Stretches of fine sand, turquoise waters, colorful rocks and Genoese towers… the beaches of southern Corsica are exceptional. There’s something for everyone, with easy access, a bit of hiking and a bit of trail riding.
See our selection of the best and most beautiful beaches in South Corsica with our photos and practical advice.
And to help you find your way around, we’ve included a map of our top 10 beaches in southern Corsica.
BEFORE OUR TIPS + PHOTOS
HERE ARE OUR GOOD PLACES IN South Corsica
Our favorite car rental platform: DiscoverCars
Our guide to planning your road trip: eBook
Our must-do boat trip: Exploring the cliffs of Bonifacio
Our unforgettable outdoor activity: Canyoning
Our favorite towns to stay in:
- Bonifacio near the citadel – see the best rated accommodations
- Porto-Vecchio near the beaches – see top-rated accommodations
- Ajaccio – see the best rated accommodations
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the area anonymously, making our own choices and paying all our bills in full.
Map of our Top 10 best beaches in South Corsica
Selection rules:
- We prefer picturesque beaches with colorful rocks to photograph, rather than just sand and clear water to swim in.
- We’re talking about the southern half of Corsica (geographically), not the department of Corse du Sud, which runs northwards along the west coast.
- It’s a polarizing subject… this list is our selection based on our visits.
Here’s a map to help you locate our top 10 most beautiful beaches in North and South Corsica so you can plan your trip to Corsica:
Complete your discovery with our article on the most beautiful beaches north of Corsica and the most beautiful beaches in Corsica.
1. Palombaggia Beach
Why we love it
Palombaggia, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, enjoys an exceptional reputation in Corsica.
Its appeal lies in its succession of picturesque coves, where vast stretches of white sand blend harmoniously with the umbrella pines that line them. We love it!
What’s more, there are some magnificent red rocks to explore between the coves. It’s a feast for the eyes, both from the beach and for snorkeling.
Practical advice
- South-west of Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 20min
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 40min
- Access by bus from the beaches in summer possible
- Caution – crowded beach!
This beach is full in summer. You have to come very early to experience it (which is also very good for the colors of the rocks).
There is a large free parking lot which is dirt and quite bumpy – short walk from the parking lot.
But the parking lot is full in summer. Some beach restaurants have private parking that you can use for a small fee. - Restaurants on the beach in season
- Nautical activities in season
- Supervised beach in season
2. Beach of Tamaricciu
Why we love it
Like Palombaggia, Tamaricciu beach features a long stretch of white sand bordered by turquoise waters and majestic pine trees.
When you park along the road, you can admire a magnificent view of the bay from the heights. Descending towards sea level, walking to the left (looking out over the water), you’ll discover the area that has made this beach famous: imposing grey rocks accompanied by a single pine tree. The overall impression is that of a real postcard.
We love the fine sand, turquoise waters and lush pine trees that surround the beach.
Practical advice
- South-west of Porto-Vecchio
- The twin cove of Palombaggia
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 20min
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 40min
- A little less frequented than Palombaggia but hardly.
- 2 access options
– free parking along the road + 5min walk (with stairs) – limited parking spaces
or paying restaurant parking at the west end of the beach (opposite the rocks) with easy access to the sand. - Restaurants in season
- Unsupervised beach
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Corsica
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
3. Plage de Saint-Antoine (hiking required)
Why we love it
It’s not a famous beach in southern Corsica, but it’s the most impressive.
It almost looks like another planet.
This is the only beach that looks like this in Corsica that we have seen.
It is located at the southern tip of Corsica, at the foot of magnificent white cliffs that are eroded by water and wind.
Fine sand, transparent waters, and impressive caves. What more could you ask for?
Practical advice
- Cap Pertusato, south of Bonifacio
- 10min drive from Bonifacio to parking lot
- 40min drive from Porto-Vecchio
- Access on foot from Bonifacio (less than 1h30), easy walking except for last 15 minutes
- Access by car to the semaphore parking lot (or Saint-Antoine grotto parking lot), then a walk of less than 40min.
- The last 10 to 15 minutes are very steep and slippery (to get from the top of the cliffs to the beach) – bring walking shoes.
- Unsupervised beach
4. Rondinara Bay
Why we love it
Rondinara is reputed to be one of the most beautiful bays in Europe, and we couldn’t agree more.
The beach itself is stunningly beautiful, with shallow turquoise waters and sheltered coves.
However, what particularly appealed to us were the rocks on the right-hand side (looking out to sea). After a short 5-minute walk, we discovered some incredibly colorful rock formations.
Practical advice
- Between Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 30min
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 30min
- Busy beach in summer
- Easy access with large parking lot (fee payable)
- Restaurants in season
- Nautical activities in season
- Supervised beach in season
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
DREAM TRIP TO Corsica
All the information you need for your trip:
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- 130+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 220 photos to help you choose
5. Santa Giuila Beach
Why we love it
Situated in a protected bay, you’ll enjoy clear, shallow waters, ideal for swimming in complete tranquillity. The location of the beach is also remarkable, with a long strip of sand separating the sea from a pond, creating a peaceful, serene atmosphere.
What’s more, Santa Giulia beach offers a picturesque setting, surrounded by hills that add a touch of natural charm. You’ll find yourself in a veritable cocoon, where you can relax and recharge your batteries in complete tranquillity. All in all, Santa Giulia beach can be considered one of Corsica’s paradise lagoons.
Practical advice
- Between Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio, south of Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 15min
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 25min
- Access by bus from the beaches in summer possible
- Very busy beach in summer
- Easy access with ample parking
- Restaurants in season
- Nautical activities in season
- Supervised beach in season
6. Petit Spérone beach (hiking required)
Why we love it
In this square bay, you’ll find extremely white sand (with limestone powder), transparent waters, scrub all around and the ruins of a Roman city… It’s considered one of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches.
You have to walk to enjoy it, but the place is magical!
Practical advice
- East of Bonifacio
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 15min
- Parking on the Piantarella beach side (difficult in summer)
- Then a 20min hike through the rocks
- Quite busy despite less easy access
- Unsupervised beach
WHERE TO STAY IN South Corsica
Option 1: Around the famous beaches
We recommend..:
- Hotel Mariosa with beach and restaurant – see photos and availability
- Résidence U Pirellu, if you want to be able to cook – see photos and availability
- Hotel L’Alivi Santa Giulia with beautiful views over the bay – see photos and availability
Option 2: in the maquis around Bonifacio
We recommend..:
- Hotel Cala di Greco overlooking the citadel! – see prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel A Cheda with its garden and exceptional restaurant – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Version Maquis Citadelle (5 stars) – see prices, pictures and availability
Option 3: in Bonifacio itself (citadel or marina)
We recommend..:
- Hotel Spa Genovese in the citadel – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Santateresa at the top of the citadel – see prices, pictures and availability
- Hotel Solemare and its swimming pool with view! – see prices, pictures and availability
Option 4: in Propriano
We recommend
- Hotel Aria Marina for convenient apartments with views – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Marinca for a little luxury and unforgettable views – see prices, photos and availability
7. Verghia Beach
Why we love it
Its neighbouring beach is actually more famous (Mare e Sol, sometimes called the Silver Beach), but we have a clear preference for Verghia. We love this rock formation!!! It’s so photogenic.
Practical advice
- Located between Ajaccio and Propriano, in Coti-Chiviari
- Driving time from Ajaccio = 40min
- Driving time from Propriano = 1h15
- Right next to the road. Easy access
- Restaurant at the beach
8. San Giovanni Beach (St. John)
Why we love it
Hidden in the bay of Figari, it has beautiful smooth rocks spread along the beach. They have different shades of gray.
We fell in love with this lesser-known beach.
What’s more, it looks great on a cloudy day!
Practical advice
- North of Bonifacio in the Bay of Figari
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 40min
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 40min
- Small bumpy road and 5min walk to reach the beach. Not easy to find
- Little frequented.
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9. Fautea Beach
Why we love it
Fautea boasts three magnificent white-sand beaches, one of which is located in the village itself, while the other two can be reached by short walks. The most fascinating beach is in the middle, near the tower, and offers a charming little cove surrounded by lush juniper vegetation. To the north of this beach, you’ll find a well-preserved, accessible Genoese tower.
The climb up to the Genoese tower offers spectacular views of this unspoilt landscape. The natural environment surrounding these beaches is breathtaking, and the views from the Genoese tower are simply magnificent. Fautea is therefore an ideal destination for lovers of nature, beautiful beaches and history, with the presence of the Genoese tower adding an extra dimension to the experience.
Practical advice
- North of Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 25min
- The beach of the tower is 5 minutes walk from the parking
- Access to the tower – along the path leading to the beach – 5min climb from the crossroads.
- Unsupervised beach
- No water sports
- Restaurant at the village beach but not on the others
10. Campomoro Beach
Why we love it
The shape of the bay is perfect! What’s more, it faces the coast, giving you the impression of being on the edge of a mountain lake. Quite surprising…
And there’s a great walking path around the rocky head and up to the Genoese tower.
Practical advice
- Southwest coast below Propriano
- Driving time from Propianao = 20min
- Small dead-end road to the village (not technically difficult)
- The main problem in Campomoro is parking. There’s parking at the entrance – easy access to the beach and a few spaces closer to the village.
Perhaps crowded at the height of summer.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN Southern Corsica
Discover our articles on the region:
Discover our articles on Bonifacio:
Discover our articles on Porto-Vecchio
11 to 15 – Other most beautiful beaches around Porto-Vecchio
11. Rocappina Beach
Why we love it
For the view of the beach and the rock formations including the famous lion guarding the bay.
White sand, turquoise water and magnificent granite boulders.
Practical advice
- Detour from the main road between Bonifacio and Sartène
- Travel time from Bonifacio =
- 15min Unpaved track in poor condition to the beach.
- It’s very busy in summer, despite the limited access.
Here are 4 other beaches we love around Porto-Vecchio.
To find out more, see our article on the most beautiful beaches around Porto-Vecchio.
12. Cala Rossa beach
Located on the Benedettu peninsula, Cala Rossa is a long, narrow strip of fine sand, transparent waters and granite rocks…
It offers a beautiful view of the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio.
- North of the bay of Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from the center of Porto-Vecchio = 15min
- Water sports: windsurfing, kayaking, paddle, pedal boats…
- Very busy in summer (even crowded)
- Easy access from parking lots
- Restaurants and snacks
13. Pinarellu Bay (25min)
The long bay has 2 km of white sandy beaches with shallow waters in a protected environment.
You can choose to settle either at the wild end of the south side of the bay, or near the colorful rocks, on fine sand near the village to enjoy its many restaurants.
From everywhere, you have a view of the bay island and its 500 year old tower.
- North of Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 25min
- Restaurants and Cafés on the beach
- Many people in summer
- Easy access from the parking lot
- Bathing on a gentle slope
- Unsupervised beach
- Nautical activities and sailing school
14. Favona beach
Favona is a long sandy beach over 800 metres long, with clear turquoise waters.
On each side the rocky points are parallel creating a kind of cocoon and beautiful places to snorkel.
It’s an all-day beach with all amenities and easy access.
- North of the bay of Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from the center of Porto-Vecchio = 30min
- Large parking lot near the beach
- Bar
- Nautical activities
- High attendance in summer
- More on the beach
15. Canella beach Solenzara
Located in a protected bay, the beach of Canella is covered with fine white sand.
With its beautiful shape, transparent turquoise water and dense vegetation, it’s considered one of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches, and we agree.
Access to the water is gentle.
- North of the bay of Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from the center of Porto-Vecchio = 35min
- Park at the top and walk down the aisle for 2 minutes, or park at the bottom.
- Restaurants on the beach
- Can be very crowded in summer and little room (arrive before 10am)
- Unsupervised beach
16 to 19 – More beautiful beaches around Bonifacio
Here are 4 other beaches we love around Porto-Vecchio.
To find out more, see our article on the most beautiful beaches around Bonifacio.
16. The beaches of the Lavezzi Islands
If you like rocks, take a boat to the Lavezzi islands. The experience is splendid. The entire islands are covered with blocks of different colors: light gray, dark gray and pink. And there are some lovely little coves where you can take a dip.
- Island south of Corsica
Bonifacio boat trip – a choice of departures and returns. - 5 to 10min walk to reach the first beaches but more to reach the most beautiful. However, you can simply explore the rocky bays and admire the piles of all shapes.
Discover the islands in more detail.
17. Tonnara Beach
We really liked it, above all for its colors.
Here the rocks are red and the sand slightly colored by the dust of rocks.
With the transparent water, the combination is perfect.
And the beach faces the Tonnara Islands which are only 100m away and are covered with giant rocks. This situation creates a small protected lagoon, very pleasant for swimming.
- North-west of Bonifacio
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 20min
- Easy access from the parking lot
- Restaurants in season
- Nautical activities in season
- Unsupervised beach
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
EN South Corsica
- Introduction to canyoning at Pulischellu – see photos + availability
- Complete canyoning experience at Pulischellu – see photos + availability
- Via Ferrata near Porto-Vecchio – see photos + availability
- Sea kayaking under the cliffs of Bonifacio – see photos + availability
18. Grand Spérone beach (hiking required)
Located on the Spérone peninsula, this beach offers a breathtaking setting. In addition to its fine white sand and deep blue crystalline waters, it offers a breathtaking view of the Lavezzi Islands.
We appreciate its unspoilt environment. Surrounded by dunes, Mediterranean scrub and spectacular cliffs, it offers a wild, natural experience.
- East of Bonifacio
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 15min
- Parking on the Piantarella beach side (difficult in summer)
- Then a 30min hike through the rocks
- Less crowded than many beaches
- Unsupervised beach
19. Balistra Beach
Balistra beach is renowned for its calm, unspoilt atmosphere. Nestled in a bay accessible only by a dirt track, it offers appreciable peace and quiet, far from the hustle and bustle of tourism. Its natural beauty is breathtaking, with fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is also bordered by Mediterranean scrub, adding a touch of charm to the surroundings.
- Between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio
- Driving time from Bonifacio = 35min
- Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 30min
- 3km of unpaved track with large holes
- Little frequented and very large
- Unsupervised beach
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Corsica
Inspiration destinations
Best of
Practice
20 to 22 – More beautiful beaches between Propriano and Ajaccio
20. Terre Sacrée beach (Ajaccio)
Located in Ajaccio, Terre Sacrée beach offers a picturesque, unspoilt setting. With its fine golden sands, clear waters and views of the îles sanguinaires, it offers a pleasant seaside experience.
- West of Ajaccio
- Driving time from Ajaccio center = 15min
- Unsupervised beach
21. Mare e Sol Beach
For an ideal family beach, head to Mare e Sol to enjoy its white sand, transparent waters, activities and shallow slope.
- Located between Ajaccio and Propriano, in Coti-Chiviari
- Driving time from Ajaccio = 40min
- Driving time from Propriano = 1h15
- Right next to the road. Easy access
- Restaurant at the beach
22. Isolella beach
The small Isolella peninsula has several coves and a long, pinkish-white sandy beach. Even when it’s busy in high season, the beach offers a calm, relaxed atmosphere.
- Located between Ajaccio and Propriano
- Driving time from Ajaccio = 40min
- Driving time from Propriano = 1h15
- Restaurant at the beach
