulia, one of the most popular beaches in Corsica. Either way, Corsica north and south makes for a favoured charter destination with its temperate climate and sandy shorelines.

Arinella Beach

Not far from the Calvi hot spot, Arinella is another snorkeller’s haven on the north end of the island. Thanks to Corsica’s warm Mediterranean climate the vast inviting waters with near-perfect visibility swarm with varied and abundant sea plants and animals.

Why visit Arinella Beach?

The main beach in the town of Bastia is pebbly making Arinella’s long sandy shore that extends along the whole of the east coast a welcome destination. A sailing vacation here will deliver daily watersports, breath-taking views and a romantic stroll through Place St Nicholas.

Palombaggia

Offering all the colours in the rainbow, Palombaggia beach is defined by red rocks, blue waters, powder white sands and umbrella pine trees. Plunge below the waves to encounter mullet, silverfish, octopus, sole and the famed salema porgy fish, a golden striped hallucinogen if consumed.

Why visit Palombaggia?

One of the longest beaches in Corsica, it’s also one of the most popular, particularly with twitchers as the nature reserve on the neighbouring UNESCO World Heritage Cerbicale islands provides the rare chance to sight crested cormorants up close and personal.

Ostriconi

Lying in the north west of Corsica is Ostriconi beach, only reached on foot or by water. This protected coastline is as verdant as it is secluded. Backed by a fresh water river and grass-covered mountains, it offers natural beauty at its best.

Why visit Ostriconi?

Located on a lonely stretch of road between the fishing port of Saint Florent and the vacation resort of Lozari, Ostriconi is a must-visit for all romantics at heart, where gnarled broom bushes cover the heaving sand dunes and adventure up the wild, green creek beckons.

Roccapina

Here sleeps the fabled lion of Roccapina, a rocky outcrop of pink granite eroded over time to resemble the shape of a crouching lion. A pristine beach likened to the shores of the Caribbean, Roccapina surprises with its handful of prehistoric sites and castles that pepper the mountainside.

Why visit Roccapina?

Located in the protected area of Corsica’s southwestern Grand Valinco region, Roccapina is as convenient as it is alluring. The safe bathing spot for younger families is overlooked by the Genoese tower Torra di Roccapina, another landmark dominating the beach.

Bodri

Bodri beach offers a remote vibe lying at the foot of the Balagne hills in Upper Corsica. The northern side welcomes nudists, while the entire beach indulges in the laidback ambience of the nearby local produce markets, cafes and bistros.

Why visit Bodri?

Bodri beach is nestled in the last bay before the charming seaside town of L'Ile Rousse. The area benefits from one of the warmest microclimates in Corsica, making it a favourite spot for watersports and sun worshipping.