Our 6 Favourite Beaches in France
From Saint-Tropez's glamourous shores to hidden coves in Normandy's bays, France is renowned for its beaches. France boasts an array of beautiful coastlines that invite you to relax in peace and serenity. Choose from secluded coves in the Mediterranean, dramatic cliff formations in the North or romantic beaches in the south for a memorable beach experience.
1. Plage de la Cote des Basques
Biarritz is one of France's most celebrated beaches, drawing in visitors from all over. The Belle Epoque villas and luxurious hotels that surround it give the area an air of sophistication. As one of the country's top summer resort destinations, Grande Plage attracts families with children for its long sandy beach. Enjoy taking a leisurely walk through cobblestone streets, having coffee or enjoying an indulgent meal on the terrace of one of many cafes while taking in stunning views from above.
If you want to take in the sights from a different vantage point, take a walk up to Rocher de la Vierge. This rock, shaped like a ship's hull, looks down over Biarritz from above and provides stunning views. One stunning spot near Port Vieux is Villa Belza, a 19th-century mansion which commands stunning views over the Cote des Basques and beyond to the Pyrenees and sea.
You can also visit Eden Rock cafe, situated next to Villa Belza, for an early evening cocktail in a relaxed atmosphere. Biarritz's Plage Cote des Basques, facing the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Europe's premier surf spots. It's often considered to be the birthplace of surfing in France.
2. Plage de Gatseau
Gatseau is a small sandy beach that extends around 500 meters along an idyllic bay. Situated near St Trojan les Bains on the southern tip of Oleron, it provides excellent protection from winds and waves alike. The sand is white and fine, while the water is crystal clear. This makes for a tranquil haven to relax in, with breathtaking views of Arvert Peninsula nearby.
This beach is close to Ronce-les-Bains and Bourcefranc-le-Chapus, as well as within 5 km radius of other nearby beaches. It makes an ideal choice for families due to its many amenities including a lifeguard service. To get there, take the D126 towards Gatseau Beach and the city centre (Gatseau Boulevard). At the roundabout, turn right towards Gatseau Boulevard.
Arriving at the beach, you'll notice a car park right by the water's edge. This beach is free for everyone and features numerous amenities like lifeguards and a children's play area. Maisonnette Gatseau is a holiday home near the beach that offers accommodation with garden views and 24-hour front desk service. Located less than 0.6 miles from Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, it provides free private parking and WiFi access.
This beach is a small, tranquil, shady spot with plenty of facilities. During the summer season, lifeguards provide supervision. There's a small car park adjacent to the shoreline, plus you can reach it by train (paying at a beach stop).
3. Plage du Donnant
If you're searching for a tranquil French getaway, Plage du Donnant in Sauzon, Belle-Ile-en-Mer is the ideal destination. This renowned surf beach is backed by picturesque cliffs and just a short drive away from Sauzon - an adorable port town featuring pastel-coloured fishermen's houses.
This unspoiled beach is ideal for families, offering plenty of room to play and being secure enough for children. It's also popular among scuba divers and snorkelers. Cap Coz is one of our favourite beaches in France and it's ideal for families to relax on the shoreline. With its stunning pink granite coastline, this beach destination should not be missed by any holidaymaker; plus there are plenty of activities to keep everyone occupied here!
Shetland Islands boast some stunning beaches, such as Plage de Boutrouilles and Plage du Tahiti. The latter is situated on the Frioul Islands and features some incredible coves. Calanques National Park is a must-visit for anyone travelling to southern France. Here, azure seas have been carved out of limestone cliffs, creating breathtaking coves that can only be reached by boat.
Don't forget to bring your camera along for some incredible photo ops. And don't leave without taking a dip in the crystal blue waters that rival those of the Caribbean; it will be an experience you won't soon forget!
4. Plage de l’Ile d’Ouessant
Plage de l'Ile d'Ouessant is the ideal spot for a beach day, whether you want to swim or simply unwind. Its rugged coastline creates an unrivaled fjord-like experience and its crystal-clear waters make for excellent snorkeling opportunities as well. In addition to the obvious charms of sand and sea, there are many activities to enjoy on this stunning island. Take a walk along the beach for some exercise, or visit one of its cultural institutions for some inspiration.
Cycle along the island to discover its many attractions and scenic spots. Alternatively, visit Phare des Baleines lighthouse for an incredible 360-degree view of the ocean and surrounding islands. After your workout, why not grab a drink and some food at Ty Korn pub, famous for its seafood? For an even more leisurely time, take a leisurely walk along the beach or watch boats pass by on the water?
Ouessant is an ideal location for a family holiday, offering plenty of room to explore on your own or with a guide. You can hire a car but it's also easily accessible by bus or train. Captains of industry and government ministers often flock here in summertime to relax.
5. Plage de la Bassin d’Arcachon
Arcachon lies within the Bassin d'Arcachon, protected from Atlantic waves and currents by the Cap-Ferret peninsula. As such, its beaches are not directly exposed to the full force of the sea - making them especially suitable for children. The main beach of Eyrac is situated between Eyrac and Croix des Marins (fisherman's cross) piers in the town centre, offering plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy. It makes an ideal day-out spot for families, particularly during the summer months when there's plenty of sunshine and activities galore!
Plage de la Bassin d'Arcachon is a lovely sandy beach that is well kept. It offers plenty of sheltered areas for swimming and regular shower stations that have been cleaned every morning. Supervised by lifeguards, this beach makes an ideal destination for families with young children as there are numerous bouncy castles and other activities you can enjoy alongside them.
The area surrounding Gujan-Mestras offers a charming blend of traditional villages and modern development, as well as the magnificent Dune du Pilat - one of Europe's largest sand dunes! Aside from this iconic site, there are also plenty other great attractions like Oyster Capital Gujan-Mestras and Teich bird reserve.
6. Plage de la Plage
No doubt, France boasts some of the world's most stunning coastline. Plage de la Plage, situated 9.3 km from Marseille city centre in Nouvelle Cite Penarroya settlement, stands as a testament to this fact. It features crystal turquoise water and golden fine sand for an unbeatable beach experience.
It's easy to see why this tranquil beach resort has become such a hit with both tourists and locals alike. It offers the ideal opportunity to get away from everything while enjoying some relaxing rays in style. Our top pick for the best place to stay in the area is Hotel de la Plage, boasting a rooftop bar and panoramic restaurant. Plus, guests can take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The hotel provides a range of well-appointed rooms, each with its own flat-screen TV and private bathroom. Some boast either an outdoor pool or terrace while others provide stunning sea views.
Just steps from the beach, this hotel features a spa and wellness centre with massages and other treatments. It also has an inviting bar serving an extensive selection of cocktails. For a relaxing yet budget-friendly break in La Grande Motte, look no further than this affordable accommodation option. Alternatively, head off to one of La Grande Motte's many attractions for both families and couples! The best time to visit is during off-peak months; however if you want to save some money on your next vacation, Genius makes booking online easy - saving you up to 20% off with savings when booking through Genius!