France is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Europe, offering a diverse array of coastal experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. From the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean Sea to the rugged cliffs along the Atlantic Ocean, and from the historic beaches in Normandy to the glamorous stretches of the Côte d’Azur, you’ll find an abundance of beautiful beaches in France to visit this summer.
In this guide, we’ll help you find the best beaches that France has to offer. Join us as we explore one of the most beautiful beach destinations in Europe, where unforgettable memories await at every turn of the coastline.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in France 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hôtel Barrière L'Hermitage La Baule
- ✨ 5-Star: Royal Riviera
- 🏨 4-Star: Hôtel de la Plage
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel Le Méditerranée
- 💸 Cheap: Auberge des Glycines
- 🏢 Apartment: Appartement Le Quai du Port
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Résidence Plage Océane
- 🏩 For Couples: Hôtel Carlton
🌞 Top 15 Best Beaches in France
1. 🌊 Palombaggia Beach, Corsica – Best for Tropical Vibes
Palombaggia Beach boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand. Fragrant pine trees provide a scenic backdrop to the shore. It’s often compared to Caribbean beaches for its beauty. The beach offers stunning views of the Cerbicale Islands. Water sports facilities are available for active beachgoers. Beachside restaurants serve delicious Corsican cuisine. It’s popular but large enough to find quiet spots. Sunrise here is particularly spectacular over the Mediterranean.
Best Hotels Near Palombaggia Beach 🏨
- Hôtel Palombaggia, Certifié Ecolabel Européen – This eco-certified hotel is located just a 5-minute walk from Palombaggia Beach, one of the best beaches in Corsica. It offers an outdoor pool, free WiFi, and rooms with garden or pool views. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and commitment to sustainability make it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travelers.
- Hôtel Ambassador Palombaggia – Situated only 1115 feet from Palombaggia Beach, this hotel offers a large outdoor swimming pool, spa facilities, and elegant rooms with private terraces. It’s the closest hotel to the beach, providing easy access to one of the loveliest stretches of sand on the island.
- Belvedere de Palombaggia – This hotel offers stunning views of Palombaggia Beach and the surrounding area. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and is just a short drive from the beach. The hotel’s elevated position provides guests with panoramic vistas of the Corsican coastline.
2. 🌅 Plage de la Côte des Basques, Biarritz – Best for Surfing
This beach is a mecca for surfers with excellent waves year-round. Dramatic cliffs provide a stunning backdrop to the shore. The beach offers panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. It’s steeped in surfing history as one of Europe’s first surfing spots. The nearby town of Biarritz offers a vibrant Basque culture. Sunset views from the beach are particularly breathtaking. Surf schools cater to all levels of experience. The beach hosts several surfing competitions throughout the year.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Côte des Basques 🏨
- Hôtel de la Plage – Located just 400 metres from Plage de la Côte des Basques, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views. It’s situated in the heart of Biarritz, providing easy access to both the beach and the city’s attractions. The hotel’s proximity to one of the best surfing beaches in Europe makes it ideal for surf enthusiasts.
- Hôtel Windsor Grande Plage – This hotel is situated in the heart of Biarritz, just a short walk from Plage de la Côte des Basques. It offers elegant rooms, some with sea views, and a rooftop terrace. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to both the beach and Biarritz’s vibrant city center.
- Hôtel Palym – Located in the center of Biarritz, this hotel is within walking distance of Plage de la Côte des Basques. It offers comfortable rooms and a terrace with city views. The hotel’s location allows guests to easily explore Biarritz’s beaches, shops, and restaurants.
3. 🍾 Plage de Pampelonne, French Riviera – Best for Celebrity Spotting
Plage de Pampelonne is synonymous with French Riviera glamour. The long stretch of sand is lined with exclusive beach clubs. It’s a favorite spot for celebrities and the jet-set crowd. Crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. The beach offers views of luxury yachts anchored offshore. Gourmet restaurants serve exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. It’s bustling in summer but quieter in shoulder seasons. The golden sand is ideal for sunbathing and beach games.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Pampelonne 🏨
- Toison d'Or – This beachfront hotel is located directly on Plage de Pampelonne, one of the most famous beaches on the French Riviera. It offers luxurious accommodations, a private beach area, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel’s prime location on the beach makes it perfect for those seeking a glamorous Côte d’Azur experience.
- Hôtel Saint-André – Situated in the heart of the Côte d’Azur, this hotel is just a short drive from Plage de Pampelonne. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and beautiful gardens. The hotel’s peaceful setting provides a tranquil retreat after a day at the beach.
- Hôtel La Figuière – This charming hotel is located near Plage de Pampelonne, offering a quiet retreat just minutes from the beach. It features a pool, tennis court, and rooms with private terraces. The hotel’s lush gardens and proximity to the beach make it ideal for a relaxing coastal getaway.
4. 🌿 Plage de l’Espiguette, Le Grau-du-Roi – Best for Natural Beauty
This vast expanse of sand dunes feels untamed and natural. It’s one of the longest beaches in France at 18 kilometers. The beach is part of the Camargue region, known for its wildlife. Pink flamingos can often be seen in nearby lagoons. The sand is fine and ideal for long walks. It’s less crowded than many Mediterranean beaches. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are popular activities here. The beach offers a sense of isolation rare in the South of France.
Best Hotels Near Plage de l’Espiguette 🏨
- Thalasso Camargue – This hotel is located near Plage de l’Espiguette, one of the longest beaches in France. It offers a thalassotherapy center, multiple pools, and rooms with sea views. The hotel’s extensive wellness facilities and proximity to the beach make it perfect for a rejuvenating seaside vacation.
- Appartement de l'Espiguette – These apartments offer a comfortable stay near Plage de l’Espiguette. They feature fully equipped kitchens and balconies, some with sea views. The property’s location provides easy access to both the beach and the Camargue Natural Regional Park.
- Marina Appartement sur l'eau – This unique floating apartment offers a memorable stay near Plage de l’Espiguette. It features a terrace with marina views and is just a short drive from the beach. The apartment’s unusual setting provides a one-of-a-kind experience for those looking for something different.
5. 👨👩👧👦 Plage de la Grande Conche, Royan – Best for Families
This crescent-shaped beach is perfect for families with children. The calm waters are ideal for swimming and paddling. The beach is backed by a promenade with cafes and shops. Art Deco architecture in Royan adds to the beach’s charm. Beach clubs offer activities for kids during summer. The sand is fine and great for building sandcastles. It’s easily accessible from the town center. The beach hosts events and concerts in the summer months.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Grande Conche 🏨
- Hôtel Hermitage – This hotel is located just steps away from Plage de la Grande Conche, one of the loveliest beaches on France’s Atlantic coast. It offers comfortable rooms, some with sea views, and a restaurant serving regional cuisine. The hotel’s beachfront location and proximity to Royan’s attractions make it an excellent choice for a coastal holiday.
- Hôtel Foncillon – Situated in the heart of Royan, this hotel is just a short walk from Plage de la Grande Conche. It offers modern rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the bay. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to both the beach and Royan’s shops and restaurants.
- Hôtel Atlantis – This hotel is located near Plage de la Grande Conche, offering comfortable rooms and a garden terrace. It’s situated in a quiet area but still within walking distance of the beach and town center. The hotel’s peaceful setting provides a relaxing base for exploring Royan and its beautiful beaches.
6. 🐠 Plage des Marinières, Villefranche-sur-Mer – Best for Picturesque Views
Nestled in a beautiful bay, this beach offers stunning views. The water is clear and perfect for snorkeling. Colorful buildings of Villefranche-sur-Mer create a postcard-perfect backdrop. The beach is pebbly but comfortable for sunbathing. It’s less crowded than nearby Nice beaches. The old town is just a short walk away, offering cultural exploration. Beachside restaurants serve fresh seafood with a view. The bay is a popular stop for cruise ships, adding to the scenery.
Best Hotels Near Plage des Marinières 🏨
- Hotel Carlton – This charming hotel is located just 400 metres from the beach in Beaulieu-sur-Mer. It offers comfortable rooms, some with sea views, and a lovely outdoor pool. The hotel’s proximity to Plage des Marinières makes it perfect for beach lovers.
- Ibis Styles Beaulieu-sur-Mer – Situated a short walk from the beach, this modern hotel offers stylish rooms and a complimentary breakfast. Its central location in Beaulieu-sur-Mer provides easy access to local attractions and beaches.
- Hotel Le Régence – This elegant hotel is just steps away from Plage des Marinières. It features comfortable rooms with balconies and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views. The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring the French Riviera.
7. 🌲 Plage de la Salie, Arcachon – Best for Nature Lovers
Part of a protected nature reserve, this beach offers unspoiled beauty. It’s a popular spot for surfing, especially for those avoiding crowds. The beach is backed by pine forests, offering shade and walks. Wildlife spotting is possible in the surrounding area. The sand is fine and stretches for kilometers. It’s less developed, providing a more natural beach experience. The waves are consistent, attracting surfers year-round. The nearby Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, is worth a visit.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Salie 🏨
- Le Grand Hotel de la Plage – Located near Plage de la Salie, this beachfront hotel offers stunning ocean views and direct beach access. It features a spa, outdoor pool, and rooms with balconies. The hotel’s proximity to one of the best beaches in France makes it a popular choice.
- Résidence Plage Océane – These apartments are situated just 400 metres from the beach, offering a comfortable stay with kitchenettes and balconies. The residence’s location provides easy access to Plage de la Salie and local amenities.
- Les Jardins de l'Océan – This holiday park is located a short drive from Plage de la Salie, offering a range of accommodations and facilities. It features a pool, tennis courts, and is surrounded by pine forests, making it ideal for nature lovers.
8. 🏝️ Plage de Notre-Dame, Porquerolles – Best for Island Getaway
This beach on the car-free island of Porquerolles is a true paradise. Crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is backed by a forest of eucalyptus and pine trees. It’s accessible by a scenic walk or bike ride from the main village. The sand is white and soft, ideal for sunbathing. The island’s national park status ensures pristine natural beauty. Boat trips around the island offer different perspectives of the coast. The beach never feels overcrowded due to limited island access.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Notre-Dame 🏨
- L'Oustaou de Porquerolles – This charming hotel is located in the heart of Porquerolles, just a short walk from Plage de Notre-Dame. It offers comfortable rooms and a lovely garden. The hotel’s location on the car-free island provides a unique and peaceful experience.
- Auberge des Glycines – Situated near Plage de Notre-Dame, this cozy inn offers a authentic island experience. It features a restaurant serving local cuisine and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The inn’s location is perfect for exploring Porquerolles’ beaches and nature.
- Appart Neuf Porquerolles – This modern apartment is located in the center of Porquerolles, a short distance from Plage de Notre-Dame. It offers a comfortable stay with a fully equipped kitchen. The apartment’s central location makes it easy to explore the island’s attractions.
9. 🏄♀️ Plage de l’Almanarre, Hyères – Best for Windsurfing
This long, sandy beach is famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Consistent winds make it ideal for these sports year-round. The shallow lagoon is perfect for beginners to practice. The beach offers views of the Giens Peninsula. Flamingos can often be seen in the nearby salt flats. The sand stretches for kilometers, great for long walks. It’s less developed than other Côte d’Azur beaches. The area is rich in history, with ancient Greek and Roman ruins nearby.
Best Hotels Near Plage de l’Almanarre 🏨
- Hôtel Le Méditerranée – This beachfront hotel is located near Plage de l’Almanarre, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. It features comfortable rooms, some with sea views, and a restaurant. The hotel’s location is ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts.
- Les Stoechades – These apartments are situated a short walk from Plage de l’Almanarre, offering a comfortable stay with kitchenettes and balconies. The property’s location provides easy access to the beach and local attractions.
- Hébergement de Tourisme & d'Affaires – This aparthotel is located east of the city, near Plage de l’Almanarre. It offers modern apartments with kitchenettes and a shared pool. The property’s location provides a balance between beach access and proximity to Hyères’ attractions.
10. 🦪 Plage de l’Herbe, Cap Ferret – Best for Local Culture
This small beach is part of a picturesque oyster-farming village. It offers stunning sunset views over Arcachon Bay. The beach is lined with colorful fishing huts and oyster shacks. Fresh oysters and local wine can be enjoyed right on the beach. The water is calm, ideal for swimming and paddling. It’s less touristy, offering a glimpse of authentic coastal life. The nearby Dune du Pilat provides panoramic views of the area. The beach is perfect for those seeking a low-key, cultural experience.
Best Hotels Near Plage de l’Herbe 🏨
- Résidence Ostrea – These apartments are located near Plage de l’Herbe, offering a comfortable stay with kitchenettes and balconies. The residence’s location provides easy access to the beach and the charming village of L’Herbe.
- Hôtel du Cap – This hotel is situated a short walk from Plage de l’Herbe, offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant. Its location on the Cap Ferret peninsula provides easy access to beautiful beaches and oyster villages.
- Terres de Barrejat – These holiday homes are located near Plage de l’Herbe, offering a spacious and comfortable stay. They feature private gardens and are surrounded by pine forests. The property’s lo
11. 🏞️ Calanque d’En-Vau, Cassis – Best for Adventure Seekers
This stunning cove is part of the Calanques National Park. Dramatic limestone cliffs surround the crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s accessible by a challenging hike or boat trip, adding to its allure. The beach is pebbly but incredibly scenic. It’s perfect for snorkeling and exploring underwater life. The surrounding area offers excellent hiking trails. The beach feels secluded and untouched by mass tourism. The view from the cliffs above the calanque is breathtaking.
Best Hotels Near Calanque d’En-Vau 🏨
- HPC Suites – This elegant hotel offers stunning views of the Calanques National Park. It features modern suites with kitchenettes and is just a short drive from Calanque d’En-Vau, one of the best beaches in France. The hotel’s rooftop terrace provides a perfect spot for watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
- Sunrise Cassis – Located in the heart of Cassis, this charming hotel offers easy access to the Calanques. It features comfortable rooms and a terrace with panoramic views. The hotel is a great base for hiking to Calanque d’En-Vau or taking a boat tour to explore the coastline.
- Appartement Le Quai du Port – This well-equipped apartment is situated in the port of Cassis, offering a perfect location for exploring the Calanques. It features a fully equipped kitchen and air conditioning. The apartment’s proximity to the harbor makes it easy to join boat tours to Calanque d’En-Vau.
12. 🏝️ Plage de Saleccia, Corsica – Best for Seclusion
This remote beach boasts powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s part of the Desert des Agriates, a protected natural area. Access is limited, ensuring it remains uncrowded. The beach is backed by maquis, Corsica’s fragrant shrubland. It’s possible to spot wild horses roaming near the beach. The water is shallow and ideal for swimming. The beach offers a sense of isolation and untouched beauty. Boat trips from Saint-Florent offer scenic approaches to the beach.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Saleccia 🏨
- U Santu Petru – This Corsican hotel offers a peaceful retreat near some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. It features a pool and rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. The hotel can arrange boat trips to Plage de Saleccia, known for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters.
- Résidence Fior di Rena – These apartments offer a comfortable base for exploring Corsica’s northern beaches. They feature kitchenettes and balconies with sea or garden views. The residence is a short drive from the port where you can catch a boat to Plage de Saleccia.
- Résidence Catalina – Located near Saint-Florent’s marina, this residence offers modern apartments with sea views. It features a pool and is close to restaurants and shops. The residence’s location makes it easy to arrange excursions to Plage de Saleccia and other nearby beaches.
13. 🏖️ Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Île de Ré – Best for Cycling Enthusiasts
This beach is famous for its iconic lighthouse and vast expanse at low tide. It’s perfect for long walks and beachcombing. The island’s extensive cycle paths make it easily accessible by bike. The sand is fine and ideal for sunbathing and beach games. Surfing is popular here, especially for beginners. The nearby salt marshes add to the area’s natural beauty. The beach offers beautiful sunset views by the lighthouse. It’s less crowded than the island’s more central beaches.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Conche des Baleines 🏨
- Hôtel Le Sénéchal – This charming hotel on Île de Ré offers a perfect blend of comfort and authenticity. It features individually decorated rooms and a beautiful garden. The hotel provides bicycles, making it easy to explore the island and reach Plage de la Conche des Baleines.
- Hôtel Le Parasol – Situated close to Plage de la Conche des Baleines, this hotel offers a relaxing stay on Île de Ré. It features a heated outdoor pool and rooms with terraces. The hotel’s location near the beach and the famous Phare des Baleines lighthouse makes it ideal for nature lovers.
- Hôtel des Portes – This cozy hotel offers a peaceful retreat on the northern tip of Île de Ré. It features comfortable rooms and a garden terrace. The hotel is a short bike ride from Plage de la Conche des Baleines and provides easy access to the island’s cycling paths.
14. 🏰 Plage du Sillon, Saint-Malo – Best for Tidal Exploration
This historic beach boasts one of the biggest tidal ranges in Europe. The walled city of Saint-Malo provides a stunning backdrop. At low tide, you can walk out to several small islands. The beach is great for long walks and observing tidal pools. It’s popular for sand yachting when the tide is out. The Grand Bé island, accessible at low tide, houses Chateaubriand’s tomb. The beach offers a unique blend of history and natural phenomena. Watching the tide come in from the city walls is a must-see spectacle.
Best Hotels Near Plage du Sillon 🏨
- Les Jardins du Vivier – This bed and breakfast offers a tranquil stay just outside Saint-Malo. It features spacious rooms and a beautiful garden. The B&B is a short drive from Plage du Sillon, one of the most famous beaches in Brittany, known for its long stretch of sand.
- Tous à l'Ouest – These modern apartments offer a comfortable base in Saint-Malo’s Rothéneuf district. They feature fully equipped kitchens and balconies. The apartments are a short drive from Plage du Sillon and provide easy access to Saint-Malo’s historic walled city.
- Le Penty de Quéffen – This charming guesthouse offers a cozy stay in a renovated fisherman’s house. It features uniquely decorated rooms and a terrace. The guesthouse is located in Saint-Malo’s Rothéneuf area, providing a peaceful setting while still being close to Plage du Sillon.
15. 💎 Plage de la Mala, Cap-d’Ail – Best for Luxury and Seclusion
This pebble beach is a hidden gem of the French Riviera. It’s nestled in a small cove with crystal-clear waters. The beach is less crowded than nearby Monaco beaches. It’s accessible via a scenic coastal path with stunning views. Two beach clubs offer a luxurious Côte d’Azur experience. The water is deep and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding cliffs provide natural shade in the afternoon. It offers a more secluded feel than many Riviera beaches.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Mala 🏨
- Riviera Marriott Hotel La Porte de Monaco – This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and is just a short drive from Plage de la Mala. It features a pool, fitness center, and rooms with balconies. The hotel’s proximity to Monaco makes it perfect for those wanting to explore the French Riviera.
- Royal Riviera – This 5-star hotel offers a luxurious stay on the French Riviera. It features a private beach, pool, and elegant rooms with sea views. The hotel is within walking distance of Plage de la Mala, named for Paloma Picasso, and offers a free shuttle to Monaco.
- Villa Azur – These modern apartments offer a comfortable stay with stunning sea views. They feature fully equipped kitchens and balconies. The apartments are a short walk from Plage de la Mala and provide easy access to both Monaco and Nice.
🏙️ Best Beach Towns in France
1. 🌟 Saint-Tropez: Glamour on the Mediterranean
Saint-Tropez epitomizes French Riviera chic and celebrity culture. The town boasts beautiful beaches, including the famous Pampelonne. Luxury yachts dot the harbor, creating a stunning backdrop. The old town offers charming cobblestone streets and local markets. It’s a perfect blend of Provençal charm and high-end luxury.
2. 🏄♂️ Biarritz: Surf Capital of the Atlantic
Biarritz is renowned for its world-class surfing beaches. The town combines elegant architecture with a laid-back surf culture. Grande Plage and Côte des Basques offer excellent waves for all levels. The town’s Belle Époque architecture adds a touch of historical charm. Biarritz is also famous for its delicious Basque cuisine.
3. 🏞️ Cassis: Hidden Gem of the Mediterranean
Cassis is nestled between stunning cliffs and crystal-clear calanques. The town is known for its picturesque harbor and colorful buildings. It’s the gateway to the breathtaking Calanques National Park. Cassis is famous for its local white wine and fresh seafood. The pebbly beaches offer a quieter alternative to busier Riviera towns.
4. 🎨 Honfleur: Normandy Artistic Haven
Honfleur charms visitors with its picturesque old harbor and slate-covered houses. The town has inspired artists for centuries, including Impressionist painters. Its beaches offer a unique Norman coastal experience. Honfleur is known for its seafood restaurants and apple brandy (Calvados). The wooden Church of Saint Catherine is a must-visit historical site.
5. 🏝️ Porquerolles: Island Paradise
Porquerolles is a car-free island with some of France’s most pristine beaches. Plage de Notre-Dame is often cited as one of the world’s best beaches. The island offers excellent hiking and cycling trails through vineyards and forests. Porquerolles is part of a national park, ensuring its natural beauty is preserved. The clear waters around the island are perfect for snorkeling and diving.
🏄♂️ Beach Activities and Water Sports
🌊 Surfing on the Atlantic Coast: The western coast of France, especially Biarritz, is a surfing paradise. Waves suitable for all levels, from beginners to professionals. The surfing culture here is vibrant and welcoming. Best surfing conditions are often in September and October. Many surf schools offer lessons and equipment rental.
🤿 Snorkeling and Diving in the Mediterranean: Crystal clear waters around Corsica offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. The Lavezzi Islands and Scandola Nature Reserve are teeming with marine life. Calanques National Park near Marseille has an underwater snorkeling trail. Diving centers provide guided tours to explore underwater caves and wrecks.
☀️ Beach Volleyball Along the Coastline: Beach volleyball is popular on sandy beaches from Normandy to the Riviera. Many beaches have permanent or temporary courts set up. It’s a great way to meet locals and other travelers. Organized tournaments often take place during summer months. Perfect activity for groups and families.
🏄♀️ Paddleboarding in Calm Waters: Stand-up paddleboarding is ideal for exploring coastal areas at a leisurely pace. Porquerolles island offers calm, clear waters perfect for beginners. Allows for exploration of hidden coves and secluded beaches. Many coastal towns rent paddleboards and offer guided tours. Great for improving balance and getting a full-body workout.
🪁 Kitesurfing for Adrenaline Junkies: La Franqui in Languedoc is one of Europe’s best kitesurfing spots. Consistent winds and shallow waters make it ideal for all skill levels. The long, exposed beach provides plenty of space for kitesurfers. Schools offer lessons and equipment rental for beginners. Spectacular views of the coastline while riding the waves.
🚌 How to Get to French Beaches
✈️ By Air: Flying is often the quickest way to reach France’s coastal regions. For beaches in the south of France, I recommend flying into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. From here, you’re just a stone’s throw away from some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including the glamorous shores of Cannes and the hidden coves near Saint-Tropez. The airport is well-connected to major European cities, making it easy to get to your destination.
🚂 By Train: France’s excellent rail network makes it easy to reach many coastal destinations. The high-speed TGV trains can whisk you from Paris to the Mediterranean coast in just a few hours. One of my favorite journeys is the train ride to Biarritz, popular with surfers and located in the heart of Basque country. The views as you approach the Atlantic coast are simply breathtaking.
🛥️ By Ferry: For those seeking to visit the island of Corsica, home to the stunning Plage de Palombaggia, taking a ferry can be a wonderful experience. Ferries run regularly from mainland France and Italy, offering a unique way to approach this Mediterranean paradise. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with stunning sea views and the chance to spot marine life.
🚗 By Car: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore France’s diverse coastline at your own pace. I particularly enjoy driving along the southern coast, where you can easily hop between the beaches of the French Riviera. The route from Nice to Cannes, which runs along the coast, offers spectacular sea views and access to both public and private beaches.
🚌 Local Transportation: Once you’ve reached your coastal destination, getting to specific beaches is usually straightforward. Many towns offer local buses that run to popular beaches. For example, in Cannes, you can easily take a bus to the nearby Plage de la Croisette, located in the heart of the city.
📅 When to Visit French Beaches
1. ☀️ Summer: Peak Beach Season
Summer (June to August) is the most popular time for French beaches. Warm temperatures are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Beaches are bustling with activity, and many towns host festivals and events. Long days allow for extended beach time. However, popular spots can get crowded, especially during school holidays. Early morning or late evening visits can help avoid the crowds.
2. 🌸 Spring and Fall: The Sweet Spot
Late spring (May) and early fall (September to mid-October) offer a perfect balance for beach visits. Pleasant temperatures are ideal for coastal walks and beach activities. Fewer crowds make it easier to find a spot on popular beaches. Lower prices for accommodations and services add to the appeal. Cultural events and festivals are common during these seasons.
3. ❄️ Winter: A Different Perspective
Winter (November to March) offers a unique perspective on French beaches. Enjoy peaceful walks along the coast, taking in dramatic sea views without summer crowds. Witness stormy weather, especially on the Atlantic coast in Brittany. Explore coastal towns like Honfleur and Saint-Malo without the tourist hustle. Winter is ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind cooler temperatures.
4. 🎭 Best Activities by Season
Summer is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Spring and fall are ideal for coastal walks, birdwatching, and cultural events. Winter is great for storm watching, exploring museums, and enjoying local cuisine. Each season offers unique ways to experience France’s coastal beauty.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in France ❔
Where is the bluest water in France?
The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) and Corsica are known for having some of the bluest waters in France. Beaches like Plage de Notre-Dame on Porquerolles island and Palombaggia Beach in Corsica are often cited as having crystal-clear turquoise waters.
What is the prettiest area in France?
This is subjective, but commonly cited beautiful areas include:
- The French Riviera
- The Loire Valley
- Provence
- The French Alps
- Brittany coastline
Is France expensive?
France can be relatively expensive, especially in major cities like Paris. According to cost of living data, France is more expensive than 65% of countries in Western Europe and 79% of countries in the world.
Is France safe?
Generally, France is considered a safe country to visit. However, like any popular tourist destination, petty crime can be an issue in crowded areas. Travelers are advised to be aware of pickpocketing and scams, especially in major cities.
