The Most Beautiful Beaches of Porto-Vecchio
There is something almost magical about the beaches of Porto-Vecchio. This nature reserve, famous around the world, is one of the most sought-after parts of Corsica, and it is easy to see why. You don't need to travel to the tropics to find beaches of such splendour. These beaches are ideal for lazing in the sun, swimming and water sports, making the most of your holiday with family or friends.
So we are pleased to present our top 10 most beautiful beaches within 30 minutes of Porto-Vecchio. From small coves and wide stretches of fine sand to translucent waters and a peaceful atmosphere, whatever you choose, you are sure not to be disappointed!
#1 Santa Giulia Beach
To the south-east of Porto-Vecchio, just 300 m from our residence, lies the magnificent Santa Giulia bay. It is rightly one of the most famous beaches in Corsica. A true lagoon straight out of a postcard, the bay is characterised by its view of the mountains with their feet in the water. On the northern side of the bay there is another small beach, very close to the Fort of Santa Giulia.
#2 Palombaggia Beach
It is impossible not to fall under the spell of this beach, which feels like the end of the world. Turquoise water, maritime pines and fine sand: this beach has every feature of the paradise beach par excellence. It competes with Santa Giulia for the title of most beautiful beach in Corsica.
Off Palombaggia, you can see the Cerbicale Islands, which are part of the nature reserve. Pietricaggiosa, Île Piana, Île de Maestro Maria and Île Forana make up the Cerbicale archipelago. Please note that these islands are protected and serve as nesting sites for certain protected bird species, such as the peregrine falcon and the Sardinian warbler.
#3 Rondinara Beach
Located between Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio, the legendary Rondinara beach deserves its place in our top 3. It embodies perfection: pure, crystal-clear water, unspoilt nature, white sand... There is nothing better for sunbathing and cooling off in water at the ideal temperature. What is striking about Rondinara is the absence of any surrounding housing, which is rare enough to mention, so make the most of it.
#4 Tamaricciu Beach
Near Palombaggia, Tamaricciu beach is another gem of the Porto-Vecchio region. It is narrower than its big sister Palombaggia, and the rocks play an imposing role on this beach, but that is what makes its success. The famous photo below is often associated with Palombaggia, yet it is indeed Tamaricciu Beach.
These shallow waters are ideal for families with young children. Here, the seabed is well suited to mask and snorkel for discovering the surrounding marine fauna and flora.
#5 Saint Cyprien Bay
Located next to Lecci, Saint Cyprien Bay has nothing to envy the beaches of Palombaggia Bay. Saint-Cyprien Bay is less well known than the previous beaches, which helps it keep a calm atmosphere. You can recognise Saint Cyprien beach by its red rocks. During the summer season, the beach is supervised.
#6 Carataggio Beach
Carataggio Beach, located north of Palombaggia, is an intimate beach. In fact, it is not accessible by car: you need to walk about 15 minutes to reach it. This isolation is a delight for holidaymakers looking for tranquillity. As you might expect, as everywhere in the Palombaggia area, the water is crystal clear and the sand is fine, perfect for enjoying an afternoon in the sun.
#7 Pinarellu Beach
Located 5 minutes from Sainte-Lucie de Porto-Vecchio, Pinarellu was originally a small maritime trading village. Its beach is a vast expanse of white sand, ideal for families wishing to enjoy the sea in summer. There are many beach bars nearby where you can easily grab a bite to eat.
#8 Acciaju Bay
Acciaju Beach lies south of Tamaricciu Beach. This bay, lined with maritime pines, is well placed for snorkelling thanks to the rocks that shelter many fish. As everywhere in the Palombaggia area, the site is protected, so please be mindful of your impact on the beaches.
#9 Porto-Novo Beach
Here is Porto-Novo beach. Located in the gulf of the same name, Porto-Novo is sheltered from gusts of wind. Its difficult access makes it a little-visited beach, despite its turquoise water.
#10 Benedettu Beach
This beach is located on the peninsula north of the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio, near Cala Rossa. It has the advantage of being easily reached by road, and a nearby car park will make things easier. On arrival, you will discover a beach stretching 500 m where you can relax in the sun in complete peace.
