Corsica Beaches and Water Sports

(Corsica, France)

With over 1,000 km / 621 miles of shoreline, Corsica's Mediterranean beaches come in many diverse shapes and sizes. Huge swathes of the coast are accessible on foot, and three of the island's beaches were ranked in a recent list of Europe's top 20. From isolated coves to major tourist spots with hosts of watery facilities, a tour around Corsica's beaches will be unforgettable.

Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and located near Porto Vecchio, Palombaggia is the loveliest stretch in all Corsica's miles of beachfront. Although Palombaggia Beach can be crowded in the high summer tourist season, it quietens down earlier and later in the season. Palombaggia is a great place to come if you fancy trying your hand at windsurfing, jet-skiing, sea kayaking or scuba diving, and is home to its very own dive centre.

General Information

The harbour town of Calvi comes with a good selection of beaches, based on the far north-western side of Corsica. The principal beach in Calvi stretches for some 4 km / 2.5 miles from the marina and heads in an easterly direction, around the Gulf of Calvi (Golfe de Calvi).

Further notable beaches reside close to the peaceful hillside village of Piana, on the western coast of Corsica. The best of these beaches include the Anse de Ficajola, which enjoys much seclusion and can only be reached by taking a long narrow road. Just a short distance to the south-west of Piana, the Plage d'Arone is another reliable beach and lies just off the D824 road, close to the Capo Rosso.

To the south of Piana and still on Corsica's western side is the capital of Ajaccio. Most visitors either choose to base themselves in Ajaccio or take a day trip here, and the city's beaches are in good supply. The Plage de Ricanto (Tahiti Plage) is a safe bet and is located around 5 km / 3 miles to the east of Ajaccio, while further beaches can be found towards the Pointe de la Parata.

These include the Ariane, the Marinella, the Neptune and the Palm beaches, all of which have something special to offer. Just across the bay is the holiday resort of Porticcio, which is connected to Ajaccio during the summer months by regular boat trips. Nearby, Portigliolo Beach may also be of interest to sunseeking holiday makers.

Situated on the southern coastline of Corsica is the beautiful town of Bonifacio, famous for its citadel.

Various beaches lie around Bonifacio, such as the Sotta Rocca, a small pebbly cove located directly beneath the citadel itself. For some soft golden sand, head to either the Plage de l'Arinella or the Plage de la Catena. Just 3 km / 2 miles to the east of Bonifacio is the bay of Sperone and its tropical white sandy beachfront.