Who has never dreamed of escaping along the French coast, between wild creeks and mythical seaside resorts? France, with its 5,500 km of coastline, offers an incredible array of maritime landscapes. Here are ten gems by the sea worth a visit, from sandy beaches to steep cliffs, including cities rich in history.
1. Saint-Malo, the corsair city of Brittany
A fortress emerges from the waves, its granite walls watching over some of the most impressive tides in Europe. Visit Saint-Malo is first and foremost about that unique sensation of walking in the footsteps of shipowners and corsairs. When the sea recedes, it reveals islands accessible on foot, like Grand-Bé where Chateaubriand rests.
The walled city, rebuilt after the war, has retained all its charm with its cobbled streets and stone houses. And what about the fine sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see? A tip: visit it off-season to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy its unique atmosphere.
2. Biarritz, the queen of Basque beaches
Biarritz is like a piece of California placed on the Basque coast. Surfers from all over the world gather here to tackle the waves of the Côte des Basques. But the city is more than just its legendary surf spot.
Did you know that Empress Eugénie had her villa here? Now transformed into a luxurious hotel, it bears witness to the glorious past of this resort, which already attracted European aristocracy in the 19th century. Between swims, stroll through the small shopping streets where the scent of Espelette pepper mingles with the salty air.
3. Deauville, Norman elegance
The Boards of Deauville, its striped umbrellas, its film festival… This seaside resort embodies French chic like no other. People come here as much to be seen as to enjoy the sea air.
Did you know? The famous beach cabins are named after American stars, a nod to the festival that attracts Hollywood’s elite every year. Even if you are not staying at the Normandy, nothing prevents you from having a drink in its legendary hall, a witness to a century of high society history.
4. Nice, the Mediterranean sweetness
Between sea and mountains, Nice enchants with its mild climate almost year-round. The Promenade des Anglais, 7 km long, is much more than just a simple avenue: it is the stage for Nice’s life, where joggers, cyclists, and strollers enjoy the sun.
5. La Baule, the longest beach in Europe
9 km of fine sand… The figure is dizzying. At low tide, the sea seems to have receded infinitely, leaving a vast playground. Oyster lovers will surely take a trip to the nearby salt marshes.
6. Cannes, glamour à la française
Behind the glitz of the Festival, Cannes hides more discreet treasures like the Lérins Islands. A tip: leave the Croisette to discover the Suquet, the old district with steep streets that offers a breathtaking view of the bay.
7. Honfleur, the port of impressionists
When the light plays with the façades of the Old Basin, one understands why so many painters fell under its charm. The Butin beach, more intimate, is perfect for a bucolic break.
8. Dinard, the Belle Époque of Brittany
Its extravagant villas tell the story of the golden age of sea bathing. The Clair de Lune promenade, especially at sunset, offers a spectacle that never gets old.
9. Cassis, gateway to the calanques
The small fishing port has preserved its authenticity despite its notoriety. Taste the local white wine while enjoying the view from Cap Canaille – the highest maritime cliff in Europe!
10. Arcachon, between dunes and forest
The dune of Pilat always impresses, even those who have climbed it ten times. And what about the oyster parks that dot the basin? A feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
It’s hard to choose among these ten destinations as each has its own character. One thing is certain: whichever you choose, you will return with stars in your eyes and a desire to discover other gems of the French coastline. So, which one will you put at the top of your list?
