Beaches in France

France's coastline gives beachgoers three distinct maritime settings: the Mediterranean, the Atlantic and the English Channel. From Brittany to Corsica, the choice includes places suited to family holidays, diving and camping, as well as stretches of coast where the waves are the main attraction.

Choosing the right coast

The Mediterranean is known for clear water and, in the south of France, generally sunnier and sandier beaches. Holidays on this coast also tend to cost more. Corsica adds its own coastline to the Mediterranean choice and is worth considering separately when deciding where to stay.

The Atlantic coast has long, fine-sand beaches. It is generally less crowded than the French Riviera, although the water is cooler than in the Mediterranean. Its larger waves make it a particular draw for surfers.

Along the English Channel, the character of the shore changes again. Étretat is represented here by the Falaise d'Aval and the Aiguille, whose rock formations give this part of the northern coast a recognisable profile.

The Mediterranean and Corsica

Choose the Mediterranean when clear, comparatively warm water matters most. The mainland shore and Corsica provide two ways to approach a Mediterranean beach holiday. Southern beaches are generally the sunnier option in this guide, but travellers should also allow for the higher holiday costs associated with them.

Across France, the beach selection covers family trips, diving and camping. The type of stay matters alongside the choice of coastline.

The Atlantic coast

The Atlantic offers space, long sandy shores and stronger waves. Its water is not as warm as the Mediterranean, but surfers often seek out the ocean precisely for those waves. Travellers who want a coast described as less crowded than the Riviera may also prefer to begin their search here.

The English Channel coast

The Channel shore provides a northern alternative to the Mediterranean and Atlantic. At Étretat, the Falaise d'Aval and the Aiguille form a distinctive coastal landmark and show how strongly the scenery can differ from one seaboard to another.

Start with the kind of coast you want: clearer and warmer Mediterranean water, Atlantic sand and surf, or the distinctive scenery of the Channel. That first choice makes it easier to narrow down a beach holiday in France.