Normandy’s captivating coastline is home to some of France’s most beautiful beaches, offering a diverse array of seaside experiences for every traveler. From the dramatic cliffs of Étretat to the historic D-Day landing sites, Normandy’s shores are steeped in natural beauty and rich history. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly retreat, a romantic cove, or a wild stretch of sand, the region’s beaches cater to all preferences.
This guide will take you on a journey along the Norman coast, exploring pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, and hidden gems that make Normandy a perfect beach destination.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Normandy 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: L'Augeval Hôtel & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Dormy House
- 🏨 4-Star: Best Western Plus Hostellerie du Vallon
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel Le Corsaire
- 💸 Cheap: Hôtel de Lion sur Mer
- 🏢 Apartment: Villa Kahlo
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: M&V Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: La Demeure de Manneville
1. 🌞 Top 10 Beaches in Normandy
🏛️ Omaha Beach — Best for Historical Reflection
Omaha Beach is not just a historical D-Day landing site, but also a beautiful stretch of golden sand. As you walk along the shore, you can feel the weight of history beneath your feet. The expansive beach is perfect for long walks, especially at low tide when you can see remnants of WW2 bunkers. The American Cemetery overlooking the beach offers a moving tribute to the Allied soldiers. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the flag-raising ceremony at the American Cemetery. The beach is also great for kite flying and sandcastle building, offering a blend of historical significance and modern beach activities.
Best Hotels Near Omaha Beach 🏨
- Hôtel du Casino — This hotel is located in Vierville-sur-Mer, just steps away from Omaha Beach. It offers comfortable rooms with sea views and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel’s prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring D-Day landing sites and memorials.
- Le Clos Saint Jean — Situated in Sainte-Honorine-des-Pertes, this charming B&B is just 1.3 miles from Omaha Beach. It offers cozy rooms with free WiFi and a delicious continental breakfast featuring homemade jams. The property’s beautiful garden and friendly host Caroline provide a peaceful retreat after a day of historical sightseeing.
- Villa Kahlo — This stylish villa in Port-en-Bessin-Huppain offers a unique stay near Omaha Beach. It features modern amenities and artistic decor inspired by Frida Kahlo. The villa’s location provides easy access to both historical sites and the charming fishing port of Port-en-Bessin.
🏞️ Etretat Beach — Best for Scenic Beauty and Photography
Étretat’s beach is a stunning example of Normandy’s Alabaster Coast. The iconic white cliffs and natural arches that jut out into the English Channel create a breathtaking backdrop for beachgoers. This pebble beach is ideal for beachcombing and photography. The charming town offers excellent seafood restaurants and art galleries inspired by the landscapes that once captivated Claude Monet. Take a clifftop walk for panoramic views of the coastline. The path to the right of the beach offers the best vistas. Don’t miss the opportunity to kayak around the famous arches for a unique perspective.
Best Hotels Near Etretat Beach 🏨
- Domaine Saint Clair - Le Donjon — This elegant hotel is set in a 19th-century castle overlooking Etretat and its famous cliffs. It offers luxurious rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa. The hotel’s stunning views and proximity to Etretat Beach make it perfect for a romantic getaway.
- Hôtel Le Corsaire — Located in the heart of Etretat, this hotel is just a short walk from the beach and famous cliffs. It offers comfortable rooms with a nautical theme and a terrace with sea views. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to local restaurants and attractions.
- Dormy House — Perched on the cliffs of Etretat, this hotel offers panoramic views of the English Channel. It features cozy rooms, a restaurant serving Norman cuisine, and direct access to the cliff-top walking trails. The hotel’s location provides stunning sunset views over Etretat’s famous arch.
🌟 Deauville — Best for Glamour and People-Watching
Deauville is the epitome of a chic French seaside resort. Its wide sandy beach is lined with colorful beach huts named after famous actors and directors who have attended the annual American Film Festival. The iconic striped beach umbrellas and cabanas add to its glamorous atmosphere. The elegant boardwalk is perfect for people-watching, while the town offers high-end boutiques and casinos. Water sports enthusiasts will find excellent facilities here. While Deauville can be pricey, you can enjoy the beach for free. Pack a picnic and spend the day like a local, soaking in the luxurious ambiance without the high costs.
Best Hotels Near Deauville 🏨
- Best Western Hostellerie du Vallon — This charming hotel is located in a quiet area of Trouville-sur-Mer, just a short drive from Deauville. It offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a spa. The hotel’s peaceful setting provides a relaxing base for exploring both Trouville and Deauville.
- L'Augeval — Situated in Deauville, this hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the beach and casino. It features elegant rooms, a spa, and a heated outdoor pool. The hotel’s location in the heart of Deauville makes it perfect for enjoying the town’s famous boardwalk and racecourse.
- Hôtel Le Trophée — This boutique hotel is located in the center of Deauville, close to the beach and main attractions. It offers stylish rooms with Art Deco-inspired decor and a cozy lounge bar. The hotel’s intimate atmosphere and prime location make it ideal for a romantic stay in Deauville.
👨👩👧👦 Cabourg — Best for Family-Friendly Activities
Cabourg boasts a long sandy beach that seems to stretch endlessly along the coast. This family-friendly resort town was a favorite of Marcel Proust and still retains its Belle Époque charm. The beach has a gentle slope into the sea, making it ideal for children. A beautiful promenade offers perfect evening strolls, while various beach activities and clubs keep kids entertained. Parents can relax at the thalassotherapy centers. Visit during the Cabourg Film Festival in June to catch a movie screening right on the beach! The town’s literary connections also make it a hit with book lovers.
Best Hotels Near Cabourg 🏨
- Kyriad Prestige Residence Cabourg - Dives-sur-Mer — This residence is located in Dives-sur-Mer, just a short drive from Cabourg. It offers spacious apartments with kitchenettes and access to an indoor pool and fitness center. The residence’s proximity to both Cabourg and Dives-sur-Mer provides a great base for exploring the Normandy coast.
- Résidence Pierre & Vacances Premium Résidence & Spa — Situated in Houlgate, near Cabourg, this residence offers modern apartments and excellent spa facilities. It features an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center. The residence’s location provides easy access to both Houlgate and Cabourg beaches.
- Demeure de Manneville — This elegant B&B is housed in a 19th-century mansion in Cabourg. It offers beautifully decorated rooms and a large garden. The B&B’s central location allows guests to easily explore Cabourg’s Belle Epoque architecture and famous beach promenade.
🏄♂️ Sword Beach — Best for Blending History and Water Sports
Sword Beach, another crucial D-Day landing site, now offers a perfect blend of historical significance and modern beach amenities. Located near Ouistreham, it’s great for both history buffs and sun-seekers. Don’t miss the memorial to the Allied landings and the scenic lighthouse at the end of the beach. The beach offers excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Fresh seafood at the nearby fishing port is a must-try. Combine your beach visit with a trip to the nearby Pegasus Bridge Museum for a comprehensive D-Day experience. The beach’s wide expanse also makes it perfect for long walks and beach sports.
Best Hotels Near Sword Beach 🏨
- M&V Resort — Located in Ouistreham, near Sword Beach, this resort offers modern apartments with sea views. It features an indoor pool and is just steps away from the beach. The resort’s location provides easy access to D-Day landing sites and the ferry terminal to England.
- Hôtel Riva Bella — This beachfront hotel in Ouistreham offers direct access to Sword Beach. It features comfortable rooms with sea views and a restaurant serving seafood specialties. The hotel’s location on Sword Beach makes it perfect for history enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
- Hôtel de Lion sur Mer — Situated in Lion-sur-Mer, this charming hotel is close to Sword Beach. It offers cozy rooms and a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the sea. The hotel’s location in a quiet seaside town provides a peaceful base for exploring the D-Day beaches and nearby Caen.
🏝️ Utah Beach — Best for Nature Lovers and History Buffs
Utah Beach, the westernmost of the D-Day landing beaches, offers a mix of history and natural beauty. The wide, flat sandy beach is perfect for long walks and kite flying. The Utah Beach Landing Museum provides an in-depth look at the D-Day operations. Birdwatchers will love the nearby wetlands, home to diverse wildlife. Don’t miss the German bunkers still visible along the dunes. Visit at low tide to see the remnants of the artificial harbor used during the landings. The beach is also great for shellfish gathering, but always check local regulations first.
Best Hotels Near Utah Beach 🏨
- Le Grand Hard - Domaine Utah Beach — This charming hotel is located just 1 km from Utah Beach, offering a unique stay in a historic Norman manor. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a museum dedicated to D-Day. The hotel’s proximity to Utah Beach makes it an ideal base for exploring World War II history.
- Chambres d'hôtes Utah — This bed and breakfast is situated close to Utah Beach, offering a cozy and personal stay. It provides comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast, perfect for fueling up before exploring the D-Day landing sites. The hosts are known for their knowledge of local history and can provide valuable insights for visitors.
- Appartement Angelo — This apartment offers a home-away-from-home experience near Utah Beach. It features a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living space, ideal for families or groups. The apartment’s location allows easy access to Utah Beach and other nearby World War II sites.
🏖️ Juno Beach — Best for Canadian Heritage and Relaxation
Juno Beach, where Canadian forces landed on D-Day, now offers a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for relaxation and reflection. The Juno Beach Centre provides insight into Canada’s role in WWII. The beach itself is great for swimming and sunbathing, with lifeguards on duty during summer months. Coastal paths offer scenic walks with historical markers along the way. Time your visit with the low tide to explore the rocky areas rich in marine life. The nearby town of Courseulles-sur-Mer is known for its fresh oysters – a must-try after a day at the beach.
Best Hotels Near Juno Beach 🏨
- Hôtel La Crémaillère — Located in Courseulles-sur-Mer, this hotel is just a short walk from Juno Beach. It offers comfortable rooms, some with sea views, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The hotel’s proximity to the Juno Beach Centre makes it an excellent choice for those interested in Canadian D-Day history.
- Le Gréement - Appartement vue mer — This sea-view apartment is situated close to Juno Beach, offering stunning vistas of the English Channel. It provides a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living space. The apartment’s location allows guests to easily visit the Juno Beach Centre and explore the charming town of Courseulles-sur-Mer.
- Chambres d'hôtes Le Maroni — This bed and breakfast offers a peaceful stay near Juno Beach. It features comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden. The B&B’s location provides easy access to both the beach and the historic sites related to the D-Day landings.
🎣 Trouville-sur-Mer — Best for Authentic Seaside Charm
Trouville-sur-Mer offers a more laid-back alternative to its glamorous neighbor, Deauville. The long sandy beach is perfect for families, with shallow waters and plenty of space for games. The town’s fishing port adds charm and ensures a supply of fresh seafood to local restaurants. Don’t miss the beautiful Belle Époque villas lining the promenade. Visit the fish market for the freshest catch, or take a boat trip from the harbor for a different perspective of the coast. The beach is also home to one of the oldest sailing clubs in France, offering lessons for all ages.
Best Hotels Near Trouville-sur-Mer 🏨
- You Are Deauville — While located in neighboring Deauville, this hotel is just a short walk across the bridge to Trouville-sur-Mer. It offers modern rooms and is close to the beach and casino. The hotel’s location allows guests to enjoy both Deauville’s elegance and Trouville’s charm.
- Hôtel Almoria — This hotel is situated in the heart of Deauville, a short distance from Trouville-sur-Mer. It features comfortable rooms and a spa with a hammam. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore both Deauville and Trouville-sur-Mer.
- Villa Médicis Trouville — Located in Trouville-sur-Mer, this hotel offers elegant rooms in a beautiful Belle Époque building. It’s just a short walk from the beach and the famous boardwalk. The hotel’s charm and location make it perfect for experiencing the classic Norman seaside atmosphere.
🏰 Plage de Granville — Best for Cultural Exploration
Granville’s beach offers a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. The walled old town overlooks the beach, providing stunning views. The beach itself is perfect for sandcastle building and beachcombing, especially at low tide. Don’t miss the Christian Dior Museum, housed in the designer’s childhood home overlooking the sea. Take the boat to the Chausey Islands from Granville’s port for a day trip to some of Normandy’s most unspoiled beaches. The town’s carnival in February is one of the oldest in France and adds a festive atmosphere to the beach area.
Best Hotels Near Plage de Granville 🏨
- Hôtel Le Grand Large — This hotel offers panoramic views of the sea and is located close to Plage de Granville. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local seafood. The hotel’s elevated position provides stunning vistas of the coastline and nearby islands.
- L'Escale Granvillaise — This guesthouse is situated in the heart of Granville, close to the beach. It offers cozy rooms in a traditional Norman house. The guesthouse’s central location allows easy access to both the beach and Granville’s historic haute ville (upper town).
- La Vigie sur le Port — These apartments offer a comfortable stay with views of Granville’s port. They feature fully equipped kitchens and are a short walk from the beach. The apartments’ location provides easy access to both the beach and the town’s attractions, including the Christian Dior Museum.
🚢 Plage d’Arromanches — Best for World War II Education
Arromanches beach played a crucial role in the D-Day landings and still bears witness to this history. Remnants of the Mulberry Harbor are visible at low tide, creating a unique seascape. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, perfect for leisurely walks. The 360° Cinema and D-Day Museum offer immersive historical experiences. Climb to the cliff-top viewing point for panoramic views of the beach and harbor remains. Despite its historical significance, the beach is also great for swimming and sunbathing, with the unusual backdrop of the harbor remains adding to its charm.
Best Hotels Near Plage d’Arromanches 🏨
- Hôtel Le Chanteclair — This hotel is located in the center of Arromanches-les-Bains, just steps away from the beach. It offers comfortable rooms, some with sea views. The hotel’s location provides easy access to the D-Day Museum and the remains of the Mulberry Harbor.
- Hôtel de la Marine — Situated on the main square of Arromanches-les-Bains, this hotel offers rooms with views of the sea or the town. It’s just a short walk from the beach and the D-Day Museum. The hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the historic sites of the D-Day landings.
- Hôtel Le Mountbatten — Named after Lord Mountbatten, this hotel offers a stay steeped in World War II history. It’s located close to the beach and features comfortable rooms, some with sea views. The hotel’s themed decor and proximity to historic sites make it perfect for history enthusiasts.
2. 🏄♂️ Beach Activities and Water Sports
🏄♂️ Surfing and Water Sports: The Normandy coast is a paradise for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Barneville-Carteret and Ecalgrain Bay offer some of the best spots for catching waves. Ecalgrain Bay is a hidden gem loved by local surfers for its consistent waves and stunning backdrop. If you’re new to surfing, take lessons in Trouville. The gentle waves and sandy bottom make it perfect for beginners. You’ll find rental shops and schools along many beaches.
🚶♂️ Beach Walks and Exploration: Walking along the beaches of Normandy is a magical experience. The coastline is dotted with fascinating sights, from beautiful houses to remnants of the Second World War. Top walks include the clifftop path at Pointe du Hoc, Deauville’s boardwalk, the wild shores of Ecalgrain Bay, and the historic stretch between Utah and Omaha beaches.
🎣 Fishing and Seafood Experiences: Coastal towns like Cherbourg and Le Havre are a fishmonger’s dream. Join fishing excursions or watch boats return with their fresh catch. Skip fancy restaurants and head to local fish markets for the freshest seafood at a fraction of the price. Many towns also offer seafood festivals throughout the year, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage.
🎖️ Historical Tours and Education: Many Normandy beaches offer guided tours that bring the events of D-Day to life. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history. Book a tour that covers multiple landing beaches, including both Utah and Omaha beaches, as well as the Normandy American Cemetery. These comprehensive tours offer the most efficient way to explore the area’s historical sites.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Activities: Normandy’s beaches are perfect for family fun. From building sandcastles to exploring oyster beds at low tide, there’s no shortage of activities. Houlgate is particularly great for families with its wide, sandy beach and calm waters. Many beaches offer kids’ clubs during summer months, allowing children to make friends and parents to relax.
3. ⌛ Best Time to Visit Normandy’s Beaches
☀️ Summer: Peak Season Perfection
June to August is the most popular time to visit Normandy’s beaches. The weather is warmest, perfect for lounging on beautiful beaches like Deauville or swimming in the seawater at Étretat. Expect long, sunny days ideal for beach activities and a lively atmosphere with festivals and events. Head to the beach early, around 10 AM, to secure your spot and watch the morning mist lift off the sea — a truly magical sight.
🌸 Spring and Fall: The Sweet Spot
May and September-October offer the best balance for visiting Normandy’s beaches. Crowds are thinner, prices lower, and the weather still pleasant for coastal walks and sightseeing. Enjoy mild temperatures perfect for exploring D-Day sites, beautiful wildflowers or foliage, and better deals on accommodations. Many beachfront restaurants offer off-season menus at reduced prices, great for sampling local specialties like fresh oysters.
❄️ Winter: A Different Kind of Beach Experience
Winter presents Normandy’s coastline in a unique light. Beaches are hauntingly beautiful and perfect for contemplative walks. Enjoy dramatic stormy seas for photography, cozy seafood restaurants, and Christmas markets in coastal towns. Winter is excellent for a walk along the boardwalk in Deauville, appreciating the famous beach cabins without summer crowds. It’s also a chance to see the beaches as they might have looked to Allied forces on the eve of D-Day.
🎖️ Special Considerations
For D-Day history enthusiasts, visiting around June 6th offers moving ceremonies and reenactments. The 80th anniversary of D-Day in 2024 will be particularly special, with once-in-a-lifetime commemorative events. Expect larger crowds during anniversaries, but the experience of witnessing these historic moments is unparalleled. Book accommodations well in advance for these periods.
4. 🌆 Coastal Towns and Accommodations
🌟 Deauville: The Glamorous Getaway
Deauville is the epitome of coastal chic, known for its elegant boardwalk and luxurious atmosphere. Don’t miss the iconic beach cabins named after Hollywood stars and the annual American Film Festival. Visit the fish market on Tuesday mornings to see local fishmongers selling the freshest catch. The town offers excellent shopping, from high-end boutiques to local markets.
⏳ Arromanches: A Step Back in Time
Arromanches played a crucial role during the D-Day landings. Today, you can still see remnants of the temporary port used by Allied forces at low tide. Take a walk along the beach at low tide to get up close to the harbor remains. Don’t miss the D-Day Museum and the 360° Cinema for an immersive historical experience.
🏞️ Étretat: Nature’s Masterpiece
Famous for its stunning chalk cliffs and natural arches, Étretat is a testament to the power of nature. Hike along the clifftop paths for breathtaking views, explore the old covered market, and search for fossils on the pebble beach. Climb to the top of the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde for the best panoramic views of the coastline.
🎨 Honfleur: A Painter’s Paradise
Honfleur is a picturesque medieval port town that has inspired artists for centuries. Explore the Old Harbor lined with seafood restaurants, visit the wooden Church of Saint Catherine, and enjoy the bustling Saturday market. Many restaurants offer set menus at lunch for a fraction of the dinner price, perfect for sampling gourmet Norman cuisine.
5. 🚌 How to Get to Normandy’s Beaches
🚂 By Train: Trains connect Paris to major Normandy towns like Caen, Bayeux, and Cherbourg. Take the direct train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Caen, which takes just 2 hours. From Caen, buses or taxis can easily take you to the D-Day beaches. The train journey offers beautiful views of the Norman countryside and is a stress-free way to travel.
🚗 By Car: Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Normandy’s coastline. Take the A13 motorway from Paris for a scenic 2.5-hour drive to the D-Day beaches. Use carpooling services like BlaBlaCar for a budget-friendly option and a chance to meet locals. Driving allows you to stop at charming villages, access viewpoints, and visit multiple beaches in one day.
🚲 By Bicycle: Cycling along the Normandy coast offers an unforgettable experience. Rent bikes in coastal towns and follow dedicated cycling paths. The route between Arromanches and Omaha Beach is particularly beautiful, offering stunning views and the chance to stop at several historic sites. This option allows you to experience the landscape at a slower pace.
🚌 By Guided Tour: Guided tours are ideal for history buffs keen to uncover every detail about the forces on D-Day. These often provide transportation from Paris and offer in-depth commentary about the landings at Omaha and other beaches. Look for tours that include lesser-known sites like the German artillery batteries at Longues-sur-Mer for a more intimate historical experience.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Normandy, France ❔
Is a trip to Normandy worth it?
Yes, a trip to Normandy is definitely worth it. The region offers beautiful coastlines, rich history (especially related to WWII), charming towns, and excellent cuisine.
How many days do you need to see Normandy beaches?
You need at least 2-3 days to see the major D-Day landing beaches and related WWII sites in Normandy. More time allows for a more in-depth experience.
Can you swim at the beaches in Normandy?
Yes, you can swim at many beaches in Normandy. Popular swimming beaches include Deauville, Trouville, and Étretat.
Is Normandy safe to swim?
Generally yes, Normandy’s beaches are safe for swimming. However, always check local conditions and warnings, as some areas may have strong currents or tides. Lifeguarded beaches are the safest option.
