Catalans beach
Discover the allure of a beach conveniently situated near the heart of Marseille. Imagine strolling to the shore, a freshly-baked croissant and aromatic coffee in hand from a nearby bakery, ready to savor breakfast on the sun-kissed Côte d'Azur. Admittedly, this may not be the most pristine or picturesque beach in Marseille, yet it offers the closest escape for those eager to indulge in a swim without venturing far from the city's pulse or relying on transportation.
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Beach description
Welcome to the charming Catalans Beach in France, a hidden gem nestled near the bustling city center. With its fine sand and gentle, shallow waters, this beach is a haven for those seeking a serene escape. The proximity to the old port adds a touch of historical allure to your seaside experience. Revel in the joy of swimming in these calm waters, where the absence of rocks and sharp cliffs means you can leave your special shoes behind. The sea here is not just still but dances with a light natural excitement, all under the watchful eye of a soothing light breeze that infuses the air with freshness and romance, particularly as the evening sets in.
Discover a picturesque spot among the stones, sculpted by nature into anatomic perfection, where you can recline in comfort without the need for loungers and capture stunning photographs. While boulders are scattered across the sand, they enhance the beach's natural beauty without hindering your stroll along the shore.
Be mindful that the beach becomes a bustling hub of activity after 6 pm, as locals flock to the water's edge, making it a lively spot to mingle. Families find this beach particularly appealing due to the ease of water access and the convenience of reaching the beach itself, ensuring a stress-free outing with little ones in tow.
When is the best time to go?
The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is a prime destination for beach enthusiasts. To make the most of your beach vacation, timing is essential. The best period to visit largely depends on your preferences for weather, crowd sizes, and local events.
- Mid-May to Mid-September: This is the peak season when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities. However, it's also the busiest time, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- Late September to October: For those who prefer a quieter experience with mild weather, this is an ideal time. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and the summer crowds have dissipated.
- Spring: Late March to May offers pleasant weather, though the sea might still be too cool for swimming. It's a great time to enjoy the coastal scenery and outdoor cafes without the peak season's hustle.
Ultimately, the best time to visit the French Riviera for a beach vacation is late June to August if you're seeking vibrant beach life and don't mind the crowd. For a more relaxed trip with comfortable temperatures, consider late September to October.
Video: Beach Catalans
Infrastructure
Accessible by a 15-minute walk from the center of Marseille or via bus 81, the beach is also bike-friendly for those who prefer to cycle. However, arriving by car presents a challenge; beach parking is exclusively paid, with no complimentary spaces nearby. For those seeking accommodation with high-quality service and a prime location, the New Hotel Vieux Port is an excellent choice. Not only is it close to Catalan Beach, but it also neighbors renowned boutiques, restaurants, and other urban conveniences.
Like all beaches in Marseille, Catalan Beach is too popular to be considered wild, yet it offers all the necessary amenities:
- Changing rooms;
- Showers and toilets;
- A small storage facility.
A quaint café on the premises serves traditional French snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. For a more sophisticated dining experience, visitors can venture off the beach to the promenade or the city center.
The beach features volleyball nets for team competitions, and it's not uncommon to witness international football matches here. During the summer, lifeguards are on duty to ensure swimmer safety. For the adventurous, boat rentals are available to explore the coastline, or one can delve into the deep sea with rented diving gear.
Weather in Catalans
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- Around the beach you can find ancient baths, like in the north of France.
- The beach offers a panoramic view of Ile do Friul.
- A staircase leads to the shore - this should be taken into account by visitors with strollers.
- There's never quiet - youth groups, children, athletes. If you're looking for a quiet place, you're definitely not here.
- There are sometimes parties at night. Usually they are numerous, as they can be reached on foot from the city.
- The Marseille way of life is to spend an hour or so on the beach - at noon, at lunchtime or at the end of the day. So don't be surprised that locals can drop by on the beach right from the office during lunchtime, and then easily return to combat formation.