Corsica, France

Bastia Beaches

Overview

Bastia is far more than a historic port city; it is a perfect base for exploring the diverse coastline of northern Corsica. While the town itself offers charming pebble coves for a quick swim, many visitors are surprised to learn that some of the region's best beaches are just a short trip away. To the south of the city, long stretches of golden sand await, while the rugged Cap Corse peninsula to the north is home to a series of wilder, more intimate coves, offering a mix of sand and pebbles.

The beaches near Bastia cater to every taste, from iconic escapes to dramatic, unusual shores. For an unforgettable day trip, the world-famous Saleccia offers pristine white sand and turquoise waters, accessible via the wild Agriates Desert. In stunning contrast, Plage de Nonza captivates visitors with its unique black pebbles and dramatic cliffside setting. For a more local experience, the lovely pebble beach of Plage de Miomo is a favorite, while Plage de Tamarone remains a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility on Cap Corse. Just south of the city, the expansive and sandy Plage de l'Arinella is another popular and easily accessible choice, especially for families.

Whether you are seeking a family-friendly shore with plenty of activity or a secluded cove reached by a winding coastal road, the region around Bastia delivers. The variety ensures that a perfect beach day is always within easy reach, from the well-known sandy expanses to the hidden coastal treasures of Cap Corse. For more inspiration and to find the perfect spot for your holiday, be sure to explore our complete guide to the area's best beaches.

FAQ

Is Bastia a good destination for a beach holiday?

Bastia can be a great base for a beach holiday, although it's known more as a historic port city. While there are a few small pebble beaches in the town itself, like Toga and Ficaghjola, the best sandy beaches are a short drive or bus ride away. To the south, you'll find long stretches of sand like Plage de l'Arinella and Plage de la Marana, which are popular with families. To the north, the Cap Corse peninsula offers charming, smaller coves. So, while you won't find a major beach right in the city center, beautiful options are easily accessible.

Are the beaches in Bastia sandy or pebbly?

Bastia offers a mix of both. The beaches within walking distance of the old town, such as Toga and Ficaghjola, are primarily pebble beaches. However, if you travel a short distance south of the city, you will find the extensive sandy beaches of Plage de l'Arinella and the long Marana beach. The coves of Cap Corse to the north of Bastia also vary, with some being pebbly and others sandy.

How do you get to the beaches from Bastia without a car?

You can reach several beaches near Bastia using public transport. Buses run from the city center to beaches both north and south. For example, a bus line goes up the Cap Corse, stopping at coastal villages with beaches like Lavasina and Miomo. To the south, you can take a bus towards Marana. In summer, there is often a free shuttle from Place Saint-Nicolas to the popular Plage de l'Arinella. The local train also stops near Arinella and Furiani beaches.

Which are the best beaches near Bastia for families with children?

Plage de l'Arinella, just south of Bastia, is widely considered the best beach for families. It's a large sandy beach with numerous amenities, including playgrounds, a skate park, inflatable water games in the summer, and calm, supervised swimming areas. The Marana beach, extending further south, is also a good sandy option. North of Bastia, Plage de Pietracorbara in Cap Corse is known for being a safe, sandy bay popular with local families.

Are there hotels with direct beach access in the Bastia area?

Yes, there are hotels with direct or very close beach access, primarily located just outside the city center. To the north of Bastia, some hotels offer access to the pebble coves. To the south, along the sandy Plage de la Marana, you can find several hotels and residences right on or just a short walk from the beach, such as Hotel Pineto or Mariana Plage. These are good options if being on the beach is your top priority.

Can you swim in the sea right in Bastia town?

Yes, you can swim at the small beaches within Bastia itself. Plage de Ficaghjola, located just south of the Citadel, is a small cove popular with locals for a quick dip. Plage de Toga, north of the port, is another option. These are mostly pebble beaches and can be lively. While convenient for a quick swim, for a full beach day, most people travel to the larger sandy beaches south of the city.

What are the beaches like north of Bastia in Cap Corse?

The beaches along the Cap Corse peninsula, north of Bastia, are generally smaller and more rugged than the long sandy stretches to the south. You'll find a series of charming coves and small fishing villages with their own beaches, which are often a mix of pebbles and sand. Notable spots include the pebble cove of Lavasina and the family-friendly sandy beach at Pietracorbara. The scenery is dramatic, with mountains meeting the sea, offering a wilder, more intimate beach experience.

Are there any quiet, less crowded beaches near Bastia?

Yes, for a quieter experience, you can explore the beaches along the Marana strip further south of the main access points, such as Plage de Pineto, which is known for being wilder and less developed. The numerous small coves along the Cap Corse coast to the north, like Tamarone, can also be less crowded, especially outside of peak season. These beaches often have fewer amenities, which contributes to their tranquility.

People Also Ask

What is the water like for swimming around Bastia?

The water around Bastia is generally clear and clean, typical of the Mediterranean. The beaches to the north in Cap Corse, like Lavasina, are particularly noted for their exceptionally clear, turquoise water. The large sandy beaches to the south also offer good swimming conditions, though water clarity can be affected by weather. Some beaches are supervised in season, but it's worth noting that jellyfish can occasionally be present during the hottest months.

How do the beaches near Bastia compare to those near Saint-Florent?

The beaches directly around Bastia are convenient but generally considered less spectacular than those near Saint-Florent. Bastia's main beaches are the long, sandy stretches south of the city (like Arinella and Marana). Saint-Florent, on the other hand, serves as the gateway to the renowned DΓ©sert des Agriates, home to the famous, pristine white-sand beaches of Saleccia and Lotu. These are often considered among Corsica's best but are only accessible by boat or a long hike, whereas Bastia's beaches are easily reached by road.

What's the best time of year for a beach holiday in Bastia?

The best time for a beach holiday in Bastia is from late May to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is pleasant for swimming. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with all beach facilities open. For fewer crowds and still excellent beach weather, consider visiting in June or September.

Are there any beaches with water sports facilities near Bastia?

Yes, Plage de l'Arinella is the main hub for water sports near Bastia. You can find facilities for sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and even towed buoy rides. The long stretch of the Marana beach also has some water sports centers. The smaller coves in Cap Corse are more suited for snorkeling and paddleboarding on your own.

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Bastia Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Bastia: Weather Today

πŸ“… Friday, July 25, 2025
Today might not be the best for a full beach day in Bastia. Be prepared for rain. The maximum air temperature will be 24 Β°C. The sea is a pleasant 26.6 Β°C, with small waves. The wind will be light, but expect some stronger gusts at times. The UV index will reach 6.4, so take precautions if the sun peeks through the clouds.
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Air

Low / High21.5Β°C/24Β°C
Feels Like (High)27Β°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature26.6 Β°C
Wave Height0.3 m
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Rain

Rain Chance68%
Rainfall4.6 mm
Rain Duration8 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:07/20:50
Sunshine Hours2.2 hrs
UV Index6.4
Cloud Cover99%
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Wind

Speed10 km/h
Gusts34.9 km/h
DirectionNW

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