Swimming in the Gulf of Porto

The Gulf of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica. From the golden pebbles of Bussaglia to the fine sand of Arone, by way of the supervised Porto beach and the wild coves of Ficaghjola, each one has its own character. From Hotel Le Vaïta, all of them are just a few minutes away by car. Here is our selection, with our tips on access, parking and dining.

Pebble beach of Porto with its jetty and the mountains of the gulf, Corsica

Porto Beach

📍 5 min
Pebbles Supervised beach The closest

Porto beach is the closest to the hotel, at the foot of the Genoese tower. It is the most convenient for a quick swim or an evening by the water. In summer, a lifeguard post (CRS) ensures supervision — ideal for families with children. It is also the starting point of the lovely Castagna walk, which follows the coast and offers superb views over the gulf.

5 min from the hotel
Supervised (CRS in summer)
Castagna walk
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Bussaglia beach, its pebbles and the Corse Émotion water sports base, Gulf of Porto

Bussaglia Beach

📍 15 min
★ Our family favourite Fine pebbles Water sports Shade

Just 15 minutes from the hotel, Bussaglia is without doubt the most complete beach in the area. Its pebbles are "just right" — neither too big nor too small, pleasant underfoot. You'll find natural shade for the hottest hours, and above all the Corse Émotion water sports base, which offers paddleboard, pedal boat and sun lounger rental. Two beachfront restaurants let you have lunch with your feet in the sand, and the car park is big enough that you won't be driving in circles. Good to know: the left end of the beach, behind the rocks, is also the area's naturist spot.

15 min from the hotel
Paddleboard, pedal boat, sun loungers
2 restaurants
Ample parking
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Arone beach, fine sand and turquoise water — 8th most beautiful beach in Corsica

Arone Beach

📍 ~30 min
★ 8th most beautiful beach in Corsica Fine sand Cliff jumping

Often listed among the most beautiful beaches in Corsica (8th in the ranking), Arone charms visitors with its vast expanse of fine sand and its turquoise water. On the cliff to the left, the more adventurous can jump into the water from several heights — thrills guaranteed (always with caution and after checking the depth). Three restaurants and ample parking make the day easy to organise. The road from Piana, overlooking the sea, is worth the trip on its own.

Beyond Piana
Fine sand
3 restaurants
Ample parking
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Ficaghjola cove below Piana, crystal-clear water and red cliffs, Corsica

Ficaghjola Cove

📍 ~20 min
Wild cove Crystal-clear water Difficult access

Tucked away below the village of Piana, Ficaghjola is a superb little fishermen's cove with waters of rare transparency, framed by the red cliffs of the Calanques. It is a true gem — but one you have to earn: access is on foot via a downhill path, and parking is very limited. It's best to go early in the morning or at the end of the day, outside peak hours. The reward: a swim in a postcard setting, far from the crowds.

Below the village of Piana
Access on foot (path)
Very limited parking
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Chuni beach towards Cargèse, a quiet beach where you can find Saint Lucia's eyes

Chuni Beach

📍 towards Cargèse
Nature Saint Lucia's eyes Quiet

Located on the road to Cargèse, just before the village, Chuni beach is a more secluded spot, prized for its calm. Its special feature: you can hunt for "Saint Lucia's eyes", those small pearly opercula traditionally worn as good-luck charms in Corsica. A perfect treasure hunt to keep the children busy, and a lovely souvenir to bring back from your holiday. A great tip for those wanting to escape the busiest beaches.

Before Cargèse
Saint Lucia's eyes
Quiet beach
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The hotel's tip

In July and August, head out early in the morning (before 10:30 am) or in the late afternoon to enjoy the beaches in peace and find a parking space easily. At reception, we'll point you to the best access of the day depending on the weather and the wind. Don't hesitate to ask us!

Your base camp for the beaches of Porto

Hotel Le Vaïta welcomes you in the heart of the Gulf of Porto, just minutes from the most beautiful beaches in Corsica. 26 air-conditioned rooms, best rate guaranteed when booking direct.