Exploring Corsica: Beaches, Canyoning, and Hidden Natural Pools

If you’re looking for a place where the beaches range from wild and untamed to quiet and postcard-perfect, Corsica delivers. We spent three weeks circling the island, hopping from beach towns to river swims, with a side of canyoning and plenty of local wine. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping canyoning or just a quiet stretch of sand, Corsica is the kind of place that sticks with you long after you’ve left.

📍 Ajaccio: Big Waves and Bigger Adventures

Our trip kicked off in Ajaccio, staying in an Airbnb just a few blocks from the beach—right above a bakery and pizzeria. Morning croissants? Easy. Late-night pizza? Even easier.

Beaches We Loved

Marinella Beach – Relaxed and perfect for a calm swim.
Capo di Feno – Expect serious waves—great if you’re into that, but definitely not for casual swimmers.
Mare e Sole Beach – Family-friendly and lively.
Barbicaja Beach – Quiet, peaceful, and great for a slower beach day.

Lisa and Dylan took on a canyoning adventure—ropes, waterfalls, the full adrenaline package. And to cool off, we found some incredible rivers in the center of the island that felt like hidden natural pools.

📍 Cervione: Beachfront Bliss and Zero Stress

For week two, we slowed things down in Cervione. Our apartment was literally on the beach. No shoes required, just step out and sink your feet into the sand.

What We Loved

An amazing food truck right on the beach—because who needs fine dining when you have fresh, local eats by the sea?
A great restaurant in the complex for the best paella.
A hotel beach club nearby for great food and drinks.

We didn’t stray far from the apartment, and honestly, we didn’t need to. The beaches right outside were perfect. The Wi-Fi was terrible—but sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

📍 Porto-Vecchio: Beaches, Pools, and Classic Corsican Charm

Our last week was spent near Porto-Vecchio, a picture-perfect town surrounded by some of Corsica’s best beaches. It’s an ideal base for exploring the most beautiful beaches in southern Corsica.

Beach and activity favorites

Pinarello Beach – Calm, beautiful, and a short drive from our house.
Plage de Santa Giulia – Beautiful beach! The place to go if you want to rent a boat or try jet skiing.
Plage de Fautea – Scenic, peaceful, and a bit less crowded.

And the real gem?

The natural swimming pools of Cavu—clear, fresh water, natural slides, and one of the coolest inland spots we’ve ever found.

Before heading home, we stopped in Bastia for a day, explored the charming streets, and grabbed a last glass of wine before catching the overnight traghetto back to Genoa.

💸 Cost of Visiting Corsica: What to Budget

Wondering how much a trip to Corsica costs? Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your budget for ferries, accommodation, meals, and must-do activities.

🚢 Ferry (Traghetto):
• Livorno to Bastia: €50–€80 per person (one way)
• Overnight ferry from Genoa: €70–€120 per person (with a cabin)

🏨 Accommodation:
• Budget apartments: €80–€120 per night
• Mid-range hotels: €120–€200 per night
• Beachfront villas and luxury stays: €250+ per night

🍴Meals:
• Casual beach food trucks: €10–€15 per person
• Restaurants: €20–€50 per person
• Beach clubs and fine dining: €60+ per person

🎯 Activities:
• Canyoning: €50–€90 per person
• Boat rentals at Plage de Santa Giulia: From €50 per hour
• Natural Pools of Cavu: Free (just bring snacks and water!)

Pro Tip: Renting a car is the easiest way to explore Corsica, and prices start around €40–€60 per day.