All I know is that when summer arrives, the best beaches in France are calling to me.
I’m a beach gal. “Do you prefer the ocean or the mountains?” I often get asked. The ocean always wins.
But what are the best beaches in France? Is it the atmosphere, the sand, the surf? Is it the tide pools, the proximity to a charming town and a merry-go-round? Maybe for you, it’s a long golden expanse that can be strolled at low tide. Certainly, the best beach depends on the individual, the day and the mood.
What constitutes the best or most beautiful beach for you?
Here is a list of 16 best beaches in France. All quite different. Each French beach is special in its own way.
16 Best Beaches In France
#1 Biarritz, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Biarritz has a unique appeal. Close to the Spanish border with a strong Basque culture, it just has to be visited! Biarritz, known as the California of France, has a hopping surf culture that comes with a palpable, laid-back vibe. Surf schools and beach umbrellas dot this golden sandy French beach.
Throw in tapas, local beer, the lighthouse, a fabulous market, and the crashing surf and voilà , you may never want to leave one of the best beaches in France.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Here’s my full article on Biarritz.
#2 Biscarrosse Beach, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
It was because of a housesit that I ended up at stunning Biscarrosse Beach on France’s Atlantic coast. The lovely homeowner, a world traveller, recounted that this was not only one of the best beaches in France but of anywhere she had travelled.
No question.
I had to go.
What I discovered was an expansive walking beach, with crashing surf and sand dunes, plenty of men (it was early morning – where were the women?) clutching surfboards, people strolling as their dogs jumped the incoming waves and glorious sunsets. One of the best beaches in France? Definitely.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Read my full article here on Biscarrosse Beach to see what there is to do but… nearby is the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s highest sand dune and plenty of bike trails and lakes!
Where to stay at Biscarrosse-Plage (at the beach) and the town of Biscarrosse (a bit further from the beach).
#3 Cassis, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
One can’t mention the best beaches in France without mentioning Cassis and the Calanques de Cassis. There is a small French beach right in the old town of Cassis and another called Bestouan Beach a short walk away. Dipping into the Mediterranean Sea never grows old.
If you are up for a hike, start early in the day and follow the trails of the Calanques de Cassis. Stop and swim amidst the towering limestone cliffs at Calanque de Porte-Pin. Hike further to the Calanque d’en-Vau for a spectacular French beach experience. Allow a full day and bring all your supplies with you as this is a National Park with no services.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Cassis and the Calanques de Cassis are a fabulous stop on any itinerary through Provence. This seven-day south of France itinerary includes some awesome stops nearby.
#4 Best Beaches in France: Collioure, Pyrénées-Orientales
Situated on the Vermilion Coast, I’ll never forget my trip to Collioure. It was my first time swimming in the Mediterranean Sea and I devoured the best pistachio ice cream ever eaten, twice.
Collioure is a delightful Catalonian town with cobbled streets, fabulous shops, and the most magical light. No wonder Matisse and Picasso spent time here.
The Mediterranean is exquisite in Collioure, the deep blue waters framed by the historical bell tower that was once a defence tower and then a church steeple.
There are several typical French beaches right in Collioure. The towels are laid out early in the morning to save a spot and by 11 am there is barely a millimetre of pebbles showing between the colourful towels. Just sit and watch – topless ladies, children playing, paddleboarders and a host of other activities.
Things To Do Near This French Beach:
Windsurfing and kiteboarding were in full swing when I was in Collioure. There is also a Musée d’Art Moderne and also the Maison de Fauvisme. The 13th-century castle, the Château Royal de Collioure, was occupied by the Spanish until 1642. You’re close to the Spanish border here. Lunch in Spain anyone?
#5 Best Beaches In France: Côte Sauvage, Brittany
The Côte Sauvage, a spectacular coastline, in Brittany is unforgettable. The Côte Sauvage (Wild Coast) is found on the west side of the Quiberon Peninsula in the Morbihan department of Brittany. The crashing surf, the sea spray, the craggy rocks, and dunes are beyond good for the soul.
For the hikers in the crowd, walk the 10 km (6-mile) trail that follows the coastline. Bring a picnic and perch yourself on a rocky outcrop. Listen to the waves. La vie est belle.
There is a strict no swimming policy here as the sea is rough and the current is strong. Although there are sandy coves at low tide, as a visitor passing through the area, it is safest to stay up high on the rocks on the grassy trail.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Read my full article in 13 Reasons To Fall in Love with Brittany, France.
The east coast of the Quiberon Peninsula is very different from the Côte Sauvage. If you are visiting the area, be sure to spend time on both sides of the peninsula. On the east side where sandy beaches face the Bay of Quiberon, the water is calmer. Perfect for a few hours of relaxing.
The 2800 standing stones of Carnac, the largest megalithic site in the world, are close by. Be sure to allow time to visit this amazing site where ancient standing stones stretch as far as the eye can see.
Where To Stay Near the Wild Coast: in Quiberon or Auray
Read More | Loving the best beaches in France? Here are some fabulous beaches in Portugal.
#6 Deauville, Normandy
When the “canicule” (heatwave) hits Paris head to chic Deauville, one of the best beaches in France. Perch under one of the infamous colourful parasols lining the beach, revel in the sensation of the soft golden sand underfoot and take a stroll on the expansive beach. Did someone say heavenly?
Spend part of the day at this French beach but be sure to stroll the famous boardwalk, find a gourmet restaurant and pop into the town for some great shopping.
The bonus is that Trouville, a quaint former fishing village is a short walk or boat ride away. Be sure to leave time to explore Trouville.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Relax and do all things “Norman…” – drink cider and eat camembert! Read my full post here to find out what else to do in Deauville and don’t forget it’s the perfect day trip from Paris. Be forewarned. Once there, you won’t want to leave.
#7 Best French Beaches: Dinard, Brittany
Relax on the soft, sandy, crescent-shaped beach at Dinard, La Plage de l’Ecluse, and gaze at the sailboats that pass by and the spire of Saint Vincent Cathedral in nearby Saint-Malo. The backdrop to this beach? Belle Epoque villas perched on high watching over this French beach. Take a stroll along the coastal footpaths and soak up Dinard’s vibe of relaxed elegance and charm. Dinard easily lives up to its nickname the “Pearl of the Emerald Coast.”
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Be sure to walk the seaside paths past the elegant villas. Don’t miss the Dinard market held Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. Explore the Rance River on a boat excursion from Dinard all the way to lovely Dinan. If you have the chance to visit in the shoulder season, the British Film Festival is held annually in October.
#8 Best Beaches In France: Etretat, Normandy
Etretat, Normandy situated facing the English Channel is known for its fabulous chalk white cliffs and unique rock formations. The needle rock rising from the sea, right by the Porte d’Aval (the natural arch), is unforgettable as are the sweeping views when you climb the cliffs, the Falaise d’Aval and the Falaise d’Amont, at each end of the beach.
Can you hear it? That soothing sound of the sea receding and jostling the pebbles. It’s the perfect soundscape to accompany a champagne picnic.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Read about how to spend a fabulous day at Etretat. You are not far from other fabulous sites in Normandy such as Honfleur and Dieppe. Buy some blue and white striped apparel in Etretat and sink into the best of Normandy.
#9 Ile aux Moines, Brittany
There are plenty of French beaches and coves on this magical island of Ile aux Moines. You will have to spend a few days and decide which is your favourite French beach on this island.
One thing for sure is that you will be breathing more easily and strolling at a sauntering pace because that is what island life demands of you on Ile aux Moines. Rent a bicycle, find the Celtic standing stones and take a dip in the Gulf of Morbihan. Does life get any better?
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Read my full article here with all the details on Ile aux Moines.
Where To Stay on Ile aux Moines As mentioned in my post, there is a campsite on the island also.
# 10 Ile de Ré, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Ile de Ré is found in the Charente-Maritime department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Just a short trip across the bridge from La Rochelle, Ile de Ré is known for its charming towns and sandy beaches. Tamarind and pines trees, sand dunes backing the beaches, and the glistening ocean create an ideal spot for a vacation. Rent a bike and follow the trails that crisscross the island then sit back and relax on one of the sandy beaches. La Conche des Baleines is a favourite with its 3 km (almost 2 miles) long beach and a little bit wilder is the beach of Trousse Chemise. Take your pick. There are plenty of best beaches in France on Ile de Ré.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Read my full article here on La Flotte, one of France’s most beautiful villages, found on Ile de Ré. There is plenty to do in Ile de Ré but if some exploring off-island is an option, visit La Rochelle.
# 11 Best Beaches In France: Ile de Noirmoutier, Pays de Loire
Located in the Vendée department of the Pays de Loire, lies an island where white-washed beach huts, sandy beaches, windswept pines and salt marshes enchant any beach lover’s soul. Sink your toes into the powdery sand on Ile de Noirmoutier, collect clams and snails, explore the tide pools and stroll through the oak and pine forest. Rent a bicycle and don’t forget to buy fresh salt from the salt marshes. I’m just about finished mine and wishing for more!
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
A full article is coming soon on Ile de Noirmoutier….
#12 Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel rises from the sea and leaves an indelible impression. With its highest tides in Europe, the seafloor around Mont Saint-Michel demands to be explored. You’re not going to be laying out your beach towel on this French beach but discovering the flora and fauna of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tides here come galloping in at a renowned and ferocious rate so it is highly recommended to take a guided walking tour when the tide is out. The guides also know how to avoid the areas that have quicksand.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
This article on Mont Saint-Michel suggests how to plan a great day there. Mont Saint-Michel is a short drive to Saint-Malo in Brittany.
#13 Saint-Malo, Brittany
Saint-Malo, with its beautiful walled city and the ramparts from where the view is endless, is a charming place to spend some time. Europe’s highest tidal ranges make for some of the best beach strolls and the swimming is ideal.
There’s a protected beach, Plage de Bon Secours, west of the city walls but my favourite is the Grande Plage where walks at low tide are unforgettable. I still have a piece of sea glass in my pocket from the beach at Saint-Malo.
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Perhaps it was that Jacques Cartier left Saint-Malo in 1554 to set sail for the New World (Canada). Perhaps it is my three visits in different seasons to Saint-Malo. Or maybe the lure of the golden sand and tide pools. Saint-Malo. Definitely one of the best beaches in France.
# 14 Best Beaches In France: Secret Brittany
Having a car while exploring Brittany is a bonus! As you twist along narrow regional roads, look for clusters of parked cars or an overflowing parking lot. Take note. There is most likely a narrow sandy path winding down through a pine forest to a secluded beach.
I was taken to this best beach in France, Plage de la Touesse, by somebody in the know. Situated between Saint-Malo and Cancale in Saint-Coulomb, it reminded me that as a traveller passing through a region, it is always a gift to find a tucked-away gem.
Plage de la Touesse, with its soft, golden sandy beach and stunning clear blue water, is the perfect place to spend a day. Swim, watch the cormorants diving and know that you are in good company.
Collette, the famous French writer, spent her summers in the villa sitting just above the sand dunes. What a place for writing inspiration. Tuck a notebook into your picnic basket!
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
My first pick would be to have lunch at La Perle Noir with its gorgeous terrace overlooking the sea. Book in advance.
If you love hiking coastal trails, the Ile de Besnard route is about a 3-hour hike in the Saint-Coulomb area.
#15 Secluded French Beaches In Normandy
Follow a little trail hidden amidst trees with a hint of blue sea beckoning you to advance. It opens to a grassy path that leads to the sea. You’re alone with the wild cliffs and sea and a few fishermen sorting the day’s catch.
Look left
and then right
and know in your heart that finding this secluded French beach was the perfect way to start the day.
# 16 Best French Beaches: Veules-les-Roses, Normandy
Soaring white cliffs, a long boardwalk, turquoise waters and one of France’s most beautiful villages make Veules-les -Roses, the perfect beach stop in Normandy. Explore the village and nod in approval to the town’s name. Roses climb every available surface. The scent of roses and the salty fresh air make the perfect recipe for relaxation!
Things To Do Near This Best Beach In France:
Veules-les-Roses is a great location for exploring the region of Normandy. This article on the best things to do in Normandy will help you plan your travels.
Which of these best beaches in France would you like to visit first?
Which best beach in France have you been to that should be on the list?
Happy beaching and until next time,
More Travel Info…
Travelling In France?
What else have I written about France? Find the full list right here.
If you are exploring a particular region of France, here are 19 fabulous things to do in Normandy, beautiful towns to visit in le Dordogne and a 7-day itinerary through Provence.
Travelling To Paris?
I have some great tips on Paris, right here. A few of my most popular articles on Paris include Paris streets, the hip area of Canal Saint-Martin, and the always popular and uber-charming le Marais. Don’t miss where to find the best croissant in Paris!
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