France often features some of the prettiest beaches in Europe with coastlines that may be perfect for all sorts of travel. The French Riviera — or Côte d’Azur — is famous for its glamorous resorts and idyllic sandy strands, including the storied beaches of Nice and Cannes. These beaches are ideal for those seeking to kick back, soak in the sun, and enjoy the clear waters and exciting nightlife.
Another iconic destination, Saint-Tropez has transformed from a modest fishing port into a celebrity and beachgoer magnet thanks to its upscale environment and lavish beaches. Outside the Mediterranean, the Atlantic coast features stunning beaches such as Biarritz, which draws surfers hoping to catch a perfect wave, and the sweeping sandy expanses of La Baule in Brittany, suited for families and outdoor lovers.
Beyond the well-trodden spots, France’s varied coastline hides treasures for those looking for a more calming experience. Corsica: The forgotten, wild islandCorsica: The forgotten, wild islandThe island of Corsica, with its rugged cliffs and secluded coves, welcomes you to nature. Plage de Palombaggia is sometimes called the best of the best, its brilliant white sand and jeans in turquoise waters. In addition to its world-famous historical sites, the Normandy also boasts stunning coastal scenery, highlighted by the breathtaking beaches of Deauville, with its chic atmosphere and historical significance. France’s beaches have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a lively resort town, peaceful retreat or adventurous escape.
Nice – French Riviera France
Nice is the capital of the French Riviera, is a crowded coastal city with lots to answer for. Famous for its unique pebbled beaches, the city has an iconic vista of the Mediterranean Sea. The Promenade des Anglais is a promenade that runs for several kilometers along the seafront, providing a great place to stroll, cycle, and people-watch. The beaches of Nice are a paradise for baskers, with turquoise waters and temperate climates year-round.
Exploring the charm of KanyakumariVisitors can spend a day lounging at private beach clubs or venture to the public beaches for a more casual experience. Besides the beach, Nice is a cultural Center, rich in history and stunning architecture. Nice’s Old Town (Vieux Nice) is a labyrinth of winding streets filled with colorful markets, cafes, and shops, best explored on foot. Nice is also home to several world-class museums such as the Marc Chagall National Museum and the Matisse Museum, where visitors can appreciate the works of often visited or beloved artists.
The city is also known for its cuisine, including a number of French and Mediterranean restaurants. Rich with outdoor activity, beautiful views of the surrounding hills and the sea, this is a mecca for nature lovers and hikers. Nice offers a unique Mediterranean experience when combined with some beach relaxation and rich culture alongside modern amenities.
- Address: Promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice, France
- Website: www.nice
Biarritz – Basque Coast
Biarritz, a glamorous coastal town on France’s Basque Coast, is an ideal mix of surf culture, luxurious glamour and superb views. Once nothing more than a sleepy fishing village, Biarritz has established itself over the years as a chic seaside resort, drawing surfers and artists and travelers searching for a combination of natural beauty and refinement. Most Famous For: Excellent surfing conditions With reliable surf conditions year-round, and a range of beaches for all levels, it is sometimes known as the surfing capital of Europe.
The main beach, Grande Plage, is backed by grand hotels and has spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can also check out the picturesque Port Vieux Beach, which is ideal for families, and the more secluded La Côte des Basques Beach, which is favored by surfers. Biarritz is also famous for its stunning cliffs along the coast, wonderful historical sites, and lively cuisine scene. The city is known for its mix of French and Basque cuisines featuring fish and a number of regional specialties.
Art-deco architecture lends elegance to the town, and a bustling market features local Basque products such as cheese and cured meats. And for culture vultures, Biarritz is home to a dozen or more museums, including the Museum of the Sea, which features ocean life and history. With its world-class surfing, fine dining, cultural attractions and elite clientele, Biarritz is one beach town that stands out amongst the pack.
- Address: Biarritz, 64200 Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France
- Website: www.biarritz.fr
Corsica – Palombaggia Beach France
But you wouldn’t want to miss Palombaggia Beach on the Mediterranean island of Corsica, one of the best beaches in Europe. Located on the island’s southern shore near Porto-Vecchio, Palombaggia is the long stretch of white sand fringed by turquoise waters. What is so special about this beach is not just the beautiful location, but the peacefulness it offers
If you walk towards it, you will see that the beach is surrounded by lush pine trees, which offer natural shade and a fragrant bouquet that adds to the serenity of the scene. The shallow waters at Palombaggia are ideal for swimming, while the surrounding views are a fantastic backdrop for photographers or anyone just wanting to catch the breeze by the sea. Surrounding the beach are the natural beauty of rocky hills and hidden coves, making it a great getaway to someone looking for peace and relaxation. Besides the beach itself,
Visitors are able to enjoy nearby Porto-Vecchio, a beautiful medieval town with narrow streets, a busy market, and views of the sea and mountains. Corsica is also well known for its hiking trails and the neighbouring Alta Rocca mountains offer a variety of scenic hikes for outdoorsy types. If you want to relax on the beach, explore the island’s rugged terrain or indulge in Corsican cuisine, Palombaggia delivers an unforgettable beach experience.
- Address: Palombaggia, 20137 Porto-Vecchio, Corsica, France
- Website: www.corsica.com
Saint-Tropez – French Riviera
Saint-Tropez, a small town on the glamorous French Riviera, has long been a playground for the rich and famous. Saint-Tropez, with its charming beaches, swank beach clubs and nightlife, is the very definition of Mediterranean glamour. Visitors can enjoy golden beaches, including the renowned Plage de Pampelonne, for the best beach experience possible.
The beach is lined with swanky beach clubs where celebs and holidaymakers alike can indulge in gourmet food, cocktails and a swanky vibe right at the sea. Saint-Tropez’s old town, though, is a fun area to wander, its cobbled streets flanked by historic buildings. Visitors may stroll leisurely through the town’s lively markets, shop for designer clothing at the upscale boutiques, or stop for coffee at one of the quaint cafes there.
Locals or those with more of a cultural taste will be pleased to know that Saint Tropez is home to multiple museums, including the notably impressive Musée de l’Annonciade, filled with modern art. Saint-Tropez is also known for its vibrantly pleasurable nightlife, with all manner of bar or nightclub, to attract party-making tourists. Whether you want to sunbathe and party at the beach, enjoy fine dining, or tackle the nightlife, Saint-Tropez is where you get to experience luxury, beauty, and excitement on the French Riviera.
- Address: Saint-Tropez, 83990 Var, France
- Website: www.sainttropez.com
La Baule – Loire-Atlantique France
La Baule: Family-friendly beach resort — La Baule: A seaside resort on France’s west coast, La Baule is known for its miles of sandy beach and charming ambience. La Baule Beach, over 9 km long, is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches in Europe. Swimming, sunbathing, and lots of water sports like windsurfing and kite surfing are excellent on this beach. With shallow, calm waters and room to spread out, it’s the perfect option for families, providing a relaxing, safe place for kids.
La Baule itself is known for its classy villas, swank boutiques, and gourmet restaurants, so it’s a nice fit for people who like sophistication sprinkled in with their relaxation. The area is also known for its salt marshes, also within the Guérande Peninsula, which can be traversed by bike or by foot. The lovely town center offers every activity, from art galleries to markets, which is nice when you’re not at the beach.
It might be situated right on the coast, but the surrounding area is filled with outdoor activities including cycling, hiking and golf. La Baule’s temperate weather and stunning coastline make it a year-round destination, appealing to all types of travelers. Whether relaxing on the beach, dining at a Michelin-starred establishment or exploring the region’s natural beauty, La Baule represents an ideal blend of relaxation, adventure and cultural experience.
- Address: La Baule-Escoublac, 44500 Loire-Atlantique, France
- Website: www.labaule.com
Plage de Pampelonne – Ramatuelle
Set in the heart of the French Riviera, just minutes from Saint-Tropez, Plage de Pampelonne is one of the most iconic beaches in the whole of the Côte d’Azur. This sweeping length of golden land draws a high-fashion set, from celebrities to jet-setters to travelers on the lookout for an upscale beach day. It is famous for its crystal clear water and picturesque location amid our scenic hills and craggy coast. Pampelonne is famous for its partire beach clubs that attract visitors to their sun beds, cocktails and fine meals.
There are both private and public areas on the beach so guests can have a more exclusive or laid-back space. While the area comes alive during the summer months, the beach’s natural beauty is left intact with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The legendary Nikki Beach Club and Club 55 are world-renowned dining and entertainment venues attracting a glamorous international clientele. Aside from lounging and people-watching,
visitors can enjoy many water sports, such as jet skiing, paddleboarding and sailing. If you want to explore the area, the coastal path leads to beautiful hikes overlooking the sea and neighboring vineyards. The Plage de Pampelonne is more than a mere beach, it is a hallmark of the style, glam and opulence that Saint-Tropez embodies. With breathtaking views, festive vibe and first-rate services, it is a must-see beach resort on the French Riviera.
- Address: Plage de Pampelonne, 83350 Ramatuelle, France
- Website: www.sainttropez.com
Cap Ferret – Arcachon Bay France
A seaside town at the entrance to Arcachon Bay in south west France, Cap Ferret provides a more relaxed beach experience than some of the Riviera/high glamour venues along the French southern coast. Known for its sandy shores, turquoise waters, and pine forests, the region is an idyllic retreat for travelers wanting to avoid the masses. The beaches here are perfect for families, swimmers and nature lovers. The shallow waters are ideal for children, and the serene and zen spirit of Cap Ferret turns this Gemini-like place into a haven for families/community searching for peace.
The beach is also renowned for its oyster farms, with freshly shucked oysters served at one of the local oyster shacks overlooking the water. Nature lovers will regret the nearby nature reserves and the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, represent excellent hiking opportunities with views of the Bay of Arcachon.
The area is also popular for cycling paths, which allow visitors to traverse the scenic coastal towns and forests. With its laid-back feel, gorgeous nature scenes and fresh seafood, Cap Ferret is the ideal spot for a quiet beach getaway. Be it merely lie on the beach, hiking in the nature around, or enjoying seafood, Cap Ferret is the ocean front holiday destination unique to France.
- Address: Cap Ferret, 33970 Lège-Cap-Ferret, France
- Website: www.capferret-tourisme.fr
Étretat – Normandy France
Etretat, in Normandy, is known for its sheer chalk cliffs, distinctive rock formations and pebble beaches. With stunning natural beauty, this pretty seaside village is a beloved spot for photographers, artists and nature lovers. One of the most famous sights of Etretat are its tall white chalk cliffs that surge up from the sea and include the well-known Arch and Needle formations.
These magnificent buildings have inspired innumerable paintings and photographs and are among France’s best-known monuments. Etretat beach is pebble and sand, a quiet spot to rent a beach chair and relax amongst the dramatic scenery. The still waters lend themselves to swimming and paddling; the craggy cliffs are a great place for a hike, or just to take a photo.
Etretat is also home to several historical sights, including the 19th-century Villa Perrotte, where Claude Monet created some of his most iconic works. Visitors can wander along the dramatic cliffside paths, which afford sweeping views of its coastline and the English Channel. The town itself is lined with delightful streets, cafes and boutiques — so it can enjoyably be explored after a day on the beach. Etretat is not just a beach destination, it is also a nature-lover’s paradise, providing a delightful mix of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventures.
- Address: Etretat, 76790 Seine-Maritime, France
- Website: www.etretat-tourisme.fr
Plage de l’Espiguette – Gard
Plage de l’Espiguette, near Le Grau-du-Roi in the Gard department, is one of France’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. Renowned for its untamed raw splendour, the beach runs several kilometers long along the Mediterranean, providing an expansive and tranquil setting. This beach is famous for its fine yellow sand, high sand dunes and clear waters. It is an ideal region for people who want to feel away from it all while surrounded by natural beauty.
Unlike many of France’s other popular beaches, Plage de l’Espiguette is still quite wild — with no properties or businesses on the waterfront, making it a great option for folks who prefer nature. The beach is also family friendly, with shallow waters safe for wading and swimming. The dunes create a unique landscape that is great for walking and provides bird observatories and unique wildlife spotting.
The high winds and tranquil waters also make Plage de l’Espiguette a popular spot for windsurfing and kite surfing. The nearby town of Le Grau-du-Roi is also worth a visit, if you want to spend some more time together and enjoy a lovely seaside setting and all the cafes, restaurants and shops. Beach day, water sports, or enjoying nature: Plage de l’Espiguette has it all.
- Address: Plage de l’Espiguette, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, France
- Website: www.lagrandebleue.com
The Calanques – Marseille
The Calanques, which lie between Marseille and Cassis in the south of France, are a series of limestone cliffs that form natural inlets, with turquoise waters creating some of the most famous beaches in the country. The Calanques National Park —which runs along the coast between Marseille and Cassis —is home to some of the most stunning and rugged scenery in all of France, featuring soaring cliffs tumbling directly into the Mediterranean Sea.
The Calanques are also surrounded by hiking trails and can only be reached by boat, which makes them great for adventure seekers. Small and walled, the beaches in the Calanques are usually isolated, lending a peacefulness and shape to those who make one part of the mountain the other. Some of the most famous ones are Calanque de Sugiton and Calanque d’En-Vau, which have crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking.
The surrounding hills and cliffs are excellent for hiking with panoramic views of the coast. Nearby Cassis is also worth a visit, with its picturesque harbor, quaint streets, and excellent local wine. The Calanques — lofty cliffs that jut down into a series of secluded lagoons — combine some of the best hiking and beach lounging in southern France.
- Address: Calanques National Park, Marseille, France
- Website: www.calanques-parcnational.fr
Deauville – Normandy
Deauville, with the nickname “Queen of the Norman beaches,” is a charming seaside resort on the northern coast of France. Renowned for its gorgeous sandy beach, stylish vibe and lively cultural life, Deauville has been a longtime favorite escape for Parisians and foreign visitors alike.
Its sandy shoreline extends for a few kilometers providing enough space for sunbathing, swimming and taking part in water sports. Its wide promenade is flanked by the iconic colorful beach huts that add to the sophistication of the town. With its beach, Deauville is also known for its luxury hotels (such as the Hôtel Barrière Le Normandy) and its casino, which has made it popular with visitors seeking a glamorous experience.
Similarly, Deauville boasts the world-renowned Deauville American Film Festival, which is an annual event honoring worldwide cinema. Elegant shops, art galleries and cafes line the town’s streets, offering no shortage of shopping and dining options. The surrounding countryside, full of rolling hills and charming villages, has visitors uncovering Normandy’s rich history and culture.
- Address: Deauville, 14800 Calvados, France
- Website: www.deauville.org
Plage de Notre-Dame – Porquerolles Island
Comprises of Hyeres Archipelago, Porquerolles Island has some of the cleanest beaches in France and is located in the sea of Mediterranean. On the island’s northern coast, Plage de Notre-Dame is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. It has fine white sand and crystal-clear waters surrounded by pristine nature to enjoy peace and serenity.
Nestled between the pine forests and rocky hills, the beach provides a stunning setting for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. The waters are gentle and shallow and also great for families with children. With the island being a national park, its only boat-accessible beaches help create an added sense of seclusion and exclusivity.
Visitors can trek around the island or take a bike, uncovering secret coves, scenic outlooks and an array of wildlife. Porquerolles is also home to a number of vineyards, and visitors interested in trying local wines can enjoy wine tastings at the vineyards. The village of Porquerolles, with its colorful streets and cafes, offers visitors a laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding after a day on the beach. Well hidden with its natural beauty, the Plage de Notre-Dame beach is a stunning paradise for beach and nature lovers.
- Address: Plage de Notre-Dame, Porquerolles, 83400 Hyères, France
- Website: www.portcros-parcnational.fr
Plage de La Côte des Basques – Biarritz
La Côte des Basques Plage is one of the most well-known beaches in Biarritz, on the French Basque Coast. Surfer’s Beach – This beach is favored among surfers, boasting excellent waves and a surf culture. With its long sandy beaches and views of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s great for surfing or just relaxing by the sea.
Tthe beach is named for the Basque cliffs that frame it, a dramatic backdrop for those hoping to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. The beach is also popular among sunbathers and swimmers, in addition to surfers.
The beach is slightly quieter than some of the other beaches in town, so perfect for those looking for a relaxed, low key beach day. If you want to do something a little adventurous, the cliffs around the beach can provide some of the best vistas and setups for photos. The town of Biarritz is rich in history, with various museums, art galleries, and fine dining place. Whether you plan to surf, swim or just sit and watch, Plage de La Côte des Basques is an unforgettable beach.
- Address: Plage de La Côte des Basques, 64200 Biarritz, France
- Website: www.biarritz.fr
Plage de Barcarès – Languedoc-Roussillon
Sponsored Plage de Barcarès is a quiet and unspoiled beach on the Mediterranean, located in the Pyrénées-Orientales, on the southern coast of France. The long sandy beach of Phra Nang Cave is great for swimming, sunbathing and is a swimming area of the calm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The beach is also famous for a lot of wind, which makes it a well-known windsurfing and kite surf λίγο. All-female teams also compete in the short, short race, which is a very recent addition to the line-up at The Beach. Le Barcarès The Le Barcarès village is full of waterfront cafes, seafood restaurants, and charming Mediterranean-style buildings.
The beach is also near the Salses-Le-Château, a historic fortress built in the 17th century. Plage de Barcarès features a large sandy beach, shallow waters, and plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect family and outdoor destination. With stunning natural views and a low-key atmosphere, the region is ideal for a peaceful beach getaway.
- Address: Plage de Barcarès, 66420 Le Barcarès, France
- Website: www.lebarcares.
Plage du Sillon – Saint-Malo
Plage du Sillon is the most popular beach in Saint-Malo, a historic walled city in Brittany, France. Famous for its long expanse of golden sand and its breathtaking views of the city’s ramparts, Plage du Sillon is a quintessential combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The beach is great for families, with a lot of room for picnicking, beach games and lounging near the water. At low tide, the beach widens, adding even more sand to its offering.
The beach is also great for swimming, and its clear waters are ideal for a good dip. Apart from its stunning beach, Plage du Sillon is surrounded by the lovely town of Saint-Malo with its narrow cobbled roads, historical structures and a lively market.
Is the town famous for its Cycle Tides, but also for the most impressive ramparts where walking offers the most incredible views of the coast line. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of outdoor activities or just enjoy being in the sun, Plage du Sillon is the perfect destination. The beach is also adjacent to the Saint-Malo marina, which offers boat tours of the surrounding area.
- Address: Plage du Sillon, 35400 Saint-Malo, France
- Website: www.saint-malo-tourisme.com
Plage de la Côte de Granit Rose – Brittany
The Cote de Granit Rose is a fabulous seaside walk in the Brittany region with its salt air, pink granite rocks and zahhaws that will leave you open-mouthed. The beach is part of the Pink Granite Coast, an area of natural beauty known for its unusual rock formations and clear waters. The beach is a quiet one, with beautiful scenery in the form of the Atlantic Ocean.
Sunbathe on the golden sands, then swim and wade in the shallow, calm waters. Better still, there are plenty of coastal walks nearby, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The nearby town of Perros-Guirec makes for a popular base for an exploration of the Pink Granite Coast, with its picturesque streets, restaurants and shops.
The Plage de la Côte de Granit Rose is also nearby other beautiful areas including the breathtaking Sept-Iles Archipelago, which you can visit by boat. Whether relaxing on the beach, walking the coastal paths, or visiting the unusual terrain, this beach is a quiet and beautiful escape.
- Address: Plage de la Côte de Granit Rose, 22700 Perros-Guirec, France
- Website: www.perros-guirec.com
Plage de l’Almanarre – Hyères
Moving on, we’d head for the sun-soaked shores of the Plage de l’Almanarre, in the picturesque town of Hyères, part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, known for its long stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters. The beach is well known for its good surf conditions, particularly ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing because of the strong winds that blow across the bay. If you looking for a relaxed, beach lifestyle, the calm waters make it the perfect place for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach is also great for families, since the shallow water creates a safe and fun place for kids to play. The land around the beach is a nature reserve, and the nearby salt marshes are home to a wide variety of wildlife, making it an excellent place for spotting birdies. The beach is just a few steps away; nearby, cafes and restaurants serve fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes. Whether you seek atypical natural beauty, outdoor activities or slow motion, Plage de l’Almanarre is a great beach in the area.
- Address: Plage de l’Almanarre, 83400 Hyères, France
- Website: www.hyeres-tourisme.com