Summary
When planning a summer vacation to France, finding the perfect stretch of coastline or a nice secluded beach is an essential part of any successful itinerary. There are plenty of destinations to choose from in northern, western, and southern France.
From Nord-Pas de Calais along the English Channel to the Mediterranean hotspots of Provence-Alpes-Maritimes-Cote-d’Azur and the Antibes peninsula, this country is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Whether you’re traveling the southern French Riviera, along the western Bay of Biscay, or on the northern coastline of Normandy, you’re sure to find a fantastic beach escape.
Nord-Pas de Calais, English Channel
Most vacationers arrive in Calais or Dunkirk on the English Channel and head south, overlooking the sandy beaches nearby in favor of more secluded destinations along the Opal Coast. The Opal Coast extends 75 miles (120 kilometers) from the northern Belgian border down to the Somme estuary, featuring a long headland perfect for walks along the cliff tops. Here, you’ll encounter places like Cap Blanc Nez and Cap Blanc Gris, each showcasing historical WWII bunkers.
Along the shore, resorts like Wimereux and Berck-Plage offer swimming opportunities and a variety of sand sports. Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is a chic resort known for its casinos, horse riding, and a beautiful sandy beach stretching to the mouth of the River Authie.
The Cote Fleurie, Normandy’s Coastline
Normandy’s long and varied coastline, along with its rich history, makes it a remarkable summer holiday destination, easily accessible from the United Kingdom or Paris. The Cote Fleurie features the chic town of Deauville and the more laid-back Trouville, complemented by a long stretch of coastline that reaches up to Dieppe and Le Treport.
The southern Normandy beaches, renowned for their role in the World War II D-Day Landings, stretch from Utah Beach at St. Vaast-la-Hougue to Ouistreham, just north of Caen. Today, these long sandy stretches are perfect for families and sandcastle enthusiasts.
Brittany, the Cote Sauvage, and the Pink Granite Coast
Brittany is the second most popular beach destination for French holidays, boasting 1,243 miles (2,000 kilometers) of coastline. This region offers an array of beaches alongside both the English Channel and the Bay of Biscay, attracting numerous visitors each summer.
The Pink Granite Coast features stunning cliffs while the westernmost points of Finistere are favored by surfers for their powerful waves. Southern Brittany, known as the Cote Sauvage, offers a mix of exhilarating sea conditions and calm inlets that cater to all types of vacationers.
The French Atlantic and Bay of Biscay
From St-Nazaire down to the Spanish frontier, the long French Atlantic coast features beautiful sandy beaches, rolling breakers, and abundant sunshine in the Bay of Biscay.
The beaches in the Vendée draw crowds in July and August for sand-yachting and speed sailing. Surfers flock to this coastline for major surfing competitions like the AQS World Qualifying Series. The vibrant city of Nantes grants access to beaches and offers exceptional dining and accommodations.
The Charente-Maritime region encompasses over 100 distinct beaches, each offering unique experiences. Islands such as Noirmoutier and Ile de Re provide chic alternatives to typical beach destinations, while Ile d’Aix offers a serene, traffic-free environment. For bodyboarding and surfing, the beaches of the Cote Sauvage are ideal. The Gironde Estuary features charming sandy beaches that offer shelter from the Atlantic’s rough waves.
Western Mediterranean and Cote Vermeille
The picturesque Mediterranean coast is home to some of the most popular beaches in France, stretching from the Basque country and the Pyrenees next to Spain to the Italian border. This coastline features extensive sandy beaches alongside quaint inlets that provide secluded getaways.
The western Mediterranean coastline, shaped like an arc, gives way to various cities and landscapes, perfect for exploring. The region surrounding Marseille offers breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems, while popular attractions like the Iles d’Hyeres feature stunning beaches free from large crowds.
The French Riviera and Cote d’Azur
The eastern Mediterranean coastline, often referred to as the French Riviera or Cote d’Azur, presents a long stretch of beaches that serves as a playground for tourists and locals alike. This beautiful region extends from St. Tropez to elegant coastal towns like Cannes and Nice.
Although high property prices have led to the development of villas along the coast, hidden beaches and charming villages like Villefranche-sur-Mer still exist, offering unique waterfront accommodations. Further east, the bustling Monaco showcases vibrant nightlife, while the quaint village of Menton serves as a serene endpoint to this luxurious coastline.
