Enjoy relaxed walks, safe swimming, spectacular views and waterfront bars at La Marana Beach. Afterward, admire colourful birdlife at a nearby nature reserve or visit historic landmarks. La Marana Beach stretches for about 10 miles (16 kilometres) from the southern edge of Bastia and along Corsica’s picturesque Mediterranean Sea coastline.
The wide sweep of sandy beach will rarely feel overcrowded. Take strolls and play beach sports. You’ll find plenty of space to sit undisturbed and appreciate the picturesque natural setting. Gaze out across the sea toward the Tuscan Archipelago or inland over pine woods to Corsica’s mountains.
On a warm day the beach’s calm water is great for a refreshing swim. For exciting water adventures, rent windsurfers or a sailboat at the various watersports clubs located on the beach. Several beach bars offer snacks, light meals and refreshments.
Running parallel with the beach is one of Corsica’s largest lagoons, Étang de Biguglia. It is home to the Réserve Naturelle de Étang de Biguglia, a natural habitat for many European pond turtles and water birds including pochard and coot. Spot warblers in summer and grebes, grey herons and kingfishers in winter. Watch local fishermen waiting patiently in their boats to catch eel, mullet and silverside, among other fish. They harvest nearly 100 tons (90 tonnes) of fish annually through a conservation management plan.
While here, visit the former Roman village of Mariana, just south of Étang de Biguglia. Check out La Canonica (Lucciana Cathedral), a 12th-century cathedral adorned with interesting carvings and Corinthian capitals.
La Marana Beach is a 15-minute drive from Place St.-Nicolas, in the heart of Bastia. The most convenient way to get here is via rented car, scooter or bike. Drive or ride a bicycle to the northern tip of Étang de Biguglia and then follow the coastal road, which has designated bike lanes. Ample free parking is available on the roads that lead to the beach.
