Plage de Cala Longa / Cara Lunga

Plage de Cala Longa, alternatively known as Cara Lunga, is an ensemble of beaches located in the picturesque town of Bonifacio, Corsica. Nestled in the southern part of the Sant'Amanza Gulf, these tranquil beaches are approximately a 15-minute drive from the Marina de Bonifacio. The beaches are set amidst maquis vegetation, offering a beautiful view of the nearby island of Cavallo and a distant view of Sardinia. The beaches of Plage de Cala Longa are known for their simple and authentic charm. The area is part of the Bouches de Bonifacio nature reserve and is well-preserved, known for its moderate visitor traffic, especially during the summer. The main beach is located near the Purgatorio pond and a resort, with several other sandy beaches and secluded coves within a 150-meter radius. The shores of the beaches are covered in gravel, and the sea bottom is a mix of gravel and rocks, which gets deep quite quickly, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. A small bar hut at the entrance of the beach offers a comfortable sitting area and a lovely terrace for visitors to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. To reach Plage de Cala Longa, visitors would need to take the D58 road towards the Sant'Amanza Gulf and then turn right onto the D258 road. Parking is available along the roadside, but spaces can be scarce during the summer season. A few spots may also be available in a small parking area. From the parking area, a short path leads to one of the beaches, and several trails allow visitors to explore the coastline and discover the secluded coves. Despite its natural beauty, the beaches lack certain amenities such as public toilets, and visitors are advised to carry a beach umbrella for additional shade as the area is mostly open space with minimal shade from the surrounding bushes. Visitors are also reminded to respect the rules of the nature reserve and ensure that all waste is taken with them when leaving.