Canella Beach: 400m of fine sand south of Solenzara

400 metres of fine sand in a sheltered cove

The beach extends for approximately 400 metres, framed by two rocky promontories covered in maquis. It is one of the finest sandy beaches in the Solenzara area. The sand is white-golden, fine, and shelves very gently towards the sea.

The turquoise waters have the clarity characteristic of sheltered bays: little current, visible seabed for several metres, gentle swell. This makes Canella particularly suited to families with children and inexperienced swimmers, with the shallow-water zone extending well before the seabed drops away.

Getting there: the car park question

Access to the beach is via the coastal road from Solenzara. The car park at the foot of the beach is limited; it fills by late morning in July and August. For a peaceful day, aim to arrive before 10 o’clock. Parking along the road above is prohibited and subject to fines.

Enquire locally about lifeguard surveillance, which varies with the seasons. A handful of beach restaurants operate in season, including a straw-roofed restaurant offering grilled fish and simple dishes; regular visitors often prefer to picnic in order to make the most of the cove.

The surrounding environment

The promontories framing the cove lend themselves to snorkelling. The rocky seabed supports a modest Mediterranean marine fauna, breams, wrasse, occasional grouper, and seagrass meadows of posidonia, a protected species. Those inclined to walk can follow the rocks southwards towards other small coves that are less easily accessible.

The back of the beach remains undeveloped. No rows of straw huts, no sunloungers lining the entire length. It is this relative tranquillity that accounts for Canella’s reputation among regulars of the southern coast, although this tranquillity diminishes in July and August, when the beach naturally fills up.

When to visit

The best window is mid-May to mid-June or early September to mid-October. The sea is still warm (around 20-22°C depending on the year) and the beach regains its calm. July and August remain the busiest months, with heavy footfall between 11am and 5pm; for this period, aim for early morning or late afternoon.

Planning a stay in Solenzara

AEC Collection selects and represents villas and apartments in Solenzara and on the eastern coast of south Corsica. Canella beach, like other sites along the coastline, is discovered independently.