The beaches of Saleccia and Lotu are among the wildest and most beautiful not only in northern Corsica, but on the entire island. Cherished by sun seekers and nature lovers, they offer long stretches of powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear water, with only very limited car access. For most visitors, the boat transfer from Saint Florent is the simplest and most enjoyable way to reach them.
This guide walks you through all the practicalities of getting there by sea, with information on what to expect on each beach, and how to make the most of your day trip. Expect a quintessential Mediterranean adventure amid some of Corsica’s most unspoiled coastal scenery.
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WHY VISIT SALECCIA AND LOTU BEACHES?
The beaches of Saleccia and Lotu provide a bucketful of unspoilt Mediterranean scenery, with turquoise lagoons, white sandy shores and fragrant coastal vegetation. Their remote location keeps the sea waters exceptionally clean, teeming with marine life- a great place for snorkelling around the rocky headlands. They’re also perfect for photography, offering beautiful views and paradisiacal scenery that wouldn’t look out of place in the tropics.
WHERE ARE SALECCIA AND LOTU
Saleccia and Lotu are tucked away on the coast of Désert des Agriates, west of Saint Florent, in northern Corsica. This is a protected and almost completely wild territory with no direct road leading to the coves. You can only reach them by boat, in a 4×4 vehicle along rough tracks or on foot via hiking trails.
IMPORTANT INFO – You may encounter cows wandering freely along both beaches. Although they are used to people, you should keep your distance and avoid approaching the animals. Also, do not keep your food unattended.
WHY IS SAINT FLORENT THE BEST DEPARTURE POINT?
Saint Florent is the closest port town to Saleccia and Lotu. From here, the boat transfer takes around 15-20 minutes across the gulf, depending on sea conditions. Near the harbour, you will find several car parks where you can leave your vehicle. The closest one in the marina is paid, but there is a free option behind the Spar supermarket, just opposite the port. In high season, a large field at the town’s western entrance is also open to visitors to accommodate summer traffic. Wherever you park, you can reach the departure point on foot in just a few minutes.
Saint Florent has a lovely waterfront lined with shops, restaurants and cafés, ideal for a post-beach meal or drink, or to stock up on supplies before heading out for the day.
CHOOSING BETWEEN SALECCIA AND LOTU
Both beaches are undeniably beautiful, but each has its own unique character. If you only have time for one, as most visitors do, the following points can help you decide.
SWIMMING CONDITIONS
Lotu Beach is nestled in a smaller bay with shallow, crystal-clear waters that shimmer in vivid shades of blue and remain calm on most days. Its fine white sand, tinged with subtle pink hues, enhances the water’s remarkable transparency, creating the sensation of swimming in a vast natural pool. On each side, you will find some shade available under the trees. Popular with families, it’s a relaxed cove with stunning views across Cap Corse.
Saleccia, on the other hand, is a long, untamed stretch of coastline with a more lagoon-like feel. Its exceptionally clear water and beautiful shoreline create a striking natural setting. Due to its open-sea position, conditions can be slightly more exposed, with stronger waves on windy days, though swimming and snorkelling remain excellent. During the summer season, the bay is particularly popular with boaters.
CROWDS
It is believed that Lotu is the busier of the two beaches, because it’s the first stop for boat transfers and has a smaller stretch of sand. However, I don’t always find it to be the case. The far end of Lotu remains peaceful, as many visitors, having arrived, immediately continue on foot along the coastal path to Saleccia.
Saleccia, meanwhile, is significantly longer and offers much more space, allowing to comfortably accommodate even large crowds. During the summer months, simply walking further west along the beach is usually enough to find a quieter spot away from the main access area.
FACILITIES
Facilities at both beaches are very limited, so be prepared for an unspoiled, construction-free environment surrounded by wild nature. About 500 metres north of Lotu Beach, along the path, you’ll find Cabane du Lotu, where you can enjoy drinks and meals in an idyllic setting overlooking the coast.
At Saleccia, set back from the beach among the trees, Piniccia di Saleccia offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu of local dishes. At the western end of the bay, Camping U Paradisu provides accommodation and refreshments.
USEFUL TIP – Carry some cash when visiting remote areas of Corsica. Many small businesses and beach restaurants still do not accept card payments.
VISITING BOTH BEACHES – COASTAL PATH
If you want to see both beaches in one day, a great option is to arrive by boat at Lotu and then walk to Saleccia along the coastal path. The walk takes up to 1 hour one way at a relaxed pace, following a well-marked trail with beautiful coastal views. The path is not technically difficult, but it can be hot and exposed, so be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection.
For a quicker return, you can take the inland track instead of following the shoreline. In some sections, the path is sandy. I strongly recommend wearing closed shoes for added comfort. The track is also served by a 4×4 taxi vehicle.
BOAT TRANSFER TO SALECCIA AND LOTU
The easiest and most convenient way to reach both Lotu and Saleccia is by boat transfer from Saint Florent. Tickets can be booked online or purchased at the port with the provider.
Whichever option you choose, I highly recommend reserving your tickets in advance. Sea shuttles to the beaches of the Agriates are extremely popular during the season, and the limited capacity of the boats means departures often sell out quickly.
WHERE TO BOARD
The departure point for transfers to both Lotu and Saleccia is the marina in Saint Florent. Once you arrive at the harbour, look for the Spassighj’Agriate kiosk, where staff will assist with check-in and boarding. If you book your ticket via the GetYourGuide site, you will find the exact position indicated on the information page.
WAITING AREA
It’s a good idea to arrive earlier to allow time for boarding, especially during the busy summer months. Just behind the provider’s kiosk, you’ll find a small shaded seating area where you can wait comfortably for your departure.
PRACTICAL TIP – Bring your ID with you to board the boat.
BOAT TRANSFER TO LOTU
The crossing from Saint Florent to Lotu takes around 15 minutes. The journey is made aboard a larger passenger vessel with comfortable seating and shaded areas, suitable for seniors and families with small children. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Saint Florent Citadel, the distant ruins of Mortella Tower, and the rugged coastline of the Agriates.
Upon arrival, the boat docks at a small pier, allowing for easy access to the shore. From there, it is just a short walk to the beach and swimming area.
BOAT TRANSFER TO SALECCIA
The boat transfer to Saleccia takes approximately 20 minutes and is operated by a fast semi-rigid boat with a smaller passenger capacity than the vessel serving Lotu. Passengers are seated in rows and provided with life jackets before departure.
The experience feels more adventurous and immersive, with the wind in your hair and the sea just metres away. Unlike the larger boats, there is no shade on board. On arrival, you will disembark directly onto the beach, stepping into shallow water, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
USEFUL TIP – Fast semi-rigid boat rides can become quite bumpy when the sea is rough. Travellers with back problems, mobility issues, and pregnant women may find the journey uncomfortable and should consider a bigger vessel.
HOW THE TICKET WORKS
When booking your ticket, select your preferred destination- Lotu or Saleccia- along with your departure date and time. During the high season, boats depart every hour, giving you plenty of flexibility when planning your day.
Your ticket includes both the outbound and return journey. The standard return boat departs five hours later, allowing ample time to relax on the beach, swim, snorkel, or explore the surrounding area before heading back to Saint Florent.
USEFUL TIP – Pets are authorised on board and at the beach.
WHAT TO BRING
There are no facilities on site except for two beach restaurants, and shade is limited, so it’s essential to come well prepared. Below is a simple packing checklist.
- Plenty of water- more than you think you’ll need, especially in summer. If you plan to hike along the coast, bring a light backpack to carry it.
- Snacks or a picnic
- High-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
- A light cover-up or T-shirt for peak sun hours
- A sun umbrella- highly recommended if you plan to spend the day on the beach
- Beach towel
- Snorkelling mask
- Swimwear and a dry change of clothes for the return trip
- Sandals or flip-flops for the beach, plus closed shoes if you intend to walk the coastal path
- A small bag for your rubbish
- An extra layer or windbreaker for the boat ride in the shoulder season, when temperatures can be cooler
USEFUL TIP – The provider rents sun umbrellas for €5 per day at the kiosk by the departure point (price for the 2026 season).
OTHER OPTIONS FOR VISITING LOTU AND SALECCIA FROM SAINT FLORENT
Although this article focuses on the simple boat transfer, there are other exciting ways to visit the dreamy Agriates shores. The best options include:
- An unforgettable sailing tour to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean- Fiume Santu, Lotu, and Saleccia. You will have an opportunity to snorkel in the transparent waters lapping the shores of the Agriates.
- A luxury catamaran trip along the sublime Agriates coast. Snorkel turquoise sea waters and sunbathe, sipping delicious cocktails from the bar. Choose a day trip or a half-day excursion.
- Popular boat tour of Cap Corse and the Agriates. This 6-hour sea adventure includes lunch, and swimming stops at the most enchanting locations such as Nonza, Lotu and Saleccia beaches. Paddleboards and snorkelling equipment are provided.
VISITING THE AGRIATES BEACHES FROM BALAGNE
- Desert des Agriates cruise with swimming from Lumio. Discover Balagne’s coast and the wild shores of the Agriates. Swim in the pure waters of Ghignu, one of Corsica’s prettiest beaches. The tour takes 4 hours.
- Saleccia and Lotu beach boat trip from Ile Rousse. Hop on a boat to discover the white shores of Saleccia and Lotu, paradisiacal beaches bordered by the wild landscapes of the Agriates, on a scenic 2.5-hour-long tour.
- Guided Jeep tour to Lotu and Saleccia from Calvi. Discover the Agriates and its sublime beaches on a guided 9-hour 4×4 tour. Ride through the desert, stop to swim at Lotu and Saleccia, and hike the coastal trail between the coves.
- 4×4 Agriates Desert and beach excursion from Calvi. Join this exciting 4×4 escapade into the heart of Corsica to explore its most untamed corners with a 4-hour stop at Ghignu, one of the island’s wildest beaches.
- 4×4 mountain and Saleccia beach tour from Calvi. Discover some of Corsica’s most beautiful panoramic views as you travel around in a 4×4, learning stories about the island. Enjoy a 2-hour stopover at the idyllic Saleccia beach for a swim.
WHERE TO STAY
To make the most of your time at Saleccia and Lotu, staying in Saint-Florent is the most convenient option. You’ll be close to the harbour in the morning and can return easily in the evening for a shower, dinner, and a relaxing stroll along the marina.
Saint-Florent itself offers a wide range of accommodation, including hotels, apartments, and campsites. Nearby villages and the surrounding countryside also provide charming alternatives if you prefer a quieter base and don’t mind a short drive to the port. Below are some of the most popular places to stay.
- Hotel de la Roya (€€€)
- Hotel Demeure Loredana (€€€)
- Hotel Dolce Notte (€€)
- Hotel Tettola (€)
SAINT FLORENT HOTELS MAP SEARCH
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