January 21, 2025

The 5 Best Beaches In Porto Vecchio In Corsica

Porto Vecchio is home to some of the best beaches in Corsica, offering pristine powdery white coastlines, as well as rugged coves surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

Often referred to as the “Island of Beauty,” Corsica is a treasure trove of natural wonders and its beaches, framed by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters, offer some of the most idyllic spots in the Mediterranean.

View of Mediterranean Sea surrounding Corsica from pristine white sand beach

While Corsica boasts over 600 miles of coastlines and approximately 200 beaches, Porto Vecchio stands out for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and captivating landscapes.

With dramatic cliffs, lush maquis vegetation, and the serene backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, journeys to Porto Vecchio’s beaches are a paradise for sun-seekers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts alike…

1. Rondinara

Rondinara beach is tucked away within one of Corsica’s most secluded bays, halfway between Bonifacio and Porto Vecchio, and is a natural haven where birds, fish, and rare grasses flourish.

Aerial view of Bonifaco Bay and clear blue sea in Corsica

This shell-shaped beach is lined with small coves separated by rocky outcrops, offering seclusion and tranquility. While the soft, white sand gently slopes into the warm Mediterranean, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. These breathtaking settings are one of the reasons Rondinara is ranked as the third-best beach in Europe.

The Bay of Rondinara lies within the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve which is renowned for its transparent waters and unique marine flora and fauna. With clear calm waters and abundant wildlife, Rondinara is also one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Corsica.

Aerial view of privately chartered yacht in blue sea during luxury Corsica trip

What’s more, the beach’s shallow waters are perfect for families, while the surrounding hills offer a variety of scenic walking paths for nature lovers. The bay is also known for its exceptional beauty, and is often regarded as one of the most photographed beaches in Corsica.

Despite its popularity, Rondinara maintains an unspoiled, natural charm, with no major developments around the area, ensuring its untouched beauty remains intact.

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2. Cavallo Island

Located in the Lavezzi Archipelago off the southern coast of Corsica, Cavallo Island is a secluded Mediterranean paradise known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine sandy beaches.

Aerial view of Lavezzi Archipelago in Corsica

The island offers a tranquil escape with its lush vegetation, dramatic granite rock formations, and an exclusive, serene atmosphere, given that it is accessible primarily by boat. It is also home to some of the most idyllic and secluded beaches in the Mediterranean.

Cavallo Island is a protected area known for its remarkable biodiversity and pristine natural environment. Boasting vibrant marine life, the island’s dreamlike beaches are a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. While the region’s rare species of wildflowers, such as yellow-horned poppies and white sea daffodils, make it a haven for nature lovers.

Cavallo Island beach in Porto Vecchio in Corsica

We recommend embarking on a private boat tour to Cavallo Island when visiting Porto Vecchio. Admire the enchanting coastline as you sail through the Mediterranean’s warm summer waters, then disembark to explore the island’s natural wonders.

After exploring the landscape, enjoy a meal at the renowned La Ferme restaurant. Known for its charming rustic ambiance, La Ferme offers Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a serene environment.

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3. Palombaggia

Plage de Palombaggia is one of the best beaches in Porto Vecchi and Corsica, and is often considered one of the most picturesque beaches in the Mediterranean. Located on the island’s southern coast, Palombaggia is known for fine white sand stretches along the bay, bordered by crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Aerial view of Palombaggia beach in Porto Vecchio in Corsica

During the summer months, the water can reach up to 27°C which is wonderful for swimming; the temperatures remain comfortably refreshing during the shoulder season too.

The shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming, making it an ideal spot for families. This beach is also ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

4. Porto-novo

Journey to the tranquil Bay of Porto-novo, home to a small, crescent-shaped stretch of soft sand that gently slopes into the turquoise sea. Porto-novo is one of the best beaches in Porto Vecchio thanks to its crystal clear waters, thriving flora and fauna and serene atmosphere.

View of Portonovo beach in Corsica

It’s one of the many idyllic, yet lesser-known, beaches that Corsica has to offer and is a peaceful retreat from the more frequented shorelines.

The beach itself, composed of smooth pebbles and soft sand, is ideal for lounging and enjoying the gentle waves, while the bay’s calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Aerial view of Santa Maria church on the beach of Portonovo in Corsica

A notable highlight of the Bay of Porto-novo is the Church of Santa Maria, a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture that dates back to the eleventh century. This historic site offers a glimpse into the region’s unique heritage and serves as a beautiful backdrop for your visit.

5. Santa Giulia

While not technically within Porto Vecchio, Santa Giulia is just a short drive or boat ride to the south and is one of Corsica’s most beautiful and famous beaches.

Sparkling blue waters of Santa Giulia in Corsica

Boasting an expansive stretch of fine white sand and a calm, aquamarine lagoon, Santa Giulia is a picture-perfect beach ideal for water-based activities and authentic connections with nature.

The shallow, wave-free waters make it a family-friendly destination, while the surrounding lush greenery adds a touch of wilderness to its pristine shores. For snorkelers and divers, the bay’s clear waters provide a window into a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.

Stunning sunset in Corsica as boats sail past Santa Giuila Beach

The Bay of Santa Giulia is a popular spot for a range of water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet-skiing, offering something for both adventurers and those who prefer a leisurely pace.

FINDING THE BEST BEACHES IN PORTO VECCHIO

For access to some of the best beaches in Corsica, journey to the stunning region of Porto Vecchio. Whether you’re seeking a secluded getaway in tranquil settings, or want to embark on exciting water-based activities, our bespoke Corsica tours can be tailored to your unique travel preferences.

For more information on things to do in Corsica and to start planning your bespoke tour, contact one of our Travel Experts today.

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