Palombaggia, White sand beach in Porto-Vecchio, France
Palombaggia is a sandy beach near Porto-Vecchio stretching about 1.5 kilometers along the coast, backed by red granite outcrops and umbrella pine forests. The water is shallow and clear, making it easy to wade and swim in different spots along the shoreline.
The beach remained largely undeveloped until the mid-1900s, when it began attracting visitors seeking a natural seaside escape. It gained legal protection as part of a coastal conservation initiative to prevent overdevelopment.
Local fishermen maintain traditional fishing practices near the Cerbicale islands, preserving Mediterranean maritime traditions through generations.
Paid parking is available at the northern end, and you can rent loungers and umbrellas during the season. Weekends in summer draw crowds, so arriving early offers a better chance of finding a quiet spot and easy parking.
The beach actually divides into three distinct sections, each with a different character from amenity-filled zones to completely undeveloped natural areas. Many visitors only see the busy middle section and miss the quieter ends where the shoreline feels far more secluded.
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