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In the heart of Balagne in Upper Corsica, Calvi captivates with its authentic charm and sunny ambiance. Dominated by an imposing Genoese citadel overlooking the sea, this pretty port town offers a postcard setting between the Mediterranean Sea and verdant mountains. Its waterfront comes alive with restaurant terraces where you can savor fresh fish and Corsican wines at sunset. The water is a translucent blue, bordered by fine sandy beaches shaded by maritime pines. Calvi, an island gem rivaling the French Riviera, promises an unforgettable getaway of relaxation, cultural discoveries, and seaside leisure.
Let's start by discovering together the top best private beaches in Calvi. Whether you're looking for the cheapest private beach or an exclusive beach club attached to a luxury hotel, you'll find your happiness in the Gulf of Calvi. These seaside establishments offer the rental of sun loungers and parasols on sandy beaches, refined dining service by the water, and often themed festive evenings. Here is our selection of the best-rated private beaches on Google:
Le Bout du Monde is a highly appreciated beach hut, ideal for enjoying a dream day facing the citadel. Located on Calvi's large beach, it offers an idyllic setting with panoramic views of the bay and the ancient Genoese fortress. The private beach mattresses are comfortable, and the staff is attentive. On the culinary side, the restaurant offers fresh and local products: grilled fish, gourmet salads, and fruit cocktails to sip on your lounge chair. In a friendly atmosphere, this beach club combines relaxation and gastronomy, all lulled by the sound of the Mediterranean Sea waves.
Octopussy is the must-visit address for partying with your feet in the sand in Calvi. This trendy private beach, nestled just behind the pine forest, hosts the famous Calvi on the Rocks festival every summer with renowned DJs. During the day, relax with family or friends on sun loungers facing the sea, while in the evening, the atmosphere steps up a notch. On the agenda: themed evenings with Bossa nova, torchlit dinners on the beach, tapas aperitifs at sunset... Throughout the summer, Octopussy offers unforgettable musical events and festive evenings. It's the perfect place to sip a cocktail at the beach bar before dancing under the stars.
So, ready to reserve your sunbed on one of Calvi's private beaches? It's simple: choose your favorite private beach on MySunbed and make your reservation in just a few clicks! Enjoy a quick and secure private beach reservation to guarantee your sun lounger in the sun. Whether it's a VIP bed by the sea or a mattress in the shade of a parasol, MySunBed helps you organize your relaxing days on the sand with peace of mind.
While staying in Calvi, you might want to explore the surroundings in search of other paradise beaches. The region is full of coves and long bays with excellent beach huts. Here are two private beaches around Calvi worth visiting:
About 15 km east of Calvi, Algajola beach stretches in an arc at the foot of a charming seaside village. This ribbon of blond sand, bathed by clear waters, offers a postcard landscape with the silhouette of a small citadel and a fort in the background. Several private beaches nearby have set up shop here, offering sunbed rentals, restaurants, and water activities. Among them, renowned addresses like Casarena Plage or Padula Beach offer a relaxed and family-friendly ambiance. Algajola is easily accessible by train from Calvi (Balagne little train) or by car, and is an ideal getaway for a change of scenery while staying on the Corsican Riviera.
Just 20 minutes from Calvi, near Lumio, Arinella beach is a small corner of paradise much appreciated by insiders. This intimate cove, bordered by rocks and maquis, reveals exceptionally clear water perfect for snorkeling. On-site, the unique beach hut Le Matahari welcomes you for a day of absolute relaxation. You can rent a sunbed and parasol, have lunch on a fresh salad or grilled fish facing the big blue, or simply sip a glass of local wine in the afternoon. Arinella offers a wilder and more preserved setting than Calvi's beach, ideal for alternating with the lively beach clubs in the center of Calvi. Accessible by car or via the Balagne train (Sant Ambroggio stop nearby), it's an unmissable seaside excursion.
Beyond its dream beaches, Calvi offers a multitude of activities and discoveries. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, this Corsican seaside resort will delight you. Here are some must-do ideas of things to do in Calvi:
Assault the majestic citadel of Calvi, perched on its rocky promontory. As you wander through its cobbled streets steeped in history, you'll discover emblematic monuments like the Church of Saint John the Baptist and the Governor's Palace. Don't miss the birthplace of Christopher Columbus (according to local legend) and especially the stunning view from the ramparts. At the top, a grand panorama opens up over the port, the bay, and the mountains. The citadel offers a journey back in time, especially in the late afternoon when the walls turn orange at sunset.
The marina of Calvi, at the foot of the citadel, is the perfect place for an evening stroll. In the late afternoon, walk along the lively quays where sailboats and yachts are moored. The terraces of cafes and restaurants fill with a friendly atmosphere. Enjoy artisanal ice cream or an aperitif on the terrace while admiring the sun setting behind the silhouette of the citadel. The port of Calvi is also the setting for many summer events: Corsican music concerts, night craft markets, and other themed evenings that will delight visitors. A romantic and authentic stroll not to be missed.
The bay of Calvi, with its calm waters and moderate wind, is an ideal playground for water sports enthusiasts. Several nautical bases along the beach offer activities for all tastes. Want speed? Rent a jet ski or try water skiing safely. For a more relaxed experience, opt for a paddle or kayak trip along the coast, discovering secret coves. The seabed of Calvi also harbors a treasure for divers: the wreck of a World War II B17 bomber, accessible during organized dives with local clubs. Whether soaring in a parasail over the azure blue water or exploring fish while snorkeling near the rocks, the bay offers its share of thrills and memorable memories.
Nature lovers will enjoy a hike to the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra, perched on the heights overlooking Calvi. Accessible in just an hour's walk from the town (or 10 minutes by car to the parking lot near the top), this spiritual site offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in Corsica. From the statue of the Virgin, the 360° view embraces the bay of Calvi, the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, the Balagne plain, and the mountain peaks on the horizon. It's the perfect spot for a sunrise picnic or a meditative pause at sunset. Local legend has it that couples who visit Notre-Dame de la Serra ensure fidelity and happiness. A true natural balcony over Calvi, this emblematic place will delight photographers and peace seekers.
From the port of Calvi, embark on an unforgettable boat excursion to discover UNESCO-listed natural wonders. Many companies offer mini-cruises to the Scandola nature reserve, a spectacular volcanic coastline with fiery red cliffs plunging into translucent sea, inaccessible by road. The sea trip will also take you to the small fishing village of Girolata, nestled in a wild cove where you can stop for lunch (only accessible by boat or on foot). Throughout the ride, keep an eye out for ospreys and dolphins frequenting these protected waters. This day on the boat, between secret coves, sea caves, and turquoise waters, will leave you with images of paradise beaches in your eyes. Remember to book in advance in high season, as these excursions are very popular.
Want even more? No worries, there are excellent online resources to plan your stay in Calvi and Balagne. Here are two useful sites to consult to find other activity ideas, visits, or good addresses:
It's impossible to talk about Calvi without mentioning its most iconic places, witnesses of its rich heritage and natural beauty. Between historical monuments and exceptional panoramas, here are three must-see sites during your visit:
A true symbol of the city, the Citadel of Calvi proudly dominates the entire bay from its promontory. Built in the 13th century by the Genoese, this fortress with ocher walls has protected the city from invasions through the ages. By crossing the monumental gate, you dive into a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with ancient houses. Discover buildings steeped in history, such as the Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, a sober baroque church housing a famous black Christ, or the Sampiero barracks, reminding of the site's military past. From the top of the ramparts, the view is exceptional: it embraces the bustling marina, the beach stretching in an arc, and the bluish mountains in the distance. Day or night (the ramparts are illuminated), the Citadel is the soul of Calvi and offers a walk as enriching as it is romantic.
For nature lovers, the Pointe de la Revellata is a magical place at the western tip of Calvi. This wild peninsula, accessible by a path or dirt track, offers spectacular landscapes between sea and scrubland. At the end of the point stands the Revellata lighthouse, guardian of the bay, watching over sailors since 1844. Around it, secret coves with turquoise waters invite swimming away from the crowd. The best-known is the beach of l'Alga, a small cove of clear pebbles where you can lay your towel for a refreshing swim. The Revellata is also a popular snorkeling spot: its seabeds are teeming with colorful fish and corals. In spring, you can hike among wildflowers and the scent of scrubland, with the reward of a panoramic view of the Calvi citadel on one side and the Scandola reserve on the other. This preserved site perfectly illustrates the raw beauty of the Corsican coast.
Perched on a hill overlooking Calvi at 703 meters above sea level, the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra is another emblematic location in the region. This small white chapel from the 19th century is an important pilgrimage site for the people of Calvi, who organize a procession there each year in honor of the Virgin Mary. But beyond its religious interest, Notre-Dame de la Serra attracts for the exceptional panorama it offers. From the chapel's esplanade, dominated by a statue of the Virgin opening her arms to the town, the view stretches across the entire bay of Calvi, the citadel, the port, and the Monte Cinto mountain range on the horizon. At sunrise, the sea glistens with a thousand lights, while at dusk, the city lights begin to shine below. You can reach Notre-Dame de la Serra by taking a winding road (or a hiking trail for the more adventurous) – the ascent is well worth it. It's the perfect place to gain altitude and appreciate the splendor of the Calvi landscape.
In addition to private establishments, Calvi has superb municipal beaches accessible to everyone for free. Perfect for swimming and relaxing, these public beaches have nothing to envy to the most beautiful coves in Corsica. Here's a selection of municipal beaches to discover in Calvi:
Also known as Plage de la Pinède, Calvi's main public beach stretches nearly 5 kilometers along the gulf, from the marina to the pine forest in the east. Its fine white sand and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with children. In summer, swimming is supervised, and many activities are offered: sunbed and parasol rental for the day, beach volleyball, sailing schools, jet-skiing, etc. Several beach huts and snack bars punctuate the beach, allowing you to eat or drink without leaving the sand. From the beach, the view of the citadel and the mountains is splendid, especially early in the morning when the light is soft. Easily accessible on foot from the town center or by the tourist train, the beach of Calvi is a must to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea in an idyllic setting.
Located just steps from the town center (Pointe Saint-François neighborhood), the Beach of Roncu is a small discreet cove popular with locals. Unlike Pinède, here there is no fine sand but small pebbles and gravel, which does not detract from the charm of the place. Bordered by rocks, Roncu beach offers exceptionally clear water, perfect for snorkeling. Access is via a staircase from the coastal road. Less frequented by tourists, it allows you to swim in peace with the bonus of a beautiful view of the nearby citadel. Be careful, however, as the depth increases quickly as you move away from the shore. It's the ideal spot for a quick dip or sunbathing in peace after a stroll through the old town.
At the end of the Revellata road, about 6 km from Calvi's center, hides the Beach of l'Alga, a little gem for nature lovers. This public beach is worth the effort: you have to take a rocky path to reach it, making it less crowded. The setting that awaits you is worthy of a tropical decor: a cove of clear pebbles and mixed sand, bathed by translucent water in blue-green hues. Surrounded by scrubland and rocks, the cove of l'Alga is sheltered from the winds, offering often ideal swimming conditions. There's a beach restaurant (open in summer) where you can have lunch or refresh yourself, adding comfort to this wild setting. The beach of l'Alga is also a renowned spot for observing the seabed with fins, mask, and snorkel, especially near the rocks on the sides. Whether it's for a relaxing afternoon or a stop during an excursion to the Pointe de la Revellata, this municipal beach is worth the trip for its "end of the world" feel just steps from the town.
Calvi is a human-sized town where getting around is easy, but having a means of transport can be useful for exploring the surroundings and accessing some remote beaches. Here are the main modes of transportation available for getting around Calvi and its surroundings:
The town center of Calvi and the port area are easily explored on foot. Most tourist sites (citadel, old town, port, Plage de la Pinède) are grouped in a small area, allowing you to do everything on foot. Strolling through the streets or along the sea is a pleasure in itself. For more freedom, you can also opt for a bike: several mountain bike and electric bike rental shops are in town. A bike path partially runs along Calvi beach, ideal for a two-wheeled ride in the shade of the pines. On foot or by bike, you'll fully enjoy Calvi's relaxed atmosphere without worrying about parking.
Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore Balagne at your own pace. Calvi – Sainte-Catherine airport and the town center have several rental agencies. With a car, you can easily travel to the perched villages of the hinterland, more distant beaches (like Bodri or Saleccia further north), or even make a getaway to Île-Rousse or Bastia. Note that parking in Calvi can be difficult near the port and beach during peak hours, and some parking lots are paid. A scooter or motorcycle can be a practical alternative for slipping through and parking more easily. Wearing a helmet is mandatory, and caution is advised on the small winding roads. In summary, the car offers freedom, but think to use it for excursions outside Calvi rather than for getting around the town center.
Calvi has the particularity of being connected to other coastal localities of Balagne by a picturesque little train. Nicknamed the Tramway of Balagne (even though it is indeed a train), it connects Calvi to L'Île-Rousse, skirting the coast for about thirty kilometers. This train notably passes through several stops near magnificent beaches, such as Sant Ambroggio beach, Algajola, or Bodri. It's an original and panoramic way to get around, avoiding summer traffic jams. Trains run several times a day in season (less frequently out of season). The fare is modest, and tickets can be bought at the station or directly on board. Don't hesitate to take this authentic means of transport for a day trip without a car: for example, take the train in the morning from Calvi, spend the afternoon on a beach around Île-Rousse, then return at the end of the day enjoying the splendid views of the Mediterranean from your wagon.
Finally, for occasional trips, you'll find taxis in Calvi, especially stationed near the train station and airport. They can be handy for reaching your hotel from the airport (7 km from the center) or for returning late at night after dinner. Private shuttles or VTC services are also starting to be available in high season. Inquire at the Tourist Office or your accommodation for reliable taxi numbers. Note that there is no dense urban bus network in Calvi, as the town is small. However, intercity buses connect Calvi to other Corsican cities (Bastia, Ajaccio) a few times a week. In summary, in Calvi itself, walking is preferred, and for the surroundings, the train/walk or rental car combo is ideal for making the most of your stay.
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