Visit Plage de Palombaggia, an archetypal paradise beach near Porto-Vechio on the southeast shores of Corsica. Often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, it offers Caribbean-style scenery of crystal-clear azure waters and sweeps of white-powder sand embraced by fragrant pine groves.
Featured on every brochure advertising Corsica’s charms, this idyllic oasis of unspoilt nature has become the epitome of summer bliss where beach enthusiasts, families and lovers of the outdoors will find their perfect Mediterranean getaway.
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WHERE IS PALOMBAGGIA?
Palombaggia, Corsica’s most beloved beach is nestled on the southeast shore of the island in the region of Porto-Vecchio. Known as a beach lovers’ paradise, this sublime area is home to numerous postcard-perfect coves making it a coastal wonderland for visitors seeking the sea and sand.
Being one of Corsica’s most glamorous destinations where luxury hotels and top-tier residences line the idyllic waterfront, this glorious corner also attracts Hollywood stars, international celebrities and VIPs. Grand Hotel de Cala Rossa stands out as the top spot for prestige leisure.
Stretching 11 km south of the region’s main town, Palombagia is located 30 km north of Bonifacio, 145 km southeast of Ajaccio, the island’s capital city, and 155 km south of Bastia.
Figari is the nearest airport with only 25 km separating it from Porto-Vecchio. Find the best connections to Corsica.
The region of Porto-Vecchio in the southeast is a true corner of paradise and a must-visit destination for lovers of seaside fun. Plage de Palombaggia, Plage de Santa Giulia, and Plage de Rondinara, superb crystal-clear white-sand lagoons are often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
HOW TO GET THERE?
BY CAR
To get to this sublime cove located 10 km south of Porto Vecchio turn left off the main RT10 at the roundabout for Figari and Ajaccio. Follow the road tracing the coastline towards Palombaggia via the village of Piccovaggia for 11 km.
If you arrive from the south (Bonifacio), after 22 km, at the roundabout, take the first exit from the RT10 road for Bocca di L’Oru and continue along the shores until the beach parking.
BY BUS
From the beginning of July to the end of August Corsica Europa Travel provides shuttle services between Porto-Vecchio and the beach of Palombaggia.
Buses operate several locations along a 10-stop itinerary: Camping Arutoli – Camping Matonara – Porto Vecchio bus station – Customs car park – Sainte Catherine car park – Camping U Stabiacciu – Camping Les Jardins du Golfe – Camping U Pirellu – Camping Bella Vista – Piccovaggia – Palombaggia.
The entire journey takes 1 hour and tickets (€11 return trip) may be purchased on the bus. Consult timetables at https://www.portovecchio-tourisme.corsica/ligne-bus/navette-porto-vecchio-plage-palombaggia/.
PARKING AT PALOMBAGGIA
You may leave your vehicle at the large car park located on the northern side of the beach. In July and August, spaces fill up quickly therefore it’s best to arrive early. On-site you will find free toilets.
Parking/camping Ipini located next to the main car park provides places not only for cars (€4) but also for motorhomes. If you wish to stay for the night you will pay €10.
Alternatively, you can find free parking spots on the road above the beach. Make sure not to stop on the yellow line.
Gastronomic establishments situated on the beach also offer spaces for vehicles but you will be charged a premium price for this convenience (€10-€20), however, if you stay for a restaurant meal the fee will be deducted from your bill.
THE BEACH
Palombaggia is Corsica’s most revered beach for a good reason. With clear intensely blue water and snow-white silky sand, it is strikingly beautiful. Stretching for almost 2 kilometres, its heavenly shoreline is broken into several sections by red porphyry headlands with umbrella-shaped Maritime pine trees backing the shimmering bay.
This paradisiacal succession of picture-perfect coves faces the archipelago of Cebricale Islands dotting the sea 200 meters off the coast. Home to various species of sea birds, the protected rock formations may be accessed by boat departing from Porto-Vecchio.
BAIE DE TAMARICCIU
Baie de Tamaricciu, a much-photographed natural landmark marks the middle part of Palombaggia. This shallow, turquoise cove was best known for a beautiful, over 100-year-old solitary umbrella pine rising almost directly from the water, adding charm to the famous seascape. Sadly, in 2019, due to its age, it had to be cut down. The disappearance of this Corsican symbol does not take away from the natural beauty of the Tamaricciu bay which continues to attract beach lovers from around the world.
CALA DI LUME
Cala di Lume, the main section of Palombaggia spreading north from Tamaricciu is supervised in high season. In 2014 it was classified as a ‘non-smoking’ beach and it also offers facilities for people with reduced mobility. Pets on leash are allowed. At Cala di Lume’s northernmost tip is Palombaggia’s spacious, pine tree-shaded car park.
PLAGE DE LA FOLACA
South of Tamaricciu is a smaller but equally sublime bay – Plage de la Folaca. Its powder sands can be accessed via a narrow, overgrown path leading down the hill from the road above the beach (10-15min) or the parking/camping Acciaghju.
PLAGE D’ASCIAGHJU
The southernmost bay Plage d’Asciaghju is not as famous as its northern counterparts and therefore less crowded. With a relaxed atmosphere and a sheltered position Asciaghju is popular with families but also guests from the adjoining campsite. Dogs are welcome.
SANDY OR PEBBLY?
Palombaggia boasts pristine powder-soft white sand in each of its bays. It’s a sun lovers’ paradise where visitors may stroll barefoot along its scenic shoreline. However, the rocky headlands descending into the sea that separate Palombaggia’s coves grant excellent snorkelling and underwater world exploration with colourful fish in abundance.
Between Tamaricciu and Cala di Lume, enormous granite boulders tumble into the Mediterranean creating a Seychelles-like beach seascape.
BEACH FACILITIES
Although Palombaggia offers all necessary services and facilities you will find that they blend well into the omnipresent Mediterranean nature without disturbing the ‘wild beach’ ambience.
Each bay is home to a couple of restaurants and bars with prices reflecting their offering. However, as a rule of thumb, you may expect to pay for your meal more at Palombaggia than at other, less-known low-key Corsican beaches. The food is very tasty and prepared with fresh ingredients.
Some gastronomic establishments offer sunbeds for rent (around €40 for a deckchair with a mattress topper and a towel) but in August you need to book well in advance due to a very high demand.
At the beach, you may also practice watersports, hire a jet ski or an underwater scooter.
WATER TEMPERATURE
In summer, sea water temperature may reach even 27°C allowing for comfortable and relaxing bathing. In the shoulder season, it oscillates between 21°C-25°C providing beachgoers with more refreshing but equally pleasant dips.
CLEANLINESS
Palombaggia, just like other Corsican beaches, is very clean with transparent water and pristine shores. Local communities and environmental organizations often organize beach cleaning events but it is ultimately up to each individual to make sure that no rubbish is left behind. You may throw away your waist in the bin at the car park.
JELLYFISH
Due to changing water currents and winds the presence of jellyfish at the beach is unpredictable. Their stings are unpleasant and may even turn deadly for those who are allergic. Before swimming, it is advisable to scan the sea surface in the vicinity. As Palombaggia boasts some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean, you will quickly know if it is safe to go in.
Luckily, jellyfish, known as méduse in France, are not a common occurrence, but they do appear, often following heavy winds. Local pharmacies provide creams and ointments that relieve jellyfish stings.
MOSQUITOS
At Palombaggia, with the magical golden hour during the sunset also arrive mosquitos. If you plan to spend the evening on the beach bring an effective repellent to protect yourself from the hungry insects. Once the sun sets, they become less active and bothersome.
PALOMBAGGIA IN PEAK-SEASON
Palombaggia has become a victim of its own popularity with crowds flocking in in July and August. To best enjoy the charms of this stunning bay arrive early when the morning light beautifully illuminates the crystalline sea surface, and conclude the beach day with an al fresco lunch taking in five-star views of the Mediterranean.
If you arrive before the sunset, you will have an opportunity to admire the flamboyant Palombaggia nature in all its glory. Rocky peninsulas will light up in red hues of porphyry and the surrounding pine groves will take on a majestic, dark appearance. An evening apéro on the shore will leave you with long-lasting memories.
Outside the season, you may have this gorgeous beach all to yourself.
IS PALOMBAGGIA FAMILY-FRIENDLY?
Palombaggia is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Corsica. Its safe waters shallow enough even for small children are crystal clear. The sandy seabed slopes gently allowing the little ones to enjoy outdoor fun easily getting in and out of water. Rocky headlands descending into the sea grant good snorkelling for the whole family.
Tall trees cradling the blue bay provide much-needed shade while refreshments and cool drinks may be purchased in beach bars.
In peak season the main part of Palombaggia is supervised by lifeguards, however, avoid the beach during storms and in the time of strong winds as the waves can get very high.
Best things to do in Corsica with children.
BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR PALOMBAGGIA
- Casadelmar (€€€)
- Casa Santini x Roc Seven (€€€)
- Les Bergeries De Palombaggia (€€)
- Hôtel Mariosa (€€)
- Roc E Fiori Hôtel (€)
- Ranch Campo Palombaggia (€)
- Les Roches Blanches (€)
- Hotel San Giovanni (€)
BEST ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS NEAR PALOMBAGGIA
- Boat trip to Iles Cerbicales, Iles Lavezzi, and Rondinara from Porto Vecchio. Enjoy a day trip to Corsica’s glorious coastal landscapes. Explore stunning islands reminiscent of tropical locations, admire the clifftop town of Bonifacio, and snorkel in the azure Mediterranean waters. Take in the views of Palombaggia on your way back.
- Boat tour to Piantarella, Roccapina, and Tizzano from the beach of Santa Giulia. Discover Corsica’s enchanting south coast on a 9-hour boat trip, swim in the transparent waters of the sea, and enjoy a snack at the water’s edge. The fast 12-seater departs from the shores of the Santa Giulia beach.
- Evening cruise with an aperitif and a swim stop at Saint Cyprien from Porto Vecchio. Set out on a 2-hour-long afternoon tour to view the magical coastline at sunset. Swim, snorkel, or sea scooter at the Saint Cyprien beach before tasting the local wine and charcuterie. You will have access to the shower and toilet onboard.
PALOMBAGGIA OR SANTA GIULIA?
Both, the beach of Palombaggia and the bay of Santa Giulia are truly stunning, yet very different in appearance and an overall ambience.
Palombaggia is more exposed, wider and bigger. With no buildings or other infrastructure in its visible vicinity, this wild cove asserts a virginal, untouched identity. In stormy weather, its captivating scenery embodies the untamed power of nature.
Santa Giulia, on the other hand, stuns with its fairytale, exotic seascape comprising a horseshoe-shaped aquamarine lagoon dominated by lush maquis-carpeted mountains. Idyllic residences and luxury villas dotting the hills above the beach remind visitors of its prime location.
In high season both beaches are overrun with sun worshipers which, surprisingly, does not deprive them of their seductive allure. Visit both places and decide for yourself if you prefer the Caribbean-style Palombaggia or the Seychelles-like heaven of Santa Giulia. It’s difficult to go wrong with either.
OTHER BEAUTIFUL BEACHES AROUND PORTO-VECCHIO
- RONDINARA BEACH – one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, a shell-shaped paradise of turquoise water and pristine nature. Located halfway between Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio it’s a perfect place for families and beach lovers looking for a secluded getaway.
- CALA ROSSA BEACH – a beautiful bay known not just for its strikingly emerald water and golden sand but also for being home to one of the most luxurious hotels on the island – Grand Hotel de Cala Rossa, where celebrities like to relax.
- SAINT CYPRIEN BEACH – this 3 3-kilometre-long cove of soft pearly sand and aquamarine, crystal-clear water surrounded by perfumed Mediterranean scrubland is a hit among lovers of nature looking for a perfect beachside setting and a convivial atmosphere.
- PINARELLO BEACH – located north of Porto Vecchio it has all the elements needed for an idyllic seaside vacation- kilometres of delicate white sand, transparent, shallow water, a charming marina and an abundance of untouched nature backing this heavenly spot.
15 best beaches in Corsica for lovers of sea, sun and sand – the ultimate guide.
Bonifacio travel guide – discover Corsica’s top destination.
Top beaches of south-east Corsica.
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