Exploring the best French beaches to enjoy this summer

France’s beaches are among the best in the world, with crystal-clear oceans, secret coves, and breathtaking sunsets that last for days. We’ve compiled a list of the best French beaches to add to your European bucket list, including everything from calm bathing areas to high-end resorts.

7 best French beaches

En Vau

This is the ideal romantic getaway, surrounded by towering cliffs and distinguished by a series of small limestone bays. The beach spans 20 kilometers between Cassis and Marseille, and if you’re up for a hike, you must visit Calanque D’en-Vau, an isolated small cove that is well worth it.

Palombaggia

Imagine a smooth shoreline flanked by pink granite cliffs framed by sweet-scented pine trees; multiply the splendor tenfold, and you’ve got Corsica’s most famous beach. Palombaggia, a small slice of paradise about 10 kilometers from the ritzy town of Porto-Vecchio, attracts surfers who come to ride the waves on windy days, much like the Caribbean.

Gatseau

The popular Île de Ré may be more well-known, but if you want to uncover one of France’s best-kept beach secrets, cross the beautiful bridge to Ré’s sister island Oléron. Oléron, France’s second-largest island, feels like a utopia, with kilometres of sandy beaches backed by grassy dunes and sweet-smelling pine forests. Still, the exquisite shell-strewn Plage de Gatseau near Saint-Trojan-les-Bains easily takes the coveted ‘best beach’ title.

Île Vierge

The water may be cold, but where the south lacks warmth, Brittany makes up for it with quiet swimming areas and postage-stamp sea caves that are simply breathtaking. Many gorgeous beaches surround Morgat, the region’s ancient sardine fishing port. Still, the aptly called île Vierge (‘Virgin Island’) is our favorite, with its shining pebble beach and always-clear waters.

Porquerolles

Porquerolles island, located just a ferry ride from fashionable Hyères, feels like a live, breathing depiction of 1970s French coastal life. This beautiful island, which has been a protected area for 45 years, is car-free, and even smoking is prohibited, so you’ll have to walk to locate the silky sands and calm blue waters of Notre Dame, the island’s most gorgeous plage.

Lacanau

In-the-know French beachgoers head west to the pine-clad Atlantic Coast for a super-chilled area to surf or lay. The best is Lacanau-Océan, near wine-loving Bordeaux: a stunning 14-kilometer stretch of beachfront sheltered by trees and bordered by rolling grass-studded dunes.

Paloma

Grab your swankiest swimwear and prepare to find celebrities on this classy Côte d’Azur beach named after Picasso’s daughter Paloma. You’ll be socializing with the wealthy beachgoers as you flaunt your stuff on this trendy stretch of sand. But it’s simple to see why: this luxury resort, surrounded by gorgeous gardens and accessible via a rocky staircase, is breathtakingly picturesque.

These are some of the best French beaches that can make your summer trip even more enjoyable and exciting. If you are heading to France anytime soon, learning the basic French language is a must.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit French beaches?

The best time to visit French beaches is during the summer, from June to August when the weather is warm and ideal for sunbathing and swimming. However, the beaches can be crowded during this time, so consider visiting in spring and fall shoulder seasons for a more peaceful experience.

Are there any family-friendly beaches in France?

France has many family-friendly beaches with shallow waters and amenities like playgrounds and lifeguard stations. Some popular options include Le Grau-du-Roi in Camargue and La Baule in Brittany.

Are there any beaches in France known for water sports?

France has many beaches known for water sports, such as surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Biarritz in the Basque Country and Hossegor in Landes are popular destinations for surfing, while the Mediterranean coast offers excellent conditions for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

Conclusion

France claims some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse beaches, offering something for every beach lover. With stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage, the best French beaches promise an unforgettable seaside escape for all who visit.

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