Prophète beach
Prophète Beach, one of the oldest in town, is renowned for its shallow waters that extend far from the shore, making it an ideal spot for beginners to learn to swim. In fact, it's a rite of passage for every native of Marseille to take their first swim here, earning it the affectionate nickname "the children's beach." Nestled along the Corniche, between the Vieux Port (Old Harbour) and the beaches of Gaston-Defferre, Prophète Beach offers more than just a safe swimming haven; the sea vistas are as stunning as any you'll find on the Côte d'Azur. Is it any wonder that visitors are left speechless by the beauty of these azure horizons?
Photos
Beach description
Prophète Beach in France is a haven for beachgoers, bustling with families and young children. The gentle slope of the seabed allows for a reassuring touch of the bottom even during an extended foray into the sea. The sand is exquisitely fine, and the beach stretches wide, shielded by a protective dam. However, vigilance is advised as stones may lurk beneath the water's surface - bringing water shoes is a wise precaution. Rarely will you witness waves here, making for a serene beach experience. Along the perimeter, beach volleyball courts stand, a beloved feature in Marseille.
Accessing this coastal gem is a breeze: simply hop on bus number 83 and alight at Le Prophète. If you prefer a scenic route, a leisurely 45-minute stroll from Vieux Port will lead you to this idyllic spot.
In the early hours, the beach is a sanctuary for families with children, while the afternoon ushers in a vibrant congregation of Marseillais and visitors from the surrounding areas. The beach transforms into a hub of spontaneous gatherings, with picnics and aperitifs under the moonlight. Yet, the aftermath of such revelry can be disheartening, as the sands may be strewn with cigarette butts come morning. Despite this, the locale is affectionately dubbed Little California for its free-spirited vibe and bustling nightlife.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
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 Prophète
Infrastructure
There's a lifeguard on duty at the beach during the summer months. The beachfront comes alive with the onset of the season, offering a variety of snacking options - stalls, bars, and cafes welcome visitors with open doors. A high concentration of hotels lines the shoreline, providing ample accommodation choices. One of them, the Pullman Marseille Palm Beach, not only boasts luxuriously furnished rooms but also features amenities such as a pool, parking, a restaurant, and spa treatments.
The beach is equipped with all the essentials:
- First aid station;
- Showers;
- Toilets;
- Loungers and umbrellas;
- Lockers.
Hygiene facilities are available free of charge, while sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for a fee. An impressive inland breakwater shields the beach from waves, ensuring the sea remains calm and serene.
Weather in Prophète
Best hotels of Prophète
All hotels of ProphèteUseful information
- This is not the cleanest beach in Marseille, nor is it where you can find turquoise water. People come to Prophet beach to play volleyball and see beautiful women from Marseille.
- The beach is close to the center of Marseille. The easiest way to get there is to take a bus to the Old Port (line 83) and get off at the "Le Prophète" stop.
- The water is very clean and it warms up quickly. That's another plus for resting with little kids.
- Some people do not understand why many Marseilles are so "drawn" to this very beach because there are more spacious and picturesque beaches within the city. It's easy: to visit Prophète is a good old tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation.