France is a country synonymous with romance, culture and culinary excellence. From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux to stunning beaches that stretch along the country’s extensive coastline, France offers a diverse array of experiences to travellers from around the world.
The beaches in France especially attract millions of tourists every year. Crystal clear waters, hidden coves, luxury resorts and breathtaking sunset views are the experiences that can live with you for a lifetime.
In this blog, you will embark on a journey to discover some of the nicest beaches in France, each with its unique charm and allure. We will also tell you the best time to visit these beaches and how you can get there. Keep reading.
Top Beaches in France
From the glamorous shores of the French Riviera to the wild and rugged beauty of Brittany, France offers a diverse array of beach destinations that cater to all tastes. Below is the list of the top beaches in France you can explore:
Plage De Palombaggia, Corsica
Located between France and Italy, Corsica is also known as the ‘Island of Beauty’. This island feels like two nations in one place and is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the Mediterranean Sea. Among them, Plage de Palombaggia stands out as a true gem.
Located near Porto-Vecchio, this beach boasts fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and a backdrop of lush pine trees. The gentle slope of the beach into the sea makes it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. The Plage de Palombaggia is often considered one of the best beaches in Europe.
The nearest airport to Plage De Palombaggia is Figari (FSC) Airport. You can also take a bus or self-drive a car to this beautiful beach near Porto-Vecchio on the southeast shores of Corsica.
Plage De Tamaricciu, Corsica
Plage De Tamaricciu is another famous beach on the gorgeous Corsica Island. This beach is famous for dreamy pale turquoise shallows, stacked rocks that take on a surreal pink glow in the evening and cool white sand. You can sit and enjoy mesmerising sunset views with your loved ones while having cheese, cookies and beer.
The Figari (FSC) Airport serves as the nearest airport to Plage de Tamaricciu. You can take a ferry from Marseille, Toulon or Nice to Porto-Vecchio to reach this stunning French beach. If you are coming by road, you need to take the sudden bend southwest of Plage de Palombaggia to reach Tamaricciu.
Plage de la Côte des Basques, Biarritz
Biarritz – a luxurious seaside tourist destination located near the Spain border – is home to some of the most pristine beaches in France. The city is a popular destination for surfers with a laid-back atmosphere.
Among the beaches of Biarritz, Plage de la Côte des Basques stands as the perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant surf culture. This beach is flanked by dramatic cliffs and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. At low tide, you can enjoy beachcombing and sunbathing on the expansive sandy shore.
Côte des Basques is well connected with Paris via trains, buses, car rides and planes. You can reach Biarritz and take a bus to Gambetta to reach this beautiful beach.
Cap d'Agde, Occitanie
Cap d'Agde Beach in France is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline and vibrant atmosphere. It is a premier destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. The beach is also surrounded by numerous amenities, including restaurants, bars, shops and recreational facilities.
Located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, this expansive beach offers golden sands and clear, turquoise waters ideal for swimming, sunbathing and various aqua sports. Cap d'Agde is particularly famous for its naturist village, one of the largest in Europe, where you can enjoy a liberating and unique experience in a full naturist environment.
The nearest major airport is Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport (BZR), which is about 15 kilometres away. Cap d'Agde also has its own train station, Agde, which is well-connected to major cities in France such as Paris, Montpellier and Marseille via the SNCF railway network. The car journey from Paris via the A9 Motorway can take approximately seven to eight hours.
Plage de Pampelonne, Saint-Tropez
No list of top beaches in France would be complete without mentioning the iconic Plage de Pampelonne in Saint-Tropez. This legendary beach stretches for nearly five kilometres and is known for luxury and glamour. You can book a seat in any of the chic beach clubs and indulge in gourmet cuisines, refreshing cocktails and celebrity spotting.
The closest major airport to Plage de Pampelonne is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Saint-Tropez. You can also take a train to Saint-Raphaël station, which is approximately 40 kilometres away from the beach. From Saint-Tropez, Plage de Pampelonne is a short drive away.
Plage de Quiberon, Brittany
Brittany's rugged coastline is home to some of the most dramatic and picturesque beaches in Western France. Among them, Plage de Quiberon is a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush green hills. It offers a stunning backdrop of cliffs and crashing waves. Visiting this beach is a perfect idea if you are someone who appreciates nature’s raw beauty.
You can reach Brittany via train, plane, bus, car or ferry. The nearest airport is Lorient South Brittany Airport (LRT), while the nearest railway station is Auray. The road journey from Paris via the A11 Motorway can take approximately five to six hours.
Plage de la Croisette, Cannes
Cannes is a glamorous city on the French Riviera, renowned for its film festival, luxury yachts and high-end shopping. It is also home to Plage de la Croisette, an iconic beach in Cannes, France. Whether you are a sun worshipper, a water sports enthusiast or a foodie looking to indulge in seaside dining, this beach has something for everyone.
Located at the heart of Cannes' coastline, Plage de la Croisette offers unmatchable experiences. The highlights include luxury resorts, high-end French restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and vibrant nightlife.
Paris Plages, Paris
Paris – the capital of France – is a paradise for travellers. The city is famous for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums and romantic ambience. While it may not have a coastline, Paris still offers a unique beach experience right in the heart of the city through Paris Plages.
Paris Plages is a temporary, man-made beach in Paris, France, that seems quite natural with sand, palm trees and a host of recreational activities. Every year, in July and August, the banks of the Seine and the Bassin de la Villette transform into a temporary urban beach to provide Parisians and visitors with a seaside escape without leaving the city.
You can indulge in a host of recreational activities at Paris Plages, such as playing beach volleyball, open-air dining and sunbathing, among others.
What is the Best Time to Visit France?
Although France is an all-weather destination, the best time to visit here depends on your preferences and interests:
Spring (April – May)
Spring is ideal if you prefer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The gardens are in full bloom, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer (June - August)
Summer is the tourism season if you want to visit Paris. Many festivals take place within the city during this season.
Autumn (September - November)
The Autumn season offers a more relaxed atmosphere with mild weather and beautiful foliage. It is an excellent time for wine tours and cultural events.
Winter (December – May)
Winter is great for skiing in the French Alps and experiencing the festive holiday season. Paris and other cities are beautifully decorated, and you can expect fewer tourists.
To Conclude
France is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are exploring the romantic streets of Paris, tasting wines in Bordeaux or relaxing on one of its stunning beaches, the country promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip according to the season that best suits your interests, and make sure to visit the country’s top beaches during your trip.
But before you embark on your France trip, do not forget to pack an
international travel insurance policy. It protects you from unforeseen adversities you may encounter on foreign shores.
Reliance General Insurance offers cost-effective
France Travel Insurance plans with a gamut of attractive features and benefits, such as instant policy issuance, hassle-free claim settlement and extensive financial coverage for various trip-related emergencies .like loss of passport or checked in baggage, medical emergencies during the trip, third-party liability cover and more.
Remember, getting
Schengen travel insurance with a minimum medical coverage of EUR 30,000 is mandatory to get a French visa. Therefore, before planning your visit to France, do not forget to get Schengen travel insurance from us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to France?
Yes. You can apply for a Type C Schengen visa if you want to visit France or any of the 29 European countries.
How can I travel to France from India?
Major Indian cities, such as Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, offer direct flights to French cities, including Paris, Marseille and Nice.
How many days are enough for a France tour?
The ideal number of days depends on your budget and preferences. A five to seven-day trip would be enough to explore major attractions in France.