Corsica, France

San-Nicolao Beaches

Overview

San-Nicolao, nestled on Corsica's eastern Costa Verde, offers a classic Mediterranean beach holiday with a distinctly local feel. A common point of confusion for first-time visitors is the layout: San-Nicolao refers to the wider area, including the charming hillside village, while Moriani-Plage is the bustling seaside resort right on the coast. The beaches here are prized for their long stretches of golden sand and calm, shallow waters, making the destination a renowned favourite for families seeking a relaxed coastal escape.

The coastline presents a variety of beach experiences to suit any mood. The heart of the action is Plage Moriani, the main resort beach offering a lively atmosphere. For those seeking a more tranquil day on the sand with beautiful mountain scenery, Plage de Prunete provides a more natural and less developed setting. If a true nature escape is what you're after, the vast and wild Plage de Pinia is an unforgettable experience, with its shores famously backed by a dense pine forest, offering a sense of seclusion.

While the local shores have much to offer, the allure of Corsica's iconic beaches is never far. A day trip to the world-famous Palombaggia is well worth the drive, rewarding visitors with its stunning turquoise waters and signature umbrella pines. Back on the Costa Verde, don't be surprised if you see cows relaxing on the sand—it's an authentic and memorable Corsican sight. These highlights are just a starting point, and our complete guide delves into a longer list of beaches waiting to be discovered.

FAQ

What's the difference between San-Nicolao and Moriani-Plage?

This is a common point of confusion. San-Nicolao is the name of the commune, which includes the historic hillside village and a stretch of coastline. Moriani-Plage is the main seaside resort located within the San-Nicolao commune, right on the beach. Moriani-Plage is where you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants, shops, and tourist activities, while the village of San-Nicolao offers a more traditional, quieter atmosphere in the hills.

Is San-Nicolao good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, San-Nicolao and the wider Costa Verde area are widely considered excellent for family beach holidays. The beaches feature long stretches of sand and the sea has a gentle, shallow slope, making it safer for children. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and family-oriented rather than being a party destination. Many accommodations are holiday residences and campsites with amenities like pools and playgrounds.

Are the beaches in San-Nicolao sandy or pebbly?

The beaches in the San-Nicolao area, including the main Moriani-Plage, are predominantly long stretches of golden or light brown sand. While you might find some areas with a mix of fine gravel or small pebbles at the water's edge, the overwhelming character of the beaches is sandy.

Can you swim in San-Nicolao and what is the water like?

Absolutely. The sea along the San-Nicolao coast is generally calm with clear water, making it ideal for swimming. The waves are typically small, especially during the summer months. The seabed slopes gently, which means you can walk out quite a distance before it gets deep. The swimming season generally runs from June to October when the water temperature is comfortably warm.

What kind of accommodation is typical near the beaches?

The most common type of accommodation right near the beaches in the San-Nicolao and Moriani-Plage area are self-catering holiday residences ('résidences de tourisme') and campsites. These often have direct beach access and shared swimming pools. There are also several hotels and private villa rentals available.

When is the best time for a beach holiday in San-Nicolao?

The best time for a beach-focused holiday in San-Nicolao is from June to September. During these months, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming, typically ranging from 21°C to 26°C. For fewer crowds but still pleasant beach weather, consider visiting in late May, June, or September.

Are there really cows on the beaches in Corsica?

Yes, it's a well-known and authentic Corsican sight! While not guaranteed on any specific day in San-Nicolao, it is common to see cows roaming freely on beaches along the Costa Verde and other parts of the island. They are part of the local landscape. While they make for a unique photo, remember they are free-roaming animals and it's best to keep a respectful distance.

Are the beaches free to access or are they all private?

The vast majority of the coastline in San-Nicolao consists of free, public beaches. You can freely access the long stretches of sand and find a spot for your towel. Some hotels, residences, or beach restaurants may offer private sections where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a fee, but access to the beach itself remains public.

People Also Ask

How do you get to the beach if you're staying in San-Nicolao village?

The historic village of San-Nicolao is located in the hills, a few kilometers from the coast. To get to the beach (Moriani-Plage), you will need a car. The drive is short, typically taking about 10-15 minutes down to the main coastal road (the T10). There is free public parking available near the beach access points in Moriani-Plage.

Are there quiet, less crowded beaches near San-Nicolao?

Yes, while the central part of Moriani-Plage is the most developed, the coastline of the Costa Verde is very long. If you head south of the main resort area, towards Poggiole beach, the beaches tend to become wilder and more residential, offering a quieter experience. Exploring just a few kilometers north or south of the main access points will usually lead you to more tranquil spots.

Can you find restaurants and facilities directly on the beach?

Yes, in the central area of Moriani-Plage, you will find several restaurants, pizzerias, and beach bars (paillotes) located directly on the sand or on the promenade. These offer everything from drinks and ice cream to full meals with a sea view. In the quieter, more residential stretches of the beach, facilities are less common.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

San-Nicolao: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today might be a mixed bag for beachgoers in San-Nicolao. While the air temperature will reach a pleasant 23.9 °C, be prepared for the chance of rain showers. The sun will try to peek through, but expect mostly cloudy skies. The sea is inviting at 26.9 °C with moderate waves. The UV index will be high at 7, so make sure to apply sunscreen. The wind will be light but expect some stronger gusts at times.
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Air

Low / High16.7°C/23.9°C
Feels Like (High)25.6°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature26.9 °C
Wave Height0.7 m
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Rain

Rain Chance68%
Rainfall2.5 mm
Rain Duration11 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:08/20:48
Sunshine Hours11.8 hrs
UV Index7.05
Cloud Cover71%
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Wind

Speed9.2 km/h
Gusts32 km/h
DirectionS

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