Discover the best beaches in Corsica with our detailed Corsica beaches map, family-friendly beach guides, and top Corsica beach resorts. Plan your Corsica holiday with our guide and explore the best swimming beaches in west Corsica for sun, sand, adventure and epic views.
How to use this guide
The table of contents above allows you to quickly navigate to the sections you need, such as beach packing list essentials, the best time to visit, and discovering the best beaches on Corsica.
This guide is based on real-life experiences and is designed to help you plan a flexible and responsible trip. Remember to always leave beaches better than you found them, whether by picking up litter or avoiding disturbing wildlife. That way, everyone can enjoy them for decades to come.
The wild coast of Corsica is dominated by mountains on the west, resulting in remote beaches and dramatic scenery rarely found elsewhere in the Mediterranean. The beaches in Corsica are some of the best for snorkelling, wildlife spotting, and even offer spectacular hikes on the way to them.
This guide will also share family-friendly beaches, but we enjoy the thrill of packing light and going on an adventure to find a beach that is likely quiet, peaceful, and exciting to reach. Corsica is one of the best destinations for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and has wonderful beaches for those who love the salty sea air. These are some of the best beaches in Corsica for families, with shallow water and safe swimming areas to enjoy on a warm sunny day.
We’ll cover the best time to visit Corsica for beach enjoyment, our favourite beach packing essentials, how to get around, beach access, and which beaches are the best on the wild west coast.
When is the best time to visit West Corsica?
Direct flights from the UK to Corsica are seasonal, operating only from May to September. If you’re travelling outside these months, you can still reach Corsica via flights from mainland France, usually connecting through Paris or Nice.
The best time to visit Corsica is during the shoulder months of May, June, and September, before the peak summer holidays. The weather is generally warm and dry, and the sea is at its warmest. If you prefer fewer crowds and ideal conditions for hiking and swimming, June and September are perfect.
These shoulder months also offer the best deals on flights and accommodation. For the warmest air and sea temperatures, July and August are ideal, but expect the island to be busier and too hot for hiking.
We visited Corsica in early June and enjoyed a week of beautiful sunshine, with temperatures ranging from 25–32°C. Most of our hikes were early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, and we often spent the afternoons cooling off at nearby beaches or natural pools. In May and June, the maquis is in blossom, filling the air with a lovely scent while hiking.
How to get around Corsica?
Driving in Corsica
As a mountainous island, driving in Corsica is an adventure in itself, offering some of the most scenic drives in Europe. Winding mountain roads hug the coastline, naturally forcing you to slow down and take in the views. Roads can be narrow and steep in places, so don’t rush. Give yourself plenty of time to get from A to B.
Watch out for coaches and trucks on these roads and give them priority. Pull into a lay-by to let them pass. You may also encounter cyclists or hikers on certain sections, so give them plenty of space when overtaking, and never attempt it on a corner.
While most roads are in good condition, occasional potholes can appear, so stay alert. Motorbikes are also common, drawn to Corsica by its winding, S-shaped touring roads.
Renting a car or campervan is perfect for exploring Corsica’s diverse landscapes at your own pace.
Do you need a 4x4 to drive around Corsica?
While some of Corsica’s most epic beaches are only accessible by 4x4, especially in the northern Desert des Agriates, this list includes beaches that can be reached by boat, on foot, or by car.
We hired a small car, which was perfect for navigating windy, narrow streets and mountain roads, and made it easy to squeeze into tight parking spaces.
What to expect on the beaches of Corsica?
West Corsica is known for its wild, rugged beauty. The landscape features dramatic cliffs, maquis-covered hills, and both pebbly and sandy beaches. Some stretches of coastline are completely remote, accessible only by foot or boat, while others are easier to reach by car and offer basic facilities.
Around 40% of Corsica is protected to preserve its natural environment. Wildlife sightings, including dolphins, fish, and ospreys, are common from the beaches. The region is also well known for its extensive seagrass meadows, which support rich marine biodiversity.
Beaches in west Corsica can range from peaceful, secluded sands to livelier spots near towns, so it’s worth planning your visits according to the experiences you’re seeking, whether adventure, seclusion, or comfort.
Corsica Beach Tips
Here are a few things we wish we had known before visiting the beaches in Corsica. These tips will help you make the most of your time, plan the best times to visit each beach, and ensure you enjoy your stay on the island.
From avoiding the busiest periods to knowing which beaches are easiest to access, a little preparation can make a big difference to your Corsica beach experience.
Arrive early for parking - Parking is limited on secluded beaches, and some more convenient beaches, especially during peak summer. Early arrival increases your chances of finding a spot.
Check swimming conditions - Look at the weather forecast and sea conditions to see if it’s safe to swim. West Corsica can experience strong Mistral winds, which create rough waves and strong currents, making swimming unsafe.
Bring shade and sun protection - Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and think about taking an umbrella or sun shelter, as shade is rare on most beaches.
Stay hydrated - Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking to remote beaches.
Most beaches don’t have Lifeguards - Lifeguards are found at beaches near towns and are usually available during the peak summer months. Most other beaches on Corsica don’t have lifeguards, so swim with caution.
Hike to secluded beaches – Hiking or taking a boat often leads to lovely, quiet corners of Corsica and is well worth the effort. Girolata can get busy around lunch and late afternoon, as it is a popular stop on Scandola Nature Reserve boat excursions, so if you plan to hike here, it’s worth keeping this in mind.
Pack essentials - Many beaches have limited or no facilities, so bring food, drinks, towels, and anything else you may need. You’ll find a detailed packing list in the next section.
Variety of beaches - West Corsica beaches range from pebble to soft sandy expanses like Arone and Chuini.
Carry cash - More of the remote cafés and car parks often don’t accept cards, so bring cash with you.
Look out for wildlife - Dolphins are common, ospreys can also be spotted, and occasionally, even a cow may wander onto more remote beaches!
Focus on one region - Corsica is one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean. Keep your plans flexible and concentrate on one area to avoid feeling rushed and to allow plenty of time to relax.
What to Pack for the Beaches in Corsica
When we head to the beach, we try to pack as lightly as possible since we’ll likely have to walk a bit to get there, and that’s on top of carrying our camera bags and snorkelling gear. Packing for the beach can feel like you’re trying to squeeze as much as you can in your Mary Poppins bag, hoping it can all fit.
Well, we’ve put together the ultimate list to keep your bag light while also feeling like you’ve got everything you need for the best day on the beach. Depending on your preference for convenience or remote, wild beaches, this will also change what you will need to pack.
Reef-safe suncream
Food and snacks (heat-proof)
Reusable insulated bottle to keep water cold (1.5 litres per person)
Shade or hat
Lightweight towel
Snorkelling gear
Swimwear
Sunglassess
Lip balm with SPF
Rash guard or light cover-up
Compact beach umbrella or pop-up sun shelter
Bag or container for rubbish
Dry bag for valuables
Snorkel mask and fins
Underwater camera or waterproof phone case
Portable power bank
Small first aid kit
Cash in small notes
Map or offline GPS app
Light sweater
Water shoes or flip flops
Hiking sandals or trainers
Best Beaches in West Corsica
The beaches on the west coast of Corsica are some of the most dramatic and pristine beaches on the island. Discover quiet coves, framed by red granite rocks, only accessible on foot and stretches of soft golden sand surrounded by wild maquis hills.
Ficaghjola Beach
Hidden in the heart of the Calanques de Piana, Plage de Ficaghjola is a captivating cove where a gap in the rocks reveals a slice of paradise overlooking the Gulf of Porto. Vibrant turquoise waters peek through the trees as you make your way down to one of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica.
The dramatic setting adds to Ficaghjola’s charm and photogenic beauty. Snorkelling is a must, with crystal-clear waters around the rocks at either end of the beach. Shade is limited, so bring a hat or some form of shelter. Facilities on the beach are minimal, with just a few huts, but the car park has a café and toilet.
Beach Access | A steep, narrow, winding road leads to a car park, from which it’s a 5-minute walk to the shore. Parking is free but relatively small, so during busy months, arrive early. Alternatively, you can reach the beach via a 1.5-hour hike starting in Piana; the trail is steep, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Girolata Beach
Girolata Beach is a secluded pebble beach located in the Gulf of Girolata, within the protected Scandola Nature Reserve. The beach sits in a sheltered bay, tucked away in a remote fishing village that is not accessible by road. The village is guarded by a small fortress on a peninsula, keeping a watchful eye on the boats coming and going in the bay. The views from Spaggia Girolata are breathtaking, with towering cliffs, rolling hills, and pristine waters.
Although it is a secluded beach, many visitors arrive by boat from Porto as part of tours around the Scandola Nature Reserve. It can get busy during the summer months, with tours stopping for lunch at the village restaurants, but the village is beautiful and worth exploring. Several small nearby beaches are within walking distance, offering quieter spots away from the tour groups.
BOOK | Boat trip to Girolata Beach and Scandola Nature Reserve
For those seeking a scenic hike, take the postman’s trail, known as the Sentier du Facteur, a 6.5 km walk from Osani to Girolata. Along the trail, you’ll pass Tuara Beach, spot cows and goats roaming freely, and you might even see them on the beach.
Beach Access | Girolata Beach is accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, making it ideal for those seeking a remote getaway. Bear in mind, however, that it can get busy during the day with boat tours, especially around lunch. The hike from Osani takes around four hours for a round trip.
Porto Beach
After your boat trip around Scandola, enjoy a late lunch in Porto, where a variety of restaurants serve traditional French cuisine, Italian pizza, and Corsican specialities. Porto Beach is a pebble beach with some sand, located just south of the main village, making it a convenient spot to relax and cool down. The beach isn’t ideal for swimming as it shelves quickly.
There is rock climbing on the southern edge of the beach, and a beachfront restaurant serves fresh seafood and drinks. One of the best places to watch the sunset on the island is from the Genoese tower overlooking the Gulf of Porto. You can also walk across the footbridge to the main village, where you’ll find more restaurants, shops, and a visitor centre.
Beach Access | There are two large free car parks near the beach. When leaving the main road, head left for the car park closest to the beach; the other is nearer to the village.
Arone Beach
Arone Beach is one of the most beautiful golden sandy beaches in western Corsica, a family-friendly stretch with plenty of space to find a quiet spot by the water. Only a short drive south of the Calanques de Piana UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plage d’Arone is set in a sheltered bay perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
There are sunbeds to rent for shade if you plan to stay for the day, as there is no shade on the beach. For food, head over to Le Casabianca restaurant on the western end for a serene setting and delicious, fresh food. It’s the ideal spot to relax after walking the Capo Rosso trail, only a 10-minute drive to Arone Beach.
Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months for peace of mind. The landscape surrounding Plage d’Arone is movie-set worthy, framed by the maquis-covered hills of Monte Ravu. Low-lying rocks hug each end of the beach, ideal for explorers and snorkellers.
Beach Access | There is a small free car park, so it’s worth arriving early during the summer months.
Chiuni Beach
Tucked between Piana and Cargèse, Chiuni Beach is a peaceful stretch of golden sand with exceptionally clear water. Plage de Chiuni extends for over 800 metres, offering plenty of space to find a spot on the sand. The shallow water makes it perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and it’s especially suitable for families.
As you drive towards the beach, you’ll pass Ranch Cargèse, where you can enjoy horse riding along the shore while taking in sweeping views of the mountains and ocean. If you’re not one to sit still for long, take a walk to the Genoese tower of Punta d’Omingna, which offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Sagone.
The southern rocky edge of the beach is excellent for snorkelling, giving you the chance to spot the colourful fish that thrive in Corsica’s waters. Nearby, you can stay at a Corsican beach resort with direct access to the beach for a comfortable stay.
Beach Access | The beach is easily accessible by road from Cargèse towards Porto, with parking available along the shoreline and no steep paths to reach the water.
tuara Beach
This was one of our favourite beaches on the west coast of Corsica. Tuara Beach is an adventure to reach, located in the heart of the Scandola Nature Reserve. Plage de Tuara is completely untouched, with no facilities, just epic views and the chance for some spectacular seagrass snorkelling.
Monte Senino forms a dramatic backdrop, giving this spot a truly wild feel. With the occasional goat roaming across the rocks, the setting feels unique and remote. The washed-up seagrass creates a soft layer over the pebbles, making the beach surprisingly comfortable to sit on, almost like a natural cushion for your towel.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially as the walk back to the car park is mostly uphill. We even spotted a western whip snake on the path, so keep your eyes open and wear sturdy shoes for the hike.
Beach Access | There’s a small car park above Osani, and the trail starts just to the right of the café on the corner. Tuara Beach is only accessible on foot or by boat, which makes it a much quieter, more remote corner of Corsica; you may even have it to yourself.
The hike to Plage de Tuara takes around 45 minutes each way (about 1.5 hours round trip). It’s part of the postman’s trail (Sentier du Facteur), a 6.5 km path from Osani to Girolata. Along the way, you’ll pass Tuara Beach, often spotting cows and goats wandering freely, sometimes even on the beach. You can also continue to Girolata, a small, remote fishing village.
Péru Beach
Located just north of the beautiful Greek village of Cargèse, Plage de Péru is easily accessible, offering nearly 1 km of soft sand and calm, turquoise water. Visible from the village, the beach is framed by gently sloping green hills and has a relaxed, open feel.
At the northern end of the beach, you’ll find the start of the hike to the 16th-century Omigna Genoese watchtower, a scenic walk with incredible views across the bay. The beach is ideal for families, with on-site facilities, several beachfront restaurants, and safe, shallow water for swimming.
It’s a quieter alternative to popular sandy beaches like Arone, with plenty of space to unwind and the option to rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the bay. Nearby, there are Corsican beach resorts that provide easy access to the beach.
Beach Access | There is a large car park in Cargèse near the roundabout, where a footpath leads down to the sand. Alternatively, there is a smaller car park directly next to the middle section of the beach. Whether you’re arriving by car or walking from the village, Péru is one of the most accessible and welcoming beaches on the west coast.
Menasina Beach
Menasina beach is a quiet, small sandy cove just south of Cargèse, it’s hidden from view and is tucked away on the west coast of Corsica. This beach offers some of the best soft sand and clear turquoise water to enjoy on a warm sunny day. It’s ideal for swimming and snorkelling with good water clarity on a calm day. On a rough day, the winds can pick up quickly here and can become dangerous, so take caution as there is no lifeguards on this beach.
As it’s a bit more of a challenge to get to, this means it will be much quieter than other, easier to get to beaches, even in summer. It’s a challenging 10-minute walk down a path surrounded by cacti, and watch out for barbed wire too, but is well worth the effort. This is another lovely, quieter alternative to Arone, with beautiful, crystal-clear water and a relaxing atmosphere.
Beach Access | There is a small lay-by car park off the D81 with space for a few cars. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to the beach. You'll see a sign that says ‘Plage’ with an arrow pointing down. Follow this path and be sure to wear good footwear, as it’s a downhill trail with cacti and some bits of barbed wire in places.
Bussaghlia Beach
Only 5 km north of Porto, Bussaglia Beach is set in a stunning location overlooking the Gulf of Porto, with Capo d’Orto providing a dramatic backdrop. This large pebble beach is much quieter than Porto itself and offers a beautiful spot to sit and watch the sunset, as the granite peaks glow fiery red in the evening light.
Plage de Bussaglia lies within a protected area of the Gulf of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its rich marine life and spectacular natural scenery, it’s well worth a visit. The beach is best suited to confident swimmers, as waves and currents can be strong. It’s also an ideal spot for kayaking, with several small coves to explore nearby.
For the most breathtaking views of both the beach and the surrounding mountains, head to the northern end. A small restaurant is also located on the beach, serving pizza, sushi, and fresh seafood, perfect for enjoying a meal with a sea view.
Beach Access | Bussaglia Beach is easily reached by car, with parking a short walk from the shore. From Porto, follow the D81 for 5 km, then turn onto the D724; the beach car park is about 1 km ahead.
Gradelle Beach
Another beautiful pebble beach in the protected nature reserve along the Gulf of Porto, Gradelle Beach is surrounded by Corsican maquis, giving it a truly wild and remote feel. Located not far from Osani, it offers some of the best views in the area, looking out across the dramatic Calanques de Piana.
A nearby campsite provides easy access, with a short walk down to plage de Gradelle, which itself boasts incredible views. On the shore, Santa Maria restaurant serves cold drinks and fresh seafood. Visitors can also hire kayaks to explore the spectacular coastline.
Beach access | Gradelle Beach is accessible by car, with parking available nearby, followed by a short walk down to the shoreline.
Where to Stay in Corsica
Read our in-depth guide of campsites, hotels and unique accommodation and the best places to stay in Corsica.
For our week's adventure in Corsica, we stayed at Capo Rosso Hotel for our entire trip. The hotel is in a fantastic location to explore the west coast and has the most beautiful views of the Calanques de Piana over the Gulf of Porto.
BOOK | Capo Rosso Hotel, Piana
This easy-to-use map below will help you find your dream stay in Corsica. Select your dates in the search bar below and compare the best prices across the main booking sites to show you the best deals.
Read our Corsica Guides
7 Days in West Corsica Itinerary
Best Beaches in West Corsica
Where to stay in West Corsica
Best places to eat in West Corsica
A Guide to the Capo Rosso Hike
Chestnut Trail and Natural Pools in Evisa
