Brittany, a captivating region in northwestern France, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. With its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns, Brittany offers a diverse range of beach experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. From long sandy stretches perfect for families to secluded coves ideal for a peaceful retreat, the beaches of Brittany are a mix of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
In this article, we’ll explore the best beaches in Brittany, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re seeking a fantastic sandy beach for a day of sunbathing, a sheltered spot for swimming, or a lovely place to come for coastal walks and breathtaking views, Brittany has it all.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Brittany 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Castel Beau Site
- ✨ 5-Star: L'Agapa Hotel Spa Nuxe
- 🏨 4-Star: Best Western Les Bains Hotel & Spa
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel De La Vallée
- 💸 Cheap: Camping de Lanven
- 🏢 Apartment: Les Volets Bleus
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Vacances Bleues - Les Jardins d'Arvor
- 🏩 For Couples: Sofitel Quiberon Thalassa Sea & Spa
1. 🌞 Top 10 Best Beaches in Brittany
👨👩👧👦 Plage de l’Écluse – Best for Family-Friendly Fun
This family-friendly beach in Dinard boasts soft, golden sand and calm waters. Perfect for building sandcastles and paddling with little ones. The beach is backed by a charming promenade lined with cafes and shops. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, ensuring a safe environment for all. Beach clubs offer activities for children, keeping them entertained all day. As the tide goes out, the beach expands, revealing tidal pools teeming with marine life. Don’t miss the stunning Belle Époque villas overlooking the bay. Sunset here is particularly magical, with the sky turning vibrant shades of pink and orange.
Best Hotels Near Plage de l’Écluse 🏨
- Castelbrac Hotel & Spa – This 5-star hotel offers stunning views of the Emerald Coast and is just a short walk from Plage de l’Écluse, one of the most beautiful beaches in Brittany. It features a spa, gourmet restaurant, and an outdoor pool overlooking the sea. The hotel’s elegant rooms and prime location make it perfect for a luxurious beach getaway.
- Hôtel de la Vallée – Located near Plage de l’Écluse, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and a lovely garden. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the beach and the town center. The hotel’s peaceful atmosphere makes for a lovely stay while exploring Dinard’s beautiful beaches and attractions.
- Hôtel Saint-Michel – This cozy hotel is situated in the heart of Dinard, a short walk from Plage de l’Écluse. It offers simple, clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to the beach, bars, and cafes, making it a great spot for families or couples on a budget.
🏔️ Plage de Saint-Guirec – Best for Unique Landscapes
Located on the famous Pink Granite Coast, this beach is a photographer’s dream. Enormous rose-tinted boulders create a surreal landscape against the turquoise sea. The 12th-century oratory on a small island adds a touch of history to the scene. At low tide, you can walk out to explore the rock formations up close. The beach itself is a mix of soft sand and small pebbles, perfect for sunbathing. Nearby hiking trails offer breathtaking coastal views. Keep an eye out for local birds nesting in the cliffs. As the sun sets, the pink rocks seem to glow, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Saint-Guirec 🏨
- Castel Beau Site – This 4-star hotel overlooks Plage de Saint-Guirec, offering breathtaking views of the Pink Granite Coast. It features an indoor pool, spa, and rooms with sea views. The hotel’s location right on the beach makes it one of the best spots for enjoying this beautiful sandy cove.
- Hôtel des Rochers – Located near Plage de Saint-Guirec, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with panoramic sea views. It’s just a short walk from the beach and the coastal path. The hotel’s terrace is a great place to relax after a day at the beach.
- Hôtel de l'Europe – This charming hotel is situated in the center of Perros-Guirec, a short drive from Plage de Saint-Guirec. It offers cozy rooms and a garden terrace. The hotel’s location provides easy access to several beautiful beaches in the area.
🏄♂️ Plage de la Torche – Best for Surfing
Known as one of the best surfing spots in Brittany, La Torche offers consistent waves year-round. The long, exposed beach faces the Atlantic, catching swells perfect for all levels of surfers. Even if you’re not surfing, the beach’s wild beauty is captivating. Windsurfers and kitesurfers also flock here for the excellent conditions. The vast expanse of sand is ideal for long walks and beachcombing. Local surf schools offer lessons for beginners wanting to catch their first wave. The nearby headland provides a great vantage point to watch the surfers in action.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Torche 🏨
- Camping de Lanven – This campsite offers a range of accommodations near Plage de la Torche, one of the best beaches in Europe for surfing. It features mobile homes and pitches, as well as a pool and playground. The campsite’s location makes it perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
- Les Volets Bleus – These holiday homes are located in Penmarch, a short drive from Plage de la Torche. They offer fully equipped kitchens and gardens. The property’s proximity to several great beaches, including La Torche, makes it ideal for a beach holiday.
- Ty Biz – This bed and breakfast is situated near Plage de la Torche, offering comfortable rooms and a garden. It’s a great base for exploring the beautiful beaches of southern Brittany. The B&B’s peaceful setting provides a relaxing retreat after a day at the beach.
🌴 Plage de la Baule – Best for Elegant Beach Life
La Baule boasts one of Europe’s finest beaches, stretching for 9 kilometers of golden sand. The beach is backed by a beautiful promenade lined with chic shops and cafes. Perfect for families, the gentle slope into the sea creates safe swimming conditions. Beach clubs offer a variety of water sports and activities for all ages. The Belle Époque architecture of the town adds a touch of glamour to your beach day. Rent a bike to explore the full length of this magnificent bay. As evening falls, the beachfront comes alive with music and dining options.
Best Hotels Near Plage de la Baule 🏨
- Hôtel Le Saint-Christophe – This charming hotel is located just 50 meters from Plage de la Baule, one of the longest sandy beaches in Europe. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and town center makes it perfect for enjoying all La Baule has to offer.
- Hôtel Lutetia & Spa – This 4-star hotel is situated near Plage de la Baule, offering elegant rooms and a spa center. It’s just a short walk from the beach and the town’s shops and restaurants. The hotel’s wellness facilities make it great for a relaxing beach holiday.
- Hôtel Mona Lisa – Located near Plage de la Baule, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool. It’s a 10-minute walk from the beach and town center. The hotel’s peaceful garden provides a nice spot to relax after a day at the beach.
🚣♀️ Plage de Trestraou – Best for Water Sports Variety
Located in Perros-Guirec, Trestraou is a hub for water sports enthusiasts. The wide, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are popular activities here. The beach is backed by a lively promenade with restaurants and ice cream shops. A thalassotherapy center offers spa treatments using seawater for ultimate relaxation. Kids will love the beach club activities and the nearby mini-golf. The clear waters make it ideal for snorkeling along the rocky edges. Don’t miss the spectacular views from the coastal path above the beach.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Trestraou 🏨
- L'Agapa Hotel Spa Nuxe – This 5-star hotel overlooks Plage de Trestraou, offering luxurious rooms with sea views. It features a spa, indoor pool, and gourmet restaurant. The hotel’s prime location and high-end amenities make it one of the best spots for enjoying this beautiful beach in Perros-Guirec.
- Best Western Plus Les Bains Hotel & Spa – Located near Plage de Trestraou, this 4-star hotel offers modern rooms and a spa center. It’s just a short walk from the beach and the coastal path. The hotel’s rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of the sea and Pink Granite Coast.
- Hôtel des Costans – This charming hotel is situated near Plage de Trestraou, offering comfortable rooms and a garden. It’s a 5-minute walk from the beach and town center. The hotel’s friendly atmosphere and proximity to the beach make it a great choice for a relaxing seaside holiday.
🗿 Plage de Carnac – Best for Combining History and Beach
Famous for its nearby prehistoric standing stones, Carnac offers a unique beach experience. The sheltered, south-facing beaches provide calm waters perfect for families. The main beach is backed by a pine forest, offering natural shade on hot days. Water quality here is excellent, earning it the Blue Flag status. Beach clubs offer sailing and windsurfing lessons for all ages. After beach time, explore the fascinating Carnac Alignments just inland. The town’s charming restaurants serve delicious local seafood. Evening markets in summer add a festive atmosphere to your beach holiday.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Carnac 🏨
- Best Western Hotel Le Celtique & Spa – This 4-star hotel is located just 200 meters from Plage de Carnac, a long sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and water activities. It offers a spa, indoor pool, and rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. The hotel’s proximity to the famous Carnac stones makes it an ideal base for exploring both the beach and historical sites.
- Hotel Le Diana – Situated facing the beach, this hotel offers stunning views of Carnac’s coastline. It features a spa, heated outdoor pool, and direct access to the beach. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the lovely beach and the town’s attractions.
- Hotel Lann Roz – This charming hotel is located in the heart of Carnac, just a short walk from Plage de Carnac. It offers comfortable rooms and a garden terrace. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore both the beach and the famous megalithic sites of Carnac.
🚣 Plage de Morgat – Best for Scenic Kayaking
Nestled in a beautiful bay, Morgat beach offers crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. The calm sea is perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Explore the nearby sea caves and hidden coves for an adventure. The soft, white sand is ideal for sunbathing and beach games. The picturesque village behind the beach has charming cafes and shops. Hiking trails along the cliffs offer breathtaking views of the coastline. Scuba diving is popular here, with rich marine life to discover. As the sun sets, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Morgat 🏨
- L'Escale Marine – This hotel is situated in Crozon, just a short drive from Plage de Morgat, a beautiful beach that faces south and is sheltered from winds. It offers rooms with sea views and a restaurant serving local seafood. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the beaches of the Crozon Peninsula.
- Hotel de la Baie – Located in Crozon, this hotel is close to Plage de Morgat and offers panoramic views of the bay. It features comfortable rooms and a terrace overlooking the sea. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and hiking trails makes it perfect for nature lovers.
- Hotel Les Amethystes – This family-run hotel is situated in Morgat, just steps away from the beach. It offers cozy rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s beachfront location makes it ideal for enjoying the long sandy beach of Morgat.
🌊 Plage de Quiberon – Best for Wild Natural Beauty
The rugged Quiberon peninsula offers dramatic coastal scenery and wild beaches. The western “Côte Sauvage” (Wild Coast) is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Powerful waves crash against the rocky cliffs, creating a spectacular show. Sheltered beaches on the eastern side are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The coastal path offers stunning views and access to hidden coves. Kite surfing and windsurfing are popular on the windier days. Fresh seafood and Breton crepes are must-tries in the nearby town. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Quiberon 🏨
- Sofitel Quiberon Thalassa Sea & Spa – This luxury hotel is located on the Quiberon Peninsula, offering direct access to the beach. It features a thalassotherapy center, multiple restaurants, and rooms with sea views. The hotel’s extensive facilities make it perfect for a relaxing beach getaway.
- Hotel La Petite Sirene – Situated near Plage de Quiberon, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with sea views. It’s located on the wild coast of Quiberon, providing easy access to beautiful beaches and scenic coastal walks.
- Hotel Ker-Noyal Quiberon Plage & Spa – This hotel is located just 50 meters from Plage de Quiberon, one of the best beaches to visit in the area. It offers a spa, indoor pool, and rooms with balconies. The hotel’s proximity to the beach and town center makes it an excellent base for exploring Quiberon.
🏝️ Plage de l’Île Vierge – Best for Secluded Paradise
This secluded beach on the Crozon Peninsula is a true hidden gem. Accessible only by a steep path, the effort is rewarded with pristine beauty. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are reminiscent of tropical destinations. Towering cliffs surround the beach, creating a sense of isolation and tranquility. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet, unspoiled beach experience. Bring snorkeling gear to explore the rich marine life in the bay. Pack a picnic as there are no facilities on this remote beach. The panoramic views from the clifftop are simply breathtaking.
Best Hotels Near Plage de l’Île Vierge 🏨
- Hotel Les Amethystes – While not directly near Plage de l’Île Vierge, this hotel in Crozon offers easy access to many beautiful beaches in the area. It’s located in Morgat, known for its lovely beach and proximity to scenic coastal paths.
- Appartement Crozon – These apartments in Crozon offer a comfortable base for exploring the beaches of the Crozon Peninsula, including Plage de l’Île Vierge. They provide fully equipped kitchens and are close to local amenities.
- Gite de la Baie – This holiday home in Morgat offers a spacious accommodation option for families or groups looking to explore the beaches around Crozon, including Plage de l’Île Vierge. It provides easy access to the beach and local attractions.
🎡 Plage de Benodet – Best for All-Round Family Resort
Voted one of the best family resorts in France, Benodet offers a perfect beach holiday. The main beach is wide and sandy, with calm waters ideal for children. A variety of water sports and beach activities keep everyone entertained. The palm-lined promenade adds a touch of the Riviera to Brittany. Mini-golf, a casino, and a thalassotherapy center offer off-beach entertainment. Take a boat trip to the nearby Glénan Islands for crystal-clear waters. The town has excellent restaurants serving local Breton cuisine. Evening markets and festivals create a lively atmosphere throughout summer.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Benodet 🏨
- Vacances Bleues - Les Jardins d'Arvor – This aparthotel is located just 50 meters from Plage de Benodet, a beautiful sandy beach good for families. It offers apartments with kitchenettes and a heated indoor pool. The hotel’s beachfront location and self-catering facilities make it perfect for a family beach holiday.
- Hotel du Bac – Situated in Sainte-Marine, across the river from Benodet, this hotel offers easy access to Plage de Benodet via a short ferry ride. It provides comfortable rooms and a restaurant with river views. The hotel’s location offers a unique perspective on the area and its beaches.
- Hotel Le Cornouaille – This hotel is located in the heart of Benodet, just a short walk from the beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore both the beach and the charming town of Benodet.
2. 🏄♂️ Water Sports and Activities in Brittany
🏄♂️ Surfing: If you’re a fan of surfing, you’ll love the consistent waves at Plage de la Torche. This beach is known for its world-class surf breaks, making it a favorite among surfers from across the globe. Even if you’re new to surfing, local schools offer lessons for beginners, ensuring you can catch your first wave in no time.
🌬️ Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: For those who enjoy harnessing the wind, Plage de Trestraou is a must-visit. This beach offers excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with consistent breezes and calm waters. The nearby promenade has shops and restaurants where you can grab a snack or meal after your session.
🚣♀️ Kayaking and Paddleboarding: If you prefer exploring the coastline at a more leisurely pace, kayaking or paddleboarding is the way to go. Plage de Morgat is a fantastic spot for these activities, with crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. You can explore the nearby sea caves and hidden coves, discovering the natural beauty of Brittany’s coastline.
🐠 Snorkeling and Diving: For those interested in underwater adventures, Brittany’s beaches offer some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Europe. Plage de l’Île Vierge is a secluded gem with crystal-clear waters, perfect for discovering marine life. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, adding to the dramatic scenery.
3. 🏘️ Best Beach Towns in Brittany
🏰 Saint-Malo: Walled City by the Sea
Saint-Malo boasts the Grande Plage du Sillon, one of Europe’s longest beaches. This 17th-century walled city offers a perfect blend of history and seaside charm. Walk along the ramparts for breathtaking views of the bay. Don’t miss trying the local oysters at beachfront cafes. The town’s Intra-Muros (walled city) is a must-visit historical attraction.
🗿 Carnac: Prehistoric Stones and Sandy Shores
Carnac is famous for its mysterious prehistoric standing stones and beautiful beaches. Plage de Carnac is ideal for families with its fine sand and calm waters. Explore rock pools at low tide for a fun, free activity. The town offers a unique combination of ancient history and modern beach life.
🌴 Dinard: The Elegant Riviera of Brittany
Often called the “Nice of the North,” Dinard exudes elegance. Plage de l’Écluse is surrounded by Belle Époque villas and pine trees. It’s perfect for families with beach huts and activities. Take a coastal path walk for stunning views, especially from Pointe de la Malouine.
👨👩👧👦 Bénodet: Family-Friendly Paradise
Bénodet is a top choice for family beach holidays. Its south-facing beaches are among the warmest in Brittany. Plage du Trez offers a lovely sandy stretch ideal for sandcastles and paddling. The town boasts attractions like thalassotherapy spas, golf courses, and boat trips to the Glénan Islands.
🌊 Quiberon: Wild Beauty of the Atlantic
The Quiberon peninsula offers dramatic coastal scenery. Its western “Côte Sauvage” (Wild Coast) is perfect for nature lovers and hikers. Enjoy both wild Atlantic beaches and sheltered coves. Don’t miss the fresh seafood and Breton crepes in local restaurants.
4. 🌺 Best Beach Holidays in Brittany
👨👩👧👦 Family Beach Holidays: Brittany is a great place for family beach holidays, with many beaches providing safe swimming conditions and facilities that cater to kids. Plage de l’Écluse in Dinard offers lifeguarded areas, soft sands, and close proximity to local amenities. Your little ones can enjoy building sandcastles while you relax nearby. The beach is also a great spot for tidal pool exploration and organized beach games.
❤️ Romantic Getaways: For a romantic beach escape, Marechiaro with its charming coastal village is one of Brittany’s most beautiful spots. The sunsets here are particularly magical as they paint the sky over the sea. I suggest dining at a seaside restaurant while enjoying a fresh seafood dish as you listen to the gentle waves. The beach is surrounded by picturesque views, making it perfect for couples.
⚡ Wild and Rugged Adventures: For those who love breathtaking views and dramatic coastlines, a trip to Pointe du Raz is a must. Here, the beach is also a great starting point for hikes along the wild coastline with stunning views. Enjoy the solitude and the sound of the crashing waves. The coastal path leads you to hidden coves and secret beaches where you can relax away from the bustle.
🏛️ Cultural Experiences: Brittany is steeped in culture, and many beach holidays can incorporate local traditions. At Carnac, not only can you enjoy the beach, but you can also explore the nearby megalithic alignment of standing stones. This historical significance adds an element of intrigue to your beach day. The town’s charming restaurants serve delicious local seafood, enhancing your cultural experience.
🎉 Festivals and Events: Brittany hosts various beach festivals that you won’t want to miss. Whether it’s a traditional festival celebrating the region’s culture or a lively music festival by the beach, these events make for an exhilarating holiday. Top Festivals to Attend:
- Fête de la Bretagne: Celebrate Breton culture with music, dance, and local food.
- Festival Interceltique de Lorient: Enjoy Celtic music and traditions from across Europe.
- Quiberon Festival: A lively music festival held right on the beach.
5. 📜 Practical Information for Visiting Brittany’s Beaches
🌿 Hidden Gems: Secluded Beaches: For those seeking a more secluded beach experience, consider visiting some of Brittany’s lesser-known beaches. Here are a few hidden gems:
- Plage de l’Île Vierge: A secluded beach on the Crozon Peninsula.
- Plage de Saint-Tugen: A quiet beach in the heart of Brittany.
- Plage de Morgat: A beautiful bay with crystal-clear waters.
🚗 Getting to Brittany’s Beaches: Getting to Brittany’s beaches is straightforward. If you’re driving, the region is well-connected by major highways. For those using public transportation, buses and trains are available from major cities like Paris and Rennes. Use the TGV (high-speed train) to get to Rennes quickly, then transfer to local trains or buses for the coastal towns.
🏖️ Beach Facilities and Amenities: Many of Brittany’s beaches offer excellent facilities, including lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and beach clubs. These amenities ensure a comfortable and convenient beach experience. Rent a beach umbrella or sunbed to enjoy the day in comfort. Many beaches also offer stripy beach tents for a classic look.
🏞️ Local Attractions and Activities: Brittany is more than just its beaches. Here are some local attractions and activities to enhance your beach holiday:
- Carnac Alignments: Explore the prehistoric standing stones near Carnac.
- Pointe du Raz: Hike along the dramatic coastline and enjoy the views.
- 18-Hole Golf Course: Located near some of the best beaches, perfect for a day off from the sun.
- Coastal Path Walks: Walk along the coastal path for stunning views of the coast.
🛡️ Safe Swimming and Beach Etiquette: Always check the local flag system to ensure safe swimming conditions. Some beaches, like those in Morbihan, are sheltered and safe for swimming, while others may have stronger currents. This ensures that you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Brittany safely. These beaches offer a mix of natural beauty and tranquility, making them perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
6. 📅 Best Time to Visit Brittany’s Beaches
🌞 Summer Months: Peak Season
The summer months, from June to September, are the peak season for visiting Brittany’s beaches. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities. Even the blusteriest of beach days can be enjoyable during this time, especially if you’re looking for a more secluded experience. Book your accommodations and beach activities well in advance to avoid the crowds.
🌻 Shoulder Season: A Hidden Gem
For those who prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, the shoulder season (April to May and September to October) is an excellent time to visit. The weather is still pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. This makes it easier to explore the beaches and surrounding attractions without the hustle and bustle. It’s a great time for hiking and coastal walks.
🌿 Off-Season: Peaceful Escapes
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, consider visiting during the off-season (November to March). While the weather might be cooler, the beaches are less crowded, and you can enjoy a serene atmosphere. It’s also a great time to explore the local culture and historical sites without the tourist crowds. The beaches are still beautiful, even in the winter months.
📅 Best Time for Specific Activities
Here are some specific activities and the best times to enjoy them:
- Swimming and Sunbathing: Summer months (June to September)
- Surfing and Water Sports: Summer months (June to September)
- Hiking and Coastal Walks: Shoulder season (April to May and September to October)
- Cultural and Historical Exploration: Off-season (November to March)
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Brittany ❔
Is Brittany worth visiting?
Yes, Brittany is definitely worth visiting. It offers beautiful coastlines, charming medieval towns, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and scenic landscapes.
What is the most visited city in Brittany?
While not explicitly stated, Saint-Malo appears to be one of the most popular cities for tourists in Brittany, known for its walled old town and beaches.
Is Brittany good for snorkeling?
Brittany does offer some snorkeling opportunities, particularly around its islands and coastal areas. However, it’s not primarily known as a top snorkeling destination compared to warmer regions.
Which part of Brittany has the best weather?
The southern coast of Brittany, particularly areas like the Gulf of Morbihan, tends to have milder and sunnier weather compared to the northern and western parts of the region. However, Brittany’s weather can be variable across the region.
