10 "Most Popular" Beaches in France: 2024 Guide

France has some of the world's most beautiful beaches, from the trendy and Insta-glamorous French Riviera you see while scrolling social media, to the coastlines of Brittany and Corsica. Whether you seek thrilling water sports, or just want to soak up vitamin D being a beach bum in serene solitude, these popular French beaches provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable sandy getaway.

Plage de Pampelonne

Location: Saint-Tropez, French Riviera

Plage de Pampelonne is synonymous with the glitz and glamour of Saint-Tropez. This iconic beach stretches over 5 kilometers and is famed for its luxurious beach clubs, crystal-clear waters, and fine white sand. The beach is a favorite among celebrities, and its vibrant atmosphere makes it a hotspot for people-watching. Whether you’re relaxing at one of the exclusive clubs or enjoying the public areas, Plage de Pampelonne offers a quintessential Riviera experience.

Highlights:

• Over 5 kilometers of sandy shoreline
• Luxurious beach clubs like Club 55
• Clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming
• Vibrant atmosphere with a mix of locals and celebrities

Palombaggia Beach

Location: Porto-Vecchio, Corsica

Palombaggia Beach, located on the island of Corsica, is often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The beach features powdery white sand, dramatic red rock formations, and warm, shallow waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Surrounded by fragrant pine trees, Palombaggia offers a serene escape with stunning views of the Cerbicale Islands.

Highlights:

• Stunning white sand and clear, shallow waters
• Ideal for snorkeling and swimming
• Beautiful red rock formations and pine tree surroundings
• Panoramic views of the Cerbicale Islands

Plage d’Étretat

Location: Étretat, Normandy

Plage d’Étretat is famous for its dramatic cliffs, including the iconic natural arch, and the needle-like rock formations that rise majestically from the sea. The pebble beach is perfect for those who appreciate breathtaking scenery and a bit of history, as the area has inspired artists like Monet. The tides here can be quite powerful, so it’s more suited for strolling and exploring than swimming.

Highlights:

• Iconic cliffs and natural arches
• Rich artistic history with ties to Monet
• Pebble beach perfect for scenic walks
• Stunning viewpoints and coastal trails

Plage de Paloma

Location: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, French Riviera

Tucked away on the exclusive Cap Ferrat peninsula, Plage de Paloma offers a more tranquil alternative to the bustling beaches of the Riviera. This small, sheltered beach is surrounded by lush greenery and boasts crystal-clear waters, making it a favorite spot for snorkeling and paddleboarding. The beach has a relaxed, laid-back vibe, attracting those who prefer a more private, serene beach experience.

Highlights:

• Secluded and tranquil atmosphere
• Ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding
• Surrounded by lush greenery and cliffs
• Crystal-clear, calm waters

Plage de la Côte des Basques

Location: Biarritz, Basque Country

Plage de la Côte des Basques is renowned as one of the best surfing spots in France. Located in the chic coastal town of Biarritz, this beach offers a rugged beauty with its golden sands and towering cliffs. The waves here are perfect for surfing enthusiasts, and the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking. At low tide, the beach expands dramatically, providing ample space for sunbathers.

Highlights:

• Famous surfing destination with consistent waves
• Expansive beach at low tide
• Spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean
• Proximity to Biarritz’s vibrant town center

Plage de l’Espiguette

Location: Le Grau-du-Roi, Occitanie

Plage de l’Espiguette is a vast, wild beach known for its stunning dunes and unspoiled natural beauty. Stretching for nearly 10 kilometers, this beach is perfect for those who love wide-open spaces and a more secluded beach experience. The area is also a protected nature reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna. It’s a great spot for nature walks, kite surfing, and escaping the crowds.

Highlights:

• Expansive dunes and natural beauty
• Quiet and secluded atmosphere
• Great for kite surfing and nature walks
• Part of a protected nature reserve

Plage de la Baule

Location: La Baule, Loire-Atlantique

Plage de la Baule is one of the longest beaches in Europe, stretching over 9 kilometers along the Atlantic coast. Known for its fine sand and gentle waves, this beach is a family favorite. The area is lined with elegant villas and hotels, offering a blend of charm and sophistication. The promenade along the beach is perfect for cycling and leisurely strolls, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.

Highlights:

• One of Europe’s longest beaches
• Family-friendly with gentle waves
• Elegant beachfront promenade
• Lined with charming villas and hotels

Plage de l’Ostriconi

Location: L'Île-Rousse, Corsica

Plage de l’Ostriconi is one of Corsica’s hidden gems, offering a wild and untamed beach experience. Surrounded by mountains and marshland, this beach is perfect for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. The waters are incredibly clear, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding landscape is rugged and beautiful, offering a stark contrast to the beach’s soft sand.

Highlights:

• Remote and unspoiled natural beauty
• Clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling
• Surrounded by mountains and marshland
• Perfect for solitude and nature lovers

Plage de la Garoupe

Location: Cap d’Antibes, French Riviera

Plage de la Garoupe is a small but charming beach located on the Cap d’Antibes. This beach is steeped in history, once frequented by famous artists and writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald. The beach is divided into public and private sections, with a laid-back vibe that makes it popular with locals and visitors alike. The shallow, clear waters make it an excellent spot for swimming, especially for families.

Highlights:

• Historic beach with literary connections
• Shallow, clear waters perfect for families
• Relaxed and laid-back atmosphere
• Mix of public and private beach areas

Plage de Saleccia

Location: Desert des Agriates, Corsica

Plage de Saleccia is a remote, pristine beach located in the Desert des Agriates in Corsica. This beach is accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, but the journey is well worth it. Saleccia’s powdery white sand and turquoise waters are breathtaking, offering a true escape from the outside world. The beach is surrounded by wild nature, making it a perfect spot for those who crave adventure and solitude.

Highlights:

• Remote and pristine beach experience
• Accessible only by boat or hike
• Stunning white sand and turquoise waters
• Surrounded by wild, rugged nature

France’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful, that travelers from all over the world come to relax and enjoy. From the ritzy and celebrity-filled shores of the the French Riviera to the wild, untouched beauty of Corsica’s beaches, these coastal gems are perfect for creating unforgettable memories.