As summer arrives with radiant sunshine and salty sea breezes, it’s the perfect time to set aside life’s hustle and dive into refreshing waters, exploring the never-ending beauty of beaches. If you dream of a perfect summer holiday, don’t miss out on France—the country of romance and alluring coastlines. Join World Travel to discover the list of the most beautiful beaches in France, where you can fully enjoy the natural beauty and unforgettable experiences.
1. Opal Coast, Pas-de-Calais: Northern Wilderness Beauty
The Opal Coast, located in Northern France, is a precious gem boasting untouched, captivating beauty. Known for its miles of smooth sand dunes, this area creates a tranquil and mysterious atmosphere. Visiting the Opal Coast, you’ll be amazed by the majestic beauty of nature.
Opal Coast, Pas-de-Calais with expansive sand dunes and clear blue skies
Walking along the coast will be a fantastic experience, allowing you to fully appreciate its beauty. Don’t forget to visit the art pieces on walls and piers at the harbor, where abstract and fascinating historical scenes are recreated. The charming village of Condette, near Chateau d’Hardelot, is also an interesting destination to explore.
2. Étretat Beach, Seine-Maritime: A Natural Masterpiece
Étretat Beach, located in Seine-Maritime, Normandy, is famed for its majestic white chalk cliffs, three natural arches, and a pointed rock known as L’Aiguille (the Needle). These cliffs, towering up to 90 meters, have become a regional symbol and an endless source of inspiration for renowned artists like Monet, Boudin, and Matisse.
Étretat Beach with white chalk cliffs and natural arch
The grand scenery of Étretat attracts visitors worldwide. You can engage in activities such as hiking, kayaking, and climbing to explore its beauty. Summer is the best time to visit Étretat when the weather is warm and dry.
3. Sillon Beach in Saint-Malo, Ille-et-Vilaine: “France’s Most Beautiful Beach”
Sillon Beach in Saint-Malo, Brittany, was voted “France’s Most Beautiful Beach” in 2018. With a 3km stretch of fine white sand, Sillon is an ideal destination for those who love water sports.
Sillon Beach in Saint-Malo from above with long sandy beach and turquoise waters
You can sunbathe, surf, or kayak here. If you enjoy sightseeing, walk along the coast to admire the ocean and limestone cliffs. Don’t forget to visit Grande Bé, a small island accessible by ferry, or Fort du Sillon, a 17th-century fortress.
4. Pampelonne Beach, Ramatuelle, Var: A Luxurious Paradise
Pampelonne Beach, located in Ramatuelle, Var, is the longest and most famous beach in Saint-Tropez. It stretches 5km and is known for its white sand dunes, clear blue waters, and elegant beach clubs.
Pampelonne Beach with white sand, blue sea, and colorful parasols
Pampelonne is a favorite spot for celebrities and the stylish. This beach has appeared in numerous films and TV shows. Relax on the sand, soak in the refreshing waters, and enjoy Pampelonne’s vibrant atmosphere.
5. Saleccia Beach, Agriate, Corse: An Oasis Amid a Desert
Saleccia Beach, located in the Agriate Desert, Corse, is a breathtaking oasis with clear turquoise waters surrounded by pristine sand dunes and unique Aleppo pine forests.
Saleccia Beach with fine white sand and turquoise sea
To reach Saleccia, you must take a boat or embark on a 2-hour hike. The trek can be challenging, but the reward is a stunning beach with smooth white sand and crystal-clear waters. Bring food, water, and sunscreen to fully enjoy Saleccia’s beauty.
6. Biarritz, Basque Country: A Surfing Paradise
Biarritz, located in the Basque region, is a charming seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, large waves, and lively atmosphere. Grande Plage, the main beach of Biarritz, spans 450m with fine sand, making it ideal for surfing enthusiasts.
Biarritz Beach with large waves and surfers
Besides Grande Plage, you can explore other beaches like Plage du Port Vieux, with picturesque views, or Plage de la Côte des Basques, a famous surfing spot. Don’t miss Le Rocher de la Vierge, a statue of the Virgin Mary on a rock, and Casino Barrière de Biarritz, a renowned casino.
7. Omaha Beach, Calvados: A Historical Witness
Omaha Beach, located in Calvados, Normandy, is one of the five landing beaches used by the Allies during Operation Overlord on June 6, 1944 (D-Day). It is a significant historical site and a popular tourist destination.
Omaha Beach with historical relics and memorials
You can walk along the beach and visit historical relics, including the Allied Forces Memorial, the U.S. Infantry Memorial, and the Omaha Beach Museum. Each year on June 6, commemorative ceremonies are held at Omaha Beach to honor the soldiers who sacrificed during the battle.
8. Crozon Peninsula, Finistère: Land of Stunning Beaches
The Crozon Peninsula, located in Finistère, Brittany, is renowned for its impressive cliffs, hidden coves, and stunning beaches. Morgat Beach, located in the northern part of the Crozon Peninsula, is known for its picturesque harbor and traditional houses.
Crozon Peninsula with cliffs and Morgat Beach
Morgat Beach is a charming and colorful seaside resort. Enjoy the sandy beach, participate in water activities like boating and kayaking, or explore the caves. In the summer, don’t miss “Les mardis de Morgat,” concerts, and performances by the sea.
9. Veillon Beach in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, Vendée: Vendée’s Jewel
Veillon Beach, located in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, Vendée, is a long stretch of 7km beach with sand dunes, pine forests, and clear blue waters. It is a popular destination for activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and windsurfing.
Veillon Beach with sand dunes and pine forest
Veillon Beach is often compared to a jewel on the Vendée coast, attracting families, athletes, and artists. Visit to relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and recharge after tiring days.
10. The Wild Coast of Royan, Charente-Maritime: Explore Nature
The wild coast of Royan, located in Charente-Maritime, spans 120 km of coastline with sand dunes, pine forests, and cliffs. It is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.
Wild Coast of Royan with pine forest and sandy beach
You can hike along the coast, cycle, or ride a horse to explore the beautiful landscapes. Additionally, you can engage in beach activities such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing, windsurfing, fishing, or snorkeling.
11. Plage de l’Espiguette, Gard: Pristine and Peaceful Beauty
Located in Le Grau-du-Roi, Gard, Plage de l’Espiguette is one of France’s most pristine and beautiful beaches. With vast sand dunes, natural vegetation, and clear blue waters, it offers an absolutely peaceful and relaxing space. It’s an ideal spot to escape city noise and immerse yourself in nature.
12. Île de Ré, Charente-Maritime: A Charming Island with Dreamy Beaches
Île de Ré, located in Charente-Maritime, is a charming island with ancient villages, salt fields, and dreamy beaches. The island is famous for its leisurely lifestyle and unspoiled natural beauty. You can rent a bike to explore the island and cherish unforgettable moments on its stunning beaches.
13. Plage de Palombaggia, Corse: A Tropical Paradise in the Mediterranean
Plage de Palombaggia, located in Corse, is hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. With fine white sand, turquoise blue waters, and lush rows of pine trees, it offers a tropical paradise setting. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and engaging in water sports.
14. Plage Notre-Dame, Île de Porquerolles, Var: Hidden in Untouched Beauty
Located on Porquerolles Island in the Var region, Plage Notre-Dame was voted the most beautiful beach in Europe in 2015. It charms visitors with its untouched beauty, clear turquoise waters, and tranquil, peaceful environment. Here, you can enjoy wonderful relaxing moments and immerse yourself in beautiful nature.
15. Calanque d’En-Vau, Marseille: Hidden Natural Wonder
Calanque d’En-Vau, near Marseille, is a natural wonder with towering limestone cliffs, blue seas, and a small beach. Reaching this beach requires either a long walk or a boat ride, but its stunning scenery is well worth the effort.
Conclusion
France is renowned not only for its historical architecture, art museums, and exquisite culinary scene but also for its gorgeous beaches that allure tourists from around the globe. From the unspoiled beaches in the north to the luxurious beaches in the south, each one holds its unique and distinct charm. We hope the list of the 15 most beautiful beaches in France presented by World Travel will give you some inspiration for your next summer vacation. Have a joyful and unforgettable trip!