Plage de Balistra

Plage de Balistra is a long sand beach on the north-west corner of the Gulf of Sant'Amanza, in the commune of Bonifacio in Corse-du-Sud, between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio. It lies inside the Bouches de Bonifacio nature reserve, with a lagoon behind it, and suits families on calm days and windsurfers and kitesurfers when the wind picks up.

A sand bar in front of the Étang de Balistra

The beach is a sand bar of fine sand and turquoise water that separates the sea from the Étang de Balistra, a coastal lagoon of about 24 hectares fed by the Ruisseau de Francolu. A small channel drains the lagoon to the sea at the northern end, with a reed bed beside it. Bring binoculars and watch the birds from the sand; cormorants and grebes use the lagoon. The southern end is wilder and ends in cliffs used by paragliders.

Visit Corsica lists Balistra as a non-smoking beach. Follow the reserve's posted rules and take your rubbish home.

Summer lifeguards, a beach hut and hire

Professional lifeguards watch the beach in season, roughly 1 July to 15 September, from late morning to late afternoon; exact dates and hours are set each year by local order. A beach hut serves food and drink, and a water-sports centre hires equipment. From mid-June to the end of September the town sets up a beach volleyball net.

Windy days for kites and cooler water

Balistra is often windy, and when the sea picks up it becomes a well-known spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The water is often cooler than at other beaches nearby. On windy days keep clear of kites and boards, and beginners should go through the local school.

Beach mat, wheelchair and a ramp into the sea

The beach is classed as wheelchair friendly. A beach mat, a beach wheelchair and a ramp into the water are provided. Dogs are allowed, according to Visit Corsica.

Rondinara and Sant'Amanza for a second bay

Rondinara beach is about 5 km away and Sant'Amanza about 4 km, so two very different bays fit into one day. Bonifacio's old town on its limestone cliffs lies to the south. Entry is free. Calm mornings suit swimmers; windy afternoons suit riders. Outside July and August there are few services, so bring water and shade.