Monticello Beaches

Overview

Monticello offers a unique perspective for a Corsican beach holiday. This charming hilltop village provides a peaceful retreat with stunning sea views, set apart from the bustling coast. While the village itself is not on the water, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the famous beaches of the Balagne region. A short drive is all it takes to swap the quiet, authentic atmosphere for the sun-drenched shores near L'Île-Rousse and beyond.

The coastline near Monticello is home to some of Corsica's most spectacular beaches. Among the editor's top recommendations is the picture-perfect Bodri Beach, celebrated for its brilliant white sand and turquoise waters. For a more dramatic landscape, Plage de l'Ostriconi presents a wild and scenic experience at the edge of the Agriates Desert. The legendary beauty of Saleccia makes it a pristine paradise worth the special boat or 4x4 trip, while Aregno is a well-known hub for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Beyond these highlights, the area offers a beach for every preference, all sharing a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Just a short walk from Bodri lies its beautiful neighbour, Plage de Ghjunchitu, another stretch of fine sand and clear water. From these popular spots to more secluded coves, the region is a gateway to coastal discovery. For more inspiration, see our complete guide to the best beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Monticello a good base for a beach holiday?

Monticello is an excellent base for a beach holiday if you prefer staying in a charming, quiet hilltop village with stunning views rather than directly on the coast. The village itself is not on the beach, but it provides easy access to the many beautiful beaches of the Balagne region, including those near the bustling town of L'Île-Rousse, which is just a few kilometers away.

How far is Monticello village from the nearest beach and can you walk?

The heart of Monticello village is perched at an altitude of about 218 meters and is located a few kilometers from the coast. While there are hiking trails, walking down to the nearest beaches like those at L'Île-Rousse (around 5km) would be a long and steep walk, especially on the return journey. Most visitors drive or take a short taxi ride to the coast.

Plage de l'Île Rousse

Do I need to rent a car to visit the beaches from Monticello?

Renting a car is highly recommended when staying in Monticello. It offers the most flexibility for exploring the various beaches along the Balagne coastline, from L'Île-Rousse to Calvi and discovering more secluded coves. While not impossible, relying on taxis or local transport can be limiting. A car also makes grocery shopping and accessing amenities easier.

Calvi

Plage de l'Île Rousse

Which is better for a beach holiday: Monticello or L'Île-Rousse?

The choice depends on your holiday style. Choose L'Île-Rousse if you want to be in a lively seaside town with beaches, restaurants, and shops right on your doorstep. Choose Monticello if you prefer a quieter, more authentic village atmosphere with panoramic sea views, and you don't mind a short drive to the coast each day.

Are there hotels in Monticello with direct beach access?

No, because Monticello is a hilltop village, there are no hotels within the village itself that have direct beach access. Accommodations in Monticello offer stunning sea views from a distance. For direct beach access, you would need to look for hotels or residences located on the coast, primarily in and around L'Île-Rousse or the Marine de Davia.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What are the best beaches for families near Monticello?

The main beaches of L'Île-Rousse are excellent for families, offering fine sand, calm, shallow waters, and lifeguard supervision during the high season. Calvi's main beach is also a great option, with 6km of sand and a very gentle slope into the sea. Both have plenty of amenities like cafes and watersports available.

Calvi

When is the best time of year for a beach trip to Monticello?

For the best beach weather, visit between June and September. During these months, the weather is sunny and the sea is warm enough for comfortable swimming. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. For a good balance of pleasant weather, warm sea temperatures, and fewer crowds, consider visiting in June or September.

Are there quiet, less-crowded beaches near Monticello?

Yes, to escape the crowds of the main town beaches, you can explore Plage de Bodri and Plage de Ghjunchitu, located just west of L'Île-Rousse. These beaches are known for their beautiful white sand and turquoise water and are generally less crowded. For even more seclusion, exploring the rocky coastline around Punta di Spanu can reveal small, intimate coves.

Bodri Beach

Plage de Ghjunchitu

People Also Ask

Can you swim at the beaches near Monticello and what is the water like?

Absolutely. The beaches in the Balagne region are famous for their exceptionally clear, turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The water is generally calm, especially at the town beaches of L'Île-Rousse which are sheltered. Water temperatures are comfortable for swimming from June through September, peaking in August.

What is the 'beach train' and can I use it from Monticello?

The 'Trinichellu' is a small train that runs along the coast between Calvi and L'Île-Rousse, stopping at many beaches along the way, including Bodri and Aregno. To use it from Monticello, you would first need to drive or get a taxi down to the nearest station, which is in L'Île-Rousse. It's a scenic way to beach-hop without a car for the day.

Bodri Beach

Aregno

Calvi

Plage de l'Île Rousse

Are there restaurants and facilities on the beaches?

Yes, the main beaches such as those in L'Île-Rousse and Calvi are well-equipped with facilities. You'll find numerous beachside restaurants, cafes, and private beach clubs that rent sun loungers and umbrellas. More natural beaches like Bodri and Ghjunchitu have more limited facilities, often just a small seasonal snack bar, so it's wise to bring your own supplies.

Calvi

Bodri Beach

Plage de Ghjunchitu

What is the vibe of the beaches? Are they party beaches?

The beaches in the Monticello and Balagne area have a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. They are not known as party destinations. While beach bars and restaurants can be lively during the day, the atmosphere is generally laid-back and focused on enjoying the natural beauty, rather than loud parties and nightlife.

Monticello Beaches

Overview

Editor's Pick

Bodri Beach

Plage de l'Ostriconi

Saleccia

Aregno

Plage Napoléon

Plage de Ghjunchitu

FAQ

Is Monticello a good base for a beach holiday?

How far is Monticello village from the nearest beach and can you walk?

Do I need to rent a car to visit the beaches from Monticello?

Which is better for a beach holiday: Monticello or L'Île-Rousse?

Are there hotels in Monticello with direct beach access?

What are the best beaches for families near Monticello?

When is the best time of year for a beach trip to Monticello?

Are there quiet, less-crowded beaches near Monticello?

Effortless Seaside Escapes

Plage de l'Île Rousse

Bodri Beach

Plage de Ghjunchitu

Plage de Cala di Furnellu

People Also Ask

Can you swim at the beaches near Monticello and what is the water like?

What is the 'beach train' and can I use it from Monticello?

Are there restaurants and facilities on the beaches?

What is the vibe of the beaches? Are they party beaches?

Beaches for Every Taste

Dog Friendly Beaches in Monticello

Sand Beaches in Monticello

Nudist Beaches in Monticello

Balagne Coast Adventures

Plage de l'Ostriconi

Calvi

Plage de Sant'Ambroggio

Plage de Sainte Restitude

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Plage de l'Arinella

Arinella di Calvi

Plage du rocher

Plage de Ghignu

Plage de l'Alga

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Monticello Beaches Map

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