Beautiful Beaches In France To Visit This Summer
Are you planning to visit France for the summer? Then you must be on the lookout for the country’s most beautiful beaches.
France boasts more than 2500 beaches, with a coastline spanning over 3,400 kilometres. These beaches offer a diverse range of options along the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel, and the Mediterranean Sea.
You can find famous resort destinations as well as more secluded, lesser-known spots. Some of the most popular beach areas include the French Riviera, Normandy, Brittany, and the Atlantic Coast.
These beaches range from famous resort destinations to more secluded, lesser-known spots. Some of the most popular beach areas include the French Riviera, Normandy, Brittany, and the Atlantic Coast.
Read more: Beautiful Beaches In France To Visit This SummerPlease remember to be respectful of your environment when visiting a beach, not litter, and not leave traces. Of course, that goes for any place you visit in the world!
Beautiful Beaches In France To Visit This Summer
I spent most of my summers at beaches in Brittany, so I am particularly attached to the many beautiful beaches in this gorgeous region. There are many gorgeous beaches there for those who don’t want to go all the way to the south of France!
Quiberon Penninsula, Brittany
The Quiberon Peninsula is a stunning destination known for its dramatic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and lively maritime culture. This narrow strip of land extends into the Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors a unique mix of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming coastal villages.
One of the highlights of the Quiberon Peninsula is its diverse range of beaches. On the western side, known as the Côte Sauvage (Wild Coast), you’ll find rocky shores and powerful waves, perfect for surfing and experiencing the raw beauty of nature. Please be aware that, as the name of the area suggests, this is a wilder version of the beach and, therefore, isn’t under surveillance by a lifeguard so be careful.
In contrast, the eastern side offers sheltered, sandy beaches with calm waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family outings.
Carnac, Brittany
Located a 30-minute drive from Quiberon Peninsula, Carnac is another beautiful beach to visit in Brittany.
The beach stretches along the Atlantic coast, offering pristine white sands and clear blue waters, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports.
Carnac Beach is close to the famous Carnac Stones, a unique historical sight composed of a dense collection of megalithic sites dating back to the Neolithic period.
The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including beachfront cafes, restaurants, and rental facilities for activities like windsurfing, sailing, and paddleboarding. There are also plenty of adorable souvenir shops.
The beach is also very family-friendly, and the shoreline’s gentle slope provides children with safe swimming conditions.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Carnac Beach boasts a vibrant local culture with seasonal festivals, markets, and seafood cuisine that highlight the best of Breton traditions.
I highly recommend taking a stroll there for sunset while enjoying ice cream or a yummy Nutella waffle or just sitting by the beach eating french fries!
La Baule, Brittany
With its nine kilometres of fine golden sand, La Baule boasts one of the longest and most picturesque beaches in Europe, making it a prime destination for beach lovers and vacationers in Brittany.
The beach at La Baule is a perfect destination for families or for relaxing. On its gently sloping shoreline, you can swim, sunbathe, and build sandcastles.
And if you’re into water sports, you can sail, windsurf, or jet ski in the clear waters. Plus, there are beachfront cafes, restaurants, and sunbed rentals for a super comfy and fun time!
Beyond its beautiful beach, La Baule is known for its elegant villas, luxury hotels, and vibrant town centre. It is also famous for its wave-shaped buildings on the waterfront (pictured above).
The area is known to be quite fancy, from the upscale boutiques and gourmet restaurants to the bustling markets and lively nightlife.
You can explore the lush greenery of the nearby Brière Regional Natural Park, play a round of golf at one of the prestigious golf courses, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at one of the renowned wellness centres (which is why many people chose this beach destination to relax!).
Crozon Peninsula, Brittany
Recommended by Victoria from GuideYourTravel
The Crozon Peninsula, located in the Finistère department of Brittany, France, is a stunning coastal region renowned for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and rugged landscapes. This area, part of the Armorique Regional Natural Park, is famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and historical sites, making it a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
One of the peninsula’s most celebrated features is its beautiful beaches. Morgat Beach’s fine sandy shores and clear waters are perfect for families and sunbathers. It offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding. Another must-visit is La Palue Beach, known for its powerful waves and popularity among surfers. This beach’s wild, sandy expanse provides a more secluded experience, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
For those seeking adventure, the Crozon Peninsula offers a wealth of activities. Hiking along the GR34 coastal path is a must, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic cliff formations. The Pointe de Pen-Hir is a standout spot along this route, offering panoramic vistas and historical significance with its WWII memorials. Exploring the sea caves and cliffs by boat or kayak provides a unique perspective of the coastline.
In addition to its natural attractions, the Crozon Peninsula is home to charming villages like Camaret-sur-Mer, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, visit art galleries, and explore the Vauban Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its sandy and rocky beaches, rich history, and outdoor activities, the Crozon Peninsula is a versatile destination that caters to all types of travellers.
Etretat, Normandy
Recommended by Chris from AroundTheWorldWithMe
One of the most beautiful beaches in all of France is Etretat Beach in the town of Etretat in Normandy. The water might not be the warmest, the sand might not be the finest, but it’s hard to argue that Etretat beach doesn’t offer some of the most stunning views in France.
Situated on the English Channel, Etretat is known for its remarkable chalky white cliffs that form the shoreline. Etretat Beach is the only break in the cliffs long and accessible enough to allow beach access. As you lay on the pebbly beach you’re flanked by massive white cliffs on either side, a truly unique beach experience.
While visiting Etretat Beach it’s also advised to take some time to explore the surrounding cliffs. There are short hikes up to the cliffs either side of the beach and from the top the views cannot be beat. The town of Etretat is also nice, with charming streets and historic buildings. All this combines to make your visit to Etretat so much more than just a beach.
On the beach itself there are no services or even beach chair rentals. For anything – food, toilets, etc – you will have to step back into town, which is luckily just a hop, skip, and a jump away on the other side of the concrete boardwalk. Also be advised that most restaurants in Etretat are poor quality and overpriced, so be sure to check reviews before deciding on somewhere to eat.
The South of France have no shortage of amazing, beautiful beaches, so here are some of them that should definitely be on your French beach bucket list for this summer – or early/late summer if you wish to avoid crowds!
Antibes, French Riviera
Recommended by Ossama from Awesome Traveler
Antibes in French Riviera contains 25km long coastlines. Therefore, it is easy to find a beach there. You can choose to relax at its popular beaches or enjoy it recreational activities. There are many watersport activities available at the beaches, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and much more.
I would highly recommend to visit Plage de la Garoupe beach with it white sandy coastline and calm clear water. Makes it a perfect destination for all types of goers.
It is also the home of La Garoupe restaurant. The ambience is cozy, which is perfect for relaxation. It equipped with an old fashion design with a garden and stylish furnitures. It can surely please your eyes. You can order a cocktail while listening to live music at the beach. The food is delicious. I would recommend trying their fresh sea food, pasta, or spicy taco. They are quite tasty.
After finishing the meal, I would recommend visiting the Petit Plage and Plage Joseph clubs. They are good places to walk by and mesmerizing in their beauty. There have terrace area that equipped with deck chairs and tablecloth tables. You can choose to set their after a long walk around the beach. The view of the beach and the surrounding areas can take your breath away. So set back, relax and enjoy the view.
Nice, French Riviera
Recommended by Lisa Garrett from Waves and Cobblestones
Looking for a stunning beach destination in France? Look no further than the sunny Mediterranean beaches of Nice, a jewel in the French Riviera. Nice has a UNESCO World Heritage designation for its history as a celebrated winter resort town.
There are several miles of beaches to enjoy in Nice, and I loved the views of Nice’s beautiful coastline from the Colline du Château (Castle Hill) viewpoint.
Choose a public beach (like Ponchettes) if you’re travelling on a budget, but be forewarned that they lack amenities. For a more enjoyable beach day, splurge on a private beach and relax with a lounge chair and umbrella — and perhaps a refreshing drink or two. Some of the most popular private beaches include Blue Beach and the Plage Beau Rivage.
Note that the beaches in Nice are made of large pebbles, so you’ll definitely want something to cushion you when you’re soaking up the sun! I love walking on the beach, but due to the pebbles, walking in the surf here is a balancing act.
Instead, we enjoyed a stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais. This pedestrian boulevard stretches 7 kilometers and is certainly one of the top attractions in Nice. There are lots of hotels, bars, and restaurants lining the Promenade des Anglais when you’re ready to engage in some non-beach activities.
Villefranche-sur-Mer, French Riviera
Recommended by Denise from Chef Denise
Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the most picturesque beach destination on the French Riviera. This charming town is a perfect hub to explore the Côte d’Azur or it makes a wonderful day trip from Monaco or Nice.
In fact, if spending time on the beach is a priority, the sandy beaches Plage des Marinière and Plage de l’Ange Gardien are much more comfortable than the rocky beaches of Nice. They even filmed a bit of Emily in Paris’s season 2 in Villefranche and passed it off as Saint Tropez. Taking a boat ride in the crystal blue waters offers a lovely way to spend a few hours at sea and snap some photos of the gorgeous town from the water.
The historic town offers much more than a fun beach day. Wandering through the narrow streets you’ll discover lots of nooks and crannies for instagrammable shots. Visit the Citadel Saint-Elme at the harbor. Built in the 1500s, this fortress offers views of the harbor and colorful gardens in addition to a history lesson.
Of course, as a chef, my favorite memories of my visits to Villefranche revolve around the food. There are plenty of restaurants in this small town serving local fare—mainly fresh seafood and, since Nice is next door, cuisine Niçoise. Lunch on the harbor at La Corderie was excellent, Don’t miss some of the specialties like pissaladière (onion tart), petit farci (stuffed vegetables), and panisse (chickpea fries).
Menton, French Riviera
Recommended by Taylor of Brown Eyed Flower Child
One of the most idyllic beach destinations in France is Menton. It’s a colorful town located near the French-Italian border that must be included in a South of France itinerary! I love how it reminds me of the coastal towns along Cinque Terre in Northern Italy.
Considered the “Pearl of the French Riviera,” Menton was ruled by the Grimaldi Family of Monaco in the 14th century. They still reign over the Principality to this day! Over the centuries, Menton has attracted European aristocrats, socialites, and artists.
A visit to Menton is incomplete without strolling through the quintessential Old Town. One of the leading landmarks in Menton, France, is the Basilica Saint-Michel-Archange, a 17th-century Catholic church overlooking the sea.
Menton is also famous for its stunning gardens; I recommend strolling through the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh. It’s an exotic botanical garden with a subtropical climate and fascinating collections of palm trees, bamboo, and citrus fruits like lemons and oranges.
Additionally, visiting Menton, France is incomplete without enjoying a beach day. My favorite beach in this colorful town is Plage Sablettes. It’s a sandy beach near the port with calm, crystal waters.
When it comes to dining in Menton, enjoy an incredible Michelin-star meal at Mirazur. It offers incredible French dishes by Chef Mauro Colagreco and scenic views of the Bay of Garavan. The best hotel to stay at this lovely beach destination is Hôtel Princess et Richmond Menton.
Cassis, Marseille
Recommended by Elisa from France Bucket List
Cassis is a lovely beach town in Provence, Southern France. It is located 25 km east of Marseille and is an easy day trip by train.
Cassis is famous for its picturesque port, the surrounding Calanques, and delicious wines. The AOC Cassis is one of the oldest in France! There’s also an impressive château that overlooks the port, but it is in private hands and not open to the public.
Despite its small size, there are many fun things to do in Cassis. The market is typical of Provence and takes place on Wednesdays and Fridays at Place Baragnon. I also like to get lost in the town’s winding alleys, beautifully decorated with flowers and other details.
The beaches in Cassis are stone beaches (pebbles), so I recommend buying special shoes to move around and get into the sea. Not far from the port, the Grande Plage is the most popular, but I prefer the most intimate Plage de Bestuan.
Last but not least, you can explore the calanques, the picturesque creeks nestled between Marseille and Cassis. There are many ways to visit the Calanques, from hikes to kayak tours or e-bike tours. The most popular way, however, is to take one of the boat tours that leave from the port (different itineraries).
Also, follow me on Instagram to check out my travel adventures around Europe and more lifestyle content @cpt_lyne!
I hope you found the perfect French beach for your summer vacation and enjoy it to the fullest, whether you travel with friends, solo, or with your family!
Looking for more travel content about France? Make sure to check out the following posts:
- 25 Trains Day Trips From Paris
- 13 Things To Do In Troyes
- Visit Monet’s Garden & House in Giverny
- Explore the Historical Islet of Mt Saint Michel In Winter
- Best Things To Do In Vannes, France
- How To Spend A Week End In Angoulême
- Magical Christmas Markets To Visit in France
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Beautiful Beaches in France
✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip
If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip!
✈ How To Find Flights?
My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights.
Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights.
✈ Where To Book Accommodations?
The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels.
Another perk of Booking.com and Expedia is that you can sometimes get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can help you save a lot of money.
✈ Best Sites To Book Activities
My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them.
I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive.
You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…).
✈ Other helpful travel resources
– Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days.
– TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use.
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Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!
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