Lavezzu island has several sandy coves between its granite boulders. The closest to the eastern landing point is Cala di u Grecu, about 5 minutes on foot, with two small shallow bays; Cala Achiarina, to the south, is the island's largest beach; Cala della Chiesa, to the north, is the quietest, a 20-minute walk away. None of the beaches has a lifeguard and there is no shade: stay on the sand and the paths, and do not climb the rocks.
Key facts
- Cala di u Grecu: 5 min from the eastern landing point, ideal for beginners in calm seas.
- Cala Achiarina: the largest beach, starting point of the guided snorkel trail.
- Cala della Chiesa: to the north, 20 min on foot, the quietest.
- No lifeguards, no shade, climbing the rocks is forbidden.
The coves of Lavezzu
| Cove | Where | From the landing point | Depth | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cala di u Grecu | east coast, two small bays | about 5 min | 0.5 to 6 m | families, beginner snorkellers |
| Cala Achiarina | south of the island, about 1 km south of Cala della Chiesa | depends on the landing point | shallow near the shore | swimming, guided snorkel trail |
| Cala della Chiesa | north of the island | about 20 min (900 m) | up to 4 m | confident swimmers, peace and quiet |
Distances and depths: Snorkeling Report. Walking times are from the eastern landing point.
Cala di u Grecu, the closest
Five minutes from the landing point, two small rocky bays open onto water that is often very calm. The edges are shallow (0.5 to 2 m) and the middle of the bays drops to 6 m over seagrass meadows. Stay inside the bays: the shuttles pass right at their entrance.
Cala Achiarina, the big beach
Visit Corsica describes it as one of the island’s largest and most beautiful beaches: fine sand and turquoise water. The guided snorkel trail runs from here in season. It is also the busiest in the middle of the day.
Cala della Chiesa, the quietest
This is the northernmost cove on the island and one of the least visited: about 20 minutes on foot from the eastern landing point, 35 minutes from the western one. A maze of rocks and islets, seagrass and patches of sand, up to 4 m deep. The north of the island beyond the cove is closed to the public to protect seabirds.
Swimming rules
- No lifeguards: swim close to the shore, especially with children.
- Stay on the sand and the marked paths: climbing the rocks, which are bird refuges, is forbidden.
- No fishing, no collecting shells or plants.
- Leave nothing on the beach: the island has no bins.
Details on the reserve rules page. To combine a swim with a walk, see the Lavezzu walk; for beaches on the Corsican side, see beaches near Bonifacio.
Book a trip
A trip with a swim stop
From Bonifacio: Lavezzi Islands Half-Day Boat Tour3 hours★ 4.8 (229 reviews)from €60Check availability
Half-day: relaxing afternoon to the Lavezzi and Cavallo Islands4 hours★ 4.7 (103 reviews)from €90Check availability
Bonifacio by sailboat 7 hours: Luxury, Relaxation and Stunning Scenery3.5 - 7 hours★ 5.0 (11 reviews)from €200Check availability
"From" prices checked on 9 November 2026 and may have changed.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful beach on Lavezzi?
Visit Corsica describes Achiarina beach as one of the largest and most beautiful on the island, with fine sand and turquoise water.
Are the Lavezzi beaches supervised?
No. There is no first-aid post and no lifeguard. Swim close to the shore and watch out for currents, even when the sea is calm.
Can I put up a parasol on the beach?
Yes, and it is a good idea: the island has no shade. Parasols can be hired at the shuttle kiosk in Bonifacio, according to Snorkeling Report.
Sources
Information checked against the sources below. Timetables, prices and rules change: confirm before you go.
- Visit Corsica, Lavezzu island beaches (in French), accessed 9 November 2026
- Snorkeling Report, Cala di u Grecu, accessed 9 November 2026
- Snorkeling Report, Cala della Chiesa, accessed 9 November 2026
- Decree of 23 September 1999, Bouches de Bonifacio nature reserve (in French), accessed 9 November 2026
