Best beaches in France: 8 must-see spots

From the rugged Atlantic coastline to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, the best beaches in France offer a lot of diversity. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Paris or want to build your trip around sun and surf, there’s a beach for you.

In Normandy, take in the dazzling white cliffs on the coast, or go south to the French Riviera for a five-star experience. The most beautiful beaches in France also have plenty to offer those looking for outdoor adventures. Whether surfing, hiking, or cycling, find your perfect spot suited to your tastes and interests.

1. Plage d’Étretat, Normandy

Best beach for incredible scenery

Prepare to be captivated by the stunning view of the white cliffs at Plage d’Étretat in Normandy, where the striking landscape gives the area its name as the Alabaster Coast. Towering chalk cliffs rise above the pebble beach, with one of the most notable being the Falaise d’Aval, which includes the famous L’Arche (“the arch”). Nearby stands L’Aiguille (“the needle”), a rock spire that rises nearly 230 feet (70 meters) from the sea.

From the painter Monet to the writer Guy de Maupassant, the beaches of Étretat have long been a source of artistic inspiration.

Insider tip

July and August are the busiest times for Plage d’Étretat, with vacationers flocking to the beach between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. To skip the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil beach experience, head to Étretat in September or the late spring.

Address

Pl. Victor Hugo, 76790 Étretat

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

2. Plage Notre-Dame, Ile De Porquerolles

Best beach for cycling

If you’re looking for a secluded beach in the French Riviera, visiting the Plage Notre-Dame on Ile de Porquerolles (Porquerolles Island) is a must-visit. The Ile de Porquerolles is a car-free island, and the best way to get around is by bicycle. You can rent one from the port soon after arriving on the island and set off for a 15-minute ride down to the beach.

The Ile de Porquerolles is a protected conservation area, providing a remarkably pristine and pretty backdrop and making the Plage Notre-Dame one of the most beautiful beaches in France. Spread your towel or blanket over the glittering gravel and sand, and enjoy views of the ocean in front of you and the shade of the pine forest behind you.

Insider tip

Bring along any food and drink you’ll want to enjoy on the beach, as the area’s seclusion means no restaurants or shops are nearby. Your best bet may be to grab a sandwich or snack, plus plenty of water, from the village before heading to the beach.

Address

Île de Porquerolles, 83400 Hyères

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

3. Les Calanques, Cassis/Marseille

Best beach for nature lovers

France’s Mediterranean coast is dotted with calanques, or narrow, steep inlets carved from limestone. Les Calanques, nestled between Marseille and Cassis, are sandy, pebbly mini-beaches accessible only by hiking or boat, the most famous being Calanque d’En-Vau, Calanque de Sugiton, and Calanque de Morgiou. The inlets are in the Calanques National Park, and some are trickier to get to than others. If you head out on foot, prepare for the occasional steep path.

Know before you go

Not all calanques have lifeguards on duty, however, Calanque de Sormiou and Calanque de Saint-Estève typically do during the summer months.

Address

13008 Marseille

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

4. Prado beaches, Marseille

Best beach near the city

If a well-equipped beach not far from the city center is more your style, you’ll need to check out the Prado beaches in Marseille. Among the best beaches in France for families, the three Prado beaches have play areas, volleyball courts, and promenades. Duck into a restaurant or swing by an ice cream parlor to keep the kids cool and comfortable on a hot day.

Insider tip

The skate park at the Prado Beach attracts skateboard enthusiasts from around the world. It’s open to all, from the most skilled boarders to little kids just getting started.

Address

13008 Marseille

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

5. Palombaggia, Corsica

Best beach for couples

If you’re longing for that picture-perfect honeymoon spot or for a romantic place to celebrate a milestone anniversary, Palombaggia in Corsica is one of the best beaches in France for couples. Palombaggia has vibrant blue-green water, unspoiled white sand, and dramatic rock formations surrounded by fragrant pine forests. Take a break and go snorkeling off the coast. At sunset, take a lover’s stroll along the shore, feeling the sand between your toes.

Insider tip

If you’re looking for a tranquil honeymoon or couple’s getaway, skip the busy summer months of July and August. Instead, plan a trip for either June or September.

Address

Plage de Palombaggia, 20137 Porto-Vecchio

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

6. Le Grande Plage, Biarritz

Best beach for surfers

If you are exploring the south of France and love to surf, be sure to add a stop at Le Grande Plage (“Big Beach”) in Biarritz. Known as one of the best beaches in France for surfing, Le Grande Plage has a year-round swell, allowing surfers to enjoy the waves in July, August, or even December. Plenty of schools offer surfing lessons in the area, and five different surf spots dot the coast.

If you want to brave the crowds, head for the waves at the height of summer in July and August when the waves are smaller and perfect for beginners. Hop on your board as the sun sets for a spectacular view, complete with the Pyrenees mountains in the background.

Insider tip

September can be the sweet spot for a surf trip to Le Grande Plage. The summer crowds are all back to school and work while the weather and water remain warm.

Address

64200 Biarritz

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

7. Pampelonne Beach, Saint-Tropez

Best beach for celeb-spotting

Keep your eye out for a famous person or two while stretched out on the white sands of Pampelonne Beach in Saint Tropez. The longest beach in the area, Pampelonne stretches over 3 miles (5 km), giving you plenty of chances to celebrity-spot. For a truly A-list experience, book a day at one of the beach’s famous private clubs for some poolside relaxation and five-star dining. At Pampelonne Beach you can also explore the coastline by kayak or boat, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll to take in stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Insider tip

Look out for Le Club 55, which has been attracting the rich and famous since it was featured in the Brigitte Bardot film “And God Created Woman” in 1956.

Address

Plage de Pampelonne, 83350 Ramatuelle

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

8. Plage Paloma, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Best beach for snorkeling

Tucked away on the ritzy peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the Plage Paloma has clear turquoise waters, making it one of the best beaches in France for snorkeling. While on the water, treat yourself to a view of the cliffs of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, where elegant villas are perched above the town and lush Mediterranean greenery lines the hillsides.

Know before you go

Much of the beach is part of a private club called Paloma Beach, but access to the public part of the Plage Paloma is free.

Address

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

FAQs: Best Beaches in France

Generated with the help of AI

Where can you find the best beaches in France?

In Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Biarritz and Biscarrosse Beach offer beautiful sandy shores. Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is home to the charming beaches of Cassis. The Pyrénées-Orientales region features the picturesque beaches of Collioure. Brittany’s Côte Sauvage is known for its rugged beauty, while Normandy’s Deauville provides a classic seaside experience.

Are there white sand beaches in France?

France boasts several white sand beaches, particularly in Corsica. Palombaggia Beach, near Porto-Vecchio, is famous for its beautiful white sand and turquoise waters. Another gem is Santa Giulia Beach, also in Porto-Vecchio, known for its soft white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

What is the best beach town on the west coast of France?

Saint Jean de Monts is a popular family-friendly beach town on France’s west coast. Known for its 5-mile (8-km) stretch of fine sandy beaches, it’s perfect for paddling in the water or clam fishing. This charming town offers a relaxing coastal experience with plenty of activities for visitors.

What are the best beaches in France for families?

Many French beaches are perfect for families. For instance, Brittany’s Plage des Dunes offers a pristine sandy stretch surrounded by gentle dunes, providing a safe environment for children to explore. The clean waters and welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent choice for family outings.

Where are the most beautiful beaches in France?

France boasts many stunning beaches, making it hard to choose just one as the prettiest. Among the top contenders are Notre-Dame Beach on Porquerolles Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, and Santa Giulia Beach in Corsica, famous for its white sand and turquoise sea. Palombaggia Beach, also in Corsica, offers a breathtaking landscape with its pine trees and rocky outcrops. Each of these beaches provides a unique and picturesque setting, making them must-visit destinations for beach lovers.