When in Rome, do as Romans do, but when in France don’t miss out on these super cool beaches that the paradise boasts about. Apart from the French wine and perfumes, there’s something else that France is famous about and that’s its beaches.
If you happen to be in France and wish to explore the beauties the French Riviera has to offer, then don’t forget to find the inner treasures. France has been blessed with some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and we’ve no doubts about it.
The credit goes to its coastline which borders the Mediterranean Sea, Atlantic Ocean and the English Channel. From photography lovers to surfers, from hikers to loners, the French beaches have something to offer to everyone.
While it’s too hard a task to dish out 10 best beaches among the many, we have tried our best to collate a list for you.
1. Crozon Morgat, Brittany
If you’re seeking some rugged landscape and unexplored scenery, then Crozon Morgat is just for you. It is a lively sanctuary surrounded by emerald waters with white sandy beach. There are coves that are one of the major attractions of the beach. You’ll see the clearest of waters at Morgat’s pebble beach.
2. Palombaggia, Corsica
Remember Corsica? This is certainly one of the most popular and most visited beaches in France. The beach stretches for 1.2 miles with white soft sand, perfect for a barefoot stroll. On top of that, the beach is lined by fragrant pines and pink granite rocks that add to the aesthetics of the beach. During the peak season, you can see a nice crowd flocked at the beach to enjoy their summer making it a popular place for children.
3. Pampelonne, Saint Tropez
By name it might seem like a tropical beach, but this beautiful beach is actually situated in the popular Cote D’Azur. The beach stretches for just over 3 miles straight and you will find plethora of beach clubs mushroomed along it. The beach is identified by its peculiar boho ambience.
4. Calanques National Park, Marseilles
This beach consists of stunning rocky inlets carved out of limestone rocks between Cassis and Marseilles. The wild and rocky landscape is now converted into a national park which is popular among the hikers. You can go to the spectacular Calanques by following the hiking trail Sentier du Petit Prince. You can also take a boat to the location.
5. Porquerolles Beach
Looking out for your little heaven? Then Porquerolles is the perfect place for you. The best part is that it is located just 20 minutes from Hyeres on the south coast of France. The state purchased the island in the 70s and converted it into a national park to conserve the flora and fauna. Even cars and cigarettes are not allowed in the area. What else do you want? Just clean air and sound of waves.
6. Etretat, Normandy
You can find the famous chalk cliffs of Etretat at the beach that look exactly like the White Cliffs of the Dover. The beach is lined with pebbles that are perfect for barefoot walks. The three arches on the beach is known as L’Aiguille which is “the needle” in French.
7. Paloma Beach, French Riviera
If you prefer the swanky Hollywood style beach, Paloma Beach will give you exactly what you desire. The Island was named after Paloma Picasso, owing to the family’s affinity towards the area. Many Hollywood celebrities flock the beach during holiday season. The beach is a perfect family holiday destination as well.
8. Ajaccio, Corsica
Envying France already? Undoubtedly, France is blessed with some of the best beaches in the world. One of them is Ajaccio, Corsica. The blue waters are lined by white sand and big boulders. One of the beaches around Ajaccio known as Plage de Mare e Sole is renowned for its super-clear water and powdery sand.
9. Kerlouan, Brittany
For the photography lovers, the wild dunes and the rock formations are the muses. The Plage de Boutrouilles in Brittany attracts many photographers every year due to its pristine beauty. The granite boulders are natural art in themselves.
10. Deauville Beach
You’ll see the colourful umbrellas stretch out as far as the eye can see. The golden sands of Deauville, soft underfoot is one of Normandy’s best beaches. Walk along the promenade and you’ll see famous actors and directors with their names adorned on beach huts which celebrate the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, including the American Film Festival.