Located equidistant from Ajaccio town center and Pointe de la Parata, we were charmed by Plage de Barbicaja. Its natural setting and crystal-clear waters were a complete change of scenery. Fancy a swim in idyllic surroundings?
See our practical tips and photos to help you plan your visit.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Plage de Barbicaja worth it?
Yes, it’s a beautiful beach and well worth a visit. Beyond the magnificent views over the bay, we appreciated its wilder environment compared with other beaches close to the city center. In fact, it features in our article on must-do activities in Ajaccio.
It’s also less crowded, as it’s off the beaten track, giving it a more peaceful atmosphere. The water is completely transparent. Take a mask and snorkel along the rocks to discover the underwater fauna!
Type of beach
Sand or no sand?
The beach floor is a mixture of fine sand and seaweed. The portion of dry sand is quite limited. Some areas are also covered with large rocks or small pebbles.
Swimming conditions and supervision
Swimming conditions are very good. The descent into the water is gradual. The waters are translucent, but there are a few rocks. Take the opportunity to snorkel and explore the aquatic fauna!
The beach is unsupervised.
Installations
We didn’t see any toilets on the beach, but a shower belonging to a restaurant.
Plage de Barbicaja in Ajaccio: how to get there
Where’s the beach?
- In Southern-Corsica,
- In the seaside resort of Ajaccio,
- West of downtown,
- From the city center: 10min by car.
- From Pointe de la Parata: 15min by car.
Access by car and parking
To reach the beach from downtown Ajaccio, simply drive along the seafront. Take Boulevard Pascal Rossini, which runs past Plage Saint-François, before joining the D111 road. Continue straight on past Plage Trottel. You’ll stay on the same road for another 5 minutes before arriving at Barbicaja Beach. As a guide, you’ll see a series of parking spaces on either side of the road in front of the 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.
Access from the parking lot
From the parking spaces on both sides of the road, you can walk to the beach entrance in just a few minutes. It is indicated by a sign.
Public transport access
The L5 bus runs from Plage de Barbicaja to Place de Gaulle in Ajaccio town center. This is a beach shuttle. Find out more here.
THINGS TO DO AROUND ajaccio
Discover all our articles on the region:
Special features
Dog
Dogs are not allowed on the beach.
Reduced mobility access
Unfortunately, there are no facilities for disabled access. The stairs to the sandy area are quite steep.
With children
The slope into the water is gentle and gradual, but the beach is unsupervised. We also observed numerous rocks piercing the water. You’ll need to keep a watchful eye on your children at all times.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach.
Eating out
There are a few good restaurants right on the beach. We particularly recommend Restaurant Chez Pech, with its exceptional view over the Bay of Ajaccio.
For more inspiration, check out our full article on the resort’s best culinary establishments!
Hotels
You’ll be a 10-minute drive from downtown Ajaccio. See our selection of favorite hotels in Corsica’s imperial city:
WHERE TO STAY IN Ajaccio
In the city center:
Hotel San Carlu and its panoramic view – see photos and availability
On the western seafront:
Hôtel Les Mouettes and its very pleasant terrace – see photos and availability
Marina side:
Best Western Amirauté Hotel, very practical – see photos and availability
In Porticcio:
Suite Home Hotel near the beach – see photos and availability
See our list of the 12 best hotels in Ajaccio, with our reviews
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
