Lavezzi Islands - Image 1
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Lavezzi Islands

4.6
·126 reviews·Bonifacio, France

An archipelago of granite islands with breathtaking turquoise waters and surreal rock formations, offering a wild escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring / Early Autumn

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Lavezzi Islands - Image 1

Lavezzi Islands

Best Time

Late Spring / Early Autumn

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An archipelago of granite islands with breathtaking turquoise waters and surreal rock formations, offering a wild escape.

4.6
(126 reviews)

"The boat trip offers beautiful views with different shades of blue!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack Water & Snacks 💧

No facilities on the islands! Bring ample water and food, as it gets very hot and there's no shade.

Boat Trip is Key 🛥️

The boat journey offers stunning views. Consider booking a catamaran for a great experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters

Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters

Various coves and beaches

Dive into incredibly clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Unique Granite Rock Formations

Unique Granite Rock Formations

Throughout the islands

Marvel at the sculpted granite boulders shaped by wind and sea over millennia.

Boat Trip Views

Boat Trip Views

En route to the islands

Enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery and the diverse shades of blue during your boat journey.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Access & Essentials

Reaching the Lavezzi Islands requires a boat trip, typically from Bonifacio or Porto Vecchio. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the islands. Be prepared for hot, dry conditions and bring sun protection.

Best Time to Visit & What to Expect

Visit during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. While beautiful, some visitors find the islands less pristine than expected, with limited shade and occasional jellyfish. The boat journey itself offers stunning coastal views.

Best Times

When
Late Spring / Early Autumn
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

From one Italian island to a French island, a Mediterranean dream 🚤🙌🏽🩵🌊 #italy #italytravel #sardinia #sardegna #sardegnaitaly #sardegnatiktok #europesummer #italysummer #corsica #bonifacio
@natalialeonarb
4.8K likes • 101.9K views

Pack Water & Snacks 💧

No facilities on the islands! Bring ample water and food, as it gets very hot and there's no shade. Instagram

Boat Trip is Key 🛥️

The boat journey offers stunning views. Consider booking a catamaran for a great experience. Instagram

Côte sud-Plateau de Pertusato/ Bonifacio et îles Lavezzi In escursione nella costa Sud della #corsica 💙 tra Lavezzi, Cavallo, Isola piana, Ansa di Fazzio #lavezzi #bonifacio #bancdesable #corsicaisland #corsicalovers #giuseppechironi #djimini4pro #beachlovers
@giuseppe_chironi
3.8K likes • 95.8K views
A true sculpture set on the waterfront, this unique Savin Couëlle home blends indoor and outdoor living seamlessly. Price €9,900,000. In the south of Cavallo Island, facing the Lavezzi Islands, is built a spectacular house, a real architectural feat designed by the architect Savin Couelle in the 90s, this property, which is set in the heart of the exceptional waterfront, perfectly matches its su...
kimberlycaseyteam
0 likes • 2.3K views

Jellyfish Alert ⚠️

Be aware of jellyfish, which can make swimming difficult at times. Reddit

Sun Protection Essential ☀️

Bring hats, sunscreen, and cover-ups. There's very little natural shade on the islands. Instagram

The one for waterfront living 🇫🇷 Face aux îles de Cavallo & Lavezzi, avec la Sardaigne en toile de fond, la Villa Pruna offre un cadre unique où le jardin rejoint la mer. ______ 🇬🇧 Overlooking Cavallo & Lavezzi islands, with Sardinia on the horizon, Villa Pruna offers a unique setting where the garden meets the sea. 𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐏𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐚 🗝️ PC3-245 📍 Cala Longa, Bonifacio Contact : @loelia.corsicasot...
corsicasothebysrealty
0 likes • 5.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack Water & Snacks 💧

No facilities on the islands! Bring ample water and food, as it gets very hot and there's no shade. Instagram

Boat Trip is Key 🛥️

The boat journey offers stunning views. Consider booking a catamaran for a great experience. Instagram

Jellyfish Alert ⚠️

Be aware of jellyfish, which can make swimming difficult at times. Reddit

Sun Protection Essential ☀️

Bring hats, sunscreen, and cover-ups. There's very little natural shade on the islands. Instagram

Explore Beyond Beaches 🚶‍♀️

While beaches are lovely, the unique rock formations and rugged landscape are also worth exploring. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(126 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are often impressed by the stunning turquoise waters and unique granite landscapes, with the boat trip itself being a highlight. However, some find the islands can be crowded, lack amenities, and occasionally have jellyfish, making them feel less pristine than expected for the cost.

"Quite surprised to see high ratings from the visitors. I would not recommend to visit this island if you have limited time. To me it is not worth it.
There is no establishment to have a drink or bite, which is kind of ok. So the island is untouched, but in terms of cleanness too. There is nothing green there, flowers are dead, trashes on the beaches. Difficult to find a spot to settle down.
Plenty of beaches but full of jelly fish.. makes swimming impossible.
The only part that i enjoyed was the boat trip due to beautiful views thanks to the different shades of blue!
The round trip costs 34€."

Selin Elmas

"10 over 10. Awesome experience"

Mufasa C.

"Nice, but unfortunately little crowded"

Mirja Weber

What People Like

Incredible turquoise waters
Unique granite formations
Beautiful boat journey

What People Dislike

Crowded conditions
Lack of facilities
Occasional jellyfish

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lavezzi Islands are accessible by boat tours departing from Bonifacio and Porto Vecchio in Corsica. Some tours also depart from Sardinia. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. TikTokInstagram

Boat trips are the only way to reach the islands. Catamaran tours are popular for their comfort and scenic routes. Instagram

The journey time varies depending on the departure point and type of boat, but typically ranges from 30 minutes to over an hour. TikTok

No, there are no public ferries. Access is exclusively via organized boat tours or private boat hire. Instagram

Yes, some boat tours operate from the northern coast of Sardinia, offering a day trip to the Lavezzi Islands. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You need to purchase a ticket for the boat tour to reach the islands. There isn't a separate entry fee for the islands themselves, as they are a natural reserve. Reddit

Boat trip prices can vary, but expect to pay around €34 for a round trip from Bonifacio. Reddit

The Lavezzi Islands are a protected natural reserve, but there are no specific entrance fees beyond the cost of your boat transportation. Instagram

Yes, many tour operators allow online booking, and platforms like GetYourGuide offer various options. Booking ahead is advisable. Instagram

The islands are accessible during daylight hours when boat tours are operating. There are no set opening or closing times for the natural reserve itself. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim, snorkel, explore the unique granite formations, and relax on the beaches. The boat trip itself offers beautiful views. TikTokInstagram

No, there are no establishments for drinks or food, and very limited shade. It's crucial to bring all your own supplies. InstagramReddit

The islands can get crowded, especially during peak summer months. Visiting in the shoulder season or early in the day can help. Reddit

Yes, the water is stunning for swimming and snorkeling. However, be aware of potential jellyfish. InstagramReddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring, swimwear, and bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant turquoise waters, the dramatic granite rock formations, and panoramic sea views. The boat journey also offers great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Drone photography can be spectacular, capturing the scale of the islands and the surrounding sea. Ensure you are aware of any local regulations. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a waterproof camera or phone case is useful for capturing underwater shots. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer, more dramatic lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh. TikTok

Yes, the islands are a nature reserve, so you might see various seabirds and marine life. Remember to observe from a respectful distance. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Lavezzi Islands offer a unique adventure for families, but require careful planning. The boat trip itself can be exciting for children, with the chance to see dolphins or other marine life. Once on the islands, kids will enjoy exploring the unusual rock formations and the shallow, clear waters for wading and splashing. However, the lack of shade and facilities means parents need to be extra prepared. Bring plenty of water, snacks, hats, and high-SPF sunscreen. Ensure children wear water shoes as the terrain can be rocky. Be mindful of jellyfish, and supervise children closely near the water. InstagramReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting the Lavezzi Islands can be done on a budget by opting for the most economical boat tours. Look for tours departing from Bonifacio, as they are often slightly cheaper than those from Porto Vecchio. Pack all your own food and drinks to avoid any on-island expenses, as there are no shops or restaurants. While the boat trip is essential, focus on enjoying the natural beauty of the islands – the unique rocks and the stunning sea views – which are free to experience once you arrive. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Lavezzi Islands are a photographer's paradise, offering dramatic landscapes and vibrant colors. The sculpted granite boulders provide unique foregrounds against the stunning turquoise sea. Capture the play of light on the rocks and the crystal-clear water. Early morning or late afternoon light will offer the best conditions for dramatic shots. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the water and sky. The boat journey also presents fantastic opportunities for coastal and sea-scape photography. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Lavezzi Islands: A Protected Natural Reserve

The Lavezzi Islands are a protected marine and terrestrial nature reserve, part of the Maddalena Archipelago National Park (though geographically closer to Corsica). This designation means the islands are largely untouched, preserving their wild beauty. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by not leaving any trace behind. The unique granite formations, sculpted by centuries of wind and sea, are a defining feature of the landscape, creating surreal shapes and textures across the islands. Instagram

This pristine environment is home to a variety of flora and fauna. While the terrestrial vegetation is sparse due to the dry climate and rocky terrain, the surrounding waters teem with marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. However, visitors should be aware that the islands are also a habitat for jellyfish, which can sometimes impact swimming conditions. Reddit

Exploring the Lavezzi Islands is an experience that emphasizes natural beauty and tranquility. The lack of development means visitors must be self-sufficient, bringing everything they need for the day. This remoteness is part of its charm, offering a true escape into nature. Instagram

Navigating Boat Trips to Lavezzi

Access to the Lavezzi Islands is exclusively by sea. The most common departure points are Bonifacio and Porto Vecchio in southern Corsica. Numerous tour operators offer day trips, ranging from small group excursions to larger catamaran or yacht tours. The journey itself is a significant part of the experience, offering spectacular views of the Corsican coastline, the Strait of Bonifacio, and the islands themselves. TikTokInstagram

When choosing a boat trip, consider the type of vessel and the itinerary. Catamaran trips are often praised for their comfort and stability, providing a smooth ride and ample space to relax. Some tours may include stops at other nearby islands like Cavallo or Piana, or offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in secluded coves. It's advisable to book your tour in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your spot. Instagram

The cost of a boat trip typically includes the round-trip journey. Prices can vary, but expect to pay around €34 for a standard tour from Bonifacio. While some reviews highlight the beauty of the boat ride, others note that the islands themselves can be crowded and lack amenities, making the boat trip a key highlight. Reddit

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