Giraglia Island

Giraglia is a small rocky islet off the northern tip of Cap Corse in northern Corsica, France, known for its lighthouse and maritime location.

The islet functions as a navigational marker and is associated with offshore sailing routes and yacht racing in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

It is uninhabited and visited primarily by passing vessels rather than as a regular tourist landing.

Giraglia lies a short distance offshore from Cap Corse in the Haute-Corse department of Corsica, north of the main island’s headland.

• Nautical use: Serves as a navigational marker off Cap Corse and is a waypoint for offshore sailing events.
• Sailing event: Often cited as the turning or navigational point associated with the Giraglia Rolex Cup yacht race.

What to See#

• Lighthouse: A small maritime lighthouse installed on the rock to aid navigation off the northern tip of Cap Corse.

Giraglia is visible from northern Corsican ports such as Saint-Florent and Bastia. The islet is reached only by private boat; tours rarely land owing to protected status and navigation hazards. Sailors participating in regional regattas include it as a course marker.

• Boat trips past the islet are short; check captains' schedules in Bastia or Saint-Florent.
• The lighthouse on Giraglia is automated-landings are generally not permitted without authorization.
• Photographers should favor late afternoon for warm light on the rock.