Snapshots
Although a city break in Paris is hard to beat, your next vacation doesn't have to be limited to just that. The best beach towns near Paris are the perfect getaway! Parisians have been taking weekend getaways by the seaside since the northern French coast was established in the nineteenth century. From adventurous hikers to passionate foodies, every kind of traveller will find something to their liking along the picturesque coastline that encompasses Normandy, the Baie de Somme, and Pas-de-Calais. Beaches around Paris are also easily accessible! From the ferry terminal, you may drive along the French coast to the capital, or you can stop at these beaches on the way home to see more of the country's northern coastline.
Let us show you the best beach towns near Paris that the Parisians prefer to visit on weekend getaways and give you some good advice on how to choose the right one.
Les Calanques de Cassis
Just outside of Marseille, the picturesque Les Calanques de Cassis is truly captivating and is one of the closest beaches to Paris! Nestled in the fjords between Cassis and Marseille, this beach offers stunning views of the surrounding bays. It would seem that these bays are among the top beaches in Paris, with their breathtaking scenery and azure jewel-like seas. An idyllic spot for ecotourists, just outside of Marseille. There are a tonne of photogenic areas along the beach's coastline that you will adore for your Instagram feed. Truly one of the best beach towns near Paris!
Le Touquet Paris Plage
Originally dubbed "Paris Plage" by an Englishman named Sir John Whitely, this area between the shore and the forest was ideal for the wealthy Parisians who could afford to have a vacation there at the beginning of the twentieth century. As one of the most developed towns along the northern coast, it continues to attract Parisians as a vacation spot because of its abundance of restaurants, shops, and exciting nightlife. It is one of the closest beaches to Paris, and It retains its winter vibrancy, unlike other seaside destinations, especially in the days leading up to Christmas, when the town is adorned with exquisite decorations. At the family-run La Chope, you may get a rendition of the local speciality dish, in Welsh, which is a Welsh rarebit, named for the British who brought the restaurant fame. Truly one of the most unique and best beach towns near Paris!
Prado
If water sports are something you're interested in, Prado Beach is just one of several amazing beaches around Paris. The perfect spot for a getaway with loved ones. "Parc Blanneaire" is a vast expanse of open area right at the water's edge where people go to unwind and enjoy themselves. Entertainment is abundant along the shoreline. Go for a walk along the Mediterranean shore and see what catches your eye! Truly one of the best beach towns near Paris!
Fort Mahon Plage
The rocky beauty of Fort Mahon, situated between the Bay of Authie and the Baie de Somme, is sure to be appreciated by anyone with an affinity for the outdoors. Its extensive network of hiking routes, especially the well-travelled path adorned with pine trees that encircle the Royon dune, and vast expanse of sand dunes have brought it great fame. At low tide, visitors may get a glimpse of the area's seal colony at Berck-sur-Mer, which is far more attractive than its name suggests and is accessible from Fort Mahon. One of the best beach towns near Paris, this is a must-visit! From Paris or Calais, the travel to this region takes around two or three hours. Fort Mahon is around 8 miles distant, and the closest rail station is Rue, which is approximately two hours from Paris. From there, you may take a bus or a cab. It is one of the closest beaches to Paris!
Etretat
One of the most scenic and best beach towns in Paris! The Normandy beach of Etretat is a breathtaking example of unspoiled nature. It is one of the most picturesque beaches close to Paris because of the picturesque buildings, majestic cliffs, and lovely white pebbles that surround the beach. The beach becomes a celestial enchantment when the sun sets and the lights come on, casting a mystical spell over the area. A trip to this beach may be the perfect rural retreat for a weekend with loved ones. Here, tranquillity, beaches, and beauty coexist!
Le Crotoy
Once again, the vibe is different in Le Crotoy, a charming fishing community with a rich history and breathtaking ocean vistas. The sandy beaches on the eastern side of the Baie de Somme are south-facing and provide good wind protection. One of the best beach towns in Paris, Here you may see a breathtaking sunset and watch the scenery transform as the tide goes out. An enormous sand flat, ideal for strolls on the beach, becomes visible during low tide. Between May and October, you may immerse yourself in an Old World setting by riding the steam train known as the Baie de Somme. It takes one hour and forty-five minutes to get from Gare du Nord to the adjacent station of Noyelles sur Mer by rail. Nearby, you'll find options for taking the bus, the steam train, or even renting bikes. From Calais, it takes a little over an hour, and from Paris, it takes a little under three.