Beaches in France: Bay of Biscay, French Riviera and the Shores of Normandy

Location:

Plage des Grands Sables, Isle of Groix, Brittany, France

Highlights:

Set between the verdant headlands of La Croix and Spernec, Plage des Grands Sables is Europe’s only naturally convex beach, with striking sand hues ranging from pure white to deep red.

Recommended For:

Beachcombers, sailors, families, and travelers looking for a rare geological gem in a pristine setting.

What I Love: ♥

Unique beach shape, vibrant multicolored sand, and easy access to sailing excursions across the Bay of Biscay.

• Relax on lifeguard-supervised sands with panoramic Atlantic views and minimal crowds.
• Rent kayaks or paddleboards for an active day on the calm, shimmering waters.
• Sail into adventure—this beach is a popular starting point for maritime explorations around the island and beyond.

Cost:

Free beach access; fees may apply for water sports rentals.

Best time to visit:

June to September for the warmest weather and best sailing conditions.

Local tips:

Bring sandals for walking—sand colors can get hot under the midday sun. Ferries to Groix run regularly from Lorient.

Distance:

About 45 minutes by ferry from Lorient, on mainland Brittany.

How to Get to Plage des Grands Sables:

Take a ferry from Lorient to the Isle of Groix. From the port, follow coastal paths or local transport to Rtes Les Grands Sables. Facilities include restrooms, drinking fountains, first aid stations, and water sports rentals.

Rtes Les Grands Sables, Groix, France

Location:

Plage du Racou, Argeles-sur-Mer, Occitanie, France

Highlights:

Nestled in the picturesque town of Argeles-sur-Mer, Plage du Racou boasts soft beige sand, vibrant footpaths, and charming beach houses—offering a blend of rustic charm and coastal fun along the Mediterranean.

Recommended For:

Families, casual beachgoers, foodies, and travelers seeking a local, laid-back beach scene.

What I Love: ♥

Nautical vibes with colorful pathways, casual beach sports, and mouthwatering seafood options nearby.

• Stroll past quaint silted houses and nautical gear on your way to the sea.
• Play beach volleyball, Frisbee, or Bocce Ball on wide open sands.
• Dine at nearby oyster bars, tapas joints, and Mediterranean seafood restaurants.

Cost:

Free public beach access.

Best time to visit:

May through September for warm temperatures and full restaurant openings.

Local tips:

Arrive early in high season to find the best spot, and bring a towel or blanket to enjoy a beach picnic before heading to the bars.

Distance:

Approximately 30 minutes by car from Perpignan, or a short walk from central Argeles-sur-Mer.

How to Get to Plage du Racou:

Drive or take local transport to Argeles-sur-Mer, then follow signs to Le Racou. Parking is available nearby, and beach access is easy via scenic footpaths between beach cottages.

Romantic Beaches in France:

Location:

Plage de Surtainville, Beaumont-Hague, Normandy, France

Highlights:

Stretching along the windswept Cotentin Peninsula, Plage de Surtainville offers wide, sandy shores perfect for beach sports, surfing, and exhilarating coastal adventures on France’s northwest coast.

Recommended For:

Surfers, water sport lovers, families, and beach athletes looking for space to play and ride the waves.

What I Love: ♥

Expansive tidal zones for sand yachting, reliable surf breaks for all levels, and a lively sporting atmosphere.

• Surf some of the best waves on the west coast—great for both beginners and pros.
• Play soccer, sand-ball, or rugby on the wide-open beach.
• Glide across the sands with speed sailing or sand yachting during low tide.

Cost:

Free public access; surf schools and rentals may charge separately.

Best time to visit:

May through September for lifeguard supervision and ideal surf conditions, though sand sports are possible year-round.

Local tips:

Winds can pick up quickly—check conditions before heading out for sand yachting. Summer weekends get busy, so visit early to secure space for beach games.

Distance:

About 30 minutes by car from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin.

How to Get to Plage de Surtainville:

Drive west from Cherbourg along the D45 toward Beaumont-Hague. Follow local signs to Surtainville and park near the beach at Place de la Madeleine. The beach is just a short walk from there.

Location:

Serignan Beach, Serignan, Occitanie, France

Highlights:

Set along France’s sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, Serignan Beach is a vast stretch of golden sand framed by majestic dunes and clear waters—perfect for unwinding or adventuring.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, families, equestrians, and thrill-seekers looking for a mix of beach tranquility and adrenaline-pumping water sports.

What I Love: ♥

Towering natural dunes, serene sunset strolls, and a wide range of activities from horseback riding to parasailing.

• Relax on peaceful sands surrounded by dunes nearly 27 feet high.
• Ride horses along the shoreline for a scenic and unforgettable experience.
• Soar above the sea with kitesurfing, windsurfing, or parasailing for a thrilling coastal view.

Cost:

Free beach access; fees apply for equipment rentals and guided activities.

Best time to visit:

June to September for warm weather, calm waters, and full-service availability.

Local tips:

Bring a camera for sunset walks—it’s one of the most photogenic times of day. Book water sports early in peak season to secure your preferred time slot.

Distance:

About 15 minutes by car from Béziers or 1 hour from Montpellier.

How to Get to Serignan Beach:

From Béziers or Montpellier, drive southeast via the D19 and follow signs to Serignan and “Plage.” Parking is available near the beach access points. Public transportation options are also available during summer months.

Family Beaches in France:

Location:

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, Hauts-de-France, France

Highlights:

Located in the heart of one of northern France’s most stylish coastal towns, Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is a vibrant beach destination packed with amenities, charm, and plenty of activities for every kind of traveler.

Recommended For:

Families, couples, active beachgoers, and those looking for a lively, amenity-rich experience by the sea.

What I Love: ♥

Modern beach facilities, a bustling promenade, vibrant beach clubs, and endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

• Swim and sunbathe on wide, clean sands with easy access from town.
• Join beach volleyball games or take advantage of showers and changing areas for full-day comfort.
• Explore the coastline on horseback or rent bikes for a guided tour through scenic dunes and trails.

Cost:

Free public access; rentals and club services vary in price.

Best time to visit:

June through August for sunny skies, beach club events, and warm swimming conditions.

Local tips:

Arrive early in summer to secure parking and a good spot on the sand. Don’t miss the sunset walks along the promenade for a romantic touch to your visit.

Distance:

Around 2.5 hours by car from Paris or 1 hour from Calais.

How to Get to Le Touquet-Paris-Plage:

Drive via the A16 or take a regional train to Étaples-Le Touquet station, then a quick shuttle or taxi into town. The beach is centrally located and easy to reach from any point in Le Touquet.

Location:

Plage du Pin Sec, Bay of Biscay, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

Highlights:

For lovers of wild, unspoiled nature, Plage du Pin Sec offers a tranquil escape on the Atlantic coast. Framed by rolling sand dunes and the raw power of the North Atlantic, it’s a surfer’s paradise and a haven for those seeking peace away from city crowds.

Recommended For:

Surfers, nature lovers, campers, and visitors craving a rustic, scenic beach experience.

What I Love: ♥

Pristine dunes, consistent surf, and a lack of urban development that preserves the natural beauty of the coastline.

• Surf strong, reliable waves that make this beach one of France’s top Atlantic surf spots.
• Admire sweeping sand dunes and panoramic views across the Bay of Biscay.
• Unplug in a remote, untouched setting where nature takes center stage.

Cost:

Free public access; surfing and water sports rentals available nearby.

Best time to visit:

June through September for warmer weather, lifeguard presence, and ideal surf conditions.

Local tips:

Bring your own supplies—services are limited due to the non-urban setting. Ideal for camping and beach picnics. Sunset views are especially breathtaking against the dunes.

Distance:

About 1.5 hours by car from Bordeaux.

How to Get to Plage du Pin Sec:

Drive west from Bordeaux through Hourtin, then follow signs toward Plage du Pin Sec. The final approach includes forest roads leading to the beach’s parking area. Note that public transport options are limited.

Unique Beaches in France:

Location:

Plage Beau Rivage, Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France

Highlights:

Located on the iconic French Riviera, Plage Beau Rivage is a public beach known for its gentle water depth, making it ideal for a variety of aquatic adventures along the Mediterranean shoreline.

Recommended For:

Families, swimmers, thrill-seekers, and foodies looking for a beachfront day with upscale comforts and active recreation.

What I Love: ♥

Gradual water entry, a wide range of water sports, and gourmet dining at the on-site Beau Rivage Private Beach Restaurant.

• Swim and snorkel in calm, clear waters with safe, easy access for all ages.
• Try flyboarding, parasailing, or scuba diving for an adrenaline rush just offshore.
• Dine under shaded umbrellas with French-Mediterranean cuisine at the chic beachside restaurant.

Cost:

Free access to the public section of the beach; restaurant services and loungers available at an additional cost.

Best time to visit:

May through September for warm waters, full amenities, and peak Mediterranean sun.

Local tips:

Arrive early to secure a spot on the public beach or make reservations for the private beach area. Showers and restrooms are conveniently available nearby.

Distance:

Walking distance from central Nice and about 15 minutes from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport.

How to Get to Plage Beau Rivage:

Located along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Easily accessible by foot, tram, or car. Public parking is available nearby, but spaces fill quickly in summer.

Location:

Castel Plage, Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France

Highlights:

Tucked into a scenic corner of the French Riviera, Castel Plage is a long, wide beach framed by rugged stones and clear Mediterranean waters—offering both public charm and historic dining right by the sea.

Recommended For:

Swimmers, snorkelers, couples, and those seeking a serene yet centrally located beach experience in Nice.

What I Love: ♥

Calm waters for snorkeling, distinctive stone-covered shorelines, and one of Nice’s oldest beach restaurants with postcard-worthy views.

• Swim or snorkel in clear, calm Mediterranean waters just steps from Old Town Nice.
• Relax on the spacious beach with a mix of smooth stones and panoramic coastal views.
• Dine at Castel Plage Private Beach Restaurant, a historic gem serving French and Mediterranean fare with unbeatable seaside ambiance.

Cost:

Free public beach access; private restaurant and loungers available at additional cost.

Best time to visit:

May through September for warm weather, calm seas, and full-service beachside dining.

Local tips:

Wear water shoes to navigate the stony beach comfortably. Arrive early to secure a good public spot or book in advance for private seating at the restaurant.

Distance:

Centrally located in Nice, a short walk from Vieux Nice and the Promenade des Anglais.

How to Get to Castel Plage:

Walk from Old Town Nice or take the tram to nearby stops. Castel Plage is accessible from the eastern end of the Promenade des Anglais, just below Castle Hill (Colline du Château).

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location:

Coco Beach, Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France

Highlights:

A serene escape from the city bustle, Coco Beach is a rocky yet scenic Mediterranean retreat carved into the coastline of Nice, perfect for peaceful sunbathing and quiet contemplation.

Recommended For:

Solitude seekers, sunbathers, couples, and adventurous swimmers looking for a unique, natural setting.

What I Love: ♥

Leveled rock slabs for lounging, tranquil surroundings, and panoramic coastal views without the usual crowds.

• Sunbathe on naturally leveled rock formations with gentle sea breezes and stunning vistas.
• Swim in calm Mediterranean waters under the watchful eye of summer lifeguards.
• Picnic by the sea—limited dining options nearby make a homemade meal the perfect pairing with your beach day.

Cost:

Free public beach access.

Best time to visit:

June through early September for warm weather, fewer crowds, and lifeguard coverage.

Local tips:

Bring water shoes for comfort on rocky surfaces. Arrive early for the best sunbathing spots. Pack food and drinks, as there are few nearby restaurants.

Distance:

About 10 minutes by car or 25 minutes on foot from central Nice.

How to Get to Coco Beach:

Take a bus to the intersection of Théodore de Banville and Jean Lorrain, then walk a few minutes to the beach. Easily accessible on foot from the eastern end of the Promenade des Anglais.

Use this custom map of coastal France to plan your beach holiday.