Plage de Santa Giulia, located in southeast Corsica near Porto-Vecchio, is often hailed as one of the Mediterranean’s hidden gems. Some even call it the Seychelles of Europe. This idyllic beach is, indeed, truly mesmerizing.
A crescent-shaped aquamarine lagoon framed by verdant, maquis-covered hills creates a dreamy, exotic-looking setting perfect for relaxation and adventure. Crystal-clear waters are shallow and calm while the soft sand dazzles with brightly reflected Corsican sunlight.
Santa Giulia offers a variety of activities, including water sports like paddle boarding, water skiing, and snorkelling, making it a favourite among families and thrill-seekers alike.
However, it is also a place cherished by couples who envisage a romantic beach break during the shoulder season. As day turns to dusk, Santa Giulia transforms into a magical realm, where the gentle sound of waves mingles with the melodies chanted by Mediterranean cicadas.
Once uncharted and wild, this sublime bay has become a victim of its charm, attracting crowds in the highest tourist season. Before you visit Santa Giulia, learn all you need to know to make your stay unforgettable.
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WHERE IS SANTA GIULIA?
Santa Giulia is nestled on the picturesque southeast coast of Corsica, home to numerous famous beaches including the crown jewel Plage de Palombaggia. Situated 8 km south of Porto Vecchio and 22 km north of Bonifacio it can be easily reached by car.
The neatest airport is located in Figari, but you may also arrive in Ajaccio or Bastia. For travellers arriving on a ferry, the ports of Porto Vecchio, Bonifacio, Propriano, Bastia, or Ajaccio are the most convenient.
HOW TO GET THERE?
BY CAR
To reach the stunning Santa Giulia cove by car from Porto Vecchio, continue on RT10 for around 5 km before turning left in the direction of Marine de Santa Giulia.
Alternatively, continue for another 1.5 km on the main RT10 road turning left towards Santa Giulia where you will find a large car park behind the beach.
BY BUS
Many tourists, including families and international visitors, as well as seasonal workers, prefer using the beach shuttle to avoid the hassle of finding a parking space and skip high parking fees.
In July and August, Rapides Bleus (https://www.rapides-bleus.com/santa-giulia/) provides daily bus access to the Santa Giulia beach from Porto Vecchio. The shuttle service has five stops: Camping Arutoli – Camping Matonara – Bus station (Porto-Vecchio) – Sainte Catherine car park – Santa Giulia beach. The whole journey takes around 40 minutes.
You may purchase tickets directly from the driver on the bus. Single rate is €7 (one way) or €11 (round trip). A round journey 5-day package is €45. Children from 2-6 years pay €4 and €6. Transport for the youngest ones is free.
PARKING
Both access roads culminate in dedicated parking areas near Santa Giulia’s shores. Depending on the location, the seasonal fees range from €5-€20 for a day’s use. The charge may be deducted from the price of a restaurant meal at the beach. Payments are accepted in cash.
In July and August, parking lots, despite the premium tariff, fill up quickly so arriving early is advisable.
BOOK A BOAT TRIP FROM BONIFACIO
Boat trip in the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve. A speedboat tour to some of the most scenic corners of Corsica. Enjoy views of the Genoese tower of Capicciolu, the Lavezzi Archipelago with its stunning beaches, and the Bay of Fazzio. Go for a dip in crystal-clear sea waters.
THE BEACH
Santa Giulia is a 2-kilometre-long spellbinding stretch of paradise, also notorious for being one of the three most ‘Istagrammable’ beaches in Corsica. Nestled in a postcard-perfect bay, its horseshoe-shaped lagoon shimmers in shades of aquamarine, framed by lush, maquis-covered hills. The soft, white-sand seabed shelves very gently inviting visitors to play and relax on the calm, wave-free shore. Beneath the crystal-clear waters lies a vibrant underwater world, teeming with colourful fish, perfect for snorkelling adventures.
The southernmost part of the beach towards the Moby Dick resort is considered more seductive. Oozing a tropical feel it boasts impossibly transparent water peppered with rounded granite boulders and secluded coves. The northern end features quintessentially Mediterranean nature and is often less frequented than the popular central part.
Surprisingly, although balmy, the water temperature is cooler than in other parts of the coast, making summer dips pleasantly refreshing.
WATERSPORTS
With nautical centres and equipment rentals readily available at the beach, both beginners and seasoned athletes can enjoy various aquatic adventures.
Adrenaline junkies may practice jet skiing, water skiing or flyboarding while those who prefer a more leisurely experience will enjoy paddle boarding and kayaking, allowing them to explore the crystal-clear lagoon at their own pace.
Santa Giulia is also known for its vibrant scuba diving scene, where guided sessions reveal the underwater wonders of Corsica’s marine life.
Families, on the other hand, will appreciate the gentle slope of the beach, making it safe for children to play, swim, and paddle in the shallow waters.
BOOK A BOAT TRIP FROM SANTA GIULIA
Boat trip to Piantarella, Roccapina, and Tizzano. 9-hour tour to discover Corsica’s captivating south coast, swim in the Mediterranean’s clear waters, savour a snack on the pristine shore. The boat is limited to 12 participants.
BARS AND RESTAURANTS
Visitors can relax at beachside restaurants and bars, savouring local cuisine while soaking in breathtaking views of the lagoon. Due to Santa Giulia’s prime location, on the celebrity-frequented stretch of the coast, and its unavoidable popularity, the prices remain high.
Beach venues offer sun loungers with prices starting at €35, and access to showers. In the highest season, it’s worth making an early reservation, especially on weekends when the locals also visit the bay.
SMOKING
Santa Giulia is one of a dozen Corsica’s smoke-free beaches. The ban was introduced to limit the use of cigarettes in public spaces and to help preserve the environment.
In practice, this measure remains ineffective with no monitoring or a fine-issuing system in place. Visitors are asked to collect their cigarette buts and other waste before leaving the beach.
DOGS
Dogs are welcome on the Santa Giulia beach but should remain on a leash. Outside the season, the lagoon’s long shoreline is a great place to enjoy relaxing strolls with your pet.
JELLYFISH
Sometimes, Plage de Santa Giulia may become infested with the bothersome jellyfish. Luckily, the bay’s water is so clear that you will be able to easily spot these marine creatures. A good rule of thumb is to carefully scan the water surface before entering.
Depending on the currents and local winds, jellyfish may appear in coastal areas posing health risks, particularly to those who are allergic to their stings. Read this post to learn more about health and safety hazards in Corsica.
MOSQUITOES
On its west side, the beach is bordered by Etang de Santa Giulia, a coastal freshwater lagoon renowned for its rich biodiversity, serving as a vital ecological habitat. Designated as a natural area of ecological interest, it supports a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds and endemic plant species.
As may be expected, wetlands welcome not only flamingos but also mosquitos. At sunset or sunrise, when the insects become the most active, protect yourself with a light repellent to avoid unpleasant bites.
BEST TIME TO VISIT SANTA GIULIA
Autumn and spring are the best seasons to visit Plage de Santa Giulia.
Above all, you will avoid the crowds allowing you to experience the bay’s natural beauty in peace. With fewer people, you will have ample space to relax and a more peaceful atmosphere to truly appreciate the scenery. On the access roads, you will encounter fewer traffic jams and limit precious time spent looking for a parking space.
Spring and autumn will also grant you a colourful spectacle of the transforming nature, with either blooming flowers or golden-hued fall leaves ornamenting the surrounding landscapes.
Finally, by travelling in the shoulder season you will stay clear of the hottest months, July and August, which bring scorching temperatures and intense sun radiation.
Those who are not in a position to pick the low season for exploring Santa Giulia, either due to their work commitments or kids’ school breaks, should head towards the further ends of the bay to find more secluded places and avoid the strongest midday sun.
BOOK A BOAT TRIP FROM PORTO VECCHIO
Boat trip to Iles Cerbicales, Iles Lavezzi, and Rondinara. A day trip to the island’s sublime coastal scenery with a visit to Bonifacio and a swimming break in the crystalline waters of Rondinara. On the way back you will admire the iconic beaches of Santa Giulia and Palombaggia.
WHO IS SANTA GIULIA FOR?
Three groups of travellers will appreciate the charms of Santa Giulia the most- families with children, water sports enthusiasts, and couples.
Families will love the unmatched child safety of this idyllic beach. The sand is incredibly soft and fine, disappearing in the transparent, very shallow waters. In season, Santa Giulia is supervised, whereas its position keeps it free of high or dangerous waves.
Lovers of watersports will be equally seduced by the bay’s fabulous outdoor recreation facilities. All kinds of aquatic attractions grant adventure, fun, and long-lasting memories.
Couples also often pick this supremely photogenic spot, although they tend to avoid the busiest (and noisiest) summer months for the most romantic experience. Outside the season, Santa Giulia takes on a magical, dreamy, and soft appearance where intimate sunset strolls, al fresco meals, and playful water fun infuse holidays with the most memorable moments.
BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR SANTA GIULIA
- Hotel Carre Noir (€€€)
- Domaine Santa Giulia Palace (€€€)
- Le Roc E Fiori Hotel (€€)
- Hotel & Lodges Moby Dick (€€)
- Hotel Castel Verde (€)
- Costa Nera Beach House (€)
BEST BOAT TOURS
- Boat trip to Iles Cerbicales, Iles Lavezzi, and Rondinara beach from Porto Vecchio. A day trip to the island’s sublime coastal scenery with a visit to Bonifacio and a swimming break in the crystalline waters of Rondinara. On the way back you will admire the iconic beaches of Santa Giulia and Palombaggia.
- Boat trip to Piantarella, Roccapina, and Tizzano from Santa Giulia. 9-hour tour to discover Corsica’s captivating south coast, swim in the Mediterranean’s clear waters, savour a snack on the pristine shore. The boat is limited to 12 participants.
- Boat trip to Bonifacio Cliffs and the Gulf of Sperone from Piantarella Beach. A 1.5-hour-long boat tour to explore the sublime coastal landscapes around Bonifacio. Learn about the area’s history, culture, and main landmarks from your on-board guide.
- Boat trip in the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve from Bonifacio. A speedboat tour to some of the most scenic corners of Corsica. Enjoy views of the Genoese tower of Capicciolu, the Lavezzi Archipelago with its stunning beaches, and the Bay of Fazzio. Go for a dip in crystal-clear sea waters.
OTHER STUNNING BEACHES IN THE REGION
- RONDINARA BEACH – A paradisiacal shell-shaped beach with a crystalline bay of turquoise water and wild, construction-free surroundings.
- PALOMBAGGIA BEACH – Corsica’s most iconic beach and the first destination choice for all water, sun, and sun lovers.
- CALA ROSSA BEACH – This golden sweep of sand and jewel-coloured sea attracts celebrities who seek seclusion and tranquillity at the Grand Hotel de Cala Rossa.
- SAINT CYPRIEN BEACH – A joyful atmosphere, pristine white shores, and azure water create a perfect summer retreat celebrated by virtually everyone.
- PINARELLO BEACH – A peaceful oasis of crystalline waters, sweeps of silvers sands and untouched vegetation for those who seek a serene beachside corner.
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
- The medieval clifftop town of Bonifacio
- The chic resort of Porto Vecchio
- Heavenly beaches of the Porto Vecchio region
- Natural swimming pools of Cavu
- Mountain attractions of the famous Bavella site
- Hike to Trou de la Bombe
- Delicious local wines
Wine lover’s companion for a trip to Corsica – Grab your ebook!
Corsica Wine Guide – from vine to glass
✓ 9 wine regions
✓ 74 producers
✓ 125 wines
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