Planning a summer getaway to France?
While Paris and Provence might be at the top of your list, French beaches are not to be overlooked! From the French Riviera to the Bay of Biscay, France is scattered with picturesque shorelines and coastal towns. Can’t choose a destination? Below are our six favorite French beaches, which we’ve ranked above competitors for their activities, travel accommodations and must-see views.
Paloma Beach, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Named for Paloma Picasso, daughter of Pablo, Paloma Beach epitomizes the beauty of the French Riviera. This small, secluded beach is located on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, which is a rocky peninsula near Nice frequented by the glitterati. From the rocky shoreline, expect a luxe view of sparkling blue waters, yachts and sailboats, the resort of Beaulieu, and the cliffs at Eze and Cap d’Ail.
Paloma Beach, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. EQRoy/Shutterstock
Palombaggia Beach, Porto Vecchio, Corsica
Palombaggia Beach is a crowd-pleasing favorite on Corsica, an island that is located between France and Italy. This beach is on the southern coast that faces Italy and the Tyrrhenian Sea. This beach has crisp, clear water, pink-tinted sand, and a gentle island breeze. Lined with pine trees and red granite rocks, Palombaggia Beach can’t help but inspire calm and relaxation.
Palombaggia Beach, Porto Vecchio, Corsica. Pawel Kazmierczak
Île de Ré
Known as the “White Island” for its soft, light sand, Île de Ré is located in the Bay of Biscay on the western coast of France. We love the elegant waterfront houses, plentiful bicycle paths, and the flat stretches of beach that are perfect for long walks. Known for salt marshes and beaches like the Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Île de Ré is a charming island getaway.
An old Phare des Baleines Lighthouse, Ile de Re, France. Eo naya/Shutterstock
Porquerolles Island
If you’re wanting a true summer escape, head to Porquerolles Island, located five miles off the southern French coast. Just a 10-minute boat ride from the coast, this island is entirely car-free and has a relaxed, casual feel. The southern side of the island has steep cliffs and secluded creeks for hiking, while the northern side has sandy beaches and turquoise waters. There’s also a botanical conservatory with unique and ancient species in the center of the island you won’t want to miss!
Porquerolles Island. synto/Shutterstock
Les Calanques de Cassis
Located on the southern shore, Les Calanques de Cassis is a jaw-dropping site you’ve most likely seen in an Instagram photo or two. The bright teal water is mesmerizing and lined on either side with soaring walls of limestone. Be sure to enjoy the beach, but the hiking options are great, too!
Cliffs of Cassis near Marseille. Daniel Kloe/Shutterstock
Antibes
Between Cannes and Nice on the southern coast, you’ll find Cap d’Antibes, a peninsula dotted with grand villas, a chic resort, and buzzing nightlife. If you want a number of activities to choose from during your beach getaway, Antibes is the place for you. After taking advantage of the picturesque, sandy beaches, explore Antibes Old Town, and the Musée Picasso for its art collection, sculpture terrace, and views of the Mediterranean.
Antibes. Anthony Salerno/Unsplash
This article was originally published on OuiPlease.com
